Manila Central Post Office
An iconic neoclassical landmark by Juan Arellano, undergoing restoration after a devastating fire, symbolizing Manila's resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the rush for Postal IDs
Manila Central Post Office
Best Time
Beat the rush for Postal IDs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic neoclassical landmark by Juan Arellano, undergoing restoration after a devastating fire, symbolizing Manila's resilience.
"Admire the grand neoclassical facade, a testament to its American colonial era design."
🎯 Arrive Early for IDs
For same-day Postal ID processing, aim to arrive by 6 AM or earlier.
📄 Bring Complete Requirements
Have all necessary documents and photocopies ready for faster Postal ID transactions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neoclassical Architecture
Exterior
Admire the grand neoclassical facade, a testament to its American colonial era design by Juan Arellano.
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Pasig River Views
Riverside
Enjoy scenic views of the Pasig River from the building's prominent location.
Temporary Postal ID Office
Adjacent to main building
Visit the temporary office for efficient Postal ID processing, but expect early morning queues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Post-Fire Restoration & Access
Postal ID Processing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for IDs
For same-day Postal ID processing, aim to arrive by 6 AM or earlier.
📄 Bring Complete Requirements
Have all necessary documents and photocopies ready for faster Postal ID transactions.
🚶♀️ Check Entrance Points
Due to restoration, the main entrance might be closed. Inquire about the temporary access point.
📸 Capture the Facade
Even post-fire, the building's grandeur is striking. Capture its resilience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for IDs
For same-day Postal ID processing, aim to arrive by 6 AM or earlier.
📄 Bring Complete Requirements
Have all necessary documents and photocopies ready for faster Postal ID transactions.
🚶♀️ Check Entrance Points
Due to restoration, the main entrance might be closed. Inquire about the temporary access point.
📸 Capture the Facade
Even post-fire, the building's grandeur is striking. Capture its resilience.
⏳ Be Prepared for Waits
The ID capturing process can take hours, so bring snacks and patience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Manila Central Post Office for its grand neoclassical architecture and historical significance, noting its resilience even after the fire. However, the restoration process has led to temporary access changes and long queues for services like Postal ID processing, requiring patience and early arrival.
"Haven’t been here for a decade or more til today. So the Post Office burned back in May 2022 and is still undergoing renovation/restoration.
Alighting the jeep from the foot of Jones Bridge side, the gate was closed. The lady guards simply said I had to go around through the other side’s entrance. Since I am a PWD, I asked if I could take a short cut by passing through the gate and entering on the other side as it was a requirement to enter from the other side. Neither explained that the temporary post office was on the other side. Thus my puzzlement!
Anyway, the male guards were more helpful with the directions. Aileen (or Ailyn) a 30 year veteran in the post office guided me through sending registered mails. Turns out that only mails with Manila addresses are processed in this post office while other Metro Manila cities’ addresses are processed through their own cities. Something new I learned today. She also mentioned that the post office’s main structure remained undamaged by the fire-proof of the “materiales fuertes” used back then.
Looking forward to the new post office after its restoration 😊"
Susie Selorio
"went there today
Sept 18 2025 to renew my postal id ..
no appointment needed
same day process for the 1st cut off (until 10am)
just be sure to be there early , like me 6am
they started the process around 7:30
also make sure to have the requirements complete
and to have a photocopy too for faster transaction
i was done by 8am
their photocopy per page is 6pesos (expensive)
for the same day process you have to claim by around 4-6pm
di na pala sya tulad ng dati sa gitna ka dadaan , kasi nasunog sya last May 2023 , doon sa may parking lot dadaan tpos left , meron don maliit na office"
Jeline Chan
"Used to go here too long ago just to send letters to my dad overseas and to to some friends from different cities. But now workloads of people here made easier because of technologies like email and social media. The place is still looking good. Parking space is available. People still go here reminiscing the good old days. Still has a great view of the lawton park and pasig river."
Julius Acbang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Manila Central Post Office is located in Lawton, Ermita, along the Pasig River. You can reach it via jeepney or taxi. Many routes pass through Jones Bridge, offering a scenic approach.
Yes, there is parking space available at the Manila Central Post Office, which can be convenient for visitors.
From Intramuros, you can walk across Jones Bridge, which offers great views and leads directly towards the Post Office area. Alternatively, a short taxi or jeepney ride will get you there quickly.
Yes, the Manila Central Post Office is situated near Jones Bridge, the Esplanade along the Pasig River, and Lawton Park, making it part of a historically rich area.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Grab are a convenient way to get to the Manila Central Post Office, especially if you're coming from further parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general entry to view the exterior and surrounding areas of the Manila Central Post Office does not require a ticket. However, for specific services like Postal ID renewal, there are procedures and potential fees. +1
For Postal ID processing, it's best to arrive very early. The first cut-off for same-day processing is typically around 10 AM, but lines start forming as early as 6 AM or even earlier.
The main building is undergoing restoration after the May 2023 fire. A temporary post office operates nearby for services like Postal ID processing and mail handling.
The cost for a Postal ID can vary, and there are also fees for photocopies (around 6 pesos per page). It's advisable to check the latest fees and requirements before your visit.
Yes, you can send registered mails and parcels. However, only mails with Manila addresses are processed at this specific location; other Metro Manila addresses are handled by their respective city post offices.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the grand neoclassical architecture of the building, enjoy views of the Pasig River, and visit the temporary office for postal services. The building's resilience after the fire is also a notable aspect. +1
Accessibility can be challenging due to ongoing restoration. While some staff are helpful, it's best to inquire about specific access routes for PWDs upon arrival.
It's an iconic neoclassical building designed by Juan Arellano, a national treasure that survived World War II. It served as the main postal hub and headquarters for the Philippine Postal Corporation.
A devastating fire in May 2023 severely damaged the historic landmark. Restoration efforts are underway to bring the building back to its former glory.
Photography of the exterior is generally allowed. Access to the interior, especially the mail sorting areas, might be restricted due to ongoing restoration or operational reasons.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand neoclassical facade is a prime subject. Also, capture the building with the Pasig River in the background for a scenic shot. The surrounding Lawton Park area offers good vantage points.
While the exterior is readily accessible for photos, interior access might be limited, especially during restoration. Some past visitors have shared glimpses of the mail sorting areas.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for the building's facade. Night photography can also be dramatic, especially with the city lights.
Generally, exterior photography is permitted. However, always be mindful of operational areas and any posted signage regarding photography restrictions.
Its imposing neoclassical design, symmetrical colonnades, and grand scale make it a visually striking subject for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1If you're there for Postal ID processing, be prepared for long waits. Consider bringing activities or snacks to keep children entertained. The experience can be a lesson in patience and civic services. Remember to check the accessibility of the temporary post office if you have very young children or strollers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Consider visiting during the golden hours for soft, dramatic lighting. Night photography can also be rewarding, with the city lights illuminating the structure. While interior access might be restricted, past glimpses of the mail sorting areas offer unique shots for those interested in the building's operational history.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+1Explore the surrounding area, which is rich in historical context, including Jones Bridge and Intramuros. Understanding the building's past and its role in the city's development provides a deeper appreciation for its enduring presence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Manila Central Post Office: A Symbol of Resilience
+1Tragically, in May 2023, a devastating fire ravaged the historic building, causing extensive damage and leaving many to mourn the loss of a national treasure. Despite the destruction, the core structure is reported to have remained largely intact, a testament to the robust construction methods of its era.
This resilience has fueled hopes and plans for its restoration, aiming to bring the iconic building back to its former glory. +1Today, while the main building undergoes restoration, a temporary post office operates nearby, continuing to serve the public. Visitors can still appreciate the exterior of the damaged structure and witness the ongoing efforts to revive this beloved piece of Manila's heritage.
Navigating Postal Services: Postal IDs and Mail
When applying for a Postal ID, ensure you have all the necessary requirements, including supporting documents and their photocopies. This proactive step can save considerable time. The photocopy service on-site is available but can be more expensive than external options. For those sending mail, the Manila Central Post Office handles domestic mail for Manila addresses. International mail and mail for other Metro Manila cities are processed through different channels, so it's wise to confirm the correct procedure for your specific needs.
Despite the fire and ongoing restoration, the postal services continue to operate from a temporary location. This ensures that essential services like mail delivery and ID processing remain accessible to the public, demonstrating the continued importance of the Philippine Postal Corporation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit