Manila Daily Photo Blog

I have moved!

2006-05-05T18:01:00.000+08:00

I moved! Please visit http://maniladailyphoto.com/ to continue seeing Manila's daily photos.

Drive thru?

2006-04-23T06:07:00.000+08:00

Did you know that McDonald's have the best hashbrowns in town!!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, McDonald's

"Little Elephants"

2006-04-22T08:12:00.000+08:00

Hmmm...I wouldn't have thought that I'd use the word "little" and "elephant" in the same sentence but here I am now doing it. Saw these cute little elephants when I went out yesterday for dinner...I loved them so much that I took a shot when the sales lady was not looking (hehe bad bad me!).

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

From my office

2006-04-21T09:59:00.000+08:00

The other side of my office...do you notice my photos are taken inside my office now...means work is keeping me in!! Grrr!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Flowers...flowers...flowers...

2006-04-20T11:21:00.000+08:00

Summer is really a beautiful month! Flowers bloom everywhere...so even malls now sell potted plants! I'm telling you retail in the Philippines has gone crazy!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Big Pots!

2006-04-19T18:14:00.000+08:00

That's a fountain at the end of those pots of plants...but unfortunately it was turned off when I took this shot. I also like the lamp post near the fountain...

With the heat of the summer blazing...it's nice to imagine oneself bathing in a big tub just like that =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Geometric patterns

2006-04-18T10:44:00.000+08:00

This is such an interesting photo...very geometric, very structural. The circle, triangles and squares all add up to the interestingness of the photo. And the colors too look perfect against the white and gray of the background...

p.s. this is just my observation, any violent reaction is welcome =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Makati Shangri-la

2006-04-17T12:28:00.000+08:00

The Makati Shangri-la. This is also one of the upscale hotels in Manila. It is located right accros Manila Peninsula and is one of my favorite hotels! Customer service is superb and food is to die for!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Makati Shangri-la

Shopping!

2006-04-16T21:52:00.000+08:00

The four day long weekend is almost over...but what better way to enjoy the last two days than to hit the malls for some shopping! And if you're tired, you can just lounge here and rest for a while =)

p.s. I have to confess I experimented a bit with photoshop for this photo...tried to tone down the colors, I think it came out good...just not sure if "good" for me is also good for industry standards =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Pay phone madness

2006-04-15T08:15:00.000+08:00

There are many payphone booths posted by other City Photobloggers around the world, so I guess this is my turn. We don't have the telephone booths like that in the US, what we have are telephone units that are either stuck to a wall or in mini booths like these. And you won't see them out on the streets, but they are usually found inside buildings, usually malls or shopping areas. These ones run either on coins, or on prepaid cards (almost everything are run by prepaid cards nowadays!). Pretty sleek huh! And oh, don't ask me if the guy from the next unit can hear what you are saying...the answer would be a resounding YES! Talk about privacy!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Telephone booths

Holy Cow!

2006-04-14T07:25:00.000+08:00

Was enjoying a leisurely walk along the mall yesterday when I saw this. Cute cow eh? She's standing outside a flower shop called Holland Tulips. I'm not very familiar with Holand but can someone please enlighten me if their cows are really blue!? =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Holland Tulips

Let's go swimming!

2006-04-13T10:11:00.000+08:00

Oh yes it is definitely SUMMER!! The heat is just unbearable! If you don't have AC you'd probably sweat a full gallon! And what better excuse to go to the beach! So come on pack up your stuff and lets go swimming!

But for those who'd rather not go the beach, there is always the inflatable swimming pool =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Summer

Front page

2006-04-12T09:54:00.000+08:00

The front page of the Manila Times talks about the immigration-policy protests in the US. There are very many Filipinos in the US, and sad to say many of them are illegal aliens. A related article was posted by New York Daily Photo here.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, The Manila Times

Cascading water

2006-04-11T13:26:00.000+08:00

A view of the backside of Manila Peninsula, one of the upscale hotels in Manila. I really like the cascading water and stairs effect of it...really beautiful especially at night when its all lit up!

To see more of it you can visit: Manila Peninsula website

Related Photos:
Vivere Suites
A view on top

Or you can click on "Hotels" on the categories to your right to see more photos of Hotels in Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Peninsula

Palm Sunday in the Philippines

2006-04-10T09:25:00.000+08:00

Palm Sunday mark the start of the lenten season in the Philippines. It is celebrated by a reenactment of the entry of Jesus in Jerusalem. Using these improvised palm leaves, the whole Christian community join together to mark the beginning of the commemoration of Christ' passion and death.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Palm Sunday

Whats the time?

2006-04-09T10:29:00.000+08:00

That is one big watch!!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Fruits...fruits...fruits...

2006-04-08T10:21:00.000+08:00

The summer sun is out! And so are the fruits! Oranges, apples, pears, watermelons, pineapples, bananas, pears and even grapes! So come on take your pick!

The peso dollar exchange rate is at P51:$1, so that means you can buy atleast one kilo of pears, three kilos of watermelon or apple and about one kilo banana =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Summer, Fruits

All alone...

2006-04-07T09:49:00.000+08:00

Looking down at this guy I couldn't help but feel pity...all alone amidst these tall tress...what do you think is he thinking?

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

An empty space

2006-04-06T15:46:00.000+08:00

Green plants and green concrete seat...great combination! Needs a little cleaning though =)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Looking up!

2006-04-05T15:45:00.000+08:00

Such a tall building...got jealous at photos over at Kuala Lumpur Daily Photo so I decided to post a photo of a building looking up...:) This building is called Tower One, it houses one of two stock exchanges in the Philippines, Makati Stock exchange. The other is housed in another place, about 6 miles from here. I'll show you a photo of that some other time :)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Makati Stock Exchange

Lonely pond

2006-04-04T15:31:00.000+08:00

I don't know why but when I saw this flower...I felt a pang of sadness creep into me.

