Taguig City, known officially as the City of Taguig, is one of the cities and municipalities that make up Metro Manila, the National Capital Region of the Philippines. Located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, Taguig is the seventh most populous city in the Philippines and is known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant economy.
The Early History of Taguig
Taguig has a long and storied history that dates back to the pre-colonial period. The earliest evidence of human activity in the area dates back to the Paleolithic period, when the area was inhabited by the Negrito people. The Negritos were the first inhabitants of the Philippines and are believed to have lived in Taguig and the surrounding areas for thousands of years.
The area was later occupied by the Tagalogs, who were the dominant ethnic group in the area prior to the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The Tagalogs were known for their seafaring skills and were among the first to explore and trade with other parts of Asia.
The Spanish Arrival and Colonization
In 1571, the Spanish arrived in the Philippines and began to colonize the area. Taguig was among the first areas to be colonized and was initially named after a Spanish soldier, Captain Juan de Salcedo. The Spanish quickly established a settlement in the area, which they called Pateros, and began to convert the local population to Christianity.
During the Spanish colonial period, Taguig was part of the province of Rizal, which was later renamed as the province of Manila. The area was known for its agricultural production and was home to a number of wealthy haciendas.
American Occupation and Modern History
In 1898, Spain ceded the Philippines to the United States after the Spanish-American War. The Americans quickly established a military base in Taguig, which was known as Fort McKinley. The Americans also began to construct a number of infrastructure projects in the area, including a railway line and a water system.
In 1901, Taguig was officially incorporated as a municipality and was later designated as a city in 1975. The city has since grown to become one of the most populous cities in the Philippines and is home to a diverse population of over half a million people.
Today, Taguig is a thriving metropolis and is home to some of the most important economic, cultural, and educational institutions in the country. The city is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Fort Santiago, which was the site of the Spanish garrison during the colonial period.
Taguig is also known for its vibrant nightlife and is home to a number of popular restaurants, bars, and clubs. The city is also home to a number of shopping malls, including the SM Mall of Asia, which is the largest mall in the Philippines.
Taguig is a vibrant and dynamic city that has a rich and diverse history. From its pre-colonial roots to its modern-day status as one of the most important cities in the Philippines, Taguig has a fascinating past that is still being explored and celebrated today.