05 Hotspots for Street Art in Manila – Creativity & Cultural Commentary

Home to a happening arts scene, Bonifacio Global City is well worth exploring on your hunt for street art in Manila. While the locale is popular as a dining and shopping destination, it also features some high quality work including commissioned murals that add splashes of vibrancy to the urban landscape. You will come across interactive art pieces too which lend to the area's allure. From Egg Fiasco's "Pilandok" and Kris Abrigo's "Manpower" to Dee Jae Pa'este's heart sculpture, there many fascinating creative works to witness.

Part of the University of the Philippines Diliman, the UP College of Fine Arts is another spot where you can witness thriving street art; what better place to visit than one where many local street artists have graduated from! Within easy reach for those staying at hotels in Ortigas Pasig, this art hotspot features thought-provoking displays too and include works that comment on local culture, values, traditions and the youth. Creations by well-known the Ang Gerilya (The Guerrilla) art collective can be seen here, while graffiti and street art can also be found at the wall along Katipunan Avenue and the University Shopping Centre.

Amongst the most famous attractions in Manila, the historical Intramuros has something to offer in terms of street art too. Dating back to when the Spanish ruled the area, this magnificent landmark with its fortifications is a must-visit and can be easily accessed from properties like Citadines Millennium Ortigas Manila. When here, make sure to head to the basketball courts near the San Agustin Church where you can see some contemporary urban art including graffiti. More street art is on display at the Graffiti Wall Skate Park where the walls showcase the freedom of expression and some of the local talent too.

Sometimes referred to as Mabini Bridge, Nagtahan Bridge has some rather interesting columns adorned with striking paintings. The 20-metre high columns depict various national and revolutionary heroes of the Philippines in larger than life depictions that are well worth seeing. The paintings were done by art groups from local universities and showcase different regional artistic styles as well. Amongst the highlights is the painting of Rajah Sulayman who ruled as the "rajah" before the arrival of the Spanish.

The latest additions to the street art scene are the murals to be found at the Lagusnilad Underpass which links Manila City Hall with the previously mentioned Intramuros. This art project which was completed in August 2020, showcases vibrant works on the walls by local artists including those from the UP College of Fine Arts. The works on display cover a wide gamut of areas from well-known landmarks and transportation to heroes be it from the past or more contemporary ones too like the frontline workers battling COVID-19.