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Manila, My Manila: A History for the Young
Manila, My Manila
La Manila de Mis Amores
Like Troy and like Rome, Manila has been many cities and will be many more.
Like every great city, Manila sprang from a wilderness of question marks. Legazpi was not the beginning, nor yet Soliman.
Soliman's palisaded kingdom was certainly not the first on the site. The indications are that it was a recent foundation, by newcomers: the palace guards were Borneans.
What settlement stood there previously, and how many such had come and gone before Soliman's fence, we may never know - but what we now know as Intramuros continues to be the "original" Manila, meaning the basic ground of a city that has been pagan, Muslim, Christian; that has been Malay, Spanish, Filipino.
The city was, is, and ever will be larger than those terms, even if reduced back to the original space of ground from which it bagan, from which it will always begin. Should atomic watrannihilate Manila, the survivors, if any, will, one can bet, automatically start rebuilding on that same tongue of land where the River flows into the Bay.
Both Soliman and Legazpi built there and they could only have been following in the footsteps of those who, through the ages, like the makers of the Seven Troys, had been building and rebuilding on that original site. There, apparently, is where the genius of the city is resident - and Intramuros is a once future womb.
So, when we celebrate Manila, we can only celebrate not a date or a founding, but a site, a scene, a location, a mother-ground. It has known too many dates and foundations. Races and empires and religions have washed over it; the warlike have used thunder to claim it and the city , smiling, has allowed them their foolish moment. Age after age, its lovers have hailed its rebirth or bewailed its perishing, while outside continued the traffic for strange webs with Eastern merchants.
And all this has been but as the sound of lyres and flutes.
This book reduces to prose the music of those lyres and flutes.
La Manila de Mis Amores
Like Troy and like Rome, Manila has been many cities and will be many more.
Like every great city, Manila sprang from a wilderness of question marks. Legazpi was not the beginning, nor yet Soliman.
Soliman's palisaded kingdom was certainly not the first on the site. The indications are that it was a recent foundation, by newcomers: the palace guards were Borneans.
What settlement stood there previously, and how many such had come and gone before Soliman's fence, we may never know - but what we now know as Intramuros continues to be the "original" Manila, meaning the basic ground of a city that has been pagan, Muslim, Christian; that has been Malay, Spanish, Filipino.
The city was, is, and ever will be larger than those terms, even if reduced back to the original space of ground from which it bagan, from which it will always begin. Should atomic watrannihilate Manila, the survivors, if any, will, one can bet, automatically start rebuilding on that same tongue of land where the River flows into the Bay.
Both Soliman and Legazpi built there and they could only have been following in the footsteps of those who, through the ages, like the makers of the Seven Troys, had been building and rebuilding on that original site. There, apparently, is where the genius of the city is resident - and Intramuros is a once future womb.
So, when we celebrate Manila, we can only celebrate not a date or a founding, but a site, a scene, a location, a mother-ground. It has known too many dates and foundations. Races and empires and religions have washed over it; the warlike have used thunder to claim it and the city , smiling, has allowed them their foolish moment. Age after age, its lovers have hailed its rebirth or bewailed its perishing, while outside continued the traffic for strange webs with Eastern merchants.
And all this has been but as the sound of lyres and flutes.
This book reduces to prose the music of those lyres and flutes.
- GenresHistoryNonfictionAsia
236 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 1990
58 people are currently reading
1315 people want to read
About the author
Nick Joaquín
92 books448 followersNicomedes Márquez Joaquín (1917–2004) was a Filipino writer and journalist best known for his short stories and novels in the English language. He also wrote using the pen name Quijano de Manila. In 1976, Joaquin was conferred the rank and title of National Artist of the Philippines for Literature. He has been considered one of the most important Filipino writers, along with José Rizal and Claro M. Recto. Unlike Rizal and Recto, whose works were written in Spanish, Joaquin's major works were written in English despite being a native Spanish speaker.
Before becoming one of the leading practitioners of Philippine literature in English, he was a seminarian in Hong Kong – who later realized that he could better serve God and humanity by being a writer. This is reflected in the content and style of his works, as he emphasizes the need to restore national consciousness through important elements of Catholic Spanish Heritage.
In his self-confessed mission as a writer, he is a sort of "cultural apostle" whose purpose is to revive interest in Philippine national life through literature – and provide the necessary drive and inspiration for a fuller comprehension of their cultural background. His awareness of the significance of the past to the present is part of a concerted effort to preserve the spiritual tradition and the orthodox faith of the Catholic past – which he perceives as the only solution to our modern ills.
Before becoming one of the leading practitioners of Philippine literature in English, he was a seminarian in Hong Kong – who later realized that he could better serve God and humanity by being a writer. This is reflected in the content and style of his works, as he emphasizes the need to restore national consciousness through important elements of Catholic Spanish Heritage.
