The Philippines Today, Yesterday, and Tomorrow
A Vaccine for Manila Smallpox is one of the most deadly diseases in history, and most people who got sick with it usually die. A vaccine was finally invented in 1796 by Edward Jenner, and in 1803, the King Charles IV of Spain sent an expedition to Manila with the project of vaccinating as many … Read more
Diseases in Manila An epidemic is a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time. In the history of Manila, one of the most deadly was the diseases known as Smallpox and Cholera. Smallpox is caused by viruses, while cholera is caused by bacteria from dirty water. Sanitation and vaccination … Read more
The Arrabales of Manila Manila had an Intramuros and an Extramuros. Intramuros referred to the part inside the walls, while extramuros referred to towns outside. Manila started in Intramuros. However, over time, Manila annexed several surrounding towns of the Extramuros. These towns became known as the “Arrabales” when they were absorbed by Manila. The Arrabales … Read more
The Principalia was the local elite that originated from the families of pre-colonial datus. A lot of them mixed with Spaniards hence were also known as “Mestizas.” They were known by their titles: “Don” for the men and “Doña” for the women. Boys were usually referred to as “Señoritos” while girls were called “Señoritas.” Wealth … Read more
Intramuros was the capital of the colony and the Plaza Mayor was at its center. As such, we can say that the Plaza Mayor was the heart of the entire Philippines. At the center of it all was the monument to King Charles IV. Surrounding the plaza were the most important buildings of that time, … Read more