Marikina
MARIKINA
Lungsod Marikina Marikina City | |
|---|---|
 Marikina Riverbanks Center at night | |
 Seal | |
| Nickname(s): Shoe Capital, Shoe City, River City | |
| Motto: Marikina: As a Little Singapore | |
 | |
| Country | Philippines |
| Region | National Capital Region |
| Districts | 1st and 2nd Districts of Marikina |
| Barangays | 16 |
| Class | 1st Class City; Highly Urbanized |
| Incorporated (town) | April 16, 1630 |
| Incorporated (city) | December 8, 1996 |
| Government | |
| • Mayor | Marides Fernando (2007-2010; Lakas-CMD/Kabayani) |
| • Vice Mayor | Marion Andres (2007-2010; Lakas-CMD/Kabayani) |
| • 1st Dist. Congressman | Marcelino Teodoro (2007-2010; Lakas-CMD/Kabayani) |
| • 2nd Dist. Congressman | Del R. De Guzman (2007-2010; Lakas-CMD/Kabayani) |
| Area Hectares: 2,150 | |
| • Total | 21.50 km2 (8.30 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 14.7 m (48.2 ft) |
| Population (Aug. 2007) | |
| • Total | 424,610 |
| • Density | 19,749.3/km2 (51,157.8/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+8 (PST) |
| • Summer (DST) | Manila |
| ZIP Code | 1800 |
| Area code | 2 |
| Website | city.marikina.gov.ph |
| Most Competitive Metro City Healthiest and Livable City Cleanest and Greenest City The Model City | |
The City of Marikina (Filipino: Lungsod ng Marikina or simply Marikina), known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines, was formerly the capital of the province of Manila during the declaration of Philippine Independence. Located on the island of Luzon, Marikina City is one of the cities and a Metropolitan municipality that make up the Metropolitan Manila Area, the National Capital Region of the Philippines. It also belongs to Eastern Manila District of Metro Manila's 4 Districts. Marikina City is part of the Metro Luzon Urban Beltway. Metro Luzon is composed of Region 3, Region 4-A (CALABARZON) and National Capital Region. Metro Luzon is one of four Super Regions in the Philippines.
Marikina City is located along the eastern border of Metro Manila; it is bordered on the west by Quezon City, to the south by Pasig City and Cainta, Rizal, to the east by Antipolo City (the capital of Rizal province), and to the north by San Mateo (also in Rizal). It is approximately 21 km. away from Manila.
Marikina was given the title the "Shoe Capital of the Philippines" because of its notable shoe industry. Shoemakers in the city recently finished creating the World's Largest Pair of Shoes and it was only recently that the Guinness Book of Records recognized this feat. The Shoe Museum located in the city is the home of the famous shoe collection of the former First Lady Imelda Marcos, and contains the largest collection of pair of shoes in the world.
Marikina City is one of the most industrialized cities in Metro Manila, according to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. Marikina City has one of the richest local government units in the Philippines in terms of current assets, cash in banks, share of internal revenue allotment (IRA), gross income, and gross net income. The city features many spacious parks, tree-lined streets and boulevards, and commercial areas. Most of the city is composed of residential areas.
Geography
Marikina City is one of the large distribution in Metro Manila in terms of land area at approximately 21.5 square kilometers (2,150 hectares), about 3.42% of the total land area of Metro Manila. The city lies on Marikina Valley. Not only is Marikina City a part of this valley, the valley extends to the south towards Pasig City and Cainta, Rizal. Marikina River runs through the central portion of the city and Nangka River runs through the north portion. The dynamic Sierra Madre Mountains, the longest mountain range in the Philippines is located at the eastern portion while the Quezon City hills are located to the west.
Marikina City is a lush valley bounded by mountain ranges and sliced by a river. Located along the eastern border of Metro Manila, it is bordered on the west by Quezon City, to the south by Pasig City and Cainta, Rizal, to the east by Antipolo City, the capital of Rizal province, and to the north by San Mateo also in Rizal province. It is approximately 21 km. away from Manila and lies within 14°38′24″N 121°5′50″E / 14.64000°N 121.09722°E.
The southern portion of the city occupies the numerous commercial, industrial and business establishments and interesting places, it is also located the "center" of the city which is the busiest district of the city. While the northern portion is primarily residential areas and subdivisions, exclusive schools, industrial zones and various small and medium enterprises are also booming. Loyola Grand Villas, located at the northwest portion of the city is a rich gated community that occupies upper-middle class and rich residential area.