Related Photos:
Green and White
Gumamela
Another flower post
Dendrobiums
Feeling flowery today

Or you can click on "Flowers" on the categories to your right to see more photos of flowers found in Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

A view of the sky

2006-04-03T08:50:00.000+08:00

A view of the sky as seen from our backyard. Don't you just love summer!!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

McDonald's Ad

2006-04-02T13:51:00.000+08:00

A McDonald's Ad on top of a Jeepney. So if you want a burger at 2:00 in the morning...you know where to call ok! :)

Related photos:
Bus ride Waiting for a ride

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Mc Donald's

Green and white

2006-04-01T21:30:00.000+08:00

Beautiful calachuchi flowers I found today. I love how the summer brings out all the beautiful flowers! Everything is in bloom these days! I especially love the white against the green of this photo. And see the other buds still about to open? Beautiful!!

Oh and Happy April Fools Day to everyone!

Related photos:
Gumamela
Another flower post
Dendrobiums
Feeling flowery today

Or you can click on "Flowers" on the categories to your right to see more photos of flowers found in Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Calachuchi

Three's a crowd

2006-03-31T14:31:00.000+08:00

Self-explanatory :)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Relaxing under the sun

2006-03-30T17:00:00.000+08:00

The place where we stayed in Boracay. The small cabanas in front are relaxation areas where you can have your massage done, or where you can just lie down and enjoy the sun! Ahhh this is what i call heaven!

Related photos:
Orange Sky
Sea again
Sunset at Boracay

Or you can click on "Outside Manila: Boracay" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights around Boracay.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Boracay

Orange sky

2006-03-29T13:40:00.000+08:00

I see you liked the photo yesterday, so since I am still stuck indoors for the rest of the day, i'd share with you another "stock" Boracay photo.

Related photos:
Sea again
Sunset at Boracay

Or you can click on "Outside Manila: Boracay" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights around Boracay.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Boracay

The sea again

2006-03-28T15:37:00.000+08:00

Since I've been stuck inside the office for the whole day today and yesterday, I have no choice but to post a "stock" photo. This shot is taken at Boracay, during my trip there last year.

Related photos:
Sunset at Boracay

Or you can click on "Outside Manila: Boracay" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights around Boracay.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Boracay

MRT

2006-03-27T14:46:00.000+08:00

Apologize for the bluish color of this photo, tried to do something about it on photoshop but still didn't get the results I wanted. I gave up and decided to just post the photo.

Anyways, this is the MRT or the Metro Rail Transit. The whole loop runs accross the whole of Manila and has greatly helped commuters especially during rush hour. It runs for around 60kph, pretty slow compared to trains of other countries. But I guess this is better compared to the traffic on the road which runs at average 20kph-30kph!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, MRT

tsk..tsk..tsk...

2006-03-26T08:15:00.000+08:00

If there is one thing I do not want to see it is cut trees! I hate seeing big beautiful trees cut down...it's just a shame seeing all those beautiful branches lie helplessly on the floor. But we can't do anything about it...development must go on. So the once green park I posted here, is now this...atleast part of it.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Greendbelt

bus ride

2006-03-25T09:53:00.000+08:00

Saw this bus on my way home yesterday and got very excited! Didn't I tell you that Filipinos had been very enterprising in terms of advertising in the past years? In one of my previous posts, I showed you a bus stop, now I show you THE bus. This ad is for JOY bathroom tissue made by Kimberly Clark, that owns more than 50% of the market share.

Related photos:
Waiting for a ride

Or you can click on "Manila Living" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights around Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, JOY, , Bus, , Advertising

Sari-sari store (local convenience store)

2006-03-24T08:27:00.000+08:00

Our version of the convenience store, locally called sari-sari store (sari-sari means assorted). You can buy anything and everything from these stores and they usually sell stuff by the piece, as oppose to the bigger supermarkets where you can usually only buy per pack. They come in pretty handy whenever you run out of stuff at home like cooking oil, or vinegar, or even when you just want chips or soda and you have none lying in your cupboard.

Related photos:
Local fruit stand
Is that a bookstore?

Or you can click on "Manila Living" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights around Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Sari-sari stores

Come on sit with me

2006-03-23T08:23:00.000+08:00

This is actually a bench in a park. It is very cleverly made, using calesa wheel as sides. Quite clever, and very ingenious! It turned the ordinary bench into a work of art!

Related post:
The famous Manila Jeepney

Or you can click on "Only in Manila" on the categories to your right to view more interesting sights in you will only find in Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Let's go shopping!

2006-03-22T07:13:00.000+08:00

Come on put on your shopping shoes and let's take a peek the newly renovated SM Makati. Let's look around all it's 6 floors and two buildings and have a snack down the basement foodcourt. Let's buy groceries from it's huge supermarket that occupies almost half of it's ground floor. If we get tired of it we can go to Glorietta mall on one side, or if need to head home we can go north as it is also connected to the Metro Rail Transit or MRT. There's so much to do so what are you waiting for!

Related photos:
Glorietta
SM Megamall
Greenbelt

Or you can click on "Malls" on the categories to your right to view more photos of Malls around Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, SM+Makati

A view of the country side

2006-03-21T06:37:00.000+08:00

I love going to the country side...far from the busy streets of the city. Here you will not see the soaring high buildings like this or traffic like this. Everything is quiet and serene...you are surrounded by greens...you smell flowers and not smoke...instead of sky scrapers, your eyes meet the mountains and the blue skies. You see simple nipa huts, and not mansions made of stone...you hear different sounds of animals and not sounds of cars and buses.... Sometimes I think...why am I in the city when I can have a simple life like this?

