These captivating vintage photos of Manila unveil the city’s timeless charm through stunning black-and-white scenes, bustling streets brimming with horse-drawn carriages, elegant old architecture, and snapshots of daily life. Every photograph invites you on a journey back in time, capturing the vibrant soul, historic beauty, and enduring spirit that defined Manila’s golden era.

Plaza Goiti in Santa Cruz Church, Manila

Plaza Goiti, a tranvia station in Santa Cruz Church, Manila

Plaza Goiti, as seen here as a tranvía waiting station near Santa Cruz Church in Manila, Philippines, in 1910, marks a pivotal location in the city’s early public transportation history. After the United States established governance in the Philippines in 1901, efforts to modernize Manila accelerated.

On October 20, 1902, five Americans and three Filipinos on a commission passed Act No. 484, which invited franchise bids to operate a streetcar system integrated with the management of electricity. Charles M. Swift secured the franchise for the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) on March 24, 1903. He subsequently hired engineer J.J. White to oversee the construction and design of what would become Manila’s electric tramway system.

In the following year, Meralco acquired the Compañia de los Tranvías de Filipinas and La Electricista, consolidating control over the city’s transit and electricity services. The official inauguration of Meralco’s street railway system took place on April 10, 1905.

By the end of that year, the network had expanded to about 40 miles (63 km) of track, serving not only Manila’s business districts but also the growing suburbs and key neighborhoods like Binondo, Escolta, San Nicolas, Tondo, Caloocan, Malabon, Quiapo, Sampaloc, Santa Mesa, and San Miguel. This development marked the beginning of Manila’s transformation into a modern urban center, greatly improving urban mobility and public transportation. Image from the photo collection of John Tewell.

Manila Flood

Over a century ago, Manila had already faced flooding.

This historical photograph, taken in Manila between 1910 and 1915, captures three women seated together in a large wooden tub as they are ferried through flooded city streets. The inundated surroundings and improvised transportation highlight the community’s resilience during severe flooding, from the photo collection of John Tewell.

Sta. Cruz Building in Escolta Manila

Sta. Cruz Building in Escolta

A historical photograph depicting the Sta. Cruz Building, a notable commercial edifice situated in the bustling heart of Downtown Manila, Philippines, was captured in a photo during the early 1960s. The image showcases the architectural details characteristic of the period, reflecting the urban landscape and commercial vibrancy of Manila at that time. This photo is part of the American Geographical Society Library collection at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and was uploaded by John Tewell.

A Street Scene In Manila, Philippines, early 20th Century

A horse-drawn public transportation in Manila

A lively street scene unfolds in early 20th-century Manila, Philippines, where a horse-drawn carriage—locally known as a kalesa—serves as public transportation along a bustling road. Passengers can be seen seated inside the open carriage, while pedestrians and colonial-era buildings line the streets, capturing the vibrant urban life of the period. This photograph is part of the American Stereoscopic Company and John Tewell’s historical collection.

Children bathing amid the ruins left by World War II in Manila.

Children bathing amid the ruins left by World War II in Manila.

These children are bathing amidst the devastated ruins left behind by World War II in Manila, Philippines. Taken in 1945, shortly after the war ended, this photograph captures some of the fortunate young survivors as they find brief moments of joy and normalcy amidst the shattered remains of their city. The image is part of John Tewell’s personal collection, offering a poignant glimpse into postwar life and resilience.

Manila Market Scene

Manila Market Scene – Tabuan

Market scene in Manila, Philippine Islands, circa 1910-1915. The photograph captures bustling activity with vendors selling an array of fresh produce and goods under makeshift stalls, while local shoppers move between the colorful displays. Originally taken in the early 20th century, this vivid glimpse into daily life is preserved at the University of Michigan Library, Special Collections, and credited to John Twell.

Divisoria Market during the 1910s.

Divisoria Market during the 1910s.

In the 1910s, Divisoria Market bustled with activity, its streets filled with horse-drawn carriages that served as public transport. This historic photo was taken from Aceiteros Street, now known as M. De Santos Street, at the heart of Divisoria.

Manila Travel Tour Packages You Should Try

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Read: 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Escolta, Manila