Mandaluyong travel guide

Your Guide to Mandaluyong City, Philippines

Mandaluyong lies at the heart of Metro Manila - the capital city of the Philippines. Since the early 1980's, the city has shown a rapid rate of development in both economic and industrial aspects. Today, it is considered one of the most progressive economic capitals of the country.

Before 1986, Mandaluyong was hardly thought of as a potential business place. But since the EDSA Revolution in the year 1986, people witnessed a new beginning for the small city.

History

Mandaluyong was a Muslim settlement before the Spanish invasion. It grew a bigger kingdom ever since 1470. During the Spanish regime, Mandaluyong played a vital role in the revolutionary movement of the Filipinos. It hosted Andres Bonifacio's secret meeting for the Katipuneros. Many of the revolutionists resided in or within the vicinity of Mandaluyong at that time.

The city experienced varying rates of development after the Spanish invasion. Although it grew in political and economical aspects, the city also experienced destruction several times.

By 1960's, Mandaluyong became a municipality of Metro Manila and has undergone a major economic and physical transformation. It also became a highly urbanized city because of its being a progressive municipality. Its city status was awarded during the year 1994.

Population and Geography

Mandaluyong's total land area sums up to 26 square kilometers. It takes the shape of a heart and is not far from other urbanized cities like Pasig and Manila. It is also located in close proximity to Quezon City and Makati. Mandaluyong is home to 286,870 people based on the census taken during the year 1995. Because of its location, Mandaluyong has become the leading industrial and business 'mecca' of the country.

Hot Spots

The city is a home to three of Metro Manila's largest shopping malls. It has Shangri-la Plaza which caters to a more exclusive clientele. The Podium, which is another exclusive retailer, is also found in the city. Lastly, people of middle and lower income brackets shop at the city's SM Megamall.

Aside from these huge malls, Mandaluyong is also home to other shopping centers. People find great treats at Marketplace which is situated at General Kalentong Street. Robinson's Place Pioneer and St. Francis Square, two other popular shopping places for bargain hunters, are also located in the city.

Other Places to See

Aside from shopping malls, several places caught the interest of tourists and locals alike. There are monuments, religious structures, ultra modern commercial centers and government institutions. Among the most popular of these structures, include The Ortigas Center, The San Felipe Neri Church, and Mandaluyong City Hall Complex.