Known as the “pearl of the orient” during Spanish rule, the City of Manila withstood many natural disasters, colonial occupations and war, is now a thriving metropolis.
While it may still be a stopover for most tourists before heading to the islands, Manila has become a destination of choice for expats. It is a center of economic growth with a steady and increasing influx of foreign investment.
It is also a densely populated city of contrasts. This huge city can be chaotic and confusing for first time visitors. Here is a quick guide to help lawyers and legal professionals effectively navigate Manila during their visits.
Getting Around Manila
Getting around Manila is easy. You have the option to rent a car, hire a taxi or take a bus, jeepney, LRT or MRT. However, for a visitor who’s not acquainted with the city, a taxi is the most convenient way of getting around.
You can also book a cab through the Grab app. Grab booths are available at the airport as well. So if you don’t have access to Wifi or internet on arrival at the airport, you still can easily book a ride with Grab.
UBE Express Bus is another convenient way of getting to the hotel from the airport. It’s an air-conditioned bus service with designated stops along several routes. You can either buy tickets at the airport kiosks or through the UBE Express booking website.
Tip:
Rent a Pocket Wifi Device: You can rent a pocket wifi device for uninterrupted wifi access from Konbini Rentals or GoLocal. They either deliver the wifi device to your hotel a day before you arrive or offer pickup and drop off at the airport.
Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping, and Entertainment
The City of Makati, which is the country’s financial as well as cultural and entertainment hub, is one of the best areas to stay in Manila. You’ll find here a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets.
It also offers easy access to shopping malls and markets and plenty of restaurants — all at walking distance or within a short drive.
If you are going to have a short stay, here’s a quick list of places you may want to check out.
- Intramuros
- Fort Santiago
- Casa Manila
- Poblacion, Makati
- Juan Luna’s Spoliarium at the National Museum
- Manila Ocean Park
- Greenhills Shopping Center
Philippines Legal Resources
Integrated Bar of the Philippines: IBP is the official organization of lawyers in the Philippines. It was established as an official organization for the legal profession by Republic Act No. 6397. The law confirmed the constitutional power of the Philippine Supreme Court to adopt rules for the integration of the Philippine Bar. Consequently, Presidential Decree 181 constituted the IBP into a corporate body in 1973.
You can find regional & comparative resources, case law & legislation, books & Journals and more legal resources on the Southeast Asian Legal Research Guide.
Top Law Firms in the Philippines
Following are a few of the top law firms in the Philippines:
- Martinez Vergara Gonzalez & Serrano
- PunoLaw
- Fernando Lagman and Avenida Law
- Agcaoili & Associates
- Castillo Laman Tan Pantaleon & San Jose Law Firm
Legal Events in the Philippines
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Asia Law Portal’s “Find a Lawyer”
Clients can find lawyers in the Philippines via Asia Law Portal’s “Find a Lawyer” section, which contains listings of law firms practicing in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines.
