Bringing back Escolta, the Queen of Manila Streets
Sited in the old downtown district of Binondo in Manila, Escolta has been adding vibrant colors to the rich culture and history of the Philippines since 1594. Escolta is dubbed as the Queen of Manila streets because a lot of important and major historical events occurred here. This place was once filled with business establishments by immigrants usually from China. These traders sell imported goods from different countries around the world during the Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade. It was in the late 19th century when some of the tallest buildings including the Manila Stock Exchange established in Escolta. The little business town became a little more developed and modernized as shops were replaced by up to date department stores and an electric tram line known as tranvia filled the streets. It was in 1960s when the affluence and popularity of this town gradually turn into old structural designs and faded memories of once lavish business district of the country.
REGINA BUILDING. Built in 1954, Regina Building is just one of the many beautiful constructions in the streets of Escolta.
(Photo credit: 4.bp.blogspot.com)
It’s 2016 and the Queen of Manila streets is currently on her mission to retrieve her own crown. Escolta is rising again! With the help of the concern community and some independent organizations, Escolta is now a home for proudly Pinoy made bits and pieces like foods, arts, crafts, music festivals and other events and activities that promote Escolta.
#selfiEscolta was organized to honour and celebrate the revival of the historical town on July 2014. There were free concerts and performances, foods and lots of available proudly Pinoy-made stuff for sale. A lot of people participated to support and personally witness another commemorative event primarily organized to help boost the tourism of Escolta.
#SELFIESCOLTA. One of the promotional posters of the commemorative event made as colourful as Escolta will soon be
(Photo credit:Rappler)
Last April 2014, 98B COLLABoratory, an independent artist-run initiative that strives to support young artists and creative individuals organized an event called Saturday Future Market. It is for “emerging creative labels and individuals who do not have the opportunity and the means to showcase their line and merchandise.” In partnership with First United Building and the Escolta Commercial Association, the Saturday Future Market was invaded by artists, makers and arts and vintage lovers and collectors.
SATURDAY FUTURE MARKET. The monotonous walls of First United Building were filled with all kinds of vivid colors, bold statements and happy folks.
This 2016, 98B continues its promise advocacy for the Queen of Manila Streets. The Saturday Future Market continues to shelter purveyors of local and truly-Pinoy made products with HUB: Make Lab. “The HUB serves as an incubation space for those who wish to experiment on a more stable and sustainable setting. It is open for sellers and concessionaires of: crafts, interesting art works, limited edition merchandise, innovative food items, upcycled clothes and accessories, independent clothing labels, DIY wares, vintage goods and refurbished antiques.”
Escolta was once the leading business and commercial center of Manila and now thanks to all the people pioneering these events and activities that promotes the once forsaken spot of Manila. Long live all their aim and heart for the utter recuperation of Escolta. All hail to the queen of the Manila Streets!
Source: Wikipedia; When In Manila; Millenials; /TheHUBMakeLab
