Houses for Sale in Manila

 

Manila: Living Competitively Through Efficient Governance

 

The City of Manila is the capital of the Philippines and one of its largest cities. It is located on the eastern side of the island of Luzon. The city has a population of 1,846,513 and a land area of 38.55 square kilometers. It is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the country and the world calling it home. The city has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of traditional dances, music, and arts.

If you are looking to buy a house in Manila, you can find real estate listings in Malate district, Marikina City, and the nearby municipalities of Rizal province.

 

Places to go in Manila

 

One of the most diverse and colorful cities in Asia, there is so much to see when you are in Manila. From its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and churches to its modern high-rise buildings, housing options to buy, and vibrant nightlife, Manila offers something for everyone. 

 

The National Museum Complex

 

The museums in Manila are some of the most interesting in the country. They range from small, family-owned museums to large, government-run museums. The most popular museums include the National Museum of the Philippines and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila (MET).

The National Museum Complex is located in the district of Ermita, with buildings each featuring a distinct set of exhibits including the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of the Philippines is home to our country's most prestigious museums.

Whether you're looking for a museum with world-class art pieces or a historical artifact or trying to find a residential property for sale in the City of Manila, there are many options available in this area and to its nearby district of Malate.

 

Rizal Park

 

The historic Rizal Park is considered to be the heart of Manila. The central location offers a view not only of what it means for this city but also of how different cultures have come together in harmony here over time. 

Rizal Park is a large public park that was named after our national hero José Rizal. It is home to many of the city's most popular tourist attractions, including the Manila Zoo, and the Japanese Garden. The monument of Rizal is also located in the park.

Acquiring a house for sale near Rizal Park and its nearby tourist attractions will provide you ample space and options where you and your children can relax and enjoy family time together. A house for sale is available in the Malate district which is just 10 minutes away from this park.

 

Intramuros

 

The Intramuros district is a walled city that was built by the Spanish in the 16th century. It is home to some of the city's most well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, including churches and fortresses. 

Intramuros is a fascinating historical site that provides insight into the life and times of Manila's predecessor, as well as an opportunity for some cultural education. If you are looking for a nearby residential house for sale in this three-mile-long stone-walled district of Intramuros, there are many housing options available in the Malate area. Or if you want to live in a neighborhood with the same vibe as that of the Intramuros, you can also look in the nearby City of Antipolo in Rizal province.

 

The Baywalk

 

The Baywalk is a waterfront promenade that stretches for more than 2 kilometers along Manila Bay in Roxas Boulevard. It is home to many restaurants and bars. It is a popular place to visit for its iconic golden sunsets, calm bay waters, and lush greenery in the backdrop of towering skyscrapers. 

Local street artists perform throughout this promenade; with food stalls offering tastes from different local cuisines as well as kiosks that provide information about things going on nearby. There are also benches where visitors can relax while they spend time here. Manila Bay area is filled with high-quality residential properties for sale just 15 minutes away from the City of Manila’s plaza.

 

Marikina River Park

 

The Marikina River Park is a popular tourist attraction in Marikina City. It features a wide variety of recreational facilities, including a children's playground, a skate park, and a jogging track. The park also has several restaurants and cafes, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful view of the river.

If you're looking for a place to live near a river, but do not want to go far in the city, Marikina City is worth considering. With its rich history, abundant tourist attractions, and housing options that are for sale, Marikina City is sure to give you something to choose from. Start planning your trip to Marikina River Park and you might find your dream house in Marikina City.

There are many enjoyable and modern attractions located in the City of Manila and its nearby districts that you and your family will surely enjoy, that is why acquiring a house in the City of Manila is very practical and an ideal decision to make when looking for a comfortable place to call home.

 

Why Live in Manila?

 

The City of Manila enjoys a stable economy and is home to some of the country's largest businesses and corporations. It is also home to a wide variety of housing options, including high-rise apartments, townhouses, and single-family houses.

The City of Manila has an excellent selection of areas on where to buy your first residential property, whether it is in the city proper or its nearby provinces, you will never run out of options on where to buy your dream house.

 

Stable economy

 

Based on The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index Rankings of 2021, the City of Manila is the second most competitive city in our country based on its total scores gathered from the 4 pillars or frameworks of the survey: Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, Infrastructure, and Resiliency. 