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Country side

Carousel

2006-03-20T08:12:00.000+08:00

Took this photo of a carousel inside a mall in Alabang yesterday. This is actually a two story carousel that goes up two floors of the mall. I really love carousels! They are both childlike and romantic...it gives me a special feeling seeing carousels and having one so near home is just fabulous! Come on let's take a ride! :)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Carousel

Gumamela

2006-03-19T08:39:00.000+08:00

I saw this beautiful red Gumamela or Hibiscus last Sunday while waiting for mass to begin. This is one of my favorite flowers as a child, I love its bright red color! I remember playing with it when I was little, using it's sap to make bubbles. This flower certainly bring so many childhood memories! Since it's already summer here, you'd see Gumamela's practically anywhere...all in difference colors, red, orange, purple...

Related photos:
Dendrobiums
Feeling flowery today
Another flower post

Or you can click on "Flowers" on the categories to your right to view more photos of flowers.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Gumamela

Old house patio

2006-03-18T09:15:00.000+08:00

Old houses in the Philippines would never be caught without a patio, or a small veranda. Maybe because Filipinos love spending time outside with family and friends. These old houses along Intramuros depict an era where standing by your veranda would be a delight as you see familiar faces walking down the street...bidding and smiling towards you!

Related Photos:
Old Intramuros Houses
Intramuros Walls
A race

Or you can click on "Intramuros" on the categories to your right to view more photos of around Intramuros.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Intramuros

flip flops

2006-03-17T07:06:00.000+08:00

Summer is here! And when you think summer...you think flip flops! Perfect for the beach! Saw these beautiful flip flops at SM one day I was shopping and couldn't stop myself taking it's picture. I love those red ones!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Summer,

A view down my office window

2006-03-16T08:28:00.000+08:00

A view of my office window taken this morning. Notice that traffic is not that bad yet along Ayala Ave., but wait until around 9am, and for sure you'd see a parking lot down there!

Related photos:
Ayala Ave. on a Saturday Morning

Or you can click on "Around Makati" on the categories to your right to view more photos of around Makati.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Ayala Avenue

native clothes

2006-03-15T19:04:00.000+08:00

Saw this display outside a store selling native stuff and thought I'd share with you. It's usually not common to see native stores inside malls, they are usually found in thrift shops, or in Quipo or Divisoria. The area where I found this was along the stores that sell paintings, native house decors and food. A peculiar mix if you ask me!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Native Philippine Clothes

What is this?

2006-03-14T06:48:00.000+08:00

This is in front of Ayala Museum I posted yesterday. Looks like a bent steel but this is big! Very simple but I like it!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Ayala Museum

Ayala museum

2006-03-13T06:32:00.000+08:00

I pass by this museum everyday as I go home from work. This was opened in 1974, but it was redesigned and reopened again 30 years after, in Sept. 2004. The fine arts collection here features important works by Philippine famed artist Juan Luna (1857-1899), Fernando Amorsolo (1882-1972), and Fernando Zobel (1924-1984). You can read more about the museum here.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Ayala Museum

where are you going?

2006-03-12T01:00:00.000+08:00

I pass by this direction post everyday on my way going to work...it has directions going to some of the major streets of Manila like Roxas Blvd. that runs parallel to Manila Bay, and Taft Ave. that runs from Pasay to Quiapo. It also shows the way to Malacanan, our local version of US' white house. This is a pretty big direction post, about 15 feet high, I guess to make sure we don't lose our way ;-)

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Bon Anniversaire, Paris Daily Photo!

2006-03-11T11:37:00.000+08:00

Today is the anniversary of Paris DailyPhoto, the inspiration of this blog. One year ago, Eric started taking pictures of Paris and sharing them in his blog everyday. Now his idea has spread accross the globe! Do visit his blog and feel closer to Paris! Happy one year anniversary to your blog Eric!!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Paris Daily Photo, Paris

Afternoon Coffee

2006-03-10T08:53:00.000+08:00

There is nothing more relaxing than a cup of coffee shared with friends and family. That's why coffee shops have been such a boom since Starbucks started commercializing coffee drinking. I am such a coffee addict myself and looking at people enjoying a cup of coffee and taking their picture make me smile :)

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Starbucks, Coffee

Glorietta

2006-03-09T08:59:00.000+08:00

My favorite mall of all...GLORIETTA! It is conveniently located in the heart of the Philippines' Central Business District, Makati City and a stones throw away from my office. What I love about this mall is it's size...not too big, but big enough to house almost all of my preferred stores including clothes, shoes, bags, even appliances, furniture and electronics! You can even watch a movie in any of its 10 cinemas!

Related Photos:
SM Megamall
Greenbelt Mall

Or you can click at "Malls" on the categories to your right for more photos of malls around Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Glorietta

EDSA Shrine

2006-03-08T06:48:00.000+08:00

Just to share the good news...our President already lifted the state of emergency (she did last Friday), and although this is already late news...I'm still glad to share it!

And to "celebrate", let me share with you this photo of the EDSA shrine, built on the same place where the 1986 People Power happened, the spontaneous uprising that put an end to the 20-year Marcos dictatorship. Today, the shrine, topped by a mammoth bronze statue of the Virgin Mary. It is not just a place for spiritual worship, it is also an arena for political struggle, demonstrations and protests.

Related photos:
Jose Rizal Monument
Manila City Hall

Or you can click at "Manila Sights" on the categories to your right for more photos of sights around Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, EDSA Shrine, People Power

Coconut trees

2006-03-07T13:02:00.000+08:00

I think I have mentioned a few times before about how a nature lover I am. I love greens! Trees, plants and flowers...seeing them makes me feel good! Seeing big and beautiful coconut trees like these never fail to make my day!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Coconut Trees

A view on top

2006-03-06T08:47:00.000+08:00

I took this photo while having a hearty lunch on top of Vivere Suites, the hotel I posted yesterday. This is overlooking the Alabang Area, south of Manila. The bay you are looking at is Laguna de bay, one of the largest bay in teh Philippines.

