Cultural Tour: Went to Intramuros

On that eventful day, the next item on our agenda was a captivating cultural tour with all the pre-service teacher exchange students at UST. Our knowledgeable guides for the day were Ma’am Ailyn and Sir John Dale. Together, we embarked on an educational journey, traveling in a comfortable van that took us to some of Manila's most historic and iconic sites.

Our first stop was Intramuros, a place steeped in history, having been built in 1521 by the Spanish. The name 'Intramuros' is derived from Spanish, meaning 'within walls'. Within these walls, we discovered the awe-inspiring Manila Cathedral, the formidable Fort Santiago, the University of the City of Manila, and various other structures and monuments from the Spanish colonial period. Exploring the intricate architecture and learning about the rich heritage of Intramuros left us in awe.

Cultural Tour: Went to Malakanyang Palace & BBM Museum

Our journey continued to the Malakanyang Palace, the official residence and office of the President of the Philippines. Here, we delved into the intriguing history of the Filipino presidency, tracing its origins from the first president to the present day. The insights we gained were both enlightening and thought-provoking. We also went to the Teus Mansion, the presidential museum.

Cultural Tour: Went to the National Museum of Anthropology

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the National Museum of Anthropology, a treasure trove of the Philippines' ethnographic and archaeological collections. Roaming through the exhibits, we marveled at the diverse cultures and rich heritage of the Filipino people, appreciating the artifacts that brought history to life before our eyes.

Cultural Tour: Went to Rizal Park

After our museum exploration, we relished the serene atmosphere of Rizal Park, a place of great historical significance. Named after Jose Rizal, one of the Philippines' revered heroes who was executed there, the park offered a peaceful respite. As the sun began to set, we gathered around the mesmerizing musical dancing fountain, a spectacle that captivated our senses and added to the enchanting ambiance of the park. Around Rizal Park, vibrant street food stalls offered a tantalizing array of local delicacies, drawing visitors from all walks of life.

Tried Filipino Food

During our cultural tour, we had the opportunity to savor some of the Philippines' delectable culinary offerings. At a local restaurant in Intramuros, we indulged in Chicken Sisig, a flavorful chicken dish where the meat is finely chopped, resulting in a savory and slightly oily delight. Later, at Rizal Park, we tried Kwek-Kwek, a popular Filipino street food made of eggs enveloped in orange dough and deep-fried to perfection. Served on skewers, these bite-sized treats were both crispy and delicious. On our way back to the dorm, we couldn't resist a visit to Jollibee, a renowned Filipino fast-food chain. There, we sampled their famous fried chicken, known for its crispy exterior and tender meat, accompanied by the delightful sweetness of a peach mango pie.

As the day came to an end, we found ourselves not just satiated with food but also with the knowledge, history, and cultural experiences that made our tour an unforgettable adventure. Each bite and every historical nugget added to the richness of our journey, leaving us with memories that would linger in our hearts for years to come.