manila polo yacht club

Manila Yacht Club is the only member-owned yacht club in Manila Philippines and the oldest yacht club in all of Asia. The Manila Yacht Club was established in 1927, but its history dates back to an affluent time when our first members were the officers and men of  James C. Rockwell, Joseph A. Thomas, Aubrey P. Ames, Stewart A. Taite and A.S. Heyward.

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Private events, membership club, yachts for sale, yacht rental manila.

In our firm, which provides crewed yacht rentals in Manila, the satisfaction of our clients comes first. All you need to do is let us know what you need, and we’ll do the rest. Numerous luxurious yachts are available for charter in Manila, and some of them travel to well-liked vacation spots in Palawan, Boracay, or Batangas. With the help of our yacht rental services, you may arrange special occasions like yacht wedding ceremonies, marriage proposals, boat parties, team-building exercises, or a romantic cruise past the city skyline.

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Manila Yacht Club

Posted in Manila on October 13, 2010

Conceived as one of the oldest yacht clubs in Asia, the Manila Yacht Club (MYC) is one of the few organized yacht clubs found in the Philippines . It is based in Manila , exclusively for members and they are situated in Manila Bay where sunset is a perfect view during fine weather conditions.

Because the Philippines’ has 7,107 islands, yachting in this archipelago may be one of the main reasons the Manila Yacht Club was set-up. The club coordinates many international and regional competitions and assists in other related events. The Manila Yacht Club members often join in yacht racing events both in and out of the country. This includes the China Sea Race which was started by the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in 1962, the King’s Cup of Thailand and Rajah Muda of Singapore among many other regattas. The Manila Yacht Club also joined the Presidents Cup Regatta which is known as a major event in the whole Philippines, held after Easter. This eagerly anticipated event began in 1993 as the Philippine Easter Regatta and came to be known as it is today when former President Fidel V. Ramos requested the Manila Yacht Club to hold an international regatta during APEC Summit held in the country in 1997. From then on, the event was renamed as the President’s Cup Regatta. The next Presidents Cup will be held in Boracay .

The Manila Yacht Club is the Philippines’ prime yacht club which owes its strong reputation to its rich historic past, exciting present and promising future. On January 20, 1927, five yachtsmen gathered at the Polo Club which was then situated beside Manila Bay and signed their names on the By-laws (made since 1926) of the Manila Yacht Club. James C. Rockwell, Joseph A. Thomas, Aubrey P. Ames, Stewart A. Tait, and A. S. Heyward affixed their signatures on the document, making them as the first few members of the club.

Office of the Philippine Navy Patrol near Manila Yacht Club

In about 1933 to 1934, the Philippine Navy Patrol moved its office from Canacao Bay in Cavite to Manila Bay which was then solely occupied by the Manila Yacht Club and caused minor conflict between the two entities. The Philippine Navy Patrol occupied the area near the club and moved the latter’s clubhouse in a nearby location. On December 28, 1941 before the Japanese Marine Detachment, the Manila Yacht Club suffered on what would have been its “last day”. In 1945, with the liberation of Manila, the Manila Yacht Club started to reconstruct its clubhouse and other facilities. On April 1, 1947, the Manila Yacht Club officially re-opened using the Quonset hut as a Clubhouse.

Manila Yachts and Philippine Navy Ships in Manila Bay

Manila Yacht Club is one of the many yachting hub in Southeast Asia. It is committed to the promotion of sailing as a sport. The club entices both sightseers and hobbyists to join them. They hold its racing season from September to May every year. Some of them offer free and paid ride to locals and foreigners, cruising along Manila Bay by afternoon until night.

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4 comments... read below or add one.

This has made my day. I wish all postings were this good.

Hey, good to find someone who areges with me. GMTA.

Hi Peter, I suggest you locate the websites of and contact MYC, SBYC (Subic Bay Yacht Club) and PGYC (Puerto Galera Yacht Club – talk to Peter Stevens) to get more info. Take a look at the locations on Google Earth also. Are you planning to park your yacht in Manila Bay waters or are you expecting to move around a lot on weekends or do you expect lots of active sailing/cruising regattas in a year? There are other yacht clubs in Cebu, etc. Best to come visit the YCs and chat with members to see if the place/company suits your needs. MYC does have good maintenance facilities, is located in MLA, has great food, etc but other places have cleaner water or are based in lovely white sand edged islands. Good luck! – Cherrie @pinoyboats

hello my name is peter i live in the uk near falmouth in beautiful Cornwall i have been lucky enough to meat a lovely girl from manila so i am planning to spend much of my time in your lovely country . i worked at sea as a home trade master for 10 years and sailed on the replica of the golden hind and raced Thames sailing barges , i now own a moody 37 and have spent most of my cruising time sailing between the uk and the med . now looking for a change of scenery i would like to become a member of a yacht club in manila what is the situation regarding membership with your marina . look forward to hearing from you . thanks peter

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• Manila Polo Club: Early Years

While my family and I were still living in an apartment on Pennsylvania Street, my dad bought a brand spanking new 1955 Chevrolet 4-dr. Bel Air that he had shipped from the U.S. when he was over there on one of his business trips. It was a beautiful Ivory and Turquoise beauty. By the time I was 13 (in 1958), we had moved to our new home in San Lorenzo which was out in the sticks in those days. It took forever if you had to catch a jeepney into downtown. By car, it would only take about maybe 30-40 minutes to the Escolta. (Of course now, it might take a couple of hours !) Well, I pleaded with my mom to let me drive. The official minimum driving age in Manila was 18 but that minor problem was resolved when my mother sent our driver to City Hall, apparently money was changed under the counter, and I had my driver’s license. Ah… the good old days !

