Metropolitan Manila, known as Metro Manila, is the capital region and the largest metropolitan area in the Philippines. Situated on the eastern coast of Manila Bay, it is positioned between the Central Luzon and Calabarzon regions. This region comprises 16 highly urbanized cities, including Manila, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, and Valenzuela, along with one municipality, Pateros. In terms of geographical area, Metro Manila covers 619.57 square kilometers (239.22 sq mi) and had a population of 13,484,462 as of 2020. It stands as the second most populous and densely populated region within the Philippines, ranking as the 9th most populous metropolitan area in Asia and the 6th most populous urban area globally.
Demographics
Population by Age Group – National Capital Region (2015 Census):
1. Age Groups and Populations:
- The age group with the highest population: 20 to 24 years old, totaling 1,349,005 individuals.
- The age group with the lowest population: 80 and over, comprising 76,146 individuals.
2. Historical Population:
- The population of the National Capital Region has experienced significant growth over the years.
- In 1903, the population was 328,939 people.
- By 2020, the population had grown to 13,484,462, which is an increase of 13,155,523 people over the course of 117 years.
- The latest census figures in 2020 indicate a positive growth rate of 0.97%, equivalent to an increase of 607,209 people, compared to the previous population of 12,877,253 in 2015.
| Name | City/ Municipality | Population (2020) | Population (2015) | Annual Population Growth Rate (2015‑2020) | Area (km2) | Density (2020), per km2 | Brgy count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloocan | city (HUC) | 1,661,584 | 1,583,978 | 1.01% | 55.80 | 29,777 | 188 |
| Las Piñas | city (HUC) | 606,293 | 588,894 | 0.61% | 32.69 | 18,547 | 20 |
| Makati | city (HUC) | 629,616 | 582,602 | 1.65% | 21.57 | 29,189 | 33 |
| Malabon | city (HUC) | 380,522 | 365,525 | 0.85% | 15.71 | 24,222 | 21 |
| Mandaluyong | city (HUC) | 425,758 | 386,276 | 2.07% | 9.29 | 45,830 | 27 |
| Manila | city (HUC), capital, regional center | 1,846,513 | 1,780,148 | 0.77% | 24.98 | 73,920 | 897 |
| Marikina | city (HUC) | 456,059 | 450,741 | 0.25% | 21.52 | 21,192 | 16 |
| Muntinlupa | city (HUC) | 543,445 | 504,509 | 1.58% | 39.75 | 13,672 | 9 |
| Navotas | city (HUC) | 247,543 | 249,463 | -0.16% | 8.94 | 27,689 | 18 |
| Parañaque | city (HUC) | 689,992 | 665,822 | 0.75% | 46.57 | 14,816 | 16 |
| Pasay | city (HUC) | 440,656 | 416,522 | 1.19% | 13.97 | 31,543 | 201 |
| Pasig | city (HUC) | 803,159 | 755,300 | 1.30% | 48.46 | 16,574 | 30 |
| Pateros | mun | 65,227 | 63,840 | 0.45% | 10.40 | 6,272 | 10 |
| Quezon City | city (HUC) | 2,960,048 | 2,936,116 | 0.17% | 171.71 | 17,239 | 142 |
| San Juan | city (HUC) | 126,347 | 122,180 | 0.71% | 5.95 | 21,235 | 21 |
| Taguig | city (HUC) | 886,722 | 804,915 | 2.06% | 45.21 | 19,613 | 28 |
| Valenzuela | city (HUC) | 714,978 | 620,422 | 3.03% | 47.02 | 15,206 | 33 |
| National Capital Region Total | 13,484,462 | 12,877,253 | 0.97% | 619.54 | 21,765 | 1,710 | |
Economy
As of 2022, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita for the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines stood at 487,932.75 PHP, showing a notable increase from the previous year when it was 440,885.46 PHP. This data, reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority, is updated annually and reflects the economic well-being of the population in the NCR.
Over the period from December 2000 to 2022, the GDP per capita in the NCR has shown a significant upward trend, with an average of 267,953.51 PHP. The data fluctuated during this time, hitting a low of 124,217.46 PHP in 2000 and reaching its peak at 487,932.75 PHP in 2022. This data provides valuable insights into the economic performance and living standards in the National Capital Region of the Philippines.
Tourism
Metro Manila’s tourism industry offers a tapestry of experiences that blend history, culture, and contemporary excitement. Visitors can explore historical sites like Intramuros, savor the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, and immerse themselves in vibrant festivals and the city’s dynamic arts scene.
The city’s modernity coexists with its heritage, creating a unique juxtaposition of experiences for tourists. The Manila Bay waterfront, bustling shopping districts, and entertainment hubs offer a diverse range of attractions.