History
Spanish period
The Augustinians were the first to arrive at the valley, at the spot now known as Chorillo, in Barangay Barangka. The Jesuits next came in 1630 in a place called Jesus Dela Pena. They established a mission and built a chapel where the first mass in Marikina was held. On April 16, 1630, Fray Pedro de Arce, apostolic ruler of the Archbishop of Manila, approved the transfer of ecclesiastical control and supervision of Marikina area to the Jesuits. The area was later called Mariquina in 1787 and Mariquina was declared a pueblo (officially town) under the Spanish colonial government.
American period
Andres Bonifacio also arrived in Mariquina before he and his Katipuneros proceeded to the caves of Montalban. Later, when the Philippine Revolution broke out, Mariquina became the capital of the province of Manila from 1898 to 1899, a period which declare the Philippine Independence by Emilio Aguinaldo, the first Philippine president, in Kawit, Cavite. Shortly after the Americans took possession of the Philippines, its name officially became "Marikina" and the province of Rizal was created on June 11, 1901 by virtue of Act No. 137 by the First Philippine Commission which during the time was acting as the unicameral legislative body in the island of Luzon. Marikina, along with many other towns around Manila were incorporated into the new province. On November 7, 1975, by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 824, the thirteen western towns of Rizal, including Marikina, were made part of the new Metropolitan Manila Area.
Recent history
By the turn of the 20th century, Marikina had emerged as a town of shoemakers. Honed by years in shoe manufacturing, the natives had developed a work ethic that prepared them for the arrival of heavy industries in the 1950s. With the industrial plants came waves of workers who chose to stay, rapidly increasing the population. The city soon became a victim of runaway growth, resulting in the Marikina River being polluted by the factories and squatters along the riverbanks.
In 1992, the city found a new direction under the dynamic leadership of Mayor Bayani Fernando (now, Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority). By dint of hard work and discipline, guided by the vision of a modern, livable city, Marikina has since been transformed into the beautiful and industrialized urban city that it is now. On December 8, 1996, the municipality of Marikina became a chartered city and transformed rapidly into a highly urbanized and first class city by virtue of Republic Act No. 8223, same date as the Feast of Immaculate Conception.
Timeline
| Date/Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1570 | The Augustinians were the first to arrive at the valley, at the spot now known as Chorillo, in Barangay Barangka. |
| April 16, 1630 | The Jesuits was next to arrived in a place called Jesus Dela Peña. They established a mission and built a chapel where the first mass in Marikina was held. Fray Pedro de Arce, apostolic ruler of the Archbishop of Manila, approved the transfer of ecclesiastical control and supervision of Marquina area to the Jesuits. |
| 1787 | The area was later called Mariquina and Mariquina was declared a pueblo (officially town) under the Spanish colonial government |
| 1787 | Don Benito Mendoza became the first Gobernadorcillo of Mariquina. |
| 1822 | Don Juan Gregorio became the first Alcalde Capitan of Mariquina. |
| 1887 | Don Laureano "Kapitan Moy" Guevarra, father of shoe industry in the Philippines, made and designed the first pair of shoes in Marikina. |
| 1896 | Andres Bonifacio arrived in Mariquina. |
| 1898 | Mariquina became the capital of Manila province. |
| 1900 | Don Vicente Gomez became the first Alcalde Presidente after Mariquina became a capital of province of Manila. |
| June 11, 1901 | Shortly after the Americans took possession of the Philippines, its name officially became Marikina and the province of Rizal was created by virtue of Act No. 137 by the First Philippine Commission which during the time was acting as the unicameral legislative body in the island of Luzon. |
| 1938 | Juan Chayungco became the first Mayor of Marikina in modern time. |
| 1956 | Marikina had emerged as a town of shoemakers and named as the "Shoe Capital of the Philippines". |
| June 1975 | Metro Manila Commission was created under Presidential Decree No. 824 integrating four cities and 13 towns, majority of which were in the Province of Rizal. Marikina then became part of the Metropolitan Manila area. |
| November 7 1975 | Marikina officially became part of National Capital Region, also known as Metropolitan Manila. |
| June 1992 | Bayani Fernando started to serve as a mayor of Marikina. Marikina has been transformed into what it is today. |
| December 8, 1996 | Marikina became a chartered city and Marikina City transformed rapidly into a highly urbanized and first class city by virtue of Republic Act No. 8223 authored by Romeo Candazo. |
| June 2001 | Marides Fernando, wife of former mayor Bayani Fernando started to serve as mayor of Marikina City. |
| 2004 | Marikina City awarded as the Most Competitive Metro City in the Philippines. |
| 2006 | The first medium rise condominium, the Marquinton Residences, was inaugurated in the heart of the city. Marquinton is one of the symbolic landmark structure in Marikina today. |
| May 2007 | Marikina City was divided into 2 congressional districts serving 2 representatives. |
Marikina City today
At present, the shoe industry has become a pride of the Philippines and a boost to the growth of its economy. The city also now boasts of hosting other big companies, multinationals, local and foreign, as well as leading exporting firms. Numerous banks, land development firms, residential realties, business centers, industrial centers, commercial centers, information and communication technology centers, hotels and condominiums is also boasts the city that Marikina rapidly into a highly urbanized city in a short time.