Beautiful scenery plus sumptuous grilled salmon equals one satisfied girl!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vivere Suites

Vivere Suites

2006-03-05T05:36:00.000+08:00

My hubby and I went on a little date yesterday afternoon, we watched a movie and went shopping a bit. While we were eating, I remembered this beautiful hotel very close to where we are, so before going home we went out and take it's photo. What I love about this hotel is that it's lobby is small and cozy...and it has a restaurant on top called Skyline which has a fantastic view of the city! Took some photos when I was there last week and will share with you tomorrow!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vivere Suites

Golf anyone?

2006-03-04T07:34:00.000+08:00

The Manila Golf Club just outside Intramuros. You can still see the tower of Manila City hall from this photo.

Related photos:
Streets of Manila

Or you can click at "Around Manila" on the categories to your right for more photos around Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Golf Club

streets of Manila

2006-03-03T08:21:00.000+08:00

The weather has been very nice for the past days that going out to take photos is such a delight these days! Today, I thought I'd share with you a "street" photo of Manila. This is Roxas Blvd., on the horizon you will notice Manila Hotel, one of the premier hotels in Manila. You can visit this site for more info on Manila hotel.

Related photos:
Golf Anyone

Or you can click at "Around Manila" on the categories to your right for more photos around Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Jose Rizal Monument

2006-03-02T08:48:00.000+08:00

I feel a bit patriotic today, mainly because of the problems our country is facing these past days. Independence and democracy has always been a big thing for Filipinos, the reason why Jose Rizal was executed on this spot where this monument is standing, but until now I feel our country is still struggling to have. For a bit more on the history of this monument you can read here

Notice also the first appearance of the Philippine flag on my blog. Will create another post on that.

Related photos:
Manila City Hall

Or you can click at "Manila Sights" on the categories to your right for more photos of sights around Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Luneta Park, Rizal Monument

Another flower post

2006-03-01T07:50:00.000+08:00

I was walking around our church last Sunday while waiting for the mass to begin when I saw this beautiful flower...not sure what this is called. My camera doesn't have a very good macro function, but I hope I did justice to this beautiful flower. If anyone of you would know what the name of this flower...I sure hope you could share.

Related photos:

Dendrobiums
Feeling flowery today

Or you can click at "Flowers" on the categories to your right for more flower photos.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Flowers

A view of Manila bay

2006-02-27T19:21:00.000+08:00

A view Manila bay on a sunny Friday afternoon. Notice the rowers? I think they are the Philippine rowing team practicing :)

Related photos:
Navigating
Manila Bay Artefact
Stone lamps
Want a drink?

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

St. Paul's Cathedral

2006-02-27T07:53:00.000+08:00

Another photo from my husband’s Vigan trip. St. Paul’s cathedral was built by the Augustinians. It features Neo Gothic and pseudo Romaneque motifs. Standing on an elevation west of the cathedral is Plaza Salcedo, the oldest monument in Northern Luzon.

Related photos:
Shrine of Jesus
Manila Cathedral San Agustin Church

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vigan, St. Paul Cathedral

A Vigan sidestreet

2006-02-26T05:26:00.000+08:00

Another cool photo my husband gave me...a side street of Vigan of cobbled stone pavements and old houses.

Related photos:
House in Vigan
Vigan

Or you can click at "Outside Manila" on the categories to your right for photos of places outside Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vigan

Jollibee!

2006-02-25T07:59:00.000+08:00

Jollibee is the biggest fast food chain in the Philippines. There are locations in 6 countries around the world, namely Philippines, United States, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Indonesia and Brunei. It specializes in chicken, burgers, and spaghetti. It has 988 stores in the Philippines and 24 restaurants in 7 countries. It started out as an ice cream parlor in 1975 and later expanded to serving sandwiches, spaghetti and burgers.

Jollibee's dominance in the Philippine fast food market is undeniable. As of 2001, Jollibee generated P15 billion in annual revenues, which is almost double that of its foreign rival McDonald's (P8 billion). It has trully captured the Filipino taste, even on its burgers which is western in nature.

Related photos:
One month now yikes

Or you can click at "Pinoy Food" on the categories to your right for photos of Pinoy Food.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Filipino Food, Jollibee

a house in Vigan

2006-02-24T07:52:00.000+08:00

This is a photo of the place where my husband stayed in Vigan. I love the old look and feel of this photo...very Spanish colonial times...but as my husband says...very homey!

Related photos:
House in Vigan
Vigan side street

Or you can click at "Outside Manila" on the categories to your right for photos of places outside Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vigan

Vigan

2006-02-23T06:48:00.000+08:00

Last weekend my husband was off to Vigan, a city north of Manila, for a wedding photo coverage. I was supposed to come with him but had to stay due to some appointments that I couldn't cancel. Anyways, I'm borrowing one photo from his hundreds of photo for my post today.

This photo is taken in one of the Vigan, earlier known as " Ciudad Fernandina" from 1758 to late 19th century, it is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial city in the country. It has auspiciously escaped the bombs of World War II unlike its sister cities, Manila and Cebu. How and why it has survived the wrath of war is a fascinating story on its own. It is located in the Northern part of the Philippines, 408 kilometers northwest of Manila. Vigan was recently included in the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List in December 1999 and converted into a component city last January 21, 2001.

My husband was raving at the fact that the place is like in a different time zone...its like you stepped back in time as soon as you are there. Cobbled stone pavements, old spanish houses, calesas everywhere! It's trully a magnificent city...a place where I'd like to come back to maybe in the near future :)

Related photos:
House in Vigan
Vigan side street

Or you can click at "Outside Manila" on the categories to your right for photos of places outside Manila.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Vigan

Navigating...

2006-02-22T08:11:00.000+08:00

A photo of a navigator, taken along Manila Bay. This is taken from the backside so you can see the Manila bay on the horizon.

Related photos:
A view of Manila Bay
Manila Bay Artefact
Stone lamps
Want a drink?

