Note: This entry has long been overdue but I wanted to share the beauty of Manila after dark so here it is.

After paying our last respects to Cardinal Sin, Roger and I decided to explore Manila after dark. We walked from Manila Cathedral to Escolta Wharf where a festival was apparently being held. Along the way, I was mesmerized by the way the beauty of the Pasig River and the way the light of one of the bridges danced upon the water, making it seem like a living watercolor picture.

It’s not Milan — it’s our very own Pasig River.

Upon reaching Escolta Wharf, we learned that the Barbecue Festival was part of the 434th celebration of Manila Day. Billed as "Grill-ah in Manila," the Barbecue Festival showcased several bands (who were even displayed on a video wall) and several vendors selling (what else?) barbecue and grilled food.

Grill-ah in Manila

At the end of the wharf was a huge San Miguel beer bottle that served as the background of our picture.

"Itaas mo!" I dare you to drink from this beer bottle!

It was already around midnight so we decided to go home. We walked all the way to Sta. Cruz Church and ended up separating in Avenida, Recto.

Throughout our stroll, Roger kept commenting that Manila was such a beautiful place and based on what I’ve seen (and photographed), I couldn’t agree more. And I guess, there’s no better way to celebrate being a Manileño than on Manila Day (June 14).

For the complete set of pictures, check out Roger’s photo album of our night stroll.