Tuesday, August 15, 2006
DREAMING OF LA VIDA ESCOLTA
This may be David Street with Escolta up in the corner while Muelle del Banco Nacional (north bank of Pasig River) is right behind.
The two buildings in the above picture: the beige on the left and the mustard on the far right corner are similar to the industrial buildings in downtown Manhattan areas -- Soho and TriBeCa -- which were converted into spacious living lofts. I emailed this picture to a friend in New York and told him that if some of the buildings in the Escolta area like these two were converted into living loft spaces, this neighborhood would make an ideal residence, especially for those who wish to stay in Manila. Gardens could also be set up on the roofs just like on some of New York's buildings.
In addition, living in this area will put you within walking distance to Binondo, Divisoria and Quiapo. And with more residents breathing life into this area, probably more shops will open as well to provide their products and services, not only for the benefit of area residents but also for those coming over to visit -- attracted by the revitalization efforts in the neighborhood.
I can also see more cafes and restaurants, as well as art galleries opening along Escolta, including a super bookstore like those of Barnes & Noble and Borders in New York. Capitol Theater may be reopened to show nothing but art and independent films -- both by local and foreign filmmakers. Even startup companies such as graphic design studios, animation companies and call centers may be given tax incentives by the government if they were to locate their operations in the area, as well as for offering summer internship programs to the students of the nearby city college. I don't exactly know how safe it is here at night, but with a true sense of neighborhood, ample security and adequate exterior lighting, through such gentrification, Escolta may once again regain some of its former glory.
However, don't mind me, for I'm only dreaming.
Photo of Polland Café at the corner of Escolta and Nueva/Yuchengco Street; Savory Restaurant is at the corner. At this café is wherethose who sign up for Carlos Celdran’s walking tour meet (Walking Tour of Escolta and Quiapo and the North Side of the Pasig River).
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Labels: Escolta, life in Manila
posted by Señor Enrique at 5:56 PM
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