Marikina: RP’s ‘Little Singapore’

Touted as the country’s "Little Singapore," Marikina currently boasts several historical and cultural sites which visitors – foreign and local alike – will surely find educational and truly entertaining.

For one, there’s the Shoe Museum that showcases the infamous footwear collection of former First Lady Imelda Marcos. There’s also the World of Butterflies, where butterfly enthusiasts can bask in the sight of hundreds of butterfly species. Other noteworthy destinations to consider are the Teatro Marikina, Belen Museum, and the Animal Trail, among others.

Unknown to many, before becoming a city, Marikina actually used to be a quiet town at the eastern border of Metro Manila. It was only in the late 1990s when local government officials began a major makeover – and lo and behold! This picturesque municipality has since metamorphosed into an industrialized city pulsing with life.

First to undergo a facelift was the murky river which is now a sparkling landmark of the city’s remarkable transformation. Clean, crisp waters serve as a tranquil background to the charming Marikina River Park where residents safely ride their bicycles, take leisurely walks, and even have picnics the old-fashioned way.

The more sophisticated and urbane Marikeños satisfy their leisure cravings with Marikina’s limitless dining and shopping options. The Riverbanks Mall located beside the Marikina riverbanks houses a supermarket, popular fast-food chains, and specialty retail establishments. Its distinctive position makes it a perfect weekend hangout for families. Children can frolic at the River Park while parents do their weekend shopping at the mall.

Meanwhile, the young adult crowd can bar-hop at the numerous night spots located within the city. The throbbing Marikina nocturnal life showcases popular grilleries, watering holes, and specialty restaurants where night owls can gather and hobnob with friends. If "clubbing" is not their cup of tea, coffee shops offer a warm haven for intellectual conversations, business meetings, or simply curling over a good book.

From a placid municipality in the National Capital Region to a vibrant city hailed many times for its clean and green surroundings, Marikina has indeed come a long way. Further adding dynamism to this city is the rise of Federal Land’s 17-hectare Marquinton community. Located along Sumulong Hi-way, this master planned development is the first project of Metrobank Group’s property arm in Marikina City.

Once completed, the said project shall offer residents the convenience of living in high-rise buildings common in densely populated cities, but amid a serene and safe environment. Since it is located in Marikina, Marquinton residents can also live a bustling cosmopolitan life minus the stress, allowing them to appreciate the beauty of nature and celebrate life.

The Marquinton Garden Terraces stands as the first, gated vertical subdivision in the area – a fresh concept to urban living. This is yet another testament to Federal Land’s pioneering efforts.

Complementing the residential component is the Blue Wave Marquinton mall, an upscale commercial establishment that offers more entertainment and leisure choices not only to unit owners but other Marikina residents as well. It has four state-of-the-art cinemas, convenience and specialty stores, and a line-up of popular restaurants and cafes such as Dencio’s, Yellow Cab, Shakey’s, Max’s, and Starbucks.

It’s time to live better. Come and experience Marikina’s finest, only through Marquinton Garden Terraces along the Sumulong Hi-way.

[ Marikina River Park Wiki ]