CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
the
Quiapo Primer a roamer’s guide to the Old Downtown of Manila
THE QUIAPO PRIMER Written and illustrated by Janina Guerrero Edited by
Copyright Š 2014 Janina Guerrero All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Published in 2014 by _ __ Distributed in the Philippines by: _ __ 04 03 02 01 00 1 2 3 4 5 Cataloguing in Travel and Liesure Printed and bound in Manila, Philippines
the
Quiapo Primer a roamer’s guide to the Old Downtown of Manila
Contents 02-03 How to use this Guide
Overview 04-05
An Overview of Quiapo
06-09 Getting to Quiapo
Explore 10-11
The Streets of Quiapo
12-13
Plaza Miranda
14-15
Quiapo Church
16-17
Carriedo
18-19
C. Palanca
20-21
Evangelista
22-23
G. Puyat
24-25
P. Paterno
26-27
Quezon Boulevard
28-29
R. Hidalgo
Bonus: Photographer’s list 30-31
Avenida Rizal
32-33
Villalobos
Stay Safe 34-35
Danger Zones
36-37
Shopping
Bonus: List of Banks 38-39
Getting Around
40-41
Don’t be fooled
42-43
Photography
44-45
Feature: Food Trip!
46-47
References
48-51
Bonus: Plan your trip!
Introduction Would you go to war unarmed? To go to war, you have to be brave, strong, and well-prepared. The same goes with going to Quiapo—one of the notorious market districts of Manila. You have to be brave enough to face the handful of thieves scouting the area. You have to be strong enough to witness extreme poverty, resist purchase, and stand the evnrionmental disarray of Quiapo. Most of all, you have to be prepared. Prepare your wallet for the onslaught of purchase. With so much you can buy with the amount of cash in hand, you may have to learn to scrutinize and resist a few things. Survey the area before going behind enemy lines. Get to know what you’re dealing with. Quiapo has a lot of places for you to go and shop, and you might miss out on great deals if you don’t know where to go. Pick out your camouflage, because blending in is key. Quiapo may seem like the mother of all danger zones in Manila, but it’s much more than that. It’s dangerous, exciting, messy and all-around interesting on its own. Pickpockets can easily tell newbies to Quiapo, and it’s best if you know how to blend in. As your manual to Quiapo, this primer is equipped with illustrations and information that will help you prepare for what is sure to be a memorable experience of Manila.
How to use this guide The information on this guide is based on actual experiences, interviews, blogs, photos, and books about Quiapo. This publication was created inline with the roam/MNL website and Quiapo mobile application.
Quiapo.RoamMNL.ph Simply Scan the QR code to access the site for more information on Quiapo. The website features links to blog posts and other websites to help give you more information on the area. Browse through the comments section for public opinions on the areas of Quiapo. The website also contains the interactive versions of the street-level illustrations found in the succeeding pages.
Roam/MNL Quiapo Mobile App This application is a pocket version of the roam/MNL Quiapo website. Here, questions can be posted to gain infomation from the community as to their Quiapo queries. The app also features a map that tracks your location in Quiapo, so that you’ll know where you are in real-time (Don’t worry. You can turn it off). Download at the App Store or Google Play store for a more guided Quiapo experience. The Quiapo Primer comes at a small size, portable for use in Quiapo. However, it is advised to study the guide before proceeding to Quiapo so as to not seem confused while within the area. Doing so may attract unwanted behavior. If needed, view in restaurants and safer places such as the stores.
1
Quiapo/Page type
4 2
4
#
4
Name of Area 3
The Page Layout In the pages to come, the guide will be explaining the streets of Quiapo, a bit of their histories and what can be found in them. 1 Storefront view illustrations of the prominent streets of Quiapo to help you visualize what there is in store. These should be read from left to right, usually with the left side nearest to the Quiapo Church unless otherwise stated. Distractions such as grime, clutter, and the crowd have been removed for better identification of the areas. These, however, should be expected in Quiapo. 2 Locator Maps to help locate the street in Quiapo 3 Descriptions of the locations 4 Icon-illustrations left blank for you to fill in with the matching stickers once you’ve visited the identified the specified areas of Quiapo. Have fun!
Quiapo Brief History Found at the very heart of Manila, Quiapo was the prime location for trade and commerce back in the day. This is also why it’s known as the Old Downtown of Manila. Quiapo contains a narrative of our history, with reminders of the Spanish era seen in the pseudo-baroque Plaza Miranda and the Quiapo Church. It is filled with Chinese mercantilists who flocked to Quiapo after the first decade of the American regime—the noise and hustle driving away its rich residents. With the influx of business came more people and still more businesses, and thereby more buildings. During the post-war period, new buildings along Quezon Boulevard and Rizal Avenue were built composed of modern, international, and art deco styles. It was a time of immense commercial activity, with its cinema houses, restaurants and shops. However, its commercial fame brought Quiapo its own downfall. Aside from
bringing fame and glory, trade also brought congestion of both people and of infrastructures.1 Nowadays, Quiapo is bustling with life. Surrounding roads are never without vehicles (not to mention the infamous Metro Manila traffic jam), and its sidewalks are full of vendors, churchgoers, and random pedestrians. It’s most popular attraction is the iconic Quiapo Church, where devotees of the Black Nazarene gather every Friday. Quiapo is also the go-to place for bargain finds—a shopping mecca— with fortune-tellers, peddlers of various herbal products, with sex toys being the more remarkable ones. Quiapo today is no longer what it used to be, yet it is still remains a reflection of our culture. It is a place of contrasts and extremes—a place of sinners and saints, of destitution amidst everything in abundance.
photo by Alexis Lim
Quiapo/Overview 05
Getting to Quiapo
The LRT If you’re coming from afar, the quickest and easiest way to get to Quiapo is by train.
LRT Line 1 If you’re coming form Metro Manila’s south side (such as Paranaque, Sucat, Alabang, Muntinlupa), take the train heading to Monumento or Roosevelet and get down at Carriedo station. If coming from northern areas (such as Navotas, Malabon, Valenzuela, Caloocan and Novaliches), take the train bound for Baclaran, and get down at Carriedo Station.
LRT Line 2 Board a train going to Recto—one of the terminal stations. From there, you may go down if visiting the Northern part of Quiapo. It’s quite a walk from there to Quiapo Church. You may also opt to take the connecting train (LRT line 1) from Doroteo Jose station, bound for Baclaran. Get down at Carriedo station.
