Manila/Pasay City
Philippines

GEOGRAPHY

Located at Manila Bay on the island of Luzon in the Philippine archipelago, Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is one of the cities comprising Metro Manila. Metro Manila also includes Pasay City in which the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, promoting the establishment of economic zones throughout the Philippines, has its headquarters.

HISTORY

In 1521, the Spaniards conquered the islands, which they named for King Phillip II. During the Spanish-American War in 1898, U.S. Commodore George Dewey entered Manila
Bay. The Philippines were a U.S.A. protectorate until after World War II, when it became an independent nation.

EDUCATION

Greater Manila is proud of its universities, among them the National University of the Philippines founded in 1900. The Cultural Center of the Philippines was built in 1969. Manila is the site of the National Museum, the Metropolitan Museum, the Museum of Philippine Art and the Ayala Museum.

INDUSTRIES

Technology is advanced in Manila. Manila is a handicraft center where souvenirs are made from seashells, bamboo, and precious metals. Textiles, leather goods, and shoes are manufactured in Manila. Abaca fiber, known as Manila hemp, is used in twine and rope.

CLIMATE

Manila’s climate is tropical with relatively high humidity from abundant rainfall with an annual temperature of 80 degrees fahrenheit.

POPULATION

2,540,000

TRANSPORTATION

Manila is a major seaport and its international airport serves 30 international airlines. Colorful jeepneys travel its streets.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Virginia Mueller, Chair

City Affiliation with Manila: June 8, 1961.
City Affiliation with Pasay City: February 28, 2006.