Plaza Dilao
written by halfawakehaiku
on August 7th, 2008
(1 vote)
Back when Christianity was outlawed in Japan Boat loads of refugees were taken in by the various Catholic groups in the 1600’s. Most of these Persecuted Christians lived around the area known today as Paco, Manila. During the time of the Spanish occupation Paco was known as Plaza Dilao or Yellow Plaza. This was attributed to either the skin tone of most residents during the time or a plant that was abundant in the area. A statue of Dom Justo Takayama stands
Today only a small parcel of land stands to commemorate Plaza Dilao it was fixed up and and sports candy colored lamp posts and benches for the weary traveler. One might encounter residents who tell tales of an underground walkway used to access the the grand station of the PNR whose facade still stand proud and is a delight to shoot. In the afternoons you’ll be able to watch kids and families playing a the Plaza and Catching some fresh air. The light hits the Park nicely during this time of day.
Across the Plaza is the Philippine Columbian Sports Plaza, it was established in 1907 by Filipino students who returned from their studies in America. It grew to be an exclusive club for dignitaries and members of High Society back in the day and was used as the headquarters for the campaign for Philippine Dependence during the American Occupation under the leadership of would be President Quezon.
If history has worn you down already, popular fastfood chains and a small shopping center is just a stone’s throw away from Plaza Dilao these stores sell their wares at bargain prizes and come straight from the factory. Shop your little heart out, grab a quick bite & after that hail a cab and head on over to Paco Park a former cemetery during the Spanish era and a place frequented by tourist and classical music enthusiasts. Maybe you’ll get luck and catch a live concert at the park.
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