It has always been a common misconception wherein Manila (or sometimes Makati, for business purposes) is the only place you can visit while in Metro Manila. The National Capital Region is actually comprised of 16 cities namely Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Marikina, Pasig, Taguig, Makati, Manila, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa.
Check out the 6 underrated cities of Metro Manila that you should consider visiting.
1. Mandaluyong City and Pasig City
Most internationals visit Metro Manila with business intentions and/or expansions, but little did they know that Ortigas, which is a district located between Mandaluyong City and Pasig City, is the second home to the business industry in Metro Manila. Considering the area is business-oriented, it’s surrounded by malls you can hop on to one at a time. Packed with high towers and bright lights, you won’t find yourself out of place in Ortigas.
2. Taguig City
Rising to fame, Taguig has been recently one of the favorite destinations for leisure. If you’re looking for a setting with something laid back and familiar, Taguig is your place to go to. BGC, short for Bonifacio Global City is also another commercialized area although branded with more finesse. The newly constructed Venice Piazza has recently gained fame for giving the same atmosphere as if you’re in Italy so make sure to drop by.
3. San Juan City
If you’re under the budget but still want to make the most out of your dough, San Juan is definitely the next place you need to visit. Greenhills, a well-known bazaar mall, is the must go low-cost high-quality shopping of foreigners and locals alike. They cover almost everything under the sun so they’re nothing to worry about in case you forget some souvenirs from the other places you’ve visited. In case you’re looking for something historic, you can also drop by Museo ng Katipunan. With innovative and conventional exhibits, the museum features archival documents, amulets, cryptic messages and bladed weapons used by the Katipuneros. It also houses artworks depicting the scenes of the revolution against Spain, a holographic image of Andres Bonifacio, a stereoscopy room of late 19th century photographs, a library, and an e-learning room.
4. Marikina City
Marikina City, once known as the little Singapore, takes pride in being the “Shoe Capital of the Philippines”. Being in the shoe business since 1887, they have made a name for themselves in creating high-quality handmade shoes which even other locals visit to get to hands on. Aside from being the shoe capital, Marikina City has recently been the destination to many sumptuous restaurants and food trucks. Make the most out of Marikina and eat to your hearts’ content!
5. Quezon City
Lastly, this list can’t go on without the city with the largest area in Metro Manila and the most populated in the country. Named after Manuel L. Quezon, the second president of the Philippines, Quezon City is the home of two of the prestigious universities in the country. Although Ateneo de Manila University is not exactly open to the public, the state-funded University of the Philippines is available for everyone to roam around. Another alternative is passing by parks like La Mesa Ecopark and Quezon Memorial Circle which you can spend valuable time with your family.
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