“A national photobomber” they call it. That’s what many people say about Torre de Manila. Standing tall it dominates the skyline. Its presence is undeniable. Right here before you is the controversial Torre de Manila.
This high-rise residential building in Ermita Manila is more than just concrete and steel. It’s a point of contention a symbol of progress clashing with heritage. Its contemporary and art deco design is striking. Yet it has sparked heated debates.
Its construction started in 2012. It was completed in 2019. The building’s proximity to the Rizal Monument ignited a firestorm of protests. Many deemed it a visual blight. Others considered it an eyesore. The Knights of Rizal a civic organization fiercely protective of Rizal’s legacy led the charge against it. They argued it obstructed views of the monument. Their campaign involved court battles and petitions. The Supreme Court eventually ruled in favor of the developer DMCI Homes. The court found no law prohibiting the construction. This victory for DMCI Homes was hailed as a setback for legal activism.
The Torre de Manila has 46 floors. Forty-one floors are for residential use. Four are for parking. The ground floor houses amenities. The building has 702 parking slots. It stands 165 meters tall. Its location a congested area raised concerns. Critics worried about the adequacy of surrounding streets. They were worried for fire trucks in case of an emergency.
Despite the controversy the Torre de Manila stands as a testament to the tension between development and preservation. It is a reminder of the complexities of urban planning in a city rich in history. It’s a building that embodies both progress and conflict. It’s a photobomber. It’s a part of Manila’s story. And here you stand before it. A piece of history. And a part of Manila.