The Story Behind the World’s Oldest Chinatown in Manila

Binondo is said to be the first Chinatown in the world, and it has a fascinating history dating back centuries. Located in Manila, Philippines, Binondo is a bustling and vibrant part of the city that has played an important role in the history of the Philippines and indeed the world.

Binondo’s history dates back to 1594, when Spanish Governor General Luis Perez Dasmariñas established it as a settlement for Chinese immigrants from Fujian province. The settlement, then known as Parian de Binondo, was the first permanent Chinese settlement in the country, and the first Chinatown in the world. This was done to separate the Chinese from the rest of the Filipino population, and to help protect them from harassment and discrimination caused by racial tensions.

The Chinese quickly transformed Binondo into a bustling centre of international trade. Its citizens traded in everything from silk, textiles, and porcelain to raw materials like lumber, bamboo, and sugarcane. They also began to specialize in the production of rice, tobacco, and hemp.

Binondo also became a destination for Chinese immigrants who converted to Catholicism, married indigenous Filipino women, and had children, creating the Chinese mestizo community. Binondo’s Chinese mestizo population has grown rapidly over the years. This was primarily due to a lack of Chinese immigrant females and Spanish officials’ policy of expelling or killing Chinese immigrants who refused to convert (in conflicts).

The Chinese immigrants also brought their culture with them to Binondo. They brought with them their traditional religions and festivals, and the area became a centre for Chinese culture in the Philippines. Chinese merchants built temples and shrines dedicated to various deities, and Binondo quickly became a place where Chinese festivals and customs were celebrated.

Today, Binondo is still a bustling centre of international trade and is home to a large Chinese-Filipino population. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful temples and shrines, bustling markets, and cultural festivals. The area is also home to many Chinese businesses and shops, as well as traditional Chinese restaurants and eateries.

Binondo’s fascinating history and vibrant culture make it a must-see destination for any visitor to the Philippines. It is a unique and historically important part of the country, and should be experienced by everyone who visits Manila.