Marikina City today is a multi-awarded metropolitan city, often cited for its vibrant economy, a highly-skilled and literate work force, an involved and enlightened business community, environment conscious, disciplined people and a responsive local government that puts a premium on governance, sustainable urban development and public service. Marikina City is one of the most industrialized city in Metro Manila and also one of the richest local government unit in the Philippines in terms of current assets, cash in banks, share of internal revenue allotment, gross income and gross net income.
Proof positive of the city's standing in the league of metropolitan cities in the Philippines are the numerous awards and citations that have been bestowed. Marikina was first awarded as The Cleanest and Greenest City not only in Metro Manila but in the entire Philippines which Marikina was the first local government to set as Hall of Famer in that category awarded by the Philippine government. The most recent and most prestigious award received the city of Marikina was the Most Competitive Metro City in the Philippines from the prestigious Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Policy Research Center, Asia Foundation, International Labour Organization (ILO), German Technical Foundation, and Konrad Adenauer Stiflung, and the Continuing Excellence Award in Local Governance given by the Galing Pook Foundation, DILG, Local Government Authority and the Ford Foundation. Marikina was the first local government in the Philippines that has been honored with the prestigious Global 500 Roll Of Honour of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). Marikina was also considered as one of the Most Healthiest and Livable City in Asia-Pacific region. It has won over 150 awards and recognitions, both local and abroad, in a span of just 15 years. Marikina has become an ideal location for industry, business, commerce and for residences. Marikina was also one of the host cities of the recent 23rd Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines which held the women's football event at the Marikina Sports Park.
The city
The city lies on a valley of the same name. Marikina River runs through the mid-west portion of the city. During the rainy season, most especially when typhoons and heavy rains hit the area, the river overflows and jumps its banks, thus flooding the low-lying areas.
Barangays and districts
Marikina City is divided into 30006 barangays. These barangays are then grouped into 2 geographical districts, Districts 1 and 2. District 1 occupies the southwest side of Marikina River and the entire south of Marikina City, and District 2 occupies the northwest (Loyola Grand Villas) side of Marikina River and the entire northern and eastern part of Marikina City which is considered as the bigger district of the 2 in terms of land area.
Barangay Statistics
| Barangay | District | Zip Code | Area (has.) | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barangka | District 1 | 1803 | 116.96 | 27,805 |
| Calumpang | District 1 | 1801 | 72.24 | 20,997 |
| Concepcion Dos | District 2 | 1811 | 184.25 | 25,717 |
| Concepcion Uno | District 2 | 1807 | 212.91 | 35,140 |
| Fortune | District 2 | 1810 | 219.36 | 30,969 |
| Industrial Valley Complex | District 1 | 1802 | 64.5 | 18,744 |
| Jesus Dela Peña | District 1 | 1804 | 82.34 | 13,183 |
| Malanday | District 2 | 1805 | 87.37 | 52,110 |
| Marikina Heights | District 2 | 1810 | 205.76 | 38,256 |
| Nangka | District 2 | 1808 | 181.68 | 50,576 |
| Parang | District 2 | 1809 | 164.20 | 26,319 |
| San Roque | District 1 | 1801 | 108.79 | 22,244 |
| Sta. Elena | District 1 | 1800 | 44.29 | 8,006 |
| Sto. Niño | District 1 | 1800 | 145.55 | 36,865 |
| Tañong | District 1 | 1803 | 77.83 | 13,807 |
| Tumana | District 2 | 1805 | 181.97 | 32,071 |
| Marikina City | - | - | 2,150 | 479,394 |
City seal
The official seal of the City of Marikina bears the inscriptions Lungsod ng Marikina, Pilipinas, the year 1630 referring to the founding date of the municipality, and 1996 the year of approval of the City Charter. The two mountains represent the majestic twin ranges of the Cordillera and Sierra Madre between which the Marikina Valley nestles, traversed by the Marikina River.
The rising sun points to the eastern location of the city, with each ray representing the city's barangays. The machinery gear symbolizes its industries and the shoelast represents the traditional manufacture of the city. The torch focuses on the lofty and noble ideals for human development and a better quality of life, and is symbolic of its Hispanic culture and tradition.
The bamboo underscores a mixture of the people's natural humility and strength of character and also emphasizes the city's transition from an agricultural past to the urbanized, industrial present; while the leaves and branches symbolize order and serenity. The bamboo and the wheel represent the Marikina and its people's respect for, and protection of the environment so as to remain in harmony with progress.
