THE megalopolis region of the Philippines is composed of 16 cities and a town, and is home to almost eleven million people. Despite having several different districts, each city depicts a unique disposition that sets them apart from each other. However the country’s capital city, Manila, is highly recognized as one of the world’s treasures. In the face of modern transformation, every corner in Manila still exudes the bygone era. It is a world-renowned destination where contemporary lifestyle shares space with the historical landmarks of the city. This thriving old new city is a testament of history and culture.
A particular landmark in Manila presents a great story for the Philippines. The Manila Hotel, a first-class premiere accommodation recently celebrated its 100 years of existence. It is a recognized member of the Prestige Hotels of the World and has been named as the Showcase of the Philippines.
The hotel first opened its doors on July 4, 1912, together with the commemoration of the American Independence Day. The city planning was spearheaded by Architect and city planner Daniel Hudson Burnham in 1898. Then in 1098, William Parsons took over the supervision of the hotel’s construction. Apart from showcasing the Philippine tradition and culture through its remarkable Filipiniana interiors, the Manila Hotel boasts the best view of the famed Manila Bay and its spectacular sunset. Since then, prominent personalities have come and stayed at the esteemed hotel.
Among the notable guests of the Manila Hotel was General Douglas MacArthur, who came to the Philippines upon former President Manuel L. Quezon’s request to establish a Philippine army. The Manila Hotel served as MacArthur’s residence for six years where he was the Military advisor to the Commonwealth Government of the Philippines and also the hotel’s General Manager.
Its magnificence is one thing; however the significant historical accounts of the past that took place in this hotel have become its highlight and the bastion of the country’s history. The hotel served as a commanding post when the Japanese invaded Manila during the World War II. However, the hotel fell into the hands of the enemy, as a result MacArthur and his men withdrew to Corregidor Island. The hotel became the Japanese’s commanding post for three years.
MacArthur and his troops returned and were determined to retrieve Manila from the Japanese High Command. During the battle, a part of the hotel was set on fire, particularly the penthouse where MacArthur resided. Unfortunately, a large portion of the property was ruined but luckily the Japanese forces finally surrendered.
In 1976, Manila Hotel was once again restored to its grandeur and its inauguration took place the following year. During the Marcos term, former presidential wife Imelda Marcos was a frequent guest. A few months after former president Ferdinand Marcos was exiled, fanatics took over the Manila Hotel in 1986 yet failed to win military support. It was also in Manila Hotel where former president Cory Aquino delivered her presidential speech in 1987.
Important political figures, royalties and world leaders also found home and warmth in the Manila Hotel. Among its many prominent guests were Senator Robert Kennedy, Vice President Richard Nixon, His Serene Highness Crowne Prince Albert of Monaco, Majesties King Juan Carlos de Bourbon and Queen Sofia of Spain, famous writer Ernest Hemingway, The Beatles and Michael Jackson.
The Manila Hotel has become a chosen venue for events like ASEAN Summit Meeting, Pacquiao-Marquez World Press Tour, world-class tour performances, and international conferences.
Through the years, guests from all over the world have indulged in Manila Hotel’s Filipino hospitality, comfort and luxury. With its superb service, outstanding design, fantastic rooms and amazing food, Manila Hotel has greatly gained achievements from various hotel and travel reviews. And together with its colorful background of long-gone era, the Manila Hotel has been recognized as a historical landmark. Endowed with such prominence, the Hotel itself is definitely an icon of history and prestige.
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