As an alumni of Philippine Normal University, I have always held an immense fondness for Manila. Its rich history, vibrant culture and lasting legacy never fail to charm me; unfortunately though, pandemic plague interrupted my plans of revisiting my beloved city; leaving me longing to explore its streets once more. Finally in 2022 though I finally embarked on my pilgrimage tour of its iconic landmarks that make the city unique.

As soon as I arrived in Intramuros, it brought back fond memories. Wandering its narrow streets left me in awe at its ancient walls' resilient spirit despite all of our country's challenges over the past year - like its walls were living symbols of resilience itself! Gazing upon centuries-old Spanish architecture took me right back to when I was an eager student at PNU! Oh what memories!

Intramuros' historic confines hold an abundance of architectural treasures to discover, with every cobbled street filled with architectural marvels that bear witness to time's passage. I found myself immersed in an abundance of architectural marvels spanning back over hundreds of years - the Manila Cathedral stood tall and proud, its towering spires reaching up towards heaven in testimony of our faith; San Agustin Church with its Baroque beauty of intricate wooden doors and ceiling frescoes was an artistic delight; while Casa Manila (a grand reproduction of Spanish colonial mansion) offered glimpses into past lives graced by those few.

But it wasn't only grand structures that mesmerized me; rather, it was the hidden corners and alleyways that told tales from centuries past. Walking along cobblestone streets led me to Plaza San Luis Complex; an intriguing collection of restored Spanish-Filipino houses now serving as shops and charming cafes - where history meets modernity in perfect harmony. Sitting comfortably in one of its courtyards sipping hot tsokolate transporting me back through time while dreaming up stories about those who had passed before me - as I imagined their lives as I imagined their lives before mine!

Fort Santiago stood as an intimidating guardian at the entrance to Intramuros, inviting me to explore further into its fascinating history. Inside its walls was Rizal Shrine - an ode to our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal that showcased personal artifacts as well as thought-provoking exhibits which stirred my pride for my country and left a deep sense of national pride swelled within me when standing where he spent his last days and left such an enduring legacy behind him.

As I explored Intramuros on my stroll along its cobblestone pathways, I came upon pockets of serenity amidst its bustle. The Baluarte de San Diego Gardens offered welcome respite from its chaotic surroundings; I could soak in nature's beauty and admire human resilience while contemplating human resilience itself. Also within Intramuros was Bahay Tsinoy Museum that shed light on Chinese-Filipino history and contributions as part of Intramuros' tapestry.

Intramuros has long been used as the backdrop of literary works that explore Filipino identity. Nick Joaquin in PORTRAIT OF THE ARTIST AS FILIPINO skillfully weaves together Intramuros' timeless beauty with its inhabitants' struggles and aspirations to tell the Marasigan narrative.

Here, Joaquin features Intramuros as a symbol for its declining grandeur from bygone years, reflecting both resilience and beauty despite change.

Intramuros' architectural splendor and rich past provide the ideal setting for Joaquin to explore Filipino identity. Its walls, symbolic of tradition and social expectations, both confine and inspire the characters. Oh, I couldn't help but be reminded of his masterpiece as I wandered its streets - its vivid images infusing every stone I stepped on!

Intramuros, this fortress of memories, is more than a collection of buildings: it stands as an embodiment of resilience, history and culture of Filipino people. When I left Intramuros behind me, I took with me an enhanced appreciation for its timeless spirit that runs deep through our nation's veins. Intramuros' beauty lies not just in its physical structures but in the intangible magic that seeps through its streets--reminding me that our past, present, and future are inextricably linked.