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

Manila City Hall

2006-02-21T07:55:00.000+08:00

The Manila City Hall. One of most famous landmarks of Manila. It is located just outside of Intramuros. Was researching about it this morning and found this piece:

"One is hard pressed to define the architecture of the Manila City Hall. Note, for instance, the absence of an entrance, as well as the random placement of the tower. Denigrated by critics when it was unveiled in the 1930s, the City Hall today fascinates the viewer for precisely the same reason it was vilified--its intriguing lack of symmetry and regularity. Beautifully lighted at night, it is one of Manila's most distinctive landmarks."

Hmm I myself didn't know about that!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila City Hall

Palazio del Gobernador

2006-02-20T08:39:00.000+08:00

This is Palazio del Gobernador...formerly the home of Manuel Estacio de Venegas, a governor’s aide, the two-storey structure was expropriated and subsequently made the official residence and office of the Spanish governor generals in 1645 until an earthquake brought it down in 1863. It lay in ruins for almost a century until the Land Bank of the Philippines built an 8-storey building on the site in 1978. The office of the Intramuros Administration is presently housed here.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Manila traffic

2006-02-19T08:53:00.000+08:00

Traffic has always been a major problem around Manila; especially during rush hours. Various programs have been implemented to try and help ease traffic, but Friday afternoons are always a nightmare. Took this photo last Friday as I was going home. Notice the jeepeneys in the lower left side of the screen? Well I have featured them in one of my previous posts, if you ask any local you'd definitely hear them say these jeepneys are to blame for the traffic, well I have to agree up to a certain deegree, but add that to the undisciplined, often road raged Manila drivers and you'd definitely get heavy traffic wherever it is!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Calesa

2006-02-18T08:38:00.000+08:00

This is a perfect shot...if not for that f$#@in guy in blue! Geesh!

But I really love this shot! The horse feels as if it's posing for the photo! LOL! And the calesa driver...I love his plaid shirt! I think this is a uniform or something coz all of the drivers of calesas are wearing this same shirt! I love it! Looks so refreshing to the eyes! I wonder if they have a pink version of it though :)

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Calesa

Old Intramuros houses

2006-02-17T05:46:00.000+08:00

Took this photo while we were at Intramuros last weekend. This is one of the old houses of Intramuros still in perfect condition. I got lucky too that a calesa passed by as my husband took the photo!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Intramuros

Dendrobiums

2006-02-16T08:06:00.000+08:00

I love flowers! Especially orchids!! They look very dainty and regal that I am always mesmerized looking at them. That is the reason why a second post on orchids. If you like my first post, I'm sure you will love this second one... beautiful white Dendrobium orchids! These ones look so fresh and they are soo big! I love them so much I had to take a photo and share with you. Hope you like them too!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Flowers, Orchids

From a canon's perspective

2006-02-15T06:25:00.000+08:00

I thought I'd post this pic, related to my previous post on Intramuros wall. I thought it would be interesting to see from the other side of the wall from the canon's perspective :)

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Intramuros

Shrine of Jesus

2006-02-14T06:29:00.000+08:00

Shrine of Jesus, a relatively new Shrine, built just around 2-3 years ago. It is located near Manila bay, just off Macapagal Ave. I think this is one of more simple but beautiful churches in Manila...was planning to have my wedding there last year but due to logistics reason, we dropped the idea. But it's a really popular wedding venue nowadays maybe its because of the vast open space that surrounds it. Great for photo shoots!

And before I forgot, let me greet you all a Happy Valentine's Day! Have a good one people!!

Related photos:
St. Paul's Cathedral, Vigan
Manila Cathedral San Agustin Church

Or you can click at "Churches" on the categories to your right for more photos of Churches around the Manila and the Philippines.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Shrine of Jesus

Intramuros walls

2006-02-13T08:02:00.000+08:00

Right in the heart of Manila is found the "Walled City" - Intramuros founded by the Spanish in 1571 offers a glimpse of the colonial past. The Spanish ruling class lived inside the massive walls with seven gates. It is shaped like an uneven pentagon and covers almost 160 acres. It was attacked by Chinese warlord Lim Ah-hong in 1574, gutted by fire in 1583, and rebuilt in 1590. A moat was added in 1603 when all entrances to the city were closed at night. The moat was filled during the American administration to combat disease. The old city remained intact until bombing raids and fires at the end of world war II. Although the Pacific War of the 1940s took its tool on Intramuros, it had been one of the world's best preserved medieval cities. The site is a timeless journey through forts and dungeons, old churches, colonial houses, and horse-drawn carriages. Shown on this photo is a part of the walls, you will notice several canyons lining it. This is because these walls served as the Spaniards first defence in both word wars I and II. Today these walls are the usual hang outs of students studying in various universities around the area, various restaurants also line these walls and just recently an 18 hole golf course was constructed on the other side.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Intramuros

One month now! Yikes!

2006-02-12T05:29:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to me! I have been existing for one month now! One picture everyday for 30 days straight...and i'm proud to say I have not missed one single day...have even posted two photos on one day!

And to celebrate this occassion, i'd like to share something a bit different, Filipino food...or Pinoy food in slang. This one is one of my favorites...Halo-halo!! Mmmm! Its actually a combination of different kinds of cooked beans, garbanzons, gelatin, sweetened banana, leche flan and "ube" combined with crushed ice and milk plus topped with your favorite ice cream! Yuuuummmmy!! Enjoy!

P.s. i'm sure you'd notice the change in template...again...apologize for that...was just trying to customize this page to make it feel a little bit more me...and I think I captured that with this one. :) Related photos:
Jollibee

Or you can click at "Pinoy Food" on the categories to your right for photos of Pinoy Food.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Filipino Food

stone lamps

2006-02-11T07:58:00.000+08:00

Cute little stone lamps I saw when I was at Manila bay the other week, this ones were close to the totenpole I've shown the other day. I love stone lamps! And these ones are especially cute because of the coconut trees that surrounds them!

Related photos:
A view of Manila Bay
Navigating
Manila Bay Artefact
Manila Bay Dinning
Want a drink?

