Ermita: The Heartbeat of Manila's Cultural and Historical Pulse

• HelloKamusta
  [ka-mus-ta]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pa-a-lam]
• YesOo
  [o-o]
• NoHindi
  [hin-di]
• Please/You're welcomeMangyari po
  [man-gya-ri po]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPaumanhin/Pasensya na
  [pau-man-hin/pa-sen-sya na]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [ka-mus-ta ka]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [ma-bu-ti. i-kaw]
• 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 pong makita ang menu
  [gus-to ko pong ma-ki-ta ang me-nu]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-di a-ko ku-ma-ka-in ng kar-ne]
• Cheers!Mabuhay!
  [ma-bu-hay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko pong magbayad
  [gus-to ko pong mag-ba-yaad]

• Help!Tulong!
  [tu-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [lu-ma-yo ka]
• Call the Police!Tawagin ang Pulis!
  [ta-wa-gin ang pu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tawagin ang doktor!
  [ta-wa-gin ang dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [na-wa-wa-la a-ko]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [may sa-kit a-ko]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [gus-to ko bu-mi-li ng]
• I'm just lookingNagmamasid lang ako
  [nag-ma-ma-sid lang a-ko]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-ka-no i-to]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal
  [ma-sya-dong ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede bang magbaba ng presyo?
  [pwe-de bang mag-ba-ba ng pres-yo]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [a-nong o-ras na]
• It's one o'clockAlas-una na
  [a-las-u-na 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
  [nga-yon]
• 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 ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita sa mapa?
  [pwe-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 ticket (papuntang...)
  [i-sang ticket (pa-pun-tang)]

Ermita's history is deeply intertwined with the Spanish colonial period, beginning in the late 16th century. It was originally a coastal area known for its strategic position near Manila Bay, which made it an essential location for trade and military defense. The establishment of the nearby Intramuros, the walled city, also influenced the growth of Ermita as a residential area for Spanish officials and a center for commerce and culture.

In the late 19th century, Ermita began to flourish as a cultural center, attracting artists, writers, and intellectuals. The construction of the Manila Hotel in 1903 and the establishment of several theaters and cultural institutions contributed to its reputation as a vibrant neighborhood. This period marked the emergence of a unique blend of Filipino and Spanish influences, evident in the architecture and lifestyle of the area.

During World War II, Ermita was significantly affected by the Japanese occupation of Manila. The area witnessed fierce battles, leading to the destruction of many buildings and loss of life. Post-war reconstruction efforts transformed Ermita, as it became a focal point for rebuilding Manila. The neighborhood gradually regained its status as a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Ermita evolved into an arts and entertainment district, with the establishment of numerous bars, theaters, and art galleries. The area became known for its nightlife and cultural offerings, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Manila. The Cultural Center of the Philippines, located nearby, further solidified Ermita's role as a center for the arts in the Philippines.

Today, Ermita is a melting pot of cultures, showcasing a mix of traditional Filipino life and modern urban influences. The neighborhood is home to several historical landmarks, including the San Agustin Church and the Philippine General Hospital. Its proximity to Manila's tourist attractions, such as Rizal Park and the National Museum, makes Ermita a vital part of the city's cultural and historical landscape.

Ermita is conveniently located in the heart of Manila and can be accessed from various neighborhoods. From Makati, you can take a taxi or rideshare service, which typically takes around 15-30 minutes depending on traffic. The LRT Line 1 has a station at Pedro Gil, which is close to Ermita, allowing easy access from other areas of Manila. Buses and jeepneys also connect Ermita to surrounding neighborhoods, providing affordable options for travelers.

Ermita is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with many attractions within walking distance. The LRT Line 1 runs through the area, providing a quick and inexpensive way to travel to other parts of Manila. Local jeepneys, buses, and taxis are also available for longer distances. Bicycle rentals are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s possible to explore the area on two wheels, especially along Manila Bay.

While Ermita is generally safe for tourists, it is important to exercise caution. Some areas, particularly darker alleys and less populated streets, can be risky at night. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like markets or public transport. Always stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid flaunting valuables. The Malate area, adjacent to Ermita, has been known for higher crime rates, particularly targeting tourists.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance in the Philippines. There are hospitals and clinics in and around Ermita, such as Manila Doctors Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. For minor health needs, local pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the San Agustin Church. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and be mindful when taking photos in places of worship. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Hello'. Don't assume a handshake is welcome without first gauging the situation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as street food. Don't refuse food offered to you, as it's considered impolite.

To experience Ermita like a local, explore the vibrant street food scene along Rizal Park and try local delicacies. Visit the local markets for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with the locals, who are often welcoming and happy to share stories about their culture. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along Manila Bay at sunset for a picturesque view, and consider visiting the nearby Cultural Center of the Philippines for local art and performances.