Malate, Manila

Malate is a neighborhood within Manila, and alongside Ermita, it's a hub for commerce and tourism in the city. The name "Malate" is believed to have originated from the Tagalog word "maalat," meaning "salty." According to legend, when two Spanish soldiers inquired about the area's name, a young boy, tasting the saltiness of the surroundings, exclaimed to his sister, "Maalat, Ate!" ("Sister, it's salty!"). The Spanish soldiers misinterpreted this as the name of the place. However, this explanation is considered a modern Filipino folk etymology and lacks a historical basis.

The true origin of Malate can be traced back to geographical features. Antonio Morga, writing in 1609, described it as a recreational area extending along the shore, passing through a settlement called Bagumbayan to a chapel named Nuestra Señora de Guia, and further to a monastery and mission-house of the Augustinians, referred to as Mahalat.

In the post-Second World War era, despite significant damage, many homes and buildings in western Malate managed to survive. Wealthy families, who had evacuated during the war, returned and reconstructed their private villas, maintaining the area's residential exclusivity until the 1970s.

Over time, however, the landscape began to shift. Formerly exclusive residential zones gradually gave way to commercial development. Large homes and residential apartments underwent conversions, transforming into small hotels, specialty restaurants, and cafes.

The presidency of Ferdinand Marcos marked a pivotal period for Malate. Artists, both visual and performing, found solace and inspiration in the district, turning it into a vibrant bohemian enclave. This era witnessed the fusion of creativity and culture, shaping Malate into a unique and eclectic hub.