Events and festivals
These are some of the notable events in Marikina:
| Events | Date | Place of event |
|---|---|---|
| Marikina Cultural Arts and Festivals | February | Sentrong Pangkultura ng Marikina |
| Marikina Holy Week Procession | Holy Week Season | Citywide |
| Ka-Angkan Festival/Marikina Foundation Day | April 16 | Riverbanks Center Amphitheater/City-wide |
| Feast of Our Lady of the Abandoned | May 12 | OLA Church |
| Police Memorial Day | September 8 | Citywide |
| Mama Mary Fluvial Parade and Festival | September 8 | Marikina River Park |
| Marikina Christmas Festival and Bazaar | mid-October - early January | Marikina River Park and Riverbanks Center |
| Sapatero Festival | November 15 - November 30 | Riverbanks Center |
| Marikina Cityhood Day | December 8 | Citywide |
| Rehiyon-Rehiyon Parade and Festival | December 8 | Marikina Sports Park |
| Advance New Year's Day Fireworks Display Celebration | December 30 | Riverbanks Center Amphitheater |
Landmarks and attractions
Here are some of Marikina's points of interest:
Cityhood Park
Located at the corner of Shoe Avenue and Sumulong Highway, beside Marikina Sports Park. It is the newest attraction in the city showcasing a beautiful and colorful water fountain, with benches and trees surrounding it. Cityhood Park is now a signature landmark of Marikina because it was featured in numerous television programs. The facade looks like a church with a giant clock on top of it and bells which rings every hour accompanied with music.
Evolution Park
Where this park stands was once the only grazing farm in Marikina, in which 18 stone cows now stand, and is located in Marikina Heights.
Jesus Dela Peña Chapel
The first church in Marikina. In April 1630, Fray Pedro de Arce, apostolic ruler of the Archbishopric of Manila, approved the transfer of ecclesiastical control and supervision of the Marikina area to the Society of Jesus, and directed the Augustinians to cede the territory to the Society to be converted to ranch for the support of the Universidad Maximo de San Ignacio in Manila. The Jesuits also decided to build a mission chapel near the banks of Marikina River, a rocky place which they called Jesus Dela Peña. Cavada also considers the year 1630, as the year the mission church was completed, and where mass was regularly held.
Loyola Memorial Park
Located along A. Bonifacio Avenue, a privately-owned memorial park set on a sprawling area of 36,000 m² and developed in 1965. The Loyola Memorial Park is the oldest, probably one of the biggest, and most prominent memorial parks in the Philippines.
Manila Boystown Complex
This government-owned institution exclusively for boys especially the street children and neglect by parents which the institution gives a traditional care and hope.
Marcos Highway
It was named by former Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos, Marcos Highway is an 8-lane national highway and the main road between Metro Manila and Rizal Province. Marcos Highway passing the boundaries of Antipolo, Cainta, Pasig and Marikina. There are 3 main intersections in Marcos Highway such as Ligaya (Pasig), Tropical/Sta. Lucia (Marikina) and Masinag (Antipolo), and an interchange located in SM City Marikina which provide access exclusively between Marikina to major business districts such as Ortigas Center, Eastwood and Makati City. Some of its landmarks include Sta. Lucia Mall, Robinsons Metro East, SM City Marikina, LRT2 Santolan Station, Masinag Market and Riverbanks Center. Also, Marcos Highway is well-known for numerous establishments like car shops, major schools, restos, food chains, exclusive villages, billboards, industrial parks and more.
Marikina City Hall
Marikina City Hall is one of the most beautiful city halls in Metro Manila and it has state-of-the-art facilities inside. The city hall is surrounded by many city government agencies and offices, spacious parks, monuments and open areas, and it was located in the heart of the city. Marikina City Hall has e-government services offered for the people of Marikina. It also has an emergency hotline, Marikina Rescue 161, which is exclusive to the residents of Marikina. Its main building is only a few steps away from the city hall.
Marikina City's Largest Pair of Shoes in the World
This is certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest pair of shoes. It is currently displayed at the Riverbanks Center and it is one of the top attractions in the city.
Marikina Hotel
This is the city's first government-owned hotel that will further boost the influx of tourists in the city, and located at SSS Village.
Marikina Entertainment District
A. Tuazon Avenue's (Gil Fernando Avenue) well-known line-up of having many adventurous bars, live acoustic bands restos, nightclubs and other drinking joints, nearly the entire stretch.
Marikina Industrial Zone
Located at the northeast portion of the city which was established in the 1970s. It is home to a number of industries and some of which are the biggest and are the leaders in their fields, some of these are Purefoods-Hormel, Nestle, Fortune Tobacco, Armscor and other leading industries and big companies.
