Caloocan City, Philippines

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Caloocan City, Philippines

Region: Metro Manila


Geographic Coordinates: 14.650000, 120.970000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Population: 1661584
Language: Tagalog

Caloocan City is a highly urbanized city located in the northern part of Metro Manila, Philippines. It is known for its rich history, Diverse culture and strategic location. The city is bordered by Quezon City to the east, Manila to the south and Valenzuela City to the north. The name Caloocan was derived from two Tagalog words lo-ok which means inward and kaloo-kan which means innermost area. This signifies that Caloocan was once considered as the innermost territory of Tondo during the Spanish colonial period.

The city has a population of over 1.5 million people making it one of the most populous cities in Metro Manila. Majority of its residents are Tagalogs but there are also significant numbers of Chinese, Ilocanos and other ethnic groups living in Caloocan. One of Caloocan’s main attractions is its historical landmarks such as Bonifacio Monument, Which commemorates Andres Bonifacio’s contribution to Philippine independence. Another notable landmark is Katipunan Memorial Shrine which honors members of Katipunan who fought for Philippine freedom against Spanish colonization.

Caloocan also boasts several parks and recreational areas including Bagong Barrio Park, Llano Park and People’s Park where locals can enjoy outdoor activities such as jogging, Picnicking or simply relaxing amidst lush greenery. In terms of economy, Caloocan has a thriving commercial district with various malls like Victory Mall Monumento and SM Center Sangandaan offering shopping convenience to residents. The city also hosts several industrial zones such as Gracepark Industrial Estate that provides employment opportunities for thousands of workers within Metro Manila.

Transportation in Caloocan is made easy with several major thoroughfares including EDSA (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue), Rizal Avenue Extension and Samson Road connecting it to other parts of Metro Manila. The city is also served by LRT Line 1 which has three stations within its jurisdiction namely Monumento, 5th Avenue and R. Papa. Overall, Caloocan City is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a unique blend of history, Culture and modernity. It is a great place to live in or visit for those who want to experience the best of what Metro Manila has to offer.



Important Landmarks

  1. Barasoain Church
  2. Caloocan City Hall
  3. Caloocan Sports Complex
  4. La Mesa Eco Park
  5. Malabon Zoo
  6. Manila Central University
  7. Obando Church
  8. Our Lady of Grace Parish Church
  9. San Roque Cathedral
  10. University of Caloocan City

I hope this helps anyone looking to explore Caloocan City and its attractions.


Primary Industries

  1. Manufacturing: Caloocan City has a significant manufacturing industry, with numerous factories producing various products such as textiles, furniture, electronics, and food.
  2. Retail and Wholesale Trade: The city has several shopping malls, supermarkets, convenience stores and retail shops that cater to the needs of the local residents.
  3. Transportation: Caloocan City serves as a transportation hub for commuters traveling to other parts of Metro Manila. It is home to several bus terminals and train stations.
  4. Real Estate: There are many real estate developers in the area that build residential condominiums and commercial buildings.
  5. Construction: With ongoing infrastructure projects within Metro Manila, construction companies have been active in Caloocan City.
  6. Service Industry: There are also various service-based businesses such as hotels, restaurants, banks and other financial institutions operating within the city limits.
  7. Healthcare Industry: Several hospitals provide medical services to residents of Caloocan City and nearby areas.
  8. Education Industry: There are many schools ranging from elementary level up to college level scattered throughout the city offering quality education for students from different walks of life.

Noteable History

  1. The Battle of Caloocan – a significant battle during the Philippine-American War in 1899.
  2. The birthplace of Andres Bonifacio – a Filipino revolutionary leader who founded the Katipunan, a secret society that aimed to overthrow Spanish colonial rule.
  3. The execution site of Jose Rizal – a national hero who was executed by the Spanish colonial government on December 30, 1896.
  4. The city’s role in the People Power Revolution – where millions of Filipinos gathered at EDSA Shrine in February 1986 to protest against President Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship.
  5. Former President Benigno Aquino III was born and raised in Caloocan City.
  6. Filipino actor Fernando Poe Jr., also known as FPJ, was born and raised in Caloocan City. He later became a prominent politician and ran for president in 2004 but lost to Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
  7. The city is home to several prominent universities such as University of Caloocan City, Manila Central University, and La Consolacion College-Caloocan.
  8. The city is also known for its vibrant street food scene, particularly its famous calamares (fried squid rings) sold along Samson Road or Samson’s Alley.

