3/9 - Manila, Philippines

I think someone phoned ahead and told the tourism folks in Manila how welcoming the people of Puerto Princesa were, because they certainly tried to outdo them! We were once again greeted with singers and dancers who entertained for hours. And a lovely farewell band as we left. The people of the Philippines certainly know who to make one feel welcome!

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and one of the cities that make up the greater metropolitan area of Metro Manila. Well into the 13th century, the city consisted of a fortified settlement and trading quarter at the bay of the Pasig River, on top of previous older towns. Manila became the seat of the colonial government of Spain when it controlled the Philippine Islands for over three centuries from 1565 to 1898. Beginning in 1898, the United States occupied and controlled the city and the Philippine archipelago until 1946. During World War II, much of the city was destroyed and it was not until 1975 that the Metropolitan Manila region was enacted as an independent entity. Today, the city and the metropolis thrive as an important cultural and economic center. 1

The USS Blue Ridge is stationed in Manila and was directly across the dock from our ship. It is a communications ship and they had a three star admiral on board. Made us feel very proud to see one of our United States Navy ships in the same port we were in.

One of the biggest malls we have ever seen was in Manila — Robinsons Mall. We didn't really buy anything here (other than coffee @ Starbucks & lunch @ Wendy's), just wandered around in amazement! :-)

Our day in Manila ended with a wonderful fireworks competition between the Dutch and the Italians, which we were able to watch from out in the harbor.

Dancers greeting ship

Dancers greeting ship

Dancers greeting ship



USS Blue Ridge



Farewell entertainment

Farewell entertainment

 1 Holland America Explorer