Manila, the seat of colonial political power in the Philippines, spawned 16 geographical districts—known asarabales, or suburbs—mostly drawn up during the colonial period. One of the busiest and most important of these arabales is Quiapo, situated north of the Pasig River. Originally a residential area for Manileños with means, the district evolved to become continue reading : “Defend it at Plaza Miranda”: A History of the Country’s Foremost Public Square