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

Condo living

2006-02-10T08:02:00.000+08:00

The wave of condominium living has hit Manila by storm in the past years…and it is still growing. You'd see high rise condos popping everywhere. There are quite a handful that sell them on a very reasonable cost especially if you buy them during pre-selling. In this picture you'll see one on still being constructed, and one relatively older building. These are located both in the Makati area specifically along Buendia Ave. cor. South super Hiway.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Chinese New Year

a touch of green

2006-02-09T07:05:00.000+08:00

A beautiful park right in the middle of the central business district of Makati, Manila, this is the Greenbelt park. A great place to unwind during lunch and coffee breaks!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Greenbelt Park

Minor Basilica of Immaculate Conception

2006-02-08T07:41:00.000+08:00

The Minor Basilica of Immacualate Conception, also known as the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral or Manila Cathedral. The first Cathedral of Manila was constructed by Fray Bishop Domingo de Salazar out of wood, bamboo, and nipa—materials which were used in all houses and other basic community services in the city. It was on December 21, 1581 that the parish church of Manila was raised formally into a cathedral. Since then, the Cathedral church was destroyed in 1583 by a fire which razed the city, in 1600 it was again destroyed by a strong earthquake that hit Manila, and another earthquake again in 1645 and another again in 1852, and but another again in 1863. And each time it was destroyed, it was rebuilt again. Trully this structure has withstood the test of time (and natural disaster i might add!)!

Related photos:
St. Paul's Cathedral, Vigan
Shrine of Jesus
San Agustin Church

Or you can click at "Churches" on the categories to your right for more photos of Churches around the Manila and the Philippines.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila+Cathedral

local fruit stand

2006-02-07T07:49:00.000+08:00

Was buying fruits the other day and thought I'd take a shot and share the photo here. There are quite a few of these stores around our neighborhood, selling nothing but fruits, mostly coming from the provinces. They buy direct from the farmers I think so their products are really fresh. Of course you miss on the comforts of your usual grocery when you buy from these stores but you get personalized service and a sizeable discount in exchange.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Fruit stand

A race?

2006-02-06T08:14:00.000+08:00

A horse drawn carriage, locally know as a "calesa" was once a usual sight here in Manila, but of course due to innovations in technology, that has changed during the past half century. But is this really a race between a calesa and a Hyundai van...hehehe actually no...I just caught this van overtaking the calesa who is leisurely taking its time going down the Intramuros street.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Calesa

on billboards

2006-02-05T05:26:00.000+08:00

The end of South Super hiway just before you turn right to Manila will bring you to this sight...scores of gigantic billboards featuring from a half naked guy to an aging, white haired grandfather. You would see similar sights along EDSA and the expressways (north and south). At some point it even became controversial as some were saying they are a distraction to the drivers (especially if you see half naked men and women!)

LOL...well I, for one was not distracted :)

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Billboards

want a drink?

2006-02-04T08:01:00.000+08:00

Another sight along Baywalk...this 20 foot coke bottle is actually a vendo machine. It dispenses coke products for P20 or ($.11cents). Pretty cool huh! Double purpose, you advertise and at the same time you also sell...neat!

Related photos:
A view of Manila Bay
Navigating
Manila Bay Artefact
Stone lamps

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay. Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

Manila bay dining

2006-02-03T07:56:00.000+08:00

A usual weekend scene along Manila Bay...various restaurants line the bay all offering various types of food. Though a bit crowdy...the atmosphere is still undeniably relaxing and fun. On this photo you will notice the Manila harbour on the far side and the band playing for the dinners. It's still quite early this time that's why you see empty tables...but as the night crawls...do does the late night partyers.

Related photos:
Dining Outside

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

feeling flowery today

2006-02-02T08:03:00.000+08:00

I'm feeling flowery today...this is a photo of one of the more common orchid here in the Philippines, the dendrobium orchids. This is taken outside the church where I usually attend Sunday mass.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Flowers, Orchids

business is slow

2006-02-01T08:09:00.000+08:00

I join the whole Philippines today in protest as we hear of the latest news that the expanded value added tax or EVAT will be increased from 10% to 12%. The law, which has removed VAT exemption of certain sectors, including oil and electricity, allows the President to raise the tax rate when two conditions are met: that the VAT collection as a percentage of the gross domestic product exceeded 2.8 percent the previous year, and that the budget deficit as a percentage of the GDP exceeded 1.5 percent in 2005. Finance Secretary said Monday that the government met both requirements, with the budget deficit at 2.7 percent of the GDP and the VAT collection at 2.9 percent of the GDP. The measure is undertaken in the hope to raise 75 billion pesos in additional revenues this year. This is expected to help the government limit this year's budget deficit to 125 billion pesos ($2.27mil). The deficit last year was 146.5 billion pesos ($2.66mil). The national government is optimistic that the VAT rate hike will help it balance its budget by 2008 and reduce its debt to 51 percent of GDP by 2010 from around 81 percent in 2005.

With this hike traders are expected to raise prices...and with higher prices mean slower business activity, just like the picture above.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

another chinese new year pic

2006-01-31T08:10:00.000+08:00

Ok...ok...I know what your thinking...this is the third consecutive post about the chinese new year...I know you must be getting tired of it but spare me one last post. This is the last of it I promise!!

Chinese as you know has a very rich in culture. They rely so much on crystals and lucky charms to give them good luck. The new year is not spared of course, actually I think it's one of the busiest season for the feng shui masters, astrology gurus, and entrepreneurs selling good luck charms and crystals. More people wanting to have good luck in the new year means more business for them.

Check out the buddhas on this photo...

