The Top 6 Attractions in Parañaque and So Much More

One of the cities that make up Metro Manila, Parañaque is a major center for trade and business in Metro Manila. One of the busiest markets in the country is found in Baclaran and numerous small fishing villages called “fisherman’s wharves” are found along Barangay La Huerta, which is where the famous DAMPA – seaside market where you can find lots of restaurants serving fresh seafood – is found. The international airport (NAIA) and Baclaran Church are also located in Parañaque.

HISTORY

Because of its location close to the sea, Parañaque was involved in early trade with the Chinese, Indonesians, Indians, Malays and Japanese. Traditional occupations during those times included salt making, rice planting, shoe making, slipper making and weaving.

In 1572, Parañaque was officially founded by Augustinian Missionaries form Spain. Thanks to its strategic location, Parañaque has been part of many historical events in Philippine history. For one, townspeople were able to prevent an attack in Manila when Chinese pirates invaded during 1574.

Parañaque played another role during the British invasion of Manila in 1762. The locals remained loyal to the Spaniards and thwarted the advances of the British.

However, all that would change more than a hundred years later during the Philippine Revolution. Parañaque served as a gateway to Cavite, which is where most of the revolutionary Katipuneros were stationed. Those in Cavite also saw Parañaque as a gateway to Intramuros, which was the Spanish seat of government in Manila.

ATTRACTIONS

• Bird Sanctuary – where migratory birds from neighboring countries such as China and even as far as Siberia stay during the winter season. The best months to view these birds are from August to March.

• DAMPA – a collection of stalls that sell fresh seafood such as crustaceans, mollusks, shellfish and much more. Even those from Metro Manila wouldn’t hesitate to come here to purchase some fresh catch from the sea.

• Baclaran Church – also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. This church has quite the number of visitors and has a seating capacity of 3,000. In addition, it can accommodate a standing capacity of about 9,000.

• The Cathedral Parish of St Andrew – built in 1850; the oldest church in Parañaque and one of the oldest in the country.

• Solaire Resort and Casino – a resort and casino located in Entertainment City, a massive complex located along Bay City in Parañaque.

• City of Dreams Manila – a luxury resort and casino located in Entertainment City.

In addition to these attractions, Parañaque has some numerous restaurants serving various cuisine as well. Here’s a sample of what you’ll find in the city:

• Sensei Sushi – a Japanese fusion restaurant

• The Girl + The Bull – serves a range of comfort food such as buttermilk fried chicken, burgers and cider-spiced whiskey

• Magnum Opus Fine Coffee Gallery – offers specially crafted brews

• Mama Lou’s – serves home-style Italian food

• Bono Tei – serves traditional Japanese dishes and they are best known for their gyoza and sushi

• The Knuckle Sandwich Station – a boxing-themed gourmet sandwich restaurant where sandwiches of all kinds (including ice cream sandwiches) are sold

• Larcy’s Cupcakery Cafe – offers cupcakes with trendy flavors such as tamarind, quezo de bola and fruity flavors. They also serve sandwiches, pasta and entrees.

• Songkran – serves up Thai street food in an inviting space

• The Burgery – offers various burgers named after bad boys in pop culture

EVENTS

Parañaque is known for its many festivals. Here’s a look at some of them:

• caracol – this is a festival that revolves around boats

• sunduan –  a courtship ritual that depicts the act of a man fetching the object of his affection from the woman’s home to bring her to church or the town plaza.

• cenaculo – a re-enactment of the passion of Christ which is held every Holy Week

• Pasko ng Pagkabuhay – held every Easter

• Santacruzan – a procession that re-enacts the search of the True Cross of Christ

• Flores de Mayo – a festival that commemorates the discovery of the cross by Queen Elena

• Sambalilo Hat Festival – held every February 13, the anniversary of Parañaque’s cityhood.