Marikina Market Mall
Metro Manila's cleanest and well-maintained market is Marikina Public Market, known as Marikina Market Mall. It is also one of the biggest market place in Metro Manila in terms of area.
Marikina River Park
Most awarded river which set as the Hall of Fame awardee for the Cleanest Inland Body of Water in the Philippines. Marikina River Park is a popular camping site, picnic grounds and recreational park, such as concrete jogging and bike lanes, benches and skating rink. At night, Marikina River Park transforms into a modern nightlife events center because of numerous bars, restaurants, cafés and night clubs along the riverbanks. Other attractions in Marikina River include the Roman Garden, Chinese Pagoda, Kawayanan, Youth Camp, Animal Trail, Skating Rink and Women's Park. It is also a traditional venue for the Marikina Christmas Festival which begins annually as early as October.
Marikina Sports Park
Established in 1969 and then known as the Rodriguez Sports Center, the property was bought from the provincial Government of Rizal in 1995. It is also one of the premier sports complex established in the Philippines. It is now a popular venue for national, regional and international sports competitions and other sports and entertainment events, such as the 23rd Southeast Asian Games.
Formerly Universal Textiles, Asia's largest textile mills company, located along A. Bonifacio Avenue and nearby Marcos Highway. It is now a center for shopping, commerce, business and entertainment in Marikina. Other attractions and buildings in Riverbanks Center include Riverbanks Mall, Riverbend Hotel, Riverbanks Amphitheatre, Gazebo, Philippine Science Centrum, Floating Stage, Open-air food stalls and Stone Carabaos. At Riverbanks Mall, here you will find almost everything you need at a price reasonably affordable, such as supermarkets, department stores, a numerous boutiques, cellphone shops, shops, food stands, fastfood chains and many more. Also, Riverbanks Center is a home of ICT Group, one of the largest IT call centers in the Philippines.
Marquinton Residences
The biggest triple tower condominium in eastern Metro Manila is Marquinton Residences, which situated by rich and upper middle-class, home of the famous IT icon, Engineer Ronald San Juan, located along Sumulong Highway. Blue Wave Mall is also located in Marquinton Complex. Building One, the Barcelona Tower, occupies the Blue Wave Mall with lined up of notable classy establishments like bars, open-air and fine-dinning restaurants and coffee shops which is one of the hippest areas for night entertainment. Building Two, the Alicante Tower, is situated right behind Toyota Service Center and Building Three, Cordova Tower, will soon rise annex the Robinson's Place Supermarket, Philippines' one of the largest mall chains.
Diocesan Shrine-Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned
Also known as OLA Church, this Spanish-era church is located along J. P. Rizal Street in Santa Elena. The church was started by the Augustinians in 1687 and was finished in 1690. On October 21, 1791, the whole parish was consecrated under the Marian title, Nuestra Sra. Delos Desamparados (Our Lady of the Abandoned), the second oldest parish in the Philippines after that of Sta. Ana in Manila under that title This place of worship was destroyed by earthquakes and by fires in 19th century. It has undergone a series of renovations since 1963. The church houses the miraculous image of the religious patron of Marikina City, Our Lady of the Abandoned (OLA), which was canonically crowned last October 15, 2005 by virtue of Pope Benedict XVI, the first under his papacy. Leading the coronation rites was His Eminence, Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales of the Archdiocese of Manila. On August 5, 2007, the church was elevated into a diocesan shrine by the Most Rev. Gabriel V. Reyes, D.D., Bishop of Antipolo. Also in 2007, the parish was made the residence of the new auxiliary bishop of the Diocese of Antipolo, Most Rev. Francisco M. de Leon, D.D. who serves as its parish priest. The shrine has now become a center of pilgrimage not only for Marikina residents but also from devotees of Our Lady of the Abandoned from Metro Manila and other neighboring provinces.
Philippine Science Centrum
This is the Philippines largest and well-maintained science centrum and it is one of the most visited amenities inside Riverbanks Center especially the field trips of students came from different schools in Metro Manila.
Sentrong Pangkultura ng Marikina
This 200-year old building was once owned by Don Laureano "Kapitan Moy" Guevarra, recognized as the father of shoe industry in the Philippines. This is where the first pair of shoes in Marikina was designed and made in 1887. Inside this building can be found Doll Museum, Marikina City's museum, a dioramas showcasing the events and history of Marikina. This building is the center of culture and arts of Marikina.
Shoe Museum
The Shoe Museum houses about 800 pairs of shoes belonging to former First Lady Imelda Marcos. It is also a place which a record-holder as the most numerous pair of shoes in the world.