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Chinese New Year

another dragon photo

2006-01-30T05:43:00.000+08:00

Almost all Filipinos have at least one drop of Chinese blood running through their veins. They are one of the very first settlers here in the Philippines and until now there are largest minority groups, making up about 2% (1.5 million) of the country's total population. Even our national here Jose Rizal is a chinese from the Cua clan of Fujian of China!
Since it's still technically new year for them...I thought I'd post another dragon photo, this time, a display at Festival Mall, one of the biggest mall in the southern part of Manila. This one is as eleborate as the one I posted below but more colorful.
Again Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Chinese New Year

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

2006-01-29T06:12:00.000+08:00

This is a photo of a dragon dance, done every chinese new year in places where chinese abound...mainly china town and big chinese business areas. Since most big businesses here are owned by chinese, you can practically see dragon dance being held anywhere, even malls. Was driving yesterday near Paco and chanced upon this one going around the street...so I stopped for a photo.

Today is their big day so naturally...here comes the greeting...

Wishing you all a big WOOF this year of the dog!

FYI...Kung Hei Fat Choi is how chinese greet each other this new year. It's pronounced Kiong Hee Huat Tsai.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Chinese New Year

Manila bay artefact

2006-01-28T09:12:00.000+08:00

I was at Manila Bay last Saturday and saw this artefact as I was walking...thought it was interesting and took a photo of it.
In the background you'll see people swarming around, this place...Manila Bay, is actually a whole stretch of open dining area. Various restaurants line the bay, offering not only food but entertainment as well.
I'd share with you more pics some other time :)

Related photos:
Navigating
Stone lamps
Want a drink?

Or you can click at "Manila Bay" on the categories to your right for photos of Manila Bay.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manila Bay

dining outside

2006-01-27T08:33:00.000+08:00

Filipinos love to dine outside! The climate is perfect for dining out...specially during early mornings and in the evenings. This photo is taken early Saturday morning...the sun is just starting to shine...perfect time to enjoy breakfast with friends!

Related Photos: Manila Bay Dining

Or you can click at "Dining Places" on the categories to your right for more photos of dining places in Manila.

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

waiting for a ride?

2006-01-26T08:32:00.000+08:00

Filipinos had been very enterprising when it comes to ads in the past years. Major thoroughfares are now dotted by gigantic billboards of various products and services, now even waiting sheds are not spared. Shown here is a picture of a McDonalds ad on a waiting shed in Makati. The sign reads, delicious breakfast...now served throughout the day, ad for their newest burger variety, the Longganisa burger. Longganisa is a kind of processed meat which is a favorite Filipino breakfast.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

SM Megamall

2006-01-25T08:53:00.000+08:00

SM Megamall, the name speaks for itself... this is the biggest mall in the Philippines! Floor area of 331,679 square meters...this structure sits at the corner of EDSA and Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Business District, Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila. Aside from shopping, here you can also have a haircut, a manicure, a massage, and do a hundred other things. You may even go for a spin on an ice skating rink. There is a wide variety of cafes, bars, restaurants and food stalls, plus 10 cinemas. This place is undeniably a shopper's haven!

Oops and just in case you are wondering what SM stands for, it is short for Shoe Mart, the name of the hole-in-the-wall shoe store which the mammoth SM enterprise sprung from.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, SM Megamall

arc of the century

2006-01-24T08:29:00.000+08:00

This photo is related to the photo I posted yesterday. Any visitor or new student who enters the Espana main pedestrians' gate is immediately drawn to the Arch of the Centuries, right in front, about fifteen meters away. Classical Greek and Roman in inspiration with its Doric fluted columns, but baroque in its wealth of curving and embossed details, it looks like one of those triumphal arches for victorious Athenian athletes or returning Roman generals that are seen in history books. The medallion arch is usually a memorial for all distinguished Thomasians. The inscription says, "Gateway to the history of the finest breed of Filipinos". On the lower facade of the pillar, a commemorative plaque honors Jose Rizal, national hero and UST alumnus, and another plaque, Manuel L. Quezon, President of the Philippine Commonwealth, also a UST graduate. On the sides of the rectangular top of the arch are panels depicting some milestones in the life of St. Thomas Aquinas. Above all these, sits the serene, regal image of this angelic doctor, scholastic philosopher and theologian, patron of the University and of all Catholic schools.

The side of the arch facing the campus was the main doorway to the university building before it was destroyed by World War II. The stones of that doorway, now rough-hewned and eroded, were transferred and reassembled piece by piece in its present site. The side with its Grecian design facing Espana Street is a reconstruction of the doorway as it originally looked.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, UST, University of Sto. Tomas

University of Sto. Tomas

2006-01-23T08:39:00.000+08:00

The University of Sto. Tomas, this is my Alma Mater. The oldest existing university in Asia and in terms of student population, the largest Catholic university in the world located in one campus. Just a bit of history...It was founded on April 28, 1611 by the third Archbishop of Manila, Msgr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P., together with Frs. Domingo de Nieva and Bernardo de Santa Catalina. It was originally intended as a school to prepare young men for the priesthood. Located within Intramuros, the Walled City, it was first called Colegio de Nuestra Señora del Santisimo Rosario and later renamed Colegio de Santo Tomas in memory of the foremost Dominican Theologian, Saint Thomas Aquinas.

In 1624, the Colegio was authorized to confer academic degrees in Theology, Philosophy and Arts. On November 20, 1645 Pope Innocent X elevated the College to the rank of a university and in 1680, it was subsequently placed under royal patronage. In 1785, for the exceptional loyalty shown by the administration and students who volunteered to defend Manila against the British invasion, King Charles III granted it the title of "Royal University". Pope Leo XIII made the University of Santo Tomas a "Pontifical University" on September 17, 1902 and in 1974, Pope Pius XII bestowed upon it the title of "The Catholic University of the Philippines".

In 1927, with the continuing increase in enrollment, the University moved from Intramuros to its present site which covers an area of 21.5 hectares in the district of Sampaloc, Manila. Since its foundation, the University's academic life has been interrupted only twice: 1898 to 1899, during the Philippine revolution against Spain; and 1942 to 1945, during the Japanese occupation of Manila, when the University of Santo Tomas was transformed by the Japanese Forces into a concentration camp.