 

Of the 4 pillars or frameworks from the survey, the City of Manila was on top with the most efficient local government due to: 

 

Compliance with national government directives

 

The City of Manila has been generally compliant with the national government directives, an example of which is its compliance with the Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS) set by the government to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the country, where according to DTI, 94.24% of the entire Metro Manila business establishments monitored in 2021 were all compliant.

 

The presence of investment promotions

 

The Board of Investments (BOI) has registered a total investment project worth P14.89 billion for the development of Manila port. The project, which was implemented by the Manila North Harbour Port Inc. (MNHPI), is seen to improve the country's competitiveness as an international maritime transshipment center.

 

Business registration efficiency

 

The City of Manila is known for its efficiency in registering businesses. The GO MANILA is the city’s official mobile application that allows you to access its local government services more conveniently and efficiently. The process is safe, secure, and cost-effective so everyone will be able to use the technology.

 

The capacity to generate local resources

 

The City of Manila’s budget for 2022 worth P22.2 billion, which is 6.4% higher than the P20.8-billion spending from the previous year will be allocated to the rehabilitation of esteros and waterways, the construction of new schools, and health centers, and the improvement of infrastructure such as roads and bridges in the city.

 

Its high standard for health services

 

There are a total of 43 hospitals in the City of Manila, accounting for both private and public hospitals, as well as specialty hospitals - 6 of which are district hospitals (listed below) - and an additional 62 health centers; all providing healthcare services not only to its constituents but also to the general public of Metro Manila and its nearby provinces.

 

Table 1: District Hospitals of the City of Manila

DIST. I: GAT ANDRES BONIFACIO MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER DIST. II: OSPITAL NG TONDO DIST. III: JUSTICE ABAD SANTOS MEDICAL CENTER DIST. IV: OSPITAL NG SAMPALOC DIST. V: OSPITAL NG MAYNILA DIST. VI: STA ANA HOSPITAL

 

High capacity for educational services and facilities

 

According to an article published in a British digital education platform FutureLearn -  the education system in the country has been called one of Asia's most developed. Rates for basic skills completion, higher learning participation, and adult literacy are comparable to those found within more economically favorable countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea.  

The Metropolitan Manila registered a relatively high functional literacy rate in 2019 with 96.5%, when compared to other regions in the county. This was based on the Functional Literacy Rate of 2019 conducted by Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) under the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

 

 

The City of Manila, due to its efficient government leadership has continuously provided quality educational facilities and services. More than P5 billion worth has already been allocated towards the modernization of its three public schools - Dr. Alejandro Albert Elementary School in Sampaloc, Rosauro Almario Elementary School in Tondo, and the Manila Science High School in Ermita. 

Private education is also thriving in the City of Manila. Based on the British Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings of 2022, 4 universities from our country were included in the top 1000, and all of them are located in Metro Manila. The universities were evaluated according to the following metrics - Academic Reputation, Employer Reputation, Faculty/Student Ratio, Citations per Faculty, International Faculty Ratio, and International Student Ratio.

 

Table 2: British Quacquarelli Symonds World University Rankings of 2022

 

QS World University Rankings is the world’s most popular source for university rankings data. It contains not only objective, factual information about universities around the globe, but also insightful analysis that helps students discover their potential in a new environment.

Another proof that universities and colleges in the City of Manila are providing world-class higher education is that 3 of our country’s well-established universities were included in the most recent results of The Emerging Economies (THE) University Rankings of 2022 published in the United Kingdom, where De La Salle University which is located in the City of Manila, achieves its position of 501+. 

 

Table 3: The Emerging Economies University Rankings of 2022

 

The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings have been recognizing the best universities in different fields since 2004. They look at how well each school performs across all four core missions: teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook.

 

Where to buy a house in Manila?

 

The City of Manila has a wide variety of residential properties available for sale, from apartments and condominiums to houses and mansions. The prices range from affordable to luxurious, depending on your budget. 

The City of Manila is divided into 16 administrative districts. The most popular neighborhood include the Malate district, while the neighboring cities of Marikina and Antipolo in Rizal province, are the next best choices for people who want to buy a house in relaxed, laid-back provinces and yet near the city. 

