Parañaque

Parañaque is a highly urbanized city in the National Capital Region of the Philippines. It is located on the southwest portion of Metro Manila, bordering Manila Bay. The city is known for its entertainment and gaming hubs, particularly in the Entertainment City complex.

The history of Parañaque dates back to the Spanish colonial era. It was originally a small fishing village and a port of entry for trade. The name "Parañaque" is believed to be derived from the Tagalog words "para nang para," meaning "stop and go," referring to the ships that would anchor there. During the Spanish period, it was a significant settlement and later became a town under the province of Rizal.

Parañaque became a city on February 2, 1998, through Republic Act No. 7927. It is divided into two congressional districts and further into sixteen administrative wards, known as barangays. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with a significant population of Chinese-Filipinos and other ethnic groups contributing to its vibrant social fabric.

Economically, Parañaque is a significant contributor to the National Capital Region. Its strategic location near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and its proximity to Manila Bay have fostered its growth as a commercial and industrial center. The city is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors to its casinos, shopping malls, and cultural sites. Its accessibility via major thoroughfares like the Coastal Road and the NAIA Expressway makes it a key node in Metro Manila's transportation network.