After Philippines local election last 2007, when Honorable Alfredo Lim won the mayoralty race, the famous Baywalk along Roxas Boulevard within Manila jurisdiction, all the establishments along the baywalk were gone because of the Manila City ordinance implemented again by Mayor Alfredo Lim. Many got sad including me because what was left now was the beautiful lamp posts that were installed during Mayor Lito Atienza’s term. All the establishments in Plaza Raha Sulayman were also gone, including my favorite coffee shop where my friends and I stayed after a night out ordering kapeng barako or chocolat-eh, best combined with an order of pandesal with kesong puti. Well, those were the happy days of Baywalk in Malate.

A close relative who worked as a manager in Dampa informed me that they will open a branch to the “new” baywalk. My kids and I had a chance to see how it looked.


It is located at the back of SM Mall Of Asia where you can enjoy strolling around the baywalk, the sea air breeze and the convenience of the MOA’s security guards roving around. Take note: vendors and beggars are no where in sight.

This is the perfect place to watch the fireworks display every Fridays, Saturdays and special occasions at 7:00pm.

Night out with your friends or family? Many restaurants and bars are open already and there are some more establishments opening soon. Goodbye to the disposable cups, plates, spoons and forks used by mostly all establishments at the old baywalk. I supposed many couples will celebrate their Valentine’s Day here next month.

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