 

Malate

 

Malate district is located in the eastern part of the City of Manila. It is bordered by the districts of Ermita and Quiapo to the north, Pasay to the south, Manila Baywalk to the west, and San Andres to the east.

Government agencies like that of the Department of Finance (DOF), Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Bureau of Plant Industry, and LandBank of the Philippines have their headquarters in Malate, while the Philippine Navy’s headquarters is also located along Roxas Boulevard. The Apostolic Nunciature in the Philippines which is an equivalent of an embassy is located along Taft Avenue in Malate, Manila, is home to Vatican City’s “nuncio” or representative.

Malate district has a variety of businesses and establishments, including banks, law firms, and other professional services. It is also home to some of the best hospitals in the City of Manila including Manila Doctors Hospital, and Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center. 

The district of Malate offers convenient and easy access to the main roads like Roxas Boulevard, Quirino Avenue as well as Taft Avenue. The Light Rail Transit (LRT-1) has two stations located here - Vito Cruz and Quirino stations. Additionally, it is located close to the seaport. 

The traditional local eateries and live-music hangouts are located around Remedios Circle. A quiet neighborhood restaurant - Cafe Adriatico - can be found just off the main square, but it's worth seeking out for its relaxed atmosphere that captures the nostalgia of an old Manila.

You'll find luxurious townhouses for sale in this prime location in the Malate district which comes fully furnished with top-of-the-line appliances and furniture just minutes away from all the shopping, dining, and entertainment that the City of Manila has to offer. Plus, you'll enjoy all the conveniences of living in a gated community with 24/7 security. Best of all, each unit comes with its garage for parking your car.

 

Rizal

 

Rizal province is located on the eastern side of the City of Manila. The province is home to some of the most remarkable landscapes and popular tourist destinations in the country, such as the Hinulugang Taktak - famous for its refreshing waterfalls and Mystical Cave - it’s called “mystical” because of the holy images found inside the cave. 

 

The history of Rizal province has been built on a foundation for progress:

 

During the Spanish era in 1853, the towns of Morong, Pililla, Tanay, Baras, Binangonan, Jalajala, Angono, Antipolo, Boso-Boso, Cainta, and Taytay, were separated from Tondo province and were named Distrito Politico-Militar de los Montes San Mateo. But to avoid confusion that San Mateo is the district’s capital instead of Morong, its name was then changed to Distrito-Militar de Morong four years later.

On June 5, 1901, the First Philippine Commission, proposed the integration of both Manila and Morong into one province to be named "Rizal" to honor our national hero, which led to the formation of Rizal province. 

On June 11, 1901, under Act No. 137 of the Second Philippine Commission, Rizal province together with its 33 towns, was officially created. 

On November 7, 1975, through Presidential Decree No. 824, Rizal province was subdivided to form Metro Manila and only 14 towns remained including San Mateo, Montalban, Cainta, Taytay, Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, Teresa, Morong, Cardona, Tanay, Pililla, Baras, and Jalajala, although the seat of the provincial government still remained in Pasig City until 2020.

On July 7, 2020, Republic Act No. 11475 which was signed on June 19, 2020, took effect making Antipolo City the official capital of Rizal province after almost 4 decades of being under the Pasig City government.

Antipolo City, the newly installed capital of the province, is located on the eastern side of Rizal and is known as a Catholic pilgrimage site. Located in the city is the Antipolo Cathedral where the 17th-century statue of the Virgin Mary - Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage is enshrined. In the southwest part of the city, is Pinto Art Museum which displays present-day Filipino artworks such as paintings and sculptures.

Aside from its rich cultural heritage, Antipolo City is home to a variety of businesses and professional services, including restaurants such as Tahanan Bistro, Hill Stop Garden Restaurant, and Pico de Pino Cafe and Restaurant; local and rural banks such as Rural Bank of Montalban, Tanay Rural Bank, Rural Bank of Cainta Inc - Taytay Branch, Rizal Rural Bank, PNB Rizal, BPI Tanay, Robinsons Bank Taytay, RCBC Tanay and UCPB Savings; hotels and resorts like Club Manila East and Timberland Highlands Resort.

