Rediscovering Escolta: A Journey Through Manila’s Historic Heart
Have you strolled through Escolta recently? If your weekend plans are still up in the air, consider a soulful trip to this once-glorious street, fondly known as the “Queen of Manila’s Streets.” Escolta, once a bustling central business district, is now a vibrant tapestry of history and creativity, thanks to the passionate artists and cultural enthusiasts who nourish its spirit.
A Glimpse into the Past
According to Atom Araullo’s “State of the Nation” report, Escolta was once the heartbeat of commerce in the Philippines. Today, only a few impressive relics remain, like the historic Burke Building and the charming First United Building. But don’t let that deter you! What Escolta lacks in numbers, it makes up for with rich history and a vivid community.
Sip and Savor at Escolta Coffee Company
Step into the Burke Building, and you’ll find the Escolta Coffee Company. Surprisingly, this building was the first in the Philippines to have an elevator! Now, it’s a cozy haven serving distinctly Filipino coffee drinks. Owner Maricar Ricardos believes in celebrating Filipino talent. “We want them to feel that Filipinos are great when it comes to coffee. We can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world,” she says passionately.
Maricar emphasizes the café’s roots in community, culture, and creativity. “Escolta brings all of those elements together,” she shares, inviting you to feel the warmth of connection with every sip.
A Hub of Creativity at First United Building
Next door, the First United Building, constructed in 1928 and designed by architect Andres Luna de San Pedro, has transformed into a thriving creative hub. It’s home to Hub Make Lab, a space dedicated to local artists selling their works. Mycah Santos, a resident creative, passionately explains, “Helping small creatives helps revive the community. It’s not just about the store; it brings people to Escolta, creating more job opportunities.”
On weekends, you can even join pottery workshops on the top floor! An empty space has blossomed into the inviting café known as The Den, where art not only hangs on the walls but also flourishes in the air. Café owner Gabriel Villegas recalls, “In 2012, we started organizing art projects. The Saturday market was a success, attracting attention back to Escolta.” By 2016, it became a permanent fixture, breathing life into the street once more.
A Fusion of Old and New
One of the gems of the First United Building is Ligaya Studios, which combines nostalgic analog photography with today’s digital trends. Owner Glyza Go explains, “We aim to revive the old ways and show that traditional concepts can coexist with modern ideas.”
Roberto and Lorraine Sylianteng, the visionaries behind the First United Building, took an organic approach to reviving Escolta. “We didn’t consult any branding firms; it felt right to us. We wanted to do something different,” Roberto reflects. Lorraine adds, inspired by her daughter’s observations from Brooklyn, “We realized that aiding artists could bring life back to Escolta.”
A New Chapter for Escolta
So, if you’re looking for something unique this weekend, why not explore the artistic heartbeat of Escolta? With every corner you turn, there’s a story waiting to captivate your heart. From the flavorful coffee that celebrates our roots to the artists pouring their souls into each creation, Escolta is not just a place—it’s an experience.
Rediscovering Escolta is like stepping into a living canvas, waiting for you to explore, engage, and reignite your love for our vibrant culture. 🌟