SM City Marikina
SM City Marikina is located beside the Riverbanks Center, and it's situated along Marcos Highway, with many bridges or elevated roads to connect on it, and provides access to Makati, Ortigas Center and Eastwood City. SM City Marikina is envisioned as one of the biggest malls in Metro Manila in terms of area. The Mall features a 5-storey building; it has an open-air large car park (with 2 elevated 5-storey carpark buildings), 8 cinemas, SM's Department Store, Hypermarket and Supermarkets, and an entertainment hall. SM City Marikina is the biggest mall in eastern Metro Manila and nearby Rizal Province. Meanwhile, SM Prime Holdings and BF Construction proposed the Building 2 of SM City Marikina which located at the rear area, envisioned as the second largest mall in the Philippines after SM Mall of Asia in the near future.
Teatro Marikina
This is the center of performing arts of Marikina and eastern Metro Manila. This facility also caters to various events such as plays, concerts, shows, exhibits and seminars. Teatro Marikina is also the venue of annual pre-pageant of Miss Earth in the Philippines, notable concerts and plays played by the biggest celebrities and artists in the Philippines.
Women's Park
Located beside Marikina River Park. It is a park dedicated and exclusive to women empowerment of Marikina established by Marikina's first woman mayor, Marides Fernando.
World of Butterflies
You will find hundreds of butterflies in different variety, kind and sizes. Also, frogs, catterpillars and all animals necessary for the food chain of the butterfly is bred there. A souvenir house is also availabe. It's considered as the Philippines largest collection of different butterflies and other species. Field trips and tourist are attracted to this place because of its natural ambiance especially for the nature lover and FROG lovers.
People
People native to Marikina City refer to themselves as "Marikeños". Marikeños are some of the most disciplined people in the Philippines.
Ethnic groups
Like other places in Metro Manila, the original settlers are Tagalogs. Throughout the centuries, there has been constant migration of Spaniards, Visayans, Bikolanos, Ilokanos, Chinese and Americans. There are also very small migration from Indians, Koreans and Japanese.
Languages
The main language is Filipino, which is based on Tagalog. In addition, due to continuous development of the city, English language is used in education, business and information technology.
Religions
Marikina was one of the seats of the Spanish colonial government in the past centuries, and has been used as the base of Roman Catholic missions to the Philippines. Among the religious orders include the Dominicans, the Franciscans, the Jesuits, and the Augustinians which the first to arrive in Marikina. Almost 94% of Marikeño are Roman Catholic.
Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned is the seat of Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados, the Patron Saint of Marikina City. Other notable churches in the city include Jesus Dela Peña Chapel, this first chapel established in Marikina, and Immaculate Conception Parish (ICP) in Concepcion Uno, second largest and most populated church in Marikina. Other Christian faiths like Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ, the headquarters of Church of Christ 4th Watch in the Philippines, Iglesia ni Cristo, Philippine Independent Church (Aglipayan) and some others. Some other religions in Marikina are Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam.
Government
Government
Marikina City is governed by a Mayor and Vice Mayor elected to three-year terms. The Mayor is the executive head and leads the city's departments in executing the city ordinances and improving public services while the Vice Mayor heads a legislative council. Marikina City is divided into 2 districts, Districts 1 and 2, where each districts is represented by a congressman in the House of Representatives of the Philippines.
Marikina boasts one of the wealthiest local governments in the Philippines in terms of current assets, cash in banks, share of internal revenue allotment, gross income and gross net income.
Incumbent Mayor: Ma. Lourdes "Marides" C. Fernando
Incumbent Vice Mayor: Marion Andres, M.D.
Incumbent 1st District Congressman: Marcelino Teodoro
Incumbent 2nd District Congressman: Del R. De Guzman
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City Councilors (District 1)
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City Councilors (District 2)
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Past Mayors
| Mayor | Year Started | Year Ended |
|---|---|---|
| Juan Chayungco | 1938 | 1945 |
| Enrique Dela Paz | 1945 | 1948 |
| Gil Fernando | 1948 | 1951 |
| Juan Chayungco | 1952 | 1955 |
| Gil Fernando | 1956 | 1959 |
| Osmundo De Guzman | 1960 | 1986 |
| Teofisto Santos | 1986 | 1986 |
| Rodolfo B. Valentino | 1986 | 1992 |
| Bayani Fernando | 1992 | 2001 |
| Marides Fernando | 2001 | present |
Education
The city government prides itself in giving quality free education to its constituents through its primary, secondary and tertiary schools including one science high school.
Marikina has numerous public or private institutions, colleges and universities, like the city-owned Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina and Marikina Science High School. There are also privately-owned academic institutions include the nearby. Marikina's literacy rate is 98%. Exclusive Private Schools here are the Marist School, and St. Scholastica. These two shools, including Infant Jesus Academy, are the only schools in Marikina that are acknowledged by PAASCU.
