CALOOCAN

Caloocan is one of the busiest and most populous areas in the Philippines. It used to be quite a challenge to reach. Its name is actually derived from the word, kalook-lookan, which means “innermost area.” Unknown to many, this city has a rich historical past because it served as the center of activities for the Katipunan, the group which launched the Philippine Revolution in the late 1800’s.  It's most celebrated landmark is the monument of the Filipino revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio. There are numerous small businesses in the area, such as motorcycle shops and industrial companies. While it is far from the busy financial district of Manila, Caloocan if full of energy, movement, and chatter. Caloocan’s relatively swift access to the train station now makes it more accessible than it used to be. The LRT Monumento station often gets crowded in the morning as workers and employees from the area start their day. The ground beneath the tracks is just as busy with jeepneys, buses and motorcycles. Though much of Caloocan’s traffic travels towards Ortigas or Makati, this emerging city also draws in visitors occasionally. Caloocan is not exactly known for its food scene yet, but more and more hole-in-the-walls are starting to pop up in the area. Old houses have been turned into interesting restaurants with a distinct Caloocan charm. There are also interesting food stalls on the streets and outside churches which add to the community vibe of this bustling