Ten important skateboard spots in Manila, Philippines
1. Peace & Progress Park
Nestled in the heart of Makati City, Peace & Progress Park boasts a well-designed skate park that caters to skateboarders seeking a safe and controlled environment. The park's smooth concrete surface, along with a variety of obstacles such as ramps, stairs, and rails, allows skaters to practice their tricks and perfect their skills. The skatepark's strategic location in a bustling commercial district makes it a favorite spot for skateboarders and spectators alike.
2. Bonifacio Global City
Known for its modern architecture and vibrant urban landscape, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) offers skateboarders an array of street spots and plazas to explore. Skaters can take advantage of the city's sleek and clean environment, utilizing ledges, stairs, and rails to showcase their creativity. BGC's lively atmosphere and diverse range of skate-friendly spaces make it a prime location for street skating and community gatherings.
3. Kartilya ng Katipunan
Located near the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Kartilya ng Katipunan features a DIY-style skate spot that captures the essence of the local skateboarding scene. Skaters can explore creatively crafted obstacles such as ramps and grind boxes, fostering a sense of camaraderie and creativity within the community. This spot embodies the DIY spirit and the Filipino passion for skateboarding.
4. McKinley Hill Venice Grand Canal
The McKinley Hill Venice Grand Canal presents a unique skateboarding experience amidst an architectural wonder that replicates the romantic ambiance of Venice, Italy. While skateboarders should be mindful of the tourists and visitors, the smooth pathways and scenic views offer a distinctive backdrop for cruising and capturing skateboarding videos or photos.
5. Quirino Grandstand
Quirino Grandstand, located within Rizal Park, offers skateboarders a vast open space with a smooth concrete surface, ideal for flat-ground tricks and freestyle riding. The area provides skaters with ample room to practice and experiment with tricks while enjoying the historical significance of the location. The view of Manila Bay adds a touch of serenity to the bustling city surroundings
6. Ayala Triangle Gardens
Ayala Triangle Gardens, a green oasis amidst the urban jungle of Makati, provides skateboarders with a unique and dynamic spot for street-style tricks. Skaters can navigate through the paths and open spaces, incorporating benches, ledges, and stairs into their lines. The park's lush greenery and relaxed atmosphere create an enjoyable setting for skateboarding and socializing.
7. Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill
Venice Piazza at McKinley Hill offers skateboarders a combination of street and plaza-style elements, perfect for practicing technical tricks and creative lines. The spot's European-inspired architecture adds a distinct charm, while the variety of ledges, stairs, and flat-ground areas cater to diverse skating styles. Skateboarders can enjoy a mix of leisurely cruising and intense sessions at this unique destination.
8. Circuit Makati
Circuit Makati, a multi-functional development, features an open-space area that transforms into an exciting skateboarding spot. Skateboarders can take advantage of the smooth concrete ground and experiment with tricks and lines. The vibrant atmosphere and nearby entertainment options make it a popular destination for skateboarders seeking a blend of action and leisure.
9. University of the Philippines Diliman
The University of the Philippines Diliman campus offers skateboarders an expansive landscape to explore. The long stretches of roads and pathways provide ample opportunities for cruising and longboarding. Skaters can also engage in street-style tricks and hill bombing, taking advantage of the campus's hilly terrain and peaceful surroundings.
10. Cultural Center of the Philippines
The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex presents skateboarders with a dynamic environment for street and plaza-style skateboarding. The area features ledges, stairs, and open spaces, allowing skaters to showcase their skills amidst the city's cultural hub. The scenic backdrop of Manila Bay and the iconic CCP building adds a touch of artistic flair to the skateboarding experience.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
BellyRash