In his self-confessed mission as a writer, he is a sort of "cultural apostle" whose purpose is to revive interest in Philippine national life through literature – and provide the necessary drive and inspiration for a fuller comprehension of their cultural background. His awareness of the significance of the past to the present is part of a concerted effort to preserve the spiritual tradition and the orthodox faith of the Catholic past – which he perceives as the only solution to our modern ills.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 16, 2023
Such a great read. I love the imagery used by Nick Joaquin to describe how the city was from its earliest form during the pre-colonial times and how it has evolved all throughout history. I love the insight he brings about different important figures in the city's history and how their decisions have impacted how it was formed.
I also love the what-ifs that were posed and how if certain events played out differently, the butterfly effect would have been extremely drastic.
It can be quite confusing at first because although it's generally told chronologically, some portions fast forward then go back when there are connected moments.
Overall such a great read. Any Filipino must read it.
I also love the what-ifs that were posed and how if certain events played out differently, the butterfly effect would have been extremely drastic.
It can be quite confusing at first because although it's generally told chronologically, some portions fast forward then go back when there are connected moments.
Overall such a great read. Any Filipino must read it.
September 25, 2021
Dubbed as a “Pop History for Manilans,” Manila, My Manila chronicles the capital’s history. It is a useful read but I did not find it illuminating. The book presents a narrative that puts the city at the center of an idealized colonial legacy. While it tells of a Manila that is diverse and has overcome the multitude of crises thrown its way, it fails to break away from a homogenous narrative. At one point I thought, “was Manila populated mostly by foreigners? Where are the voices of its original inhabitants?” Reading this book needs thoughtful digestion and critical thinking.
April 21, 2016
This book deserves to be read again. I love my Manila. Nick Joaquin should live forever if only to continue this book.
July 7, 2017
I have always been in love with this city and Nick Joaquin captures its soul in Manila my Manila
September 5, 2019
If you are so engrossed with the City of Manila, despite its foibles, this is the best place to start.
December 16, 2025
I unfortunately have to give this book a 1 star rating. I cannot even get past the first chapter without wanting to throw it over the Pasig River.
There's something about the writing style and the author's voice that is so grating and irritating. The constant vascillation of tone and register from formal to conversational, the unnecessary quips and side comments, the lack of attribution and references to actual historical texts, referencing characters that will only be introduced 3 paragraphs later - I can't stand it. I found myself asking "What??" and "What the f---?! Why?" and "Who is this person??" every other paragraph just because the author can't seem to actually create a cohesive narrative.
There's also something so condescending and patronizing about the writing style which is so off-putting, add to the fact that, at least in the first chapter, Filipinos are portrayed as people without any sense of agency.
It's an unbearable read. I can't believe this author is a national artist. He writes like a highschool kid writing for a school paper.
There's something about the writing style and the author's voice that is so grating and irritating. The constant vascillation of tone and register from formal to conversational, the unnecessary quips and side comments, the lack of attribution and references to actual historical texts, referencing characters that will only be introduced 3 paragraphs later - I can't stand it. I found myself asking "What??" and "What the f---?! Why?" and "Who is this person??" every other paragraph just because the author can't seem to actually create a cohesive narrative.
There's also something so condescending and patronizing about the writing style which is so off-putting, add to the fact that, at least in the first chapter, Filipinos are portrayed as people without any sense of agency.
It's an unbearable read. I can't believe this author is a national artist. He writes like a highschool kid writing for a school paper.
May 18, 2025
Reading the last chapter on the eve of yet another historically significant election offers this reader a strange kind of hope that despite everything history throws at our country, she shall prevail:
“Races and empires and religions have washed over it; the warlike have used thunder to claim it and the city, smiling, has allowed them their foolish moment. Age after age, its lovers have hailed its rebirth or bewailed its perishing, while outside continued the traffic for strange webs with Eastern merchants.
And all this has been but as the sound of lyres and flutes.”
(Read the rest of the review at https://exlibrisphilippines.com/2025/... )
“Races and empires and religions have washed over it; the warlike have used thunder to claim it and the city, smiling, has allowed them their foolish moment. Age after age, its lovers have hailed its rebirth or bewailed its perishing, while outside continued the traffic for strange webs with Eastern merchants.
And all this has been but as the sound of lyres and flutes.”
(Read the rest of the review at https://exlibrisphilippines.com/2025/... )
October 10, 2025
An interesting romp though annals of Manila as seen through the lens of one of the Philippines greatest writers.
I liked the how it combined straightforward chronicle, literary storytelling, and gossipy factoids into a very readelable piece. Certainly more fun reading than any schoolbook.
Though the nature of the work made it seem like it's just ticking off names and events, especially near the end.
I liked the how it combined straightforward chronicle, literary storytelling, and gossipy factoids into a very readelable piece. Certainly more fun reading than any schoolbook.
Though the nature of the work made it seem like it's just ticking off names and events, especially near the end.
June 22, 2017
If you love Manila as much as I do, then this book is for you. Go deep into the country's capital and discover our history and what shaped Manila to be the city it is now.
July 23, 2018
it's good to read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2021
An interesting popular history with the bulk of the focus on pre-20th century.
November 26, 2024
A descriptive, dramatic literary piece describing the history of the Philippine capital city of Manila.
