Beyond the busy streets of Manila lies a city rich in history and culture, now more accessible than ever for Caviteños via the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX). Motorists from Las Piñas and Parañaque may also use the CAVITEX Sucat Interchange, with entry along Dr. A. Santos Avenue, for a more convenient route to these destinations. On March 14, 2025, Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South) successfully hosted Biyaheng South: Tara, Let’s Explore Manila, an immersive cultural tour made possible through partnerships with Intramuros Administration, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo, and Space & Time Cube. This unique experience allowed selected Ka-Biyaheros to rediscover Manila through a seamless blend of history, interactive exhibits, and local flavors—all just a quick and convenient drive from Cavite via CAVITEX.

Three lucky winners, along with their chosen guests, were selected through an online raffle on Biyaheng South’s Facebook page. They joined influencers on an exciting journey to some of Manila’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.

First stop: Intramuros – A walk through history

The first stop was the historic walls of Intramuros, just an hour away from Cavite via CAVITEX. The Intramuros Heritage Tour began at Palacio del Gobernador, a historic Spanish-era building near Manila Cathedral, setting the stage for a journey through time. From there, participants boarded a Tranvia, a charming electric streetcar reminiscent of Manila’s early 20th-century rail transport, for a nostalgic ride through the streets of Intramuros.

The group then visited Fort Santiago, a centuries-old citadel that once served as a military stronghold and the final prison of Dr. José Rizal. Inside, they explored Museo ni Rizal, where they gained insights into the life and works of the national hero. Next, they proceeded to Centro de Turismo to explore Museo de Intramuros, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and colonial-era art that highlight the Spanish influence on Philippine culture.

The tour also included stops at Baluarte de San Diego, one of the oldest stone wall structures in Intramuros, and Casa Manila, a beautifully reconstructed Spanish colonial home that offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of Filipinos during the 19th century. After the tour, our Ka-Biyaheros enjoyed a delightful lunch at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, where they savored authentic Filipino cuisine—adding another layer of cultural immersion to their journey.

Second stop: Immersive experience at Space & Time Cube PH

From history to innovation, the journey continued at Space & Time Cube PH at S’Maison, Pasay—an interactive art space that blends art, technology, and imagination, offering a fresh perspective on modern Manila. The museum provided participants with a mesmerizing visual spectacle, where shifting lights, dynamic soundscapes, and interactive exhibits created an otherworldly experience—a striking contrast to their historical exploration of Intramuros.

Third stop: Sensory-filled journey at Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo

The final stop was Food Wanderer x Lakbay Museo at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, a multi-sensory museum showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage. The participants were greeted with life-sized displays of food and realistic recreations of traditional Filipino markets and kitchens. One of the highlights was the interactive tasting experience, where participants sampled iconic Filipino treats. In addition to this, the museum’s vibrant, Instagram-worthy setups added to the experience, making it both fun and educational.

Why we do this

Arlette V. Capistrano, Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management of MPT South, said, “Exploring Manila’s rich history through this event was a unique and immersive experience. It was an opportunity to reconnect with our history and culture while fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage, allowing them to see the beauty of our past while enjoying the present. We hope this inspires more travelers to rediscover the cultural gems in our own backyard.”

“Tara, Let’s Explore Manila” was launched to provide a unique opportunity for travelers to rediscover the rich history, heritage, and hidden gems of the country’s capital. Manila, often seen as just a gateway to other destinations, holds centuries of history and vibrant culture waiting to be explored. Through this initiative, MPT South sought to showcase the beauty and significance of the city’s historical sites, immersive museums, and cultural landmarks, reinforcing the company’s mission of enhancing connectivity—not only through expressways but also by fostering deeper connections between people and places.

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