MRT Line 3 From EDSA, take the MRT Line 3 to the Taft Avenue Station which connects to the LRT line 1. Take the train bound for Monumento, and get down at Carriedo Station.
Quiapo/Overview
07
Jeepney Routes Jeepneys aren’t the most comfortable mode of transportation. They are, however, everywhere, which means there is most likely a way for you to get to Quiapo through the extensive network of jeepneys throughout the Metro. Listed below are some of the major jeepney routes that pass through Quiapo.
South-North link via Taft/Lawton 11 Baclaran - Taft - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Roxas/Dapitan Baclaran - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao - Project 4 Baclaran - Taft - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Blumentritt Baclaran - Taft - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Munoz (EDSA) Baclaran - Taft - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Rizal Ext - Monumento Libertad - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao Libertad - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez/Quezon - Morato - Kamuning Libertad - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Quezon Circle - Commonwealth - Fairview Libertad - Taft - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Blumentritt Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Project 2/3 Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Quezon Blvd - Project 6 Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Quiapo - Espana - Roosevelt - Project 7 Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Project 8 Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Del Monte - Frisco Vito Cruz - Adriatico - Taft - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Blumentritt
Vito Cruz jeepneys start/end at Harrison Plaza on Adriatico St, and reach/leave Taft Ave via Remedios/San Andres Sts in Malate.
South-North link via Mabini/Del Pilar St 11 Going north, all jeepneys pass Mabini St. Going south, they pass Del Pilar St. All jeepneys pass Harrison Plaza, Luneta Park and Lawton (City Hall), except jeepneys marked Pier (South Harbor) which do not pass Lawton. All jeepneys marked with Sta Cruz - Rizal pass through Quiapo via Avenida Rizal
Baclaran - Harrison - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Rizal Ext - Monumento Baclaran - Harrison - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Roxas/Dapitan Baclaran - Harrison - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Blumentritt Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Blumentritt Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Retiro/La Loma Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez/Quezon - Morato - Kamuning Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao - Proj.2/3 Libertad - Harrison - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao - Murphy Libertad - Harrison - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Rizal Ext - Monumento - Malanday Vito Cruz - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Proj.8 Vito Cruz - Quiapo - Bonifacio - Dimasalang - Del Monte - Frisco Vito Cruz - Quiapo - Espana - Quezon Circle - Marcos Ave - Fairview Vito Cruz - Quiapo - Espana - Rodriguez - Cubao - Project 4 Vito Cruz - Sta Cruz - Rizal - Munoz (EDSA) Quiapo Ilalim jeepneys make a U-turn under Quezon Bridge Quiapo Pier jeepneys cross Quezon Bridge to the entrance of South Harbor (Pier), via Intramuros then return to Quiapo via Burgos St Jeepneys with Mabini on their signboards go to either Harrison Plaza, Libertad or Baclaran via Mabini St Those with Taft on their signboards cross Quezon Bridge and will traverse Taft Avenue up to the farthest one posted on the signboard
Quiapo/Overview
09
Other Jeepney Routes9 Quiapo Ilalim – Recto – Legarda – V. Mapa. Shaw Boulevard – Pasig Simbahan Quiapo (Hidalgo) – Legarda – G. Tuazon – Balic-Balic Quiapo – Recto – Aurora (Sta. Mesa) – EDSA Cubao Quiapo (Hidalgo) – Barbosa - Lealtdad (return via Lepanto) Quiapo Ilalim – Malacanang – San Miguel Quiapo – Recto – Magsaysay – V.Mapa – Kalentong (Sta. Ana) Quiapo – Recto - Divisoria - North Harbor
Parking The most advisable places to park are at SM and at the Quiapo Church Parking space, which is along the Quezon BoulevardPalanca street area. Banks provide small parking spaces for their customers in front of their establishments. You can also try parking at the Isetann Cinerama parking space along Evangelista, which can be quite a walk from Quiapo Church. Although you may see some cars parked along Quezon Boulevard and Avenida Rizal from time to time, it is generally not tolerated. Vehicles of violators get towed. While some streets in Quiapo allow cars to pass through (such as Gonzalo Puyat and parts of Evangelista), the way is narrow. Passing through will take up some time. Palanca is the street most friendly to vehicles, although getting there from the MacArthur Bridge may take a while because of the traffic going to Sta. Cruz.
photo by Al Alarilla
Quiapo/Explore
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the streets of Quiapo Calero
Florante
Porvenir
Carriedo
G. Puyat/ Raon
Quezon Blvd
Chica
Germina
R. Hidalgo
C.M. Recto
Isla de Romero
Rizal Avenue
Commandante
Mabolo
Ronquillo
De La Fe
Orozco
Sales
Echague/ C. Palanca
P. Ducos
Soler
P. Gomez
Trinidad
Esperanza
P. Paterno
Villalobos
Estero Cegado
Palma
Evangelista
Platerias
The streets of Quiapo are lined with stores and vendors. Generally closed off to vehicles, some streets allow traffic to pass through (as indicated by the arrows in the map in the pages to come). Featured in this guide are street-level illustrations to help you identify what’s along the streets of Quiapo without the distraction of the dirt, the people, and the myriad of umbrellas and wires that block the view of the stores. Keep in mind that there are places in Quiapo that you have to know in relation to where you are. The Church is widely considered the heart of Quiapo. As such, it is one of the main reference points when asking for directions, and it’s always best to know where it is. This guide does not take on the whole of the Quiapo district, but rather, the more commercial part of it bounded by the Pasig River, Quezon Boulevard, Avenida Rizal and Recto Avenue.
Villalobos, to Palanca
R. Hidalgo
Plaza Miranda Quiapo Church, widely considered the heart of the Quiapo district, is fronted by Plaza Miranda. Named after Jose Sandino y Miranda, secretary of the Philippine Tearsury in 1853-54, it was the site of major political rallies and discourse up until the 1980s. The advent of mass media has contributed to its decline along with the bombing in 1971 at a political rally of the Liberal Party. In 2000, it underwent renovation under Mayor Lito Atienza where it was transformed into a pseudo-baroque plaza. It now features an obelisk to commemorate the fiery, nationally important political rallies that used to fill the plaza.6, 17
is a 360-degree panoramic illustration of the Plaza Miranda and Quiapo Church Area
the illustration
Part of the renovation was the construction of the pedestrian underpass (the Lacson underpass) along with arcades that delimit the plaza’s space. Four gates were also constructed that enclose the Western part of the Plaza Miranda. However, these block the once sweeping views of the Quiapo Church from nearby streets. 17
Quiapo/Explore
13
Herbal Remedies
Fortune Tellers
Manila City Plaza
Herbal and organic remedies are known to be sold in the areas surrounding the Quiapo Church.
Common in some to-dolists for when visiting Quiapo is to have one’s fortune told.
However, it is more notorious for being the abortion capital of Metro Manila. Despite campaigns against it, and the sellers’ proximity to the Quiapo Church, some vendors are still purpotedly selling abortifacients now often disguised as “pamparegla”.7
Despite the practice being frowned-upon by Catholic Faith, these fortunetellers remain in business charging about 100 pesos for a 30-minute session of palmistry or tarot card-reading. They can be found surrounding the Quiapo Church area, catering to churchgoers and devotees.
Manila City Plaza is now known for its vast supply of cellphone accessories from earphones to protectors of different designs. Also available are services for inexpesive repair for mobile devices. These could be found on the 2nd and third floors. Inside are also stands that sell an assortment of inexpensive beauty products, and a branch of Jollibee with a view of the Quiapo Church.
Quiapo Church The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene is colloquially known as the Quiapo Church. Following years of disasters, it was designed in neo-baroque by famed National Artist Juan F. Nakpil, a native of Quiapo. It is home to the Black Nazarene, a statue many faithfully claim to be miraculous. The devotees of the Black Nazarene celebrate mass every Friday—most epescially during the first Fridays of the month.10
Quiapo/Explore
The Black Nazarene The lifesize, darkwood image of Christ robed in maroon and gold is formally known as the Nuestro Padre Señor Jesus de Nazareno, and is strongly believed to be miraculous. With its large number of devotees, the Señor has always been a representation of miracles and of faith of Filipinos. Behind the altar of the church is a narrow flight of stairs in which devotees line up to climb to kiss the Nazareno’s foot, or wipe with a hankerchief which they henceforth never wash. 10
Traslación Celebrated every 9 January, the Feast of the Black Nazarene is one of the largest processsions in the Philippines, garnering 10 million attendees in 2014. Devotees walk barefoot along the processional route as marshals in yellow aid the procession by helping devotees climb onto the Ándas (procession carriage) to briefly touch the Black Nazarene. The image is pulled using two large ropes by namámasán (bearers) as part of their penance.5
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Regular/Daily Mass Schedule Monday to Thursday 5:00 am to 11:00 am (Mass every hour) 12:15 noon Mass 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm (Mass every hour) Friday 4:00 am - 12:15 pm (Mass every hour) 1:15 pm - Novena 2:00 pm (Talk) 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm (Mass every hour) 9:00 pm - Benediction Saturday 5:00am - 11:00 am (Mass every hour) 12:15 pm- Mass 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm (every hour) 8:00 pm - Benediction Sunday 5:00am - 12:15 pm (Mass every hour) 3:00 pm- Children’s Mass (Misa Pro Populo) 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm (Mass every hour) 8:00 pm - Benediction
from QuiapoChurch.com
FOOD CART
MELON
GULAMAN
FOOD CART
MELON
Carriedo Quiapo has its very own Divisoria by the name of Carriedo. The street, which connects the Quiapo Church and Lacson Plaza, is filled in every nook and cranny with street vendors offering a vast selection of goods from pirated DVDs to fruit. The street was named after Don Francisco Carriedo y Peredo who willed 10,000 pesos to be invested in the galleon trade until it was enough to build a water system for Manila. His water system should give free water to the poor. His memorial fountain sits at the end of the street, fronting the Sta. Cruz Church. Incidentally, Carriedo street is also the first street to connect Quiapo Church to Sta Cruz Church.4 Nowadays, the whole length of Carriedo is a huge pedestrian mall lined with clothing stores and budget shopping malls, with vendors allowed to conduct business in aisles that fill the street from Isetann to Quiapo Church.
GULAMAN
F
Quiapo/Explore
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P. Gomez, to Palanca
CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
FOOD CART
FOOD CART
FOOD CART MELON
BUKO
GULAMAN
FOOD CART
MELON MELON
Amis Located in Carriedo, the busiest road in Quiapo, Amis is very easy to miss. But be vigilant, because their pancit canton and pancit guisado is worth the trouble, especially after having battled the Carriedo crowd. Also try their leaf-shaped siopao, fried chicken, and other delicious fare at P120 and above for a lunch set. If walking towards the LRT from the Quiapo Church, Amis should be at your left side.
FOOD CART
BUKO PANDAN
Isetann Carriedo The first in a chain of four department stores, Isetann Carriedo is where it all started. Now with four branches, Isetann is one of the byproducts of Quiapo’s influence. With floor after floor after floor of merchandise, Isetann Carriedo thrives despite being neighbors with the perpatually on-sale SM Quiapo and the mall-onthe-street Carriedo.11
GULAMAN
GULAMAN
LRT Carriedo The Carriedo station of the LRT Line 1 is one of the main entry and exit points in Quiapo. It located at the intersection of Avenida Rizal and Carriedo Street, beside Isetann Carriedo. Caution is advised as it is one of the more dangerous parts of Quiapo, wherein pickpockets may prey on unwary victims since they can easily blend into the crowd of descending LRT passengers.
BUKO
BUKO PANDAN
P. Gomez, to Carriedo
FEATI University CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
CLEARANCE SALE OUTLET
CITYSTATE HOTEL
EXCELENTE
CHINESE COOKED HAM
PAWN S
C. Palanca What was formerly known as Calle Eghague (honoring Rafael Echague y Bermingham, Governor General from 1862 to 1865) this stretch was renamed in honor of Carlos Palanca. He was the first Chinese consul to the Philippines who made his money in Manila, and was decorated with a medal by the Spanish Government. Until now, C. Palanca is still known for its row of plates-and-glasses stores on one side, and its textile shops on the other. Decades ago, this street used to house the headquarters for Magnolia ice cream, and the starting point of the vast Ayala enterprises.10
Excelente Ham True to its name, Excelente Cooked Ham has been providing quality meat products for many years. Visit their website at excelenteham.com and check out the products they have for you. Make sure to plan a visit to their only branch.
SHOP
Quiapo/Explore Villalobos, to Quiapo Church
QUINTA
QUIAPO BRACH
BANK
19
Quezon Boulevard
MARKET
KITCHEN SUPPLIES
SM Quiapo It’s every day sale day at SM Quiapo, otherwise known as the “SM Clearance Outlet” and “SM Carriedo”. SM Quiapo is the very first SM Department store, which opened in 1972. However its not the original site of Henry Sy’s old shoe store also along Palanca street. The present SM stands where the Manila Royal Hotel used to be before it closed down in the 1980’s. Look up, and you’ll see at its top what remains of the hotel’s once-popular revolving restaurant. 3
Quinta Market
Ilalim ng Tulay
In 1901, what was then the new Quinta Market (“La Quinta”, named after the surrounding coutryside 10) replaced the old Arroceros Market. La Quinta is still a prominent marketplace in the city, thanks to its strategic location by the banks of the Pasig River and its proximity to Quiapo Church. Vendors spilled over to its neighboring streets, up to the Quiapo Church and Plaza Miranda. 17
Sa Ilalim ng Tulay are three spacious arches formes and the bridge descends to Quezon Boulevard. This picturesque market of honey-combed stalls specializes in a variety handicrafts from leather goods to straw products.17 Nearby is the Quinta Market, and straight ahead onto the other side of Quiapo is the Mosque del Globo de Oro, the largest mosque in Manila.
Paterno street
DRESS SHOP
QUIAPO BRACH
RELIGIOUS ITEMS
Evangelista Evangelista street is considered the spine of Quiapo, since a number of major streets traverse through it. As such, there is a wide variety of stores. Jeepneys going to Divisoria also pass through Evangelista. The above illustration begins at the area closest to the Quiapo Church, and ends at Isetann Recto—right in front of the entrance to the LRT Line 2 Recto terminal station.
Religious Icons and Anting-Antings People selling an assortment of religious icons are lined up side by side with hawkers of antingantings and agimat.
BA
Quiapo/Explore
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Gonzalo Puyat (Raon), to Avenida Rizal
ANK SPORTING GOODS
Wishing Candles Found around the church are carts full of colorful wishing candles offered to help satisfy your hearts desires. Note that these are not prayer candles, but come with prayers attached to them. Different colors are for different wishes, and can be sold per piece or by bundle. Aside from the multi-colored candles, there are also different shapes of wax figures, some shaped like the human body.
ELECTRONICS
Sporting Goods, Electronics, and Heavy Equipment Spilling over from Gonzalo Puyat and Ronquillo Streets are stores that sell sporting goods, trophies and electronics. Closer to Recto, Evangelista is lined with shops that sell and repair generators, electric motors, water pumps, and the like.
to LRT Recto
HEAVY EQUIPMENT
Isetann Cinerama Complex The mall stands at the former site of what used to be one of Manila’s premier moviehouses: the Roman Super Cinerama. Opened in 1964, it was the first cinema in the country to have an escalator and a red carpet, and employed the panoramic “Cinerama” widescreen format. After having burnt down, it was rebuilt into the mall we see today. 11
Avenida Rizal, to LRT
ELECTRONICS
MUSIC STORES
BANK
Gonzalo Puyat Renamed to Gonzalo Puyat street, Raon is Quiapo’s own electronics department. Every day is a party at Raon, where loud music is blasted from both sides of the street, and colorful lights fill the interiors of the stalls.
Electronics Raon is lined with elecronics stores. Even the sidewalk vendors sell a hodgepodge of electronic components and some hardware such as power drills and soldering irons. Some sell electronic components such as plugs and and computer parts, while other sell speakers, videoke machines, and satellite dishes. Nearer to Quezon Boulevard, you’ll find stores that sell a variety of electronic appliances at the Raon Shopping Center. A word of caution, though: always check before you buy, have a reciept issued, and remember the vendor’s face.
SP
Quiapo/Explore
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Evangelista street, to Recto or Quiapo Church
Raon Overpass
ELECTRONICS
PORTING GOODS
Music Back in the day, Raon used to be lined with record stores, selling new releases of both local and foreign music. Gone are the authentic record stores. What remains of Raon’s music legacy are the stores that sell a variety of musical instruments. There’s a party every day along the street of Raon, as music is blasted from the stores that sell speakers, and lights blare out from the stores that sell LEDs.3
Sporting Goods, Electronics, and Heavy Equipment Spilling over from Gonzalo Puyat and Ronquillo Streets are stores that sell sporting goods, trophies and electronics. Closer to Recto, Evangelista is lined with shops that sell and repair generators, electric motors, water pumps, and the like.
Globe Lumpia Globe Lumpia House started with a small kiosk inside the Globe Theater where movie-goers were their primary customers. The restaurant still occupies the same spot at the old Globe Theater entrance even though the theater itself has been long gone.* Nowadays, Globe Lumpia no longer has a dining space. All lumpias are to-go. Still, their fresh lumpia recipe has stood the test of time, as through the years, people still line up for this simple treat. 8
Evangelista street, to Recto or Quiapo Church
LIFE ARCADE
PATERNO BRANCH
OPTICAL SUPPLIES
BANK
PATERNO BRANCH
P. Paterno Looking for something? Or having a hard time looking? Hidalgo St. may be where your eyes will water with all the lenses, cameras, and equipment they have available, but P. Paterno offers a different kind of eye candy. The entire stretch is devoted to bargain optical shops! Here you can also find a small cluster of banks, pawn shops, and supplies for the dental practitioner.
Black Nazarene Figure Paterno street also houses a life-size replica of the Black Nazarene where one may offer flowers. Near it is an image of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.
PAW
Quiapo/Explore
AWN SHOP
DENTAL SUPPLIES
Life Arcade The Life Arcade is an obvious marker beside the old Life Theater along Quezon Boulevard. The Life Theater was famous back in the day as one of Manila’s prime movie houses. It was constructed in 1950s and designed by National Artist Pablo Antonio who also designed the Ideal Theater in Avenida. Like most of the old theaters in Quiapo, it has been converted into a shopping complex. Remnants of its past can still be seen when you walk inside. 18
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OPTICAL CLINICS
Pawn Shops and Banks
Optical Clinics and Supplies
Clustered along the middle of Paterno are a few pawn shops amidst the optical clinics and supplies stores.
