Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is the fast rising business district in Metro Manila aside from Makati Central Business District and Ortigas area. It is located in the boundaries of Makati and Taguig and is masterplanned and developed by Ayala Land, Inc. – the Philippine’s leading real estate company.
While staying in the area over the weekend, i took the opportunity to roam around and appreciate the sights and sounds of the city. The youthful vibe, the busy aura, the feel of progress… ahhh it’s like the little Singapore of the Philippines. Global banks, multi-national companies, lifestyle malls, international schools, medical hospitals, luxury hotels, and a host of high rise residential and commercial buildings… they are all here, giving you a feel like you’re in different place… a different country.
Since that was an almost 3 kilometers walk, expect also a long blog post as i try to contain the so many beautiful things i saw in few paragraphs… as much as possible.
Bonifacio High Street
According to their website, “Bonifacio High Street is the first main street retail concept in the Philippines – a kilometer long boulevard and a 40-meter wide park with twin boulevards of flagship stores and winner brands. It also has various interactive public art works along the central park, and prestigious corporations on its upper floor“.
Here you can find the trendiest retails shops, as well as line of restaurants and coffee shops which are very popular to both tourists and office workers in the area.
Burgos Circle
This, i think, is the place to be for some of the hottest resto bars to unwind after a day’s hard work. It is the most happening place this side of town that comes alive when the sun goes down up to the wee hours of the morning.
I also chanced upon the popular science museum in the Philippines, the Mind Museum and the luxurious 5-star hotel, Shangri-La at the Fort.
Uptown BGC
Aside from Market! Market!, Serendra, and SM Aura Premier which many of you may have already visited previously, Uptown BGC is the latest mall addition located in the newest township by Megaworld Coporation. Though we only had a quick dinner in the area on a separate occasion, the place has the makings of an ideal cosmopolitan epicenter.
Open Parks and Public Arts at BGC
Interestingly, as i’m browsing on several articles suggesting some of the activities and spots in BGC, one blog mentioned about the public arts that may seem unnoticeable but will be a good spot for photoshoot or for simply appreciating art.
There are also several open spaces to enjoy a cool breeze with colorful benches for a restful retreat from a long walk. BGC is actively promoting the habit of walking.
Two Side Stories:
Riding the colorful cab of Mr. Rogelio Bulaclac
I was about to go around for my own version of city tour early morning and was going to take one of the cabs waiting across the streets. But someone took the first one on the line and so i got in to the next. I immediately noticed a familiar setup… the colorful flowers inside the taxi… the familiar face that i thought i saw on TV… and it was him!
What would be the chance of meeting a person like Mr. Richard Bulaclac (watch him on ABCBN’s 2015 Christmas Station ID)… in the line of taxi cabs in BGC? Very slim. But the brief moment of hearing his stories reminded me to love my work and be good at everybody.
The day started with an inspiring testimony of how a good hearted person can gain respect and recognition by being kind and by putting dignity into his work. I hope that more people will do the same way too… regardless of their jobs.
My Walk at the American Battle Monument
Finally, this beautiful day ended in with a heartfelt reminiscence of the past. As i walk along the silent road with white crosses on both sides leading to the American Battle Monument… it reminded me of the cruel past, the many lives torn by wars, where blood and tears find solace in death.
While walking on the way to the place where I’m staying, i realized that the American Cemetery was just closeby. So i didn’t hesitate to push forward and although I’m already a bit exhausted from the heat and the long walk, i knew i don’t have other time to do it.
I was surprised that the entrance was FREE and i only have to observe some rules and regulations of the park.
IN THE LAND OF THE LIVING AND THE DEAD, the difference is so wide… the choice is ours to make. We can choose to be happy and enjoy each day as it comes or we can sulk in our pasts and our failures letting every opportunity to live happily just pass us by.
THE BGC is bursting with energy and i can feel its heartbeat. The American Cemetery is so silent i can hear the wounds and its cries. Glad that i am alive… i can choose to walk past those white crosses and head back to the gate and move on.