It wasn’t until years later that I discovered that this large tract of land used to be the home of the original Manila Polo Club.

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Manila Polo Club – F.B. Harrison (formerly Calle Real), Pasay

By 1909, the new American colonial government had completed the installation of a successful potable water supply service in the city. Public health efforts led to a decline of diseases: malaria, cholera and dysentery among others. Daniel Burnham set the plans for the modernization of Manila: paved roads and wide avenues; and the fetid moat around Intramuros was filled in and a golf course was created. As companies realized that the United States intended to retain possession of the Philippines for at least 10 or 20 years, they came to realize the opportunity to recover and profit from their investments of capital. Visions of development attracted more investors and employees to manage these ventures, bringing their families to settle in this new land of opportunity. Thus, more American families were immigrating to Manila from the States, settling in the preferred Malate and Ermita neighborhoods. Manila was growing; destined to be a cosmopolitan city by the late Twenties and Thirties. The American community grew and along with it, a social structure that demanded a similar life and environment they may have experienced back home.

It was the era of social clubs, especially for the society’s elite. In fact, it seemed the American community needed their clubs as a means of adjusting to life abroad. In 1898, American army and navy officers formed the Army-Navy Club and used as their clubhouse an old building in Intramuros. In 1901 British residents founded the Manila Golf Club, which had its golf course in Caloocan. The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks or Elks Club was organized in 1902. The Baguio Country Cub was founded in 1905, the Philippine Columbian Club in 1907, and the Manila Polo Club in 1909.

The Manila Polo Club was incorporated on August 18, 1909. Founders of the club were: Forbes, Martin Egan (then editor of the Manila Times), C. H. Sleeper (Director, Bureau of Lands), Col. H.B. McCoy (Collector of Customs), P.G. McDonnell (Manila Municipal Collector), R.P. Strong, Edward Bowditch, Jr., Frank B. Hahn, and Warwick Green.

Officially opened in November 27, 1909 on Calle Real in Pasay, the first clubhouse of the Manila Polo Club was built in the native style, featuring wooden frames, wooden sidings, an elevated floor, and a thatched roof. A distinctive architectural feature was the water tower made to appear as a pagoda. There were both fresh and saltwater pools and later, even a six-hole golf course. Of course, the main feature was Forbes Field, the polo field on the center of the property, planted with grass, rolled and leveled with a drainage system to keep it in shape. All construction expenses were borne by Cameron Forbes’ personal funds.

Calle Real (renamed M.H. del Pilar in 1921) joined F.B. Harrison through to Pasay in 1913. Later, according to Burnham’s plan, Cavite Boulevard was widened and became Dewey Boulevard. This facilitated access to beachfront properties, namely the Polo Club, thereby increasing the club’s patronage and popularity. In addition, prominent members of the community such as Judge Ostrand, E.J. Westerhouse, and the Cotterman and Baldwin families, found the area attractive and started to build their homes along Dewey Boulevard and closer to the Polo Club.

These photos, courtesy of Andy Butler, display a beautiful example of how the backyards of beachside homes of the day used to face Manila Bay, their entrances on Calle F.B. Harrison. The C.M. Cotterman home in Pasay was typical of some of the mansions of that era. Charles Cotterman landed in Manila in 1900, became Director of Posts then had interests in Walkover Shoe Store and Philippine Acetylene Co. and was one of the most influential businessman in Manila. He and his family were interned at Santo Tomas during the Japanese occupation.

Cotterman home in Pasay with C.M. Cotterman

Cotterman home – back porch facing Manila Bay

Cotterman home – the backyard on the beach.

Here’s a good perspective of the main building and distinctive pagoda. The 40 acre property was large enough to be used as an occasional landing field.  A Chinese aviator with the unlikely name of Captain Gunn, once asked to use part of the club grounds to show aviation tactics.

In 1914, the nipa-thatched club now acquired the spacious, relaxed atmosphere that would extend into the Thirties. At that time, the club featured a small group of buildings that stood in a lonely huddle in what seemed to be a vast wilderness, its boundaries to the south practically unmarked. Plants, trees, and shrubs abounded in a pleasing array to mark its borders. The members would take advantage of club’s location to enjoy horseback rides in the fresh morning air along the beach and later end at the Polo Club for breakfast.

Picnic Lunch – photo courtesy of Gunther Prittwitz

Nov.22, 2014 Update: Just received this email from Chris North who is the little boy holding the Coke bottle in the photo above: “Unbelievable…  That is me holding the Coke bottle in the picnic lunch photo, circa 1955!  Mom, Lois North (recently deceased @ 96 years) to immediate right.  Also recognize Mrs. Menefee and Mrs. Prittwitz.  God bless Bill Andrews–polo bud of my father (WG North Jr., MPC Polo Captain circa 1958)–Bill Andrews gave me a Rolex submariner watch when I graduated from Brent School in 1967–still have it today!”

However it was still a considerable trek as is shown in the 1920 map below. One still had to take M.H. Del Pilar which turned into F. B. Harrison that wound by Harrison Park and the Pasay Race Course all the way to Libertad to reach the Polo Club (located at the bottom of the map below).

Rivalry between the Polo Club and the military always drew crowds. Among overseas officers, polo appears to have assumed the status of a distinct subculture, equal to that of boxing among enlisted men. By the 1920s the army boasted eight polo teams and participated in a six-month season in which matches often were played three times a week. Forts McKinley and Stotsenberg and the “Carabao Wallow Hunt and Polo Club” at Nichols Field each had their own field and stable; officers brought