In this travel vlog, I’m exploring Bonifacio Global City (BGC Manila), one of the richest, cleanest, and most modern districts in the Philippines.
BGC feels like a completely different world compared to many other parts of Manila. Everything looks newly built, carefully planned, and extremely well maintained.
Wide roads, clean sidewalks, modern skyscrapers, luxury condominiums, high-end malls, countless restaurants, cafés, and bars – walking through BGC almost feels like being in a Western city rather than Southeast Asia.
🏙️ What Makes BGC Manila So Different?
Bonifacio Global City stands out because it is a planned city within a city. Unlike many older districts of Manila, BGC was designed from scratch with:
walkability
safety
cleanliness
modern infrastructure
It’s a sharp contrast to areas like Intramuros, Quiapo, or Binondo, which are full of history, chaos, and energy.
Many people ask if Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is the most modern neighborhood in the Philippines – and the answer is yes, very likely. BGC was built as a master-planned district with wide sidewalks, modern skyscrapers, underground utilities, strict cleanliness rules, and high security. Compared to other cities like Makati, Cebu, or Clark, BGC offers the most consistent mix of modern infrastructure, safety, walkability, and lifestyle. It truly feels like a city within a city and shows what the future of urban life in the Philippines could look like.
🚦 Closed Streets, Scooters & Walkable City Life
While exploring BGC, I noticed that some streets were temporarily closed, turning them into pedestrian zones.
Many people were riding rented electric scooters, casually moving through the area. This creates a very relaxed, modern, and almost futuristic atmosphere – something you don’t usually associate with Manila.
🐕 Dogs in Diapers – A BGC Rule?
One of the most surprising things I noticed: many dog owners, and a lot of dogs wearing diapers.
This was completely new to me. Apparently, in parts of BGC this is required or strongly encouraged to keep the area clean. It perfectly shows how strict and organized this district is compared to other neighborhoods in Metro Manila.
🍽️ Street Food & Snack Prices in BGC Manila
After walking around, I decided to grab a snack at a street food stand in BGC.
I ordered:
A cold cappuccino for $4 USD
A chili hotdog for $7 USD
Both tasted great, especially the chili hotdog – spicy, flavorful, and filling.
However, these prices are much higher than typical street food prices in Manila.
Later, I found a street food festival and tried a berry smoothie for 125 Philippine Pesos (PHP) (around $2–2.20 USD).
The smoothie was fresh and refreshing, but again, the price reflects the upscale nature of BGC. In areas like Makati or Quezon City, similar food is often cheaper.
💸 Is BGC Manila Expensive?
Yes – BGC is one of the most expensive areas in Metro Manila.
Food, drinks, rent, and shopping prices are noticeably higher. The area clearly caters to:
expats
professionals
wealthier locals
tourists who prefer comfort and safety
That said, you also get:
clean streets
modern surroundings
better infrastructure
a safer environment
🛍️ Bonifacio High Street & Bonifacio Malls
I continued walking and reached Bonifacio High Street, the heart of BGC.
Bonifacio High Street officially opened in 2007 and is designed as an open-air lifestyle mall with green spaces, restaurants, cafés, bars, and international brands.
Nearby, there are several Bonifacio malls, and once you leave one mall, you almost immediately walk into another. Shopping, dining, and entertainment seem endless in this district.
🔐 Safety & Security in BGC Manila
BGC is considered one of the safest places in Metro Manila.
There is visible security, guards, patrols, and controlled crossings throughout the area – similar to high-security locations like World Trade Center Manila.
Walking around feels calm, organized, and very safe – even at night.
🗺️ BGC vs Other Manila Attractions
Manila is a city of contrasts.
On one side, you have modern areas like BGC and Makati. On the other, historical and cultural spots like:
Rizal Park
Manila Cathedral
San Agustin Church
BGC represents the future of Manila, while these places represent its past.
😊 Friendly People & Overall Atmosphere
Another highlight was how friendly and welcoming people were.
From vendors to shop staff and locals, everyone was polite and helpful. The atmosphere in BGC feels international, relaxed, and surprisingly calm.
🤔 Is BGC Manila Worth Visiting?
If you’re traveling to Manila and want to see:
a modern and clean city
luxury malls and restaurants
higher-quality street food
a safe, walkable district
Then BGC Manila is absolutely worth visiting. Just be aware that prices are higher compared to other parts of the city.