Health
Marikina became one of the healthiest cities in Asia-Pacific. Marikina provides medical missions and free medical operations in the city. There are numerous hospitals in Marikina, one of the public hospital in Marikina is Amang Rodriguez Medical Center (AMMC). There are also privately owned Marikina Valley Medical Center, just a few blocks away from AMMC. Other private hospitals include Garcia General Hospital and SDS Medical Center Inc, Immaculate Concepcion Hospital and Medical City Marikina Clinic.
Numerous clinics provide basic health check-ups for Marikeños. The city also offers services such as health centers and the city has also a privileges card for discounted fees and free services like emergency, medical and security services.
Peace and order
Marikina has clean surroundings, tree-lined streets, hassle-free roadways, walkable sidewalks, parks and playgrounds, a healthy public market, good shopping centers and restaurants, free public elementary, high school and college, squatter-free environment, free-health services, minimum traffic, less pollution and a low crime rate. Marikina established Rescue 161, a hotline number for emergencies within city and a team of paramedics, policemen and firemen will come in less than 5 minutes.
Marikina won several awards and recognitions and now a hall of famer of such awards including Cleanest and Greenest City in Metro Manila and the Philippines, Best Police Stations due to effectiveness to resolve and minimized crimes in the city, Best Public Market due to cleanliness and orderliness, Best Public Schools in Metro Manila, Most Effective Bike-Lanes and most of all, Marikeños are one of the Most Disciplined People in the Philippines.
Tourism
Marikina has its own share of attractions to offer. Sports and recreational facilities are available to its residents and those from nearby towns and cities. Historical landmarks and church, antiquated houses and galleries view to the attention of history and culture buffs. It's also attracts major commercial centers, man-made parks, large structure buildings, and most of them, a traditional shoe-making in the city, the natural river parks and the hospitality of Marikeños.
Economy
Marikina was the biggest manufacturer of quality shoes, and Marikina produced 80% of the shoe production of the Philippines. All locally produced shoes was made in Marikina, from slippers to shoes. Marikina also produced shoes which is made in rubber, wood (bakya) and plastic.
Industries
Marikina is the home to a member of industries, some of which are the biggest and most successful in their fields, and foremost of all, shoe manufacturing, being the best in local craftmanship.
Manufacturing
The city manufactures food processing, cigarettes, porcelain and chinaware, confectionery, automobiles and cars, appliances, electronics, crafts like bags, hats and slippers, and foremost of all, shoes.
Commerce and trade
Public markets in Marikina are often divided into two, the dry goods section and the wet goods section. Commerce in these public markets are in full swing, especially in the early morning. Under the urban renewal program of the city, some of the public markets had been refurbished and given a fresher look, like the "Marikina Public Market" also known as "Marikina Market Mall", or locally called the "Pamilihang Bayan", the biggest and cleanest market in Metro Manila.
Modern shopping malls dot the city especially in the southern portion of Marikina. SM City Marikina, Blue Wave Mall at Marquinton are some of Metro Manila's major shopping and commercial centers stands along Marcos Highway. The popular commercial center that lies in Marikina is the Riverbanks Center.
For the adventurous shoppers, you may venture beyond the hotel or shopping complex package and combine other interesting destinations for cheap buys such as in Marikina Market Mall. Bargaining is the major part of your shopping experience when you pass by that area, as it sells goods at rock-bottom prices. Riverbanks Center gives a comfort to the shoppers as it offers air-conditioned mall, but the price of the goods here is still very similar to the goods bought outside. Some of goods are cheap electronic products, toys and other cheap equipments needed into your homes.
Banking
Almost all of the major commercial banks in the Philippines operate a branch in the city. Major banks operate in the city with more than one branch. At this time, there are 50 banking institutions offer banking services to businesses and residents. Most of these are concentrated in Barangay Sta. Elena, Sto. Niño, Concepcion Uno and Barangka.
Information Technology
Marikina lined up as one of Information Technology hub in Metro Manila and continuously growth of outsourcing and call centers, among them is ICT Groups, an American based, is a global leader in outsourcing customer management and business outsourcing solutions. There are numerous contact centers worldwide with IT-based offices in the Philippines in Makati, Ortigas Center and Riverbanks Center in Marikina City.
Transportation
Currently, elevated light rail systems run through Marikina City. The first station of LRT 2 is Santolan located along Marcos Highway. The station connects to Claro M. Recto Avenue in Manila.
Public transportation within the city, like in most of the urban areas in the Philippines, is facilitated mostly using inexpensive jeepneys and buses. Tricycles are used for short distances, while Taxi cabs are used by the upper middle class to navigate any course.
The roads are organized around a set of long narrow and circumferencial roads that radiate and cicle in and around the city.
