Manila, Queen of the Pacific 1938
A look back in the past where Filipinos lived a simple life. Manila is the capital of the beautiful Philippines.
The Spanish City of Manila was founded on June 24, 1571, by Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, which was regarded as the official foundation date of the city.
It was the first chartered City by virtue of the Philippine Commission Act 183 on July 31, 1901 and gained autonomy with the passage of Republic Act No. 409 or the “Revised Charter of the City of Manila” on June 18, 1949. It is home to many of the Philippines’ firsts, including the first university (1590), water system (1878), hotel (1889), electricity (1895), oceanarium (1913), stock exchange (1927), flyover (1930s), zoo (1959), pedestrian underpass (1960), science high school (1963), city-run university(1965), city-run hospital (1969), and light rail transit system (1984; also considered as the first LRT system in Southeast Asia).
The title “Manila, Queen of the Pacific 1938” refers to an event held in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines, in 1938. The title was bestowed upon Manila as part of a campaign to promote the city and establish it as a prominent cultural and commercial hub in the Pacific region.
During the 1930s, Manila was experiencing rapid growth and development under American colonial rule. The city was undergoing urbanization, with the construction of modern infrastructure, cultural institutions, and commercial centers.
To highlight Manila’s progress and attract international attention, the local government organized the “Manila, Queen of the Pacific” campaign. The title aimed to position Manila as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, worthy of being called the “Queen” of the Pacific region.
The campaign included various cultural and promotional events, such as beauty pageants, parades, exhibitions, and performances. These activities showcased Manila’s architectural landmarks, cultural heritage, and its potential as a business and tourism destination.
While the campaign was successful in generating publicity and fostering a sense of pride among the residents, the outbreak of World War II in the Pacific in 1941 disrupted the development and growth of Manila. The city suffered significant damage during the war and went through a period of reconstruction and rebuilding in subsequent years.
Today, Manila remains an important city in the Philippines and a center for commerce, culture, and tourism. While the specific title “Queen of the Pacific” is not widely used today, the city continues to evolve and contribute to the nation’s progress.
