Traditions and customs in Manila

1. Bayanihan

The custom of neighbours collectively carrying a house to a new site, now a general word for communal mutual aid.

2. Simbang Gabi

Nine dawn masses before Christmas, followed by bibingka and puto bumbong from stalls outside the church.

• Best time: 16–24 December, from about 04:00

3. Jeepney riding

Repurposed and heavily decorated wartime jeeps, still a working part of the transport network despite phase-out programmes.

• Cost: PHP 13 and up
• Tip: Pass your fare forward through other passengers and say 'para po' to stop. Both are expected.

4. Karaoke

Not a novelty here but a genuine social institution, in homes, bars and rented street-corner machines.

5. Fiesta culture

Every barangay has a patron saint and an annual fiesta, with processions and open houses feeding anyone who arrives.