Rizal province is considered a premier province due to its proximity to the City of Manila and its development and became a prominent destination for residential property developments. According to The Cities and Municipalities, Competitiveness Index Rankings of 2021 Rizal province ranked 1st among the 82 other provinces in the country included in the report with total provincial revenue of almost 11 billion.

You may find the most expensive and luxurious house for sale in Rizal, Manila at Beverly Hills Subdivision, Filinvest East Homes, and Valley Golf Hills. While you can find classy yet affordable ones at Filinvest East Homes and Green Park Village. Live a luxurious life in one of these homes in Rizal province for sale and enjoy its great amenities and its perfect location.

 

Marikina

 

Located eastwardly across the city from Metro Manila, this rice field turned into one vast urban neighborhood. 

In 1500, the Augustinians were the first to arrive at the Marikina valley known as “chorillo” in Barangka and established the Our Lady of the Abandoned church in 1572.

In 1630, came the Society of Jesus or the Jesuits, and built the Jesus de la Peña Chapel (Jesus of the Rocks) and established their mission. 

In 1687, the Augustinians took control over the Jesuits and spread their mission from this town of Santa Elena to Jesús de la Peña. From then, it became a parish known as the San Mateo de Mariquina in honor of the Mariquina River, which runs through the city.

In 1887, Don Laureano "Kapitan Moy" Guevarra saw Mariquina’s peak both economically and culturally and started shoemaking which quickly became a booming industry in the area.

On June 11, 1901, soon after the United States colonized the Philippines, San Mateo de Mariquina was incorporated under the newly created province of Rizal by Act No. 137 and was renamed Marikina.

On November 7, 1975, Metro Manila was established through Presidential Decree No. 824, integrating four cities and 13 towns mostly found within Rizal province, including Marikina.

Marikina City is the main gateway to Metro Manila for those living in Rizal and Quezon provinces through the Marikina–Infanta Highway. The city borders on three different cities - Quezon City, Pasig, and Antipolo. It is known for its high-quality shoes, which are made from a variety of materials, including leather, canvas, and rubber. 

The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of traditional dances like the “Lerion”, and “Balse Marikina”; and music with the use of “Angklung” - musical instruments made of bamboo.

The most popular neighborhoods in Marikina City include: 

Concepcion – This neighborhood is home to a variety of businesses, including restaurants, banks, and other professional services including Width & Length Uniforms, SMLC Behavioral Therapy Marikina, Ideas We Form Studio, Inc., and Water Nymph Resort.

Riverbanks – This neighborhood is home to some recreational facilities, including a theme park, an outdoor mall, and a sports complex. Business establishments are also available in the community like The Voice Academy of the Philippines, Inc., Mang Inasal - Riverbanks Mall, RCBC Savings Bank - (Barangka), Figaro Coffee, Goldilocks Bakeshop, Guess - Riverbanks Outlet, and South Star Drug - Riverbanks.

Find your luxurious dream home at Goodrich Village in Marikina City. This upscale community offers residents beautiful homes with all the amenities you could want, including a garden and balcony. Marikina house and lot for sale in this location are fully furnished and even have built-in wardrobes for your convenience. With several bedroom number options up to 10-bedroom in 70sqm to 1,500 square meters of space, this is the perfect place to call home.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Owning a house in Manila

 

How to get to Manila? 

 

The City of Manila is well-connected to the rest of the country via its extensive transportation network. The city has a huge bus system, and passenger utility vehicles such as taxis, FX/UV express, jeepneys, tricycles, motorbikes or “habal-habal”, and pedicabs. As well as several train lines - LRT Line 1 (LRT-1), Line 2 (LRT-2), and the Philippine National Railways’ (PNR) main terminal is situated in the city. 

It also has several seaports and airports that serve domestic and international destinations. There are several seaports in the country, including the Port of Manila, the Port of Subic Bay, and the Port of Cavite. The largest and most important seaport is the Port of Manila which is composed of 3 major facilities including the Manila North Harbor, Manila South Harbor, and the Manila International Container Terminal.

The only serving airport located in Metro Manila is the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

 

Is it safe to live in Manila?

 

Yes, Manila is a safe city to live in. However, as with any large city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of one's surroundings. One can find solitude if one chooses the right location and high-quality property to buy in the City of Manila.