Museums and Things To See

  1. Balintawak Monument is a historical landmark that commemorates the first battle of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonizers.
  2. Tala Leprosarium and Sanitarium Museum is a museum that showcases the history of leprosy treatment in the Philippines, featuring artifacts and personal stories of patients.
  3. Caloocan City Hall is a modern building with impressive architecture that houses local government offices.
  4. University of Caloocan City Museum is a museum showcasing various artifacts and memorabilia related to the history and culture of Caloocan City.
  5. La Mesa Eco Park is an eco-tourism park featuring various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, bird-watching, camping, and picnic areas.
  6. The Church of Our Lady of Grace Parish is one of the oldest churches in Caloocan City with beautiful stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
  7. Bonifacio Monument Circle is another historical landmark dedicated to Andres Bonifacio, one of the national heroes who fought for Philippine independence from Spanish rule.
  8. Arkong Bato Heritage House is a restored ancestral house-turned-museum showcasing traditional Filipino architecture and lifestyle during colonial times.
  9. KKK (Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan) Museum- an interactive museum dedicated to educating visitors about Philippine history through multimedia exhibits about revolutionary movements like Katipunan.
  10. Caloocan Victory Monument- A monument built by National Historical Commission in honor for those who sacrificed their lives during World War II specifically during Battle for Manila 1945.


Sports Teams

  1. Caloocan Supremos – The Caloocan Supremos is a professional basketball team that plays in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL). The team was founded in 2018 and is owned by former PBA player John Paul Erram.
  2. Caloocan City Sharks – The Caloocan City Sharks is another basketball team that played in the MPBL from 2018 to 2020. They were known for their aggressive playstyle and were coached by former PBA player Johnedel Cardel.
  3. FC Meralco Manila – FC Meralco Manila was a professional football club based in Metro Manila, but they played some of their home games at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Malate, which is near Caloocan City. The club was founded in 2016 and played in various domestic leagues until they disbanded in 2018 due to financial difficulties.
  4. San Roque Football Club – San Roque Football Club is a semi-professional football club that plays in various local leagues like the United Football League (UFL) and the National Capital Region Football Association (NCRFA). They were founded in 2009 and have won several championships over the years.
  5. De La Salle Araneta University Stallions – The De La Salle Araneta University Stallions is a collegiate basketball team that competes in various tournaments like the Universities Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). They represent De La Salle Araneta University, which is located near Caloocan City.


Cultural Events

  1. Kaawayan Festival is a celebration of the city’s founding anniversary held every August 15.
  2. Feast of Our Lady of Grace is a religious festival held every September in honor of the city’s patron saint.
  3. Bulaklakan Festival is a floral parade and competition held every February to showcase Caloocan City’s local flowers and plants.
  4. Tandang Sora Day is an annual commemoration of the life and contributions of Melchora Aquino, also known as Tandang Sora, who played a significant role in Philippine history during the revolution against Spanish colonial rule.
  5. Araw ng Maynila sa Caloocan (Manila Day in Caloocan) is an annual celebration on June 24 to commemorate the establishment of Manila as the capital city of the Philippines.
  6. Christmas Parols Festival is a competition among barangays (neighborhoods) for creating unique and creative Christmas lanterns or parols, which are displayed throughout December until early January.
  7. Higantes Festival is an annual event celebrated every November 22-23 featuring giant paper-mache figures or higantes parading around Caloocan City streets.
  8. Buling-Buling Festival is a colorful street dance festival that features various cultural dances from different regions in the country held during Lenten Season before Easter Sunday.

Cuisine

  • Pancit Malabon is a well-known noodle dish that originated in Malabon, a neighboring city of Caloocan.
  • Lechon Kawali is a crispy deep-fried pork belly that boasts tender meat on the inside.
  • Inihaw na Liempo features grilled pork belly marinated in an exclusive sauce.
  • Sinigang na Bangus is a sour soup with milkfish as its principal ingredient.
  • Bulalo is a beef stew made with bone marrow and vegetables, perfect for cold weather.
  • Adobo sa Gata involves chicken or pork cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and coconut milk for added creaminess.
  • Sisig consists of chopped pig’s head and liver mixed with onions, chili peppers, and calamansi juice for added zestiness.

Here are some popular restaurants where you can try these dishes:

  1. Kalye Juan
  2. Gerry’s Grill
  3. Cabalen
  4. Lutong Bahay ni Aling Cora
  5. Balai Bistro
  6. Tambayan ni Mang Jose
  7. Mang Inasal

Parks and Recreation

  1. Bagong Barrio Park is a spacious park that offers visitors a chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as playing basketball, jogging, or spending time at the playground.
  2. Grace Park Plaza is a public plaza that features a beautiful fountain, benches for relaxation and small playground for children.
  3. Tala Leprosarium and Sanitarium Nature Park provides an opportunity to explore nature through various hiking trails, bird watching areas and picnic spots.
  4. Caloocan City Sports Complex has facilities for different sports like basketball, volleyball, tennis and track & field events.
  5. La Mesa Eco Park is located just outside of Caloocan City in Quezon City offering visitors activities such as boating on the lake or camping grounds along with zip lining.
  6. Bonifacio Monument Circle is both a historical landmark and popular spot among joggers or walkers who want to learn about the city’s history while taking in some fresh air.
  7. Victory Central Mall has an indoor skating rink which makes it perfect for individuals or families looking to have some fun on ice skates!
  8. Malabon Zoo is located nearby Malabon city instead of Caloocan city but still offers visitors the chance to see exotic animals like tigers up close!

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