May 14, 2012
Manila, My Manila (A History for the Young) by Nick Joaquin talks about Manila - the city and its people - from Pre-colonial until the the emergency of the Cory Aquino Administration.
Finishing every page makes me realize how much I do not know about my own history. As a Filipino and a Manila-girl (born, raised and educated in Manila and the surrounding cities), I can't believe each chapter can still make me go "So that's what happened".
Unfortunately, there is a flaw in the Filipino race (albeit the always positive demeanor and unbeatable hospitality) - our inability to be truly rooted. Mr. Joaquin explains this thru the structures of the city of Manila. He explains that the reason why Filipinos may not be as attached to history and culture of our own country may be because our city itself has no sense of self. No building in Manila was ever rebuilt the same way after it was ravage by war, bombs or natural disasters. Every building we see in Manila today is not the same Manila in the olden paintings and literature. The only structure from "old Manila" to survive the "new Manila" are the San Sebastian Parish and Ayala Bridge - both structures made of steel and by divine intervention saved from the bombings of World War II.
Again, another "Ah ha!" moment.
A recommendable book to every history enthusiast. A must for every Filipino.
Finishing every page makes me realize how much I do not know about my own history. As a Filipino and a Manila-girl (born, raised and educated in Manila and the surrounding cities), I can't believe each chapter can still make me go "So that's what happened".
Unfortunately, there is a flaw in the Filipino race (albeit the always positive demeanor and unbeatable hospitality) - our inability to be truly rooted. Mr. Joaquin explains this thru the structures of the city of Manila. He explains that the reason why Filipinos may not be as attached to history and culture of our own country may be because our city itself has no sense of self. No building in Manila was ever rebuilt the same way after it was ravage by war, bombs or natural disasters. Every building we see in Manila today is not the same Manila in the olden paintings and literature. The only structure from "old Manila" to survive the "new Manila" are the San Sebastian Parish and Ayala Bridge - both structures made of steel and by divine intervention saved from the bombings of World War II.
Again, another "Ah ha!" moment.
A recommendable book to every history enthusiast. A must for every Filipino.
November 6, 2013
Nick Joaquin ingenuously blends the old with the new with this history for the young Filipino people. Published in 1991, it is a landmark historical work, attempting to reconstruct history after the years of Martial Law and during the tumultuous years of the Aquino administration.
The author cites Morga's notes from the Sucesos and other sources of Spanish Manila and recreates the events as they have likely occurred. He provides a unique Philippine perspective in a history written by colonialists for colonialists. He takes this historical piece further by continuing the written history until the 20th century, highlighting the significant events that would have brought about subsequent American and Japanese occupation, liberation, Martial Law and the birth of the Philippine Republic.
This is a must-read for Filipinos who wish to know more about their roots, their perspectives and the changes that underwent given the long years of colonialism, revolution and independence.
The author cites Morga's notes from the Sucesos and other sources of Spanish Manila and recreates the events as they have likely occurred. He provides a unique Philippine perspective in a history written by colonialists for colonialists. He takes this historical piece further by continuing the written history until the 20th century, highlighting the significant events that would have brought about subsequent American and Japanese occupation, liberation, Martial Law and the birth of the Philippine Republic.
This is a must-read for Filipinos who wish to know more about their roots, their perspectives and the changes that underwent given the long years of colonialism, revolution and independence.
April 3, 2012
A history of the Philippines written by a Manileño (a Philippine National Artist for Literature) from the point of view of a Manila resident. This book gives great insight into the city and how it came to evolve into what it is today..
It was fun (and educational) to learn about the prominent personalities that helped mold Manila and its destiny.. This is a highly recommended material for anybody interested in Philippine history!
It was fun (and educational) to learn about the prominent personalities that helped mold Manila and its destiny.. This is a highly recommended material for anybody interested in Philippine history!
March 8, 2016
Excellent, vivid history of Manila -- from its earliest days as a settlement for Malay voyagers to the lush delta of the Pasig River, through the insurrection against the Spanish, the brutal days of Japanese occupation during World War II to Marcos -- by one of the Philippines' most illustrious writers Nick Joaquin. I loved it (and it helped that I was reading it in Manila).
May 15, 2016
National Artist Nick Joaquin captured in 355 pages, our capital, Manila's rich history and culture that in turn shaped our country's destiny. Manila, My Manila resonates with loveliness and pride. Interesting trivias are intricately inter-woven in this narrative without sounding too scholarly. Hence, perfect for the history buffs in all of us.
May 28, 2008
This is a must-read book for anyone living in Manila. It's the wonderfully entertaining history of the capital. A light but insightful read. The book washes out a bit towards the end when describing the Marcos years
August 15, 2007
excellent book. truly joaquin-ish
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October 6, 2012comment
July 15, 2013
I want to read this book how can I reed this online!!!
July 4, 2016
Nice take on the story and evolution of Manila - from Intramuros to the arrabales to Malacañang to Greater Manila and beyond - intertwined with anecdotes of important personalities and common folk.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews