Manila, the self-proclaimed “Pearl of the Orient,” recently snagged the title of the leading world city tourist destination, leaving Pinoys scratching their heads in bewilderment. While Filipinos bask in the glory of pristine beaches, enchanting beauty queens, opulent resort hotels, and colossal mega-malls, the accolade for Manila seems more like an ironic punchline in the grand comedy of Pinoy Pride.

The city’s nightmarish traffic, streets adorned with creative potholes, cleanliness standards that make chaos look organized, and a crime rate that gives thrillers a run for their money—none of these seem like winning features. Perhaps the World Travel Awards mistook Manila for a thrilling amusement park where the daily commute is the roller coaster ride.

Or, could it be that Manila is merely a front, a gateway to more deserving Philippine destinations? Boracay, El Nido, Siargao, Vigan—all paragons of beauty, free from the urban quagmire that is Manila. If the award were put to a vote, it’s safe to say Manila would be the last choice on every Pinoy’s ballot. Sometimes, even Pinoy Pride needs a reality check. Manila, the self-proclaimed “Pearl of the Orient,” recently snagged the title of the best world city tourist destination, leaving Pinoys scratching their heads in bewilderment. 

While Filipinos bask in the glory of pristine beaches, enchanting beauty queens, opulent resort hotels, and colossal mega-malls, the accolade for Manila seems more like an ironic punchline in the grand comedy of Pinoy Pride.

The city’s dense population, nightmarish traffic, streets adorned with creative potholes, cleanliness standards that make chaos look organized, and a crime rate that gives thrillers a run for their money—none of these seem like winning features. Perhaps the World Travel Awards mistook Manila for a thrilling amusement park where the daily commute is the roller coaster ride.

Or, could it be that Manila is merely a front, a gateway to more deserving Philippine destinations? Boracay, El Nido, Siargao, Vigan—all paragons of beauty, free from the urban quagmire that is Manila. If the award were put to a vote, it’s safe to say Manila would be the last choice on every Pinoy’s ballot. Sometimes, even Pinoy Pride needs a reality check.