P. Paterno street is most famous for its optical clinics. This street alone houses 2 branches of Abesamis Optical.
While along the intersection of Evangelista and Paterno, one can find a cluster of banks. For a detailed list, check out page 35, Banks in Quiapo.
Literally too many to list down in one page, the list of optical shops in Manila can be looked up on the internet, and you’ll find the addresses dominated by Paterno Street.
Most of the entries listed with Evangelista street can be found among the banks near Paterno.
for reference, see: www.businesslist.ph/
Paterno street
CITYSTATE HOTEL
QUIAPO BRACH
BANK
LIFE AR
Quezon Blvd The Other Side Across the street is the other side of Quiapo, where, in old houses, lay remnants of history. This area is also home to a small Muslim community and the Golden Mosque. This side of the boulevard itself is lined with bicycle stores.
Framing Services and Military Supplies This side of Quezon Boulevard is dotted with military supplies and a small number of framing services. You may find more framing services along P. Gomez, at the end of R. Hidalgo street.
Isetann Cinerama Complex (see Evangelista, pp 19-20)
Quiapo/Explore
27
Raon overpass
RCADE
GLOBE
Quiapo Church Side Entrance The side entrance to the Quiapo Church is directly open to Quezon Boulevard. This is also where you might encounter a long line of people queueing to wipe their hankerchiefs on the hand of the Black Nazarene. There is also an entrance to the ground floor of the Cardinal Sin Building, where you’ll find a gallery of replicas of the Black Nazarene along with other Christ figures.
ELECTRONICS
MILITARY SUPPLIES
Ma Mon Luk
Old Theaters
Through the years, Filipinos have grown fond of mami.
Avenida Rizal wasn’t the only avenue for theaters. Quezon Boulevard also had something to offer. One of which is the Life Theatre between Globe Theater and the Life Arcade. It was one of Manila’s prime theaters in the 1950s, it is now a shopping center, and has been renamed to the Villongco Building 18
Ever wonder how it first tasted like? A small Chinese restaurant along Quezon Boulevard, Ma Mon Luk’s claim to fame is having been the originator of mami. Seat yourself in this authentic Chinese restaurat, and wait to be served. Try their mami at P95-115. Have it with siopao at P45-60, and you’re in for a winner combo meal.
Other old theaters include the Globe Theater, Times Theatre (which now shoes second-run films), and the recently demolished Ginto (Lider) Theatre. 2
MOSQUE
BEAUTY PRODUCTS
UKAY-UKAY
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50
R. Hidalgo R. Hidalgo extends to the other side of the Quiapo district (across Quezon Boulevard) where the largest houses of the 19th century gentry were built. Formerly Calle San Sebastian—the main street in the old days—the street was renamed in 1913 in honor of prominent Filipino painter, Felix Resurreccion-Hidalgo. His well-preserved mansion still stands at the corner of Tanduay and Viejo as a repository of treasures from another age.10 That was on the other side of Hidalgo (the side opposite the Quiapo Church). The side opening to Quiapo Church is now being promoted as a photographer’s haven. Its present appearance came along with the renovation of Plaza Miranda in 2000, adding its current cobblestone surface. On the side opening to Quiapo church is one of the arcades and gates that line Plaza Miranda. On its other end are the photography shops, and the side entrance to SM Quiapo. 17 (See C. Palanca, page 19)
Quiapo/Explore
29 Henry’s Photo Supply 310 P. Gomez St., 733-7723, 734-6198 henryscamera@ yahoo.com Products: Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, Assorted Studio lighting and lots of batteries
PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT STORES
Jerry Tieng jerry@photos.ph Products: Nikon, Canon, Olympus, good source of 2nd hand Lenses. Mayer Photo
Heritage Street Listed below are some destinations for a historical tour along the other side of Hidalgo: • Basilica Minore de San Sebastian • Ocampo Pagoda (Bilibid Viejo Street) • Nakpil-Bautista House • Boix House • Paterno Mansion • Enriquez Mansion • Ocampo Mansion • Zamora House • Padilla House • Don Jose Sulpicios Orpilla Mansion
Mosque Other than the Masjid Al-Dahab (Golden Mosque), there’s a smaller Mosque along R. Hidalgo. It’s difficult to spot when walking along the street, since the area is congested and fronted by eye-catching camera stores and rows of ukay-ukay stores. But if you look up you’ll see its domes. Its entrance is a narrow stairway along rows of secondhand clothes stores. If paying a visit, remember to be nice, and to dress appropiately.
Photography Equipment On the Quiapo Church side, R. Hidalgo is known and promoted to be a photographer’s haven, selling all sorts of cameras and photography equipment at a significantly lower price compared to similar shops in malls. Try not to freak out once you get to compare the prices, because you make it even better by striking up a bargain.
111, 113, 115 C. Palanca St., 733-7598, 733-7722 Products: Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, good source for high end lenses. Watson Photo Shop 312 P. Gomez St., 733-7697 Products: Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fuji, Sunpak, Olympus
From PinoyPhotography.org
Some Photography Stores along R. Hidalgo and its surrounding areas:
HOTEL
HOTEL
DEPARTMENT STORE
HOTEL
Avenue Photo Supply 712 R. Hidalgo St., 733-2761, 733-5474, 734-3307 avenue98@info. com.ph Products: Quantum, Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Slik, China brand lights, Radio receivers, Bulbs, Flash bulbs, Tamron, Tiffen, Domke, Kodak, Fuji, Ilford Film, Widest range of Lighting equiptment in Hidalgo. Fotohaus 713 R. Hidalgo St., 734-4471, 734-3304 to 05, 733-4565, 733-5531 fotolam@vasia.com Products: Nikon, Canon, Fuji, Kodak, Rechargeable batteries, Lamination equiptment, Film, Dry boxes
Avenida Rizal In its hayday, Avenida Rizal (Rial Avenue) was famous for its strip of movie theaters. Some of which were designed with the Art Deco flair by famous architects such as Pablo Antonio and Juan Nakpil (who also also improved on the Quiapo Church). The construction of the LRT was considered a huge factor in the deterioration of the avenue, which eventually killed business. In 2000, Mayor Lito Atienza tried to renew the area, turning it into a pedetsrian-only thoroughfare by laying bricks on the stretch from Palanca street to Recto. However, the cost of the predestrianization proved too heavy, and the project was discontinued. Nowadays, peestrians and jeepneys share the Avenida from Palanca to Recto. 17
Quiapo/Explore
Old Theaters Glamorous theaters used to line Avenida Rizal but because of the construction of the LRT, business slowed down and management resorted to showing double feature B-movies and soft porn. The rise of cheap pirated DVDs only made things worse. Remaining theaters now have rather shady reputations for being alleged fronts for prostitution dens.14
Clothing and Gadgets Until now, Avenida still has a multitude of department stores. It is currently lined with commercial establishments that sell clothes, shoes, and all sorts of mobile devices. These merchandise are not limited to the stores. Along the arcaded walkways are also vendors that sell cheap shoes, slippers, shopping bags, pirated DVDs, and sex toys.
