Green spaces in Manila stand out to me like a sore thumb. On occasion I will be out exploring and see a green space and mark it down to visit another day. I was pleasantly surprised driving through San Juan when the mission style government building and sprawling lawn caught my eye. It didn't take more than a few weeks to return for a play. We packed up our skate boards, balls, yo-yo's and a picnic to enjoy our morning outside.

It is remarkable to me that I can live in Manila for seven years and still drive through the different enclaves in wonder. The hills of San Juan, dubbed Little Baguio, make me giggle a little as we bob up and down. This particular morning spent at the park seeing families play together, soccer games in action, dance crews practicing and kids skateboarding all under a warm sun and nest of trees filled a void for nature and community I had been missing.

There is some sort of magic city kids find in wide open spaces.

MAKING FRIENDS

PICNIC TIME

HOW THEY REALLY FEEL ABOUT PHOTOS

THIS IS HOW THE BUNSO FEELS ABOUT SPARKLING WATER

DALANDAN

The same morning I stumbled across the park I jotted down this museum as we drove by. The Museo Ng Katipunan is a free and government run museum. The Museo ng Katipunan provides an educational approach to understand the Katipunan, its primary movers, and their actions. Apart from Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Jacinto, and other renowned revolutionaries, the Museum honors the valiant efforts of the Katipuneros who fought for the independence of the Philippines through a Memorial Wall.

"The Kataastaasan, Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan, founded on 7 July 1892, was a clandestine movement aiming to gain independence from Spain through armed means. However, its existence was divulged to the Spanish authorities in August 1896. Determined to overthrow the colonial regime, Supremo Andres Bonifacio led a group of Katipuneros toward San Juan del Monte on the night of 29 August 1896 and, by daybreak, attacked the ammunition depot and water reservoir. Armed only with bamboo spears, bolos, and homemade guns, the Filipino revolutionaries bravely faced Spanish forces despite being outgunned and inexperienced in war. Though the Katipuneros met a tragic defeat at San Juan del Monte, their heroism fueled the resolve of other Filipinos in nearby provinces to take up arms and support the Philippine revolution." source from Museo's website.

The museum is basic but very informative which is pretty good for free entry! I wouldn't recommend young children visit as there is violence exhibited in dioramas (I didn't know this until we were inside).