We are talking about two buildings that are among those which survived complete destruction during the Philippine war started by the Japanese. Manila was declared an Open City to escape total destruction, although the little island known as Corregidor, a few miles off the City of Manila, valiantly fought until April 9, 1942 (this date marks the Araw ng Kagitingan, by the way).

The first building is the Post Office Building, with the refreshing view of the fountain at Liwasang Bonifacio. The other building is the more famous architectural relative — the National Museum. This is a building that I always pass and simply ignore. I realized, when taking the photo up close, that the enormity of the structure cannot be fully appreciated until you stand in front, dwarfed by the gigantic columns.

How to go there? These two majestic buildings are within walking distance from the Manila City Hall. It’s hard to miss the City Hall, with its recognizable Clock Tower. In front of the National Museum is Intramuros. And if it happens that people are more inclined to go shopping, the City Hall is just beside SM-Manila. It’s almost impossible not to see these buildings.