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Hotels Although some hotels are gramd, other hotels along the Avenida are not that easily identified when walking along the arcaded sidewalk. Fronted by clothing and gadget stores, some hotel entrances feature maily overhead signs and a narrow staircase at the side of a store. Most hotels are fronted by vendors that sell sex toys and pornography.
BEAD SHOP
Villalobos Cliche but none the less true, looks can be misleading. Upon looking at the street form its Quiapo entrance, you’ll immediately notice the abundance of umbrellas and vendors lining the street, where the only space to walk is in the middle of it all. You can easily mistake it for the ordinary marketplace where people sell rice and basic necessities. But if you take a closer look at the stores, you’ll find that each store is lined with rows of beads or fabric. To get to the stores, you have to hop past the vendors of dried fish and vegetables. The street is the pathway that links the Quiapo Church to the Quinta Market. As such vendors have spilled over from the La Quinta in order to reach the vast number of people who flock to the Quiapo Church every Friday.
Quiapo/Explore
FABRIC STORE
VILLALOBOS BRANCH
BANK
VILLALOBOS BRANCH
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PAWN SHOP
Beads and Fabrics Villalobos street is also known for the bead shops that line it. The stores along the street not only sell beads, but also supplies to help you start up your own accessories line. From tools to materials, chains, beads and strings, Villalobos is a haven for the passionate and the hobbyist jewelry-maker. There is, however, one store that truly stands out, and that’s Wellmanson’s—the Forever 21 of jewelers. It is a yellow, airconditioned store whose single-door entrance is fronted by sidewalk vendors. Inside are areas of beads that lead to more areas that lead to still more areas of beads and all things shiny. Inside you’ll feel a golden, glittering aura. Aside from its great selection of beads, Wellmanson’s now has a small lounge where your companions can wait and sip tea or coffee as you try not to spend all your money on a few charms. This store is a definite gem in the midst of Quiapo.
MASTER HOPIA FACTORY
Master Hopia Factory Who knew you could have so many flavors of hopia? Try as much as you can, because you’re bound to find a favorite! Their flavor-packed hopias can be a bit pricey at P15-20 apiece, but you’ll understand why once you’ve had a taste. Have some with soda, and you’ve got a perfect merienda. Other food products can also be bought there. Give them a try at Villalobos cor. Palanca street.
Stay Safe the Dos and Don’ts in Quiapo
Hotspots We’re not talking about wifi hotspots, but rather, criminal hotspots shown in the map as the areas in red. Although a large part of the map pretty much marks most of Quiapo as a danger zone, people make it through Quiapo numerous times unharmed. Quiapo is always buzzing with activity, making it attractive to professional pickpockets. Interviews with people local to Quiapo claim that they know each other. Its residents are peaceful, and would like to keep the place safe not only for commercial activity, but for living as well.
Quiapo/Stay Safe
However, the thieves that frequent the area have given Quiapo and its people a bad name, making this melting pot of culture and contrast notorious among Filipinos. Nowadays, Manila City Government officials are tougher under the governance of Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, who is making law enforcement stricter. A decrease of criminal activity can be observed 16, and is probably related to the increase of police visibility. 15 Just in case, it is still important to note which areas of Quiapo are the most dangerous: 1. 1
Avoid eskinitas in general, since one of the few people along there with you might turn out to have shady personalities.
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Take extra care along the LRT-Carriedo station, where a crook can easily blend in with an oncoming crowd of LRT passengers making their way to Quiapo.
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Another hostpost for criminal activity is the ilalim ng tulay where some petty thief can easily pass through to the Muslim community or hitch a jeepney ride with the passing jeeps.
1. 4
Avoid lurking too long in the kiosks of Carriedo—or any place with rows of tents where snatchers and their accomplices can easily hide.
1. 5
Stay away from (dark) corners where you can easily get surrounded. This is a general rule, and should be applied wherever you go.
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Shop Smart Do your research. Sometimes it takes two trips to Quiapo before you get to buy something you should invest in. One trip to canvass, after which you can research at home to review your options. And another to execute the purchase. But, if you only have time for one trip, be sure to prepare beforehand. Know the products and their price ranges. Don’t bring too much cash with you while canvassing. There are numerous ATMs in the area, especially around SM Quiapo. Some shops accept credit cards for an additional charge.
Know how to haggle. If you’re going to frequent Quiapo, make sure that haggling is in your skillset. You’d be surprised that even some photography equipment stores are willing to lower their prices to close in on a sale. One tip is to show hesitation by appearing interested but can live life without the product, yet are willing to buy at the right price.
Don’t be impulsive. The products may be the same in most stores, but the prices aren’t. Some stores offer the same products at a more affordable price. Visit different stores to get to know where the bargain is best. Because not all stores have exactly the same range of products, be sure to check more than one store. If you’re looking for an item not available in one store, it doesn’t mean that it’s not available in another.
Quiapo/Stay Safe
Bring an extra bag Stores would normally give you plastic bags to hold your purchase, but it’s not good idea to walk around Quiapo carrying multiple plastic bags. Instead, store your purchases in an empty bag for added convenience and security. It would also be better for the environment if you opt not to have store attendants wrap your purchases in sando bags. If you don’t have extra bags at home, hawkers along Rizal and Carriedo sell shopping bags of differnet designs and sizes.
Scrutinize. Check the product you’re buying before paying for it. Watch out for stains and loose thread. If buying a device, test if it works, and never forget to inquire about the warranty. It’s also best to remeber the face of the person who sold the item to you in case you need to come back. Always double check the gadgets you’ve had repaired as well.
