What is there to say about Tondo? On second thought, maybe it’s a question that should not be asked in the first place. The thing about Tondo is that, to say the least, it is a place that evokes strong perceptions and sentiments. For one, there is the image of urban squalor and decay that has afflicted Manila and the metropolis in general. Then there is the atmosphere of “toughness” that has been the source of negative perceptions (thanks in part to its history as a den of crime and gangsters especially during the 1950s-60s), as well as positive ones (the “Tondo pride” as some may consider it). Being someone…
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The Urban Green Development at Ortigas Center (the Pasig Side, at Least)
We have read and seen too many sad stories of urban decay, especially here in the metropolis. Because of this, there has been this lingering sense of hopelessness with the disorder and chaos that we see around the city. That being said, any story that offers positive developments and give a sense of hope that things can be done to at least mitigate the chaos is very much welcome. Like the developments going on at Ortigas Center…the Pasig part of it at least.
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Destileria Limtuaco Museum: Intramuros’ Liquor Hideaway
Many people usually associate Intramuros with being the center of government and the Catholic faith during the Spanish colonial period and, in modern times, a center of education and where seafarers stay. But recently, a new and “different” facet of Intramuros was unveiled to the public early this year: that of a “liquor hideaway.” No it is not a liquor distillery that opened in the area. Rather it is a museum dedicated to a liquor distillery. Not just any wine distillery mind you but one of the country’s top distilleries: the Destileria Limtuaco.
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A Glimpse of Public Transportation’s Future
Let’s admit it. Public transportation in Metro Manila, and in the country in general, needs to be improved, which some may consider a total understatement. Not taking into consideration the problems with mass rail transportation (looking at you, Line 3), we are all too familiar the sight of people hanging by the entry rear of the jeepney, especially during rush hour, or the packed buses where passengers don’t have any space to wiggle. Then there is also the problem of pollution some of these vehicles emit thanks to poor fuel consumption, vehicles visibly suffering wear and tear but are still plying the roads. All these things compound the already very,…