The Manila Bulletin building: A historic landmark in Philippine journalism

The streets of Intramuros are alive with history, and along Muralla Street stands a building with its own place in this narrative. Located across from the Intramuros Golf Club, the Manila Bulletin building—the headquarters of the nation’s longest-running newspaper—is more than just an office; it is a landmark deeply intertwined with over a century of Philippine journalism and historical significance.

The Manila Bulletin’s story began in 1900 as the Manila Daily Bulletin, operating from El Progreso at No. 10 Carriedo in Manila. By 1901, it had moved to Evangelista Street, where the media company continued to grow. Despite early successes, its journey was not without challenges. During World War II, the Evangelista office was destroyed, halting publication under Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945.

Yet the company persevered, resuming operations and weathering political and social upheavals. After the liberation of Manila, the Bulletin office moved to Florentino Torres Street in Sta. Cruz and resumed publication in 1946. In 1956, its offices relocated to the Shurdut Investments building, near the current location of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). However, not all departments were there; the press and the Sunday magazine Panorama operated from a separate building on Romualdez Street in Ermita.

Following the closure of the paper due to Proclamation 1081 and the declaration of Martial Law in 1972, which led to the closure of many newspapers, the media company reopened as Bulletin Today a couple of months later.

Before settling into its Intramuros headquarters in 1977, the site had its own historical significance. It was once the location of the San Nicolas de Tolentino Church, the motherhouse of the Augustinian Recollects. Built in 1608, the church was the original home of the revered Black Nazarene statue, which was later moved to Quiapo’s San Sebastian Church in 1767. The church and its iconic four-tiered bell tower were destroyed during World War II, and its ruins stood until their demolition in 1959. When the publishing company acquired the property, it sought to honor the site’s legacy by contributing to the nation’s ongoing narrative.

By 1976, construction of the new facility on a 1.2-hectare lot was complete, marking a significant milestone in the Manila Bulletin’s growth. In April 1977, the publishing company consolidated its operations and began publishing from its new headquarters, equipped with a 10-unit Headliners press that modernized its production capabilities. The paper was renamed Manila Bulletin in March 1986, following the EDSA People Power Revolution.

Inside the Manila Bulletin

Today, the Manila Bulletin building in Intramuros seamlessly blends history and modernity, serving as a dynamic hub for Philippine journalism. A visit here offers more than a glimpse into the press machines that churn out hundreds of pages per second—it’s a chance to experience the heart of a publishing company, starting with a warm welcome at the café by the main entrance.

What began as a simple pastry stall during a Christmas village event evolved into Paper + Cup in 2016. This café transformed an unused corner into a lively space adorned with mid-century modern touches and artworks from the Manila Bulletin Sketchfest competition. Its popularity surged after a viral TikTok video, attracting students, tourists, and professionals during the pandemic. Now with a seating of 100, it’s a creative haven for connection and inspiration.

Beyond the café, the Manila Bulletin’s layout reflects functionality and sustainability. The second-floor newsroom features open, collaborative spaces with recycled materials, hanging gardens, and warm lighting that fosters focus. Other areas include a gym, library, ballroom, and a cafeteria with upcycled designs, like palochina wood tables and walls made of old motherboards, all emphasizing eco-conscious practices.