The Vibrant Heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC)

• HelloKamusta
  [ka-mus-ta]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pa-a-lam]
• YesOo
  [o-o]
• NoHindi
  [hin-di]
• Please/You're welcomePaki
  [pa-ki]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasensya
  [pa-sen-sya]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [ka-mus-ta ka]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [ma-bu-ti i-ka-w]
• Do you speak English?Marunong ka ba mag-Ingles?
  [ma-ru-nong ka ba mag-ing-gles]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-di ko main-tin-di-han]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, pakisuyo
  [gus-to ko ma-ki-ta ang me-nu pa-ki-su-yo]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-di a-ko ku-ma-ka-in ng kar-ne]
• Cheers!Kampai!
  [kam-pai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko bayaran, pakisuyo
  [gus-to ko ba-ya-ran pa-ki-su-yo]

• Help!Tulong!
  [tu-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [lu-ma-yo ka]
• Call the Police!Tawag ka ng pulis!
  [ta-wag ka ng pu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tawag ka ng doktor!
  [ta-wag ka ng dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [na-wa-wa-la a-ko]
• I'm illSakit ako
  [sa-kit a-ko]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [gus-to ko bu-mi-li ng]
• I'm just lookingNagtitignan lang ako
  [nag-ti-tig-nan lang a-ko]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-ka-no i-to]
• That's too expensiveMahal masyado yan
  [ma-hal ma-sya-do yan]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede bang babaan ang presyo?
  [pu-we-de bang ba-ba-an ang pres-yo]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [a-nong o-ras na]
• It's one o'clockAlas uno na
  [a-las u-no na]
• Half past (10)Alas-dyes y medya
  [a-las-dyes y med-ya]
• MorningUmaga
  [u-ma-ga]
• AfternoonHapon
  [ha-pon]
• EveningGabi
  [ga-bi]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [ka-ha-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [ngay-on]
• TomorrowBukas
  [bu-kas]
• 1Isa
  [i-sa]
• 2Dalawa
  [da-la-wa]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-lo]
• 4Apat
  [a-pat]
• 5Lima
  [li-ma]
• 6Anim
  [a-nim]
• 7Pito
  [pi-to]
• 8Walo
  [wa-lo]
• 9Siyam
  [si-yam]
• 10Sampu
  [sam-pu]

• Where's a/the...?Nasaan ang...?
  [na-saan ang]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [a-no ang address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pu-we-de mo ba a-kong i-pa-ki-ta sa ma-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [ka-i-lan ang su-su-nod na bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang tiket (papuntang ....)
  [i-sang ti-ket pa-pun-tang]

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is situated on what was once a military fort, Fort Bonifacio, established in the late 19th century. The fort played a pivotal role during the Philippine-American War, serving as a base for American troops. The area was named after Andres Bonifacio, a key figure in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule, symbolizing the fight for independence.

In the 1990s, the Philippine government began to transform the former military base into a commercial and residential district. The area, once dominated by the military, was envisioned as a modern urban center that would attract business and investment. This redevelopment was part of a larger trend in Manila, where former military lands were repurposed for civilian use, reflecting the city's evolving economic landscape.

BGC is characterized by its modern skyline, which began to take shape in the early 2000s. The architectural style in BGC reflects a blend of contemporary design and a commitment to sustainability. High-rise buildings, parks, and public art installations have created a vibrant urban environment. This architectural renaissance parallels Manila's broader development as a cosmopolitan city.

BGC has become a cultural hub, hosting various events such as the Bonifacio Global City Art Mart and the BGC Passionfest, which celebrate local arts, food, and culture. These events promote community engagement and highlight the neighborhood's diverse cultural fabric, making it a focal point for both residents and visitors. The presence of public art and performance spaces reflects Manila's growing appreciation for cultural expression.

As a business district, BGC has seen a significant influx of multinational companies and foreign investments, contributing to its status as a global city. This globalization has influenced the local culture, leading to a cosmopolitan blend of food, shopping, and entertainment options that cater to a diverse population. The integration of international influences into the local culture mirrors the broader trends of urbanization and globalization in Manila and the Philippines.

Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is located in Taguig City, easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Manila. The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), about 10 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. From other neighborhoods, you can use the following methods: 1) MRT: Ride the MRT to Ayala Station, then take a taxi or rideshare to BGC. 2) Buses: Several bus routes connect to BGC from various points in Metro Manila. 3) Jeepneys: While there are no direct jeepneys to BGC, you can take one to nearby areas like Market! Market! and walk to BGC.

BGC is pedestrian-friendly and offers various transportation options. Walking is a popular way to explore, as many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, you can use the BGC Bus, which has several routes throughout the city, offering free rides to select locations. Taxis and rideshare services like Grab are widely available. For a more eco-friendly option, consider renting a bicycle or using the BGC Bike Share program, which allows you to rent bikes at designated stations.

BGC is generally considered safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is still important to exercise caution. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Be especially cautious in nearby areas such as Fort Bonifacio or certain parts of Taguig that may have higher crime rates. Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. BGC has several hospitals and clinics, including St. Luke's Medical Center, which is well-equipped for medical emergencies. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies available throughout BGC.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially in shopping malls and restaurants. Don't wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs. If visiting nearby religious sites, ensure you dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do follow the rules and give priority to those in need. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a nod. A handshake is common among acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and share meals if invited. Don't waste food or be overly picky about meal choices.

To experience BGC like a local, explore its vibrant art scene by visiting the murals around the area. Take a stroll through Bonifacio High Street and check out the weekend markets for local food and crafts. Engage with locals and ask for recommendations on hidden gems, such as lesser-known cafes or boutiques. Join community events, which are frequently held in the parks, to mingle with residents and learn about the culture. Lastly, try the local street food at the various food stalls for an authentic culinary experience.