Located along the northern bank of the Pasig River, not far from the bustling and often “chaotic” atmosphere of downtown is the community characterized in contrast by a low-key and more “quiet” atmosphere. An unassuming personality of its own, one would not realize at first how important this part of the city is not only in the city’s but also in the country’s geopolitical landscape. This is the district of San Miguel, more known to many as the place where Malacañang is located, AKA the residence of the country’s president.
While this community being the site of Malacañang has somehow helped in keeping its distinct overall character, it also serves as a disadvantage as it overshadows the charm San Miguel has to offer in the midst of rapid and haphazard urbanization, not to mention the perception of security which gives the impression that the whole of San Miguel is a place that is “off-limits” to some traveler.