Logo-new.jpg
Heraldry of the World
Philippines.jpg
Philippine heraldry portal
Philippines-flag.gif

MANILA

Coat of arms (crest) of Manila
Official blazon
English blazon wanted

Origin/meaning

The arms were officially granted on May 30, 1596.

The sea lion, en garde, stands for the authority of the City Government as being protective and defensive of Manila's people and territory.
The waves symbolise the Pasig River, a most important landmark whose length and path throughout the city chronicle the beginnings and the progress of Manila's commerce and industry.

The castle symbolizes the Spanish castle, the main structure at the time.


Image of the original grant of arms

The arms in a manuscript from 1767

City councellor's badge (19th century, image from Facebook)

Image by Hugo Ströhl

The present seal of the city

Literature : information from Jude Grupe