Discovering Pasay City: From Ancient Roots to Modern Attractions

Etymology: A Princess’s Legacy

Pasay traces its name to Dayang-dayang Pasay, a princess of the Namayan Kingdom around 1175.
She ruled the lands now known as Culi-culi, Pasay, and Baclaran, leaving a royal imprint on the city’s identity.

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Colonial Renaming: The Pineda Era

In 1727, the name Pasay was replaced by Pineda in honor of Don Cornelio Pineda, a Spanish horticulturist.
He petitioned for guardias civiles to protect the area from bandits—a change that persisted until the early 20th century.

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Modern Pasay: Geography and Demographics

According to the 2010 census, Pasay City is home to 392,869 residents.
Covering just 18.50 km² (7.14 sq mi), it ranks as the third smallest political subdivision in Metro Manila.

City Divisions

• Urban District (5.505 km² / 2.125 sq mi): The bustling heart of commerce, retail, and residential neighborhoods.
• CAA Complex (9.5 km² / 3.7 sq mi): Houses Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Villamor Airbase.
• Reclaimed Bay Area (4.00 km² / 1.54 sq mi): Manila Bay landfill now hosting modern developments.

Barangays in Pasay are uniquely numbered rather than named, streamlining administration across these zones.

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Must-See Attractions

1. Coconut Palace

• Built in 1978, it serves as the official residence and workplace of the Philippine Vice President.
• Constructed from Philippine hardwoods and “Imelda Madera”—a specially engineered coconut lumber.
• Features an octagonal layout topped with a giant salakot-shaped roof, a coconut-shell chandelier, and a 40,000-piece inlaid dining table.

2. Star City

• A 35,000 m² family amusement park packed with rides and themed zones.
• Highlights include Winter Funland, Dino Island museum, Star Theater, and Snow World’s ice-carved castles.
• Home to the Philippines’ tallest Ferris wheel, with 32 air-conditioned gondolas that each seat six passengers.

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Beyond the Sights

Pasay is more than history and attractions—it’s evolving rapidly.
Look out for upcoming projects in its reclaimed zones, improvements to NAIA terminals, and expanding entertainment hubs.

For your next visit, consider timing it with local festivals or exploring nearby bayside promenades to experience the full spectrum of Pasay’s heritage and modern vibrancy.