In recognition of the noble achievements of this institution, a number of important dignitaries have officially visited the University, among them, during the last three decades: His Holiness Pope Paul VI on November 28, 1970; His Royal Highness, Prince Juan Carlos, now King Juan Carlos I of Spain in 1974 and 1995; Mother Teresa of Calcutta in January 1977 and again in November 1984; Pope John Paul II on February 18, 1981 and January 13, 1995; Pres. Eduardo Frei of Chile on November 21, 1995; and Pres. Jose Maria Aznar of Spain on July 1, 2000.

Trully a magnificent University, rich in history, beautiful in structure. A place I called home for four years...a place I would always be pround of. I'm proud to be a THOMASIAN!

Technorati tags: Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, University of Sto. Tomas, UST

Manny Pacquiao beats down Eric Morales

2006-01-22T15:10:00.000+08:00

Sorry I just have to post a second picture.

Wooohooo!! Manny Pacquiao won over Eric Morales!! Woohooo!! Seen on this pic is Manny on the right side.

Congratulations Manny Pacquiao! Mabuhay ang Pilipino!!

Photo and story from ABC News: read on http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=1530358

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Manny Pacquiao

native stores of Quiapo

2006-01-22T07:44:00.000+08:00

A handicrafts store found under the Quiapo bridge. These stores sells everything made of abaca, capiz, wood and other native stuff. Shown here are hanging lamps made of capiz. Prices here are usually low compared to malls and department stores and you can usually haggle with the prices. But watch out foreigners, prices are usually higher (more than double!) for you!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Quipo

sunset at Boracay

2006-01-21T08:40:00.000+08:00

Ahhh...Boracay! This is one of the prime tourist attraction here in the Philippines. It's not in Manila, if you would look at the map to your right, its one of those little islands in the middle part of the country. It boasts of stretch and stretch of beautiful white beach...beautiful blue waters surrounded by one of a kind coral reefs. But aside from these, I'd say what I love most about it is its beautiful rendition of the sunset...spectacular, never failed to take my breath away.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Boracay

is that a bookstore?

2006-01-20T18:09:00.000+08:00

I took this picture from a window display of Powerbooks, a local bookstore. I thought its just strange to see something like this outside a bookstore, but whatever the reason is, I think it is working as it really catches attention. Just hope it catches the attention of book lovers too!

p.s. sorry for the reflection, it's because of the glass

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos

Ninoy Aquino

2006-01-18T13:13:00.000+08:00

Shown here is a statue of Ninoy Aquino at the corner of Ayala Ave. and Paseo de Roxas in Makati. He is a Filipino activist who was killed while he was going down the airplane that brought him home to the Philippines from the US, where he went on exile after controversies against the government forced him to go out of the country to save his life. Ironically, when he thought everything was clear, he came back...but even before he set foot on Philippine soil, two gun shots were heard, and shortly after, he was found dead, slumped on the very soil he fought for.

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Ninoy Aquino

Sto. Nino fiesta

2006-01-17T17:50:00.000+08:00

Last weekend, the Philippines celebrated the fiesta of Sto. Nino in honor of the child Jesus.. Celebrations were held throughout the Philippines including Manila, Cebu and Aklan. In Manila, parades began early and continue throughout the day. To start them off, school children fill the streets followed by groups of dancers performing traditional dance steps passed down from the first people of this area. Many floats and participants boasting various themes of Jesus as a child follow. Everyone and anyone is invited to join on the festivities.

Apart from the street dancing, another very commonly seen during fiestas are the "banderitas" or little flags, hung across the street. Various colourful paper are strung on nylon cords and then hung across the street to give an extra burst of color and excitement. Shown here are the banderitas in an area called Paco, a quaint place right in the middle of Manila.

If you happen to visit Manila anytime soon, it's always a good idea to visit places celebrating their fiestas as aside from the banderitas and the streetdancing, food is always great! Mmmm yumm!!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Sto. Nino

the famous Manila jeepney

2006-01-16T17:07:00.000+08:00

Filipinos are known worldwide for their ability to improvise on and reproduce first-world technology into forms more attainable given limited financial resources. An example of this ability is the Philippine jeepney. The army jeeps left by the United States after the Second World War inspired the making of these vehicles. Artworks of painstaking detail are often seen on the shining chrome bodies of these vehicles, which, as earlier said, are copies of army jeeps, resized and remodeled to accommodate commuting passengers numbering from 20 to 30 all in all.

The unique thing about jeepneys is that no jeepney is exactly the same as another. Each jeepney is a testament to the artistic ability of the designer assigned to it. Work on the vehicle itself sometimes takes much shorter than work on the design and decorations on the vehicle, as the former has become almost mechanical, but the latter requires repetitive planning, and sometimes, mistakes can put back the designing effort by 1 or 2 weeks behind. It is a matter of pride for a jeepney designer to come up with a jeepney pleasing to the eye, and with an interior design that is both beautiful and not an impediment to function.

Payment while on a jeepney is on an honesty basis, with the jeepney driver just hoping that everyone who goes on his vehicle will pay the required amount for the distance traveled. Apart from the occasional companion while driving, the jeepney driver has little way of knowing who among his passengers has not paid. Sometimes, designers therefore put on signs to stoke the conscience of passengers, or to admonish passengers who fail to pay, with lines like "God knows Judas not pay".

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Jeepney

Ayala Avenue on a Saturday morning

2006-01-15T07:29:00.000+08:00

This is Ayala Ave., the main business/financial hub of Manila. Most of the top corporations' and bank's offices are located here. It's usually packed with cars, buses and jeepneys on an ordinary weekday, but it's a ghost town on weekends. I don't even remember seeing the road pavement on weekdays!

Technorati tags: Philippines, Manila Photos, Manila Daily Photos, Ayala Avenue