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Philtrust Bank Philtrust Building Plaza Lacson corner Rizal Avenue 7330351 to 52, 733-0348, 733-0525 PSBank 552-554 Rizal Ave 733-0233, 733-4075 202 C. Palanca cor. Villalobos Streets, 733-8401, 733-8402, 733-3868 RCBC 653 Gonzalo Puyat 733-1661, 733-1657, 7331655, 733-1654 UCPB 713 P. Paterno Street cor. Quezon Blvd 733-4941, 733-4239 Security Bank C. Palanca Street cor. Quezon Blvd 7331730, 733-1960
Metrobank 633 Gonzalo Puyat 733-1676, 733-1665, 733-1669 129 C. Palanca St. 733-7156, 733-4590 733-7139, 733-7138, 733-7160 675 B. Evangelista St. 733-2348, 733-2345, 733-2254 PBCom 88-90 C. Palanca cor. Isla de Romero 736-0124, 736-0123, 577-7776, 09175541449 609 Sales St. 345-2680, 733-9366 Philippine Business Bank 707 Paterno St 354-9670, 354-9695, 310-5217
Banks in Quiapo Allied/PNB
BDO Quezon Blvd. cor. C. Palanca St. 735-9591, 735-9593 132 Carlos Palanca 735-6403, 733-6342 BPI 112 C. Palanca St. 733-5466, 217-3194, 0917-5544381 457 Quezon Blvd. 354-8312, 217-3377, 0917-5544387 Chinabank Security Bank 302-304 C. Palanca cor. P. Gomez 611 Sales Street 734-5806, 734-7427, 734-6959 Eastwest (unibank) G/F, E & L Haw Building, 502 Evangelista St.
Know the way Don’t get lost. Know your way around Quiapo. The Quiapo Primer is designed to help you navigate through Quiapo. If lost, look for landmarks such as the LRT, the Quiapo Church, and its surrounding arches, and It also helps to look at store signs for the street names. If you can’t find your way, note that people who look lost are easy prey for pickpockets, so be careful when you ask for directions or even when you casually talk about where you’re going with your companion. Be selective with whom you ask directions from. Vendors, store attendants, and security guards are usually our first options for asking for directions. However, some of them are not local to the area. Your best bets are with pedicab or tricycle drivers, police officers, local traffic enforcers. When asking for directions, it’s wise to get a second opinion especially when the person you asked is unsure. It also helps if vendors tag-team to help you out. They could even give you tips!
Quiapo/Stay Safe
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Keep your valuables close. Quiapo is notorious among Filipinos as a hotspot for petty theievery. Be sure to keep your valuables out of harm’s way. This isn’t just limited to cash and gadgets. This also applies to things you wouldn’t think anyone would steal like purfume bottles and make up kits. Backpacks are easy targets for the professional pickpocket, so opt for a sling bag instead. Always keep it at your front and within arms reach.
Blend in. Thieves can easily spot those who don’t frequent Quiapo, so make sure you blend in with the crowd. There is no formal dress code, but for safety reasons, try to dress modestly. Don’t even think about wearing jewelry. Wear sneakers that you’re comfortable with getting dirty, and that are appropriate for unpredictable weather conditions. Choose a pair that is comforable, since you’d be walking most of the time.
Don’t be fooled Pirated items. Quiapo has been known as a haven for piracy, as it was once part of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Notorious Markets List. With significant goverment action, pirated and counterfiet goods have been reduced, and the Quiapo Market was stricken off the list in 2012. Although it has been reduced, piracy still has not been eliminated in the area.
You don’t know where it’s been. When it comes to buying food and sex toys, remember that you don’t know where it’s been. If you’re buying fruit and vegetables, wash properly before cooking.
Modus operandi As the average everyday pickpocket gets cleverer and cleverer, so should the average everyday person. Be alert when it comes to your surroundings, and be aware of your personal belongings. Always be in the know of the different modus operandi that plague the Metro.
Quiapo/Stay Safe
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Buying a cellphone Buying a cellphone from a vendor off a street is not such a good idea. They may be surprisingly cheap, but they eventually get the better end of the deal. News has gone around that these vendors would present buyers with original cellphones. Dealing in haste, the vendor would “prepare” the phone for purchase by taking it back and switching it with a knockoff that, in most cases, won’t even open.
Having a cellphone repaired It’s generally cheaper and faster to have your cellphone repaired in Quiapo, but there are risks. A perfect repair isn’t guaranteed. The original problem might be fixed, but minor problem might soon pop up. It mostly has something to do with the casing such as marks left by forcefully prying open your cellphone, parts that don’t fit, and even parts that don’t properly align. Watch over your repair. Some stalls may practice shady business deals by taking away original parts and replacing them with parts made in China.
It shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that there aren’t too pictures of Quiapo. Being notorious for pickpockets and petty thievery does not help the situation. There are, however, some brave souls who manage to take sxcellent shots in Quiapo. Below are tips from photographers Al Allarilla and LitratoNiJuan’s Alexis Lim:
Secure your things. Know that you should always be careful. Even experienced photographers should remember this. Thus, it is important to secure your things before you shoot, because while you are shooting, you are disconnected from your environment, and focused on your subject. Add that to holding onto a camera, and you’re definitely a hot target for thieves. It’s scary to bring your camera out in the open, especially for first-timers, and even when you’re in large groups. But when you get to shoot more often, you’ll get the hang of it. Aside from investing in your camera, invest in theft-proof gear. It will help boost your confidence in going around Quiapo, and it will keep your precious equipment safe. Just remember: even photographers with cameras in hand can make it through Quiapo unscathed—and with great pictures.
photo by Alexis Lim
Photography
Quiapo/Stay Safe
Go in Groups You may opt to take sly photographs by yourself, but it’s best if you have a team of at least 4-5 photographers with you.
The people in Quiapo are friendly The people there are friendly. When shooting vendors, make sure to ask for their permission, since not all of them will agree to be photographed. Play with their vanity as well, since some people would genuinely want to be photographed.
photo by Alexis Lim
Some vendors would ask to see the photographs you’ve taken, and that’s okay. However, show them with appropriate caution, as some of them might get offended. Not all would want to be photographed.
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Food trip 1 Boulevard Hamburgers A small hole-in-the wall burger joint along Quezon Boulevard, Boulevard Hamburgers sell their own “beefburgers” as P19 per burger. It is distinguished by its retro diner atmosphere with orange counters, and a woman calling out “burgers!” as she cooks.