Utilities and Communications
Marikina's source of electricity is part of the Manila Electric Company or Meralco. Water supply for the city is supplied by the Manila Water Company. Marikina's communication system is powered by the Philippine Long Distance Telephone company, Globe Telecom, Bayan Telecommunications Corporation (BayanTel) and others. Cellular network in the Philippines particularly the metropolitan areas is increasing rapidly together with the low cost of calls and text messaging. Such big companies that control the cellular networks in the Philippines and Marikina itself are Globe Telecom, Smart Communications (PLDT) and Sun Cellular from Digitel. Cable television access is provided by SkyCable, Home Cable and Global Destiny. Internet Digital Subscriber Line or DSL coverage is provided by PLDT, cable internet is serviced by Sky Cable's ZPDee and Global Destiny. Wireless broadband is provided by Globeliness Broadband and Smart Communications. Marikina has its own radio station operated and owned by the city government, DzBF-AM (BF named after Bayani Fernando, the owner of radio station and a former mayor of Marikina and currently chairman of MMDA), is an AM radio station that provides information, news and events happening in Marikina, and it also provides some entertainment like other commercial AM radio stations.
Miscellaneous
Schools in Marikina
Department of Education main building was located in Marikina. The following are the complete list of public schools, some notable private schools and the list of tertiary and vocational schools located in Marikina:
Public Elementary Schools
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Public Secondary Schools
- Concepcion High School
- Concepcion Integrated School
- Marikina Heights National High School
- Marikina High School
- Marikina Science High School (City-Owned School)
- Parang High School
- Sta. Elena High School
- Tañong High School
- Nangka High School
Public Tertiary Schools
- Marikina Polytechnic College
- Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina
Notable Private Elementary Schools
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Notable Private Secondary Schools
- Gentle Angels School
- Infant Jesus Academy
- KOSTKA School
- MDC Christian Academy
- Marikina Christian Academy
- Marist School - Marikina
- National Christian Life College
- Our Lady of Perpetual Succor College
- Roosevelt College
- St. Scholastica’s Academy
Tertiary and Vocational Schools
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Hospitals in Marikina
Those are major hospitals in Marikina:
Public Hospitals
- Amang Rodriguez Medical Center
- Marikina Valley Medical Center
Private Hospitals
- Garcia General Hospital
- Immaculate Conception Hospital
- The Medical City Marikina
- P. Gonzales Memorial Hospital
- St. Victoria Hospital
- St. Vincent Hospital
- Sta. Monica Hospital
- SDS Medical Center Inc.
Roads in Marikina
Those are some major roads in Marikina:
National Highway
National Roads
- A. Bonifacio Avenue
- Bayan-Bayanan Avenue
- Sumulong Highway
- J. P. Rizal Avenue
- Shoe Avenue
- Gil Fernando Avenue (A. Tuazon Avenue)
- Fortune Avenue
- E.Rodriguez Avenue
- C5 Access Road
- General Ordonez Street
- Katipunan Street (Marikina Heights to Cainta)
Bridges
- Marikina Bridge
- Marcos Highway Bridge
- Disodado Macapagal Bridge
- Gil Fernando Bridge (Tumana Bridge)
- Nangka Bridge
- Modesta Bridge
- Balara-San Mateo Bridge
- Barangka Overpass
Twin and Sister Cities
Twin Cities
Brampton, Ontario in Canada
Plano, Texas, Texas in United States
Sanya in China
Singapore
Sister Cities
These are sister cities with strong relationship and partnership both local and abroad.
Quezon City, Philippines- Antipolo City, Philippines
- Pasig City, Philippines
- Muntinlupa City, Philippines
- Cebu City, Philippines
- Puerto Princesa City, Philippines
- General Santos City, Philippines
- Carson City, USA
Naha, Japan
Taichung, Taiwan
Monterrey, Mexico
See also
- Bayani Fernando
- Barangka (Marikina)
- Congressional District of Marikina
- Marikina Holy Week Procession
- Marikina River
- Metropolitan Manila Development Authority
- Our Lady of the Abandoned (OLA)
- Santolan LRT Station
- Marist School - Marikina
References
Prints
- Marikina Yellow Pages Directory, Directory Publications, Inc.
- Marikina Citizens' Factbook, Annual City Factbook
- Marikina River Digest, Official Publication of Marikina, in English
- Marikina Ngayon, Official Publication of Marikina, in Tagalog
Websites
- abs-cbnnews.com, Pasig builds bridges to Makati, Marikina
- abs-cbnnews.com, Marikina cops judged Metro Manila’s best for 2007
External links
- Official Website of the City Government of Marikina
- Marikina Media Library Center
- Marikina Interactive Map Viewer
- Marikina City Community Forum
- Marikina City Business Directory
- Marikina City Community Portal
