Start your day with a slow, unhurried tour — on foot or on a bicycle — beginning from Intramuros. The morning air is cooler here, and the route invites discovery. You pass the stately Manila Central Post Office, cross the golden glow of Jones Bridge, and before long, you find yourself entering another world: Binondo, where centuries-old stories are etched into every street corner.
The journey itself is part of the charm. It’s now possible to walk, jog, or cycle this route with ease, turning what was once a crowded passage into a leisurely cultural experience.
As the city continues to reclaim its historic spaces, the path leading to the world’s first Chinatown has become an attraction of its own—equal parts history, exercise, and exploration.
Founded in 1594, Binondo is widely regarded as the oldest Chinatown in the world. But its significance goes far beyond its age. It is a living district, shaped by centuries of migration, and the blending of Filipino and Chinese cultures. From herbal pharmacies and gold shops to noodle houses and bakeries, it’s a place that rewards curiosity.
And now, it is getting a new chapter.
After the transformation of the Pasig River Esplanade, the spotlight has turned to Binondo. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. formally launched the second phase of the Chinatown Revitalization Project on February 13 at Hotel Lucky Chinatown, signaling renewed efforts to preserve its heritage while boosting cultural tourism and supporting local businesses.
“Binondo, founded in 1594, is described as the world’s oldest Chinatown. Beyond its age, what makes this place special is its long story of commerce, faith, and culture between Filipinos and the Chinese community,” the President said.
“This initiative is all about honoring shared histories and giving the district the much-needed attention and respect that it deserves,” he added.
The project builds on the success of Phase I, which restored and illuminated the iconic Jones Bridge, now a favorite backdrop for photos, bike rides, and evening strolls. Phase II aims to further transform Binondo into a lively cultural and economic hub, enhancing the experience for both locals and visitors.
“In this phase, we will further develop Ongpin Street into a cultural and economic hub, and enhance key historical landmarks with lighting and thematic presentations along Ongpin and Escolta Streets,” President Marcos said.
These upgrades are part of a broader effort tied to the administration’s Pasig Bigyang Buhay Muli Program, which seeks to restore the Pasig River and revitalize nearby communities. The initiative includes reclaiming public spaces in Plaza Mexico, expanding pedestrian corridors toward the Arroceros Forest Park, modernizing river transport, and clearing waterways.
The result is a more connected and walkable city.
People can now make their way from Intramuros to Binondo more comfortably, taking in historic landmarks along the way. The improved Pasig River Ferry system also offers another scenic route into the district, adding to its accessibility.
But the heart of Binondo remains its everyday life.
On any given day, you can wander into a small eatery to try Chinese-Filipino favorites, browse shelves in traditional groceries, stop by old pharmacies selling herbal remedies, or take a photography walk through narrow alleys bursting with color and character. It’s a district that invites slow discovery — perfect for those who prefer to explore one bite, one street, one story at a time.
The President emphasized that the project is ultimately meant for the people who live, work, and pass through Binondo daily.
“Moreover, it is for every Filipino and for anyone who wishes to gain a better understanding of our culture and our history,” the President said.
The revitalization also highlights the strong collaboration among government, private sector partners, and the Filipino-Chinese community, whose shared efforts are helping preserve the district’s identity while preparing it for the future.
“I look forward to the results of this project as we breathe new life into this place, which becomes a better foundation for a better, more united Bagong Pilipinas,” the President said.
During the launch, the President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos toured several newly lighted landmarks, including MacArthur Bridge, La Madre Filipina, the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar (Sta. Cruz Parish), Qui Shan Gate, and the Dragon Lights along Quintin Paredes Street.
These illuminated spaces hint at what Binondo is becoming: not just a historic district, but a destination to be experienced.
So slow down. Walk a little. Pedal a little. Taste something new. Look up at the old buildings. And let the world’s first Chinatown tell its story, one street at a time.