2 Ma Mon Luk Through the years, Filipinos have grown fond of mami. Ever wonder how it first tasted like? A small Chinese restaurant along Quezon Boulevard, Ma Mon Luk’s claim to fame is having been the originator of mami. Have it with siopao, and you’re in for a winner combo.
3 Globe Lumpia House Globe Lumpia House started with a small kiosk inside the Globe Theater where movie-goers were their primary customers. The restaurant still occupies the same spot at the old Globe Theater entrance along Raon even though the theater itself has been long gone.* Nowadays, you can only order lumpia for takeout for P18. Their fresh lumpia recipe has stood the test of time, as through the years, people still line up for this simple treat.
4 Delicious Restaurant A restaurant the lives up to its name, Delicious Restaurant is a short walk from Avenida Rizal, a stone’s throw away from Chinatown’s Ongpin street. Its ambiance takes you back to Old Manila, when kingpin Asiong Salonga used to walk its streets. But, hey, you don’t eat ambiance. You’re there for their bestselling pancit!
Quiapo/Features
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5 Ramon Lee’s Panciteria Ramon Lee’s is one of the oldest restaurants in Manila, catering to customers since 1929. It’s a short walk from the LRT Carriedo station and Sta. Cruz church. Aside from their pancit, also try their bestselling fried chicken. Don’t go alone, because their serving sizes are definitely for sharing.
6 Amis Restaurant Located in Carriedo, the busiest road in Quiapo, Amis is very easy to miss. But be vigilant, because their pancit canton is worth the trouble. Alro try their leafshaped siopao and other delicious fare.
7 Master Hopia Factory Who knew you could have so many flavors of hopia? Try as much as you can, because you’re bound to find a favorite! Their flavor-packed hopias can be a bit pricey at P15-20 apiece, but you’ll understand once you’ve had some. Give them a try at Villalobos cor. Palanca street.
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8 Excelente Cooked Ham Also true to its name, Excelente Cooked Ham has been providing quality meat products through the years. Visit their website at excelenteham.com and check out the products they have for you. Make sure to plan a visit to their only branch along C. Palanca street.
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References 1 Alviz, Jerilee Joyce M., Andrea Maria C. Junia, and Maria Christina C. Rodriguez. The Quiapo Market District: A Framework to Understand Its Urban Spatial Characteristics. Thesis. University of the Philippines, Diliman College of Architecture, 2004. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Print. 2 Aguilar, Karl. “Reminiscing The Cinematic Glitter: The Old Movie Theaters Of Downtown Manila (Part II: The Theaters Of Quiapo)” The Urban Roamer. N.p., 13 Apr. 2013. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 3 Aguilar, Karl. “The Urban Roamer’s Quiapo Shopping Guide (Part 2).” The Urban Roamer. The Urban Roamer, 19 Jan. 2013. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 4 AnDa, De. “Don Francisco Carriedo and Manila’s First Water System.” Web log post. With Ones Past. N.p., 7 Jan. 2014. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. 5 “Brief History of the Black Nazarene.” Solar News.ph. Solar News Channel, 9 Jan. 2013. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. 6 ““Defend It at Plaza Miranda”: A History of the Country’s Foremost Public Square.” Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office. Republic of the Philippines, 12 Feb. 2013. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. 7 Dychiu, Stephanie. “Quiapo Church Battles Abortion in Front Yard News » Special Reports.” GMA News Online. GMA Network Inc., 18 Oct. 2009. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 8 “Globe Lumpia House - The Home of Original Fresh Lumpia.” Globe Lumpia House - The Home of Original Fresh Lumpia. Facebook.com, n.d. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.
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9 “How to Get to Quiapo Manila: Jeepney Routes, Commute, Map.” Budget Travel Philippines. Budget Travel Guide Philippines, n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 10 Ira, Luning, and Sagani Medina. Streets of Manila. Quezon City, Philippines: GCF Books, 1983. Print. 11 “Isetann Department Store.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 14 Mar. 2014. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 12 Kreutz, Serge. Kreutz, Serge. “Philippines / Metro Manila / Transport / Jeepneys.” OneAsiaTravel.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. 13 Martinez, Glenn. “Quiapo Candle Lighting Ritual.” Traveler on Foot. Wordpress, 2 Feb. 2012. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 14 Pata, Danny. “The Once Glamorous Movie Theaters of Downtown Manila Lifestyle » Art and Culture.” GMA News Online. GMA Network Inc., 3 Apr. 2013. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 15 Philippinenewscentral. “Manila Bulletin: Manila Policemen Conduct a Checkpoint in Quiapo, Manila, on Feb. 11, 2014, In Co....” Philippine News Central. Manila Bulletin, 12 Feb. 2014. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. 16 “Police Reports of Quiapo | Quiapotoday.” Quiapotoday. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. 17 Quimpo, Mia, and Fernando Zialcita. “Sites, Structures, and Streetscapes.” Quiapo: Heart of Manila. Philippines: Quiapo Printing, Inc., 2006. 172-197. Print. 18 “Then and Now - Life Theater.” Web log post. Manila Hub. Awesome Inc., 11 Sept. 2008. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.
Make your own experience! Quiapo has so much to offer. It’s important to know where to go and what to do before you roam the streets of Quiapo. On the next page is a blank map to guide you in plotting out your own Quiapo experience!
Itinerary 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Quiapo/Bonus
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More often than not, we don’t give Quiapo enough of the credit it deserves. Even if it’s way past its glory days when it was once the downtown of Manila, Quiapo survives and thrives. It still has so much to offer with not just its history and culture. Get to know Quiapo, and you’re probably not going to want to miss out on all the great shopping deals, the food, and the actual experience of being in one of Manila’s richest places. Quiapo is a large area for a person to experience everything in a single day is quite impossible. Which is why in going to Quiapo, you have to prepare. Know what you’re going to do, where you’re going to go, and how to save yourself from misfortune. The Quiapo Primer is designed to help you get the best out of your Quiapo experience. It arms you with the necessary knowledge to brave the Old Downtown of Manila. Aside from the Primer, roam/MNL also offers a website and mobile app that would help guide you through Quiapo for a richer experience, backed up by experiences from other roamers of the Metro. Check out the website at: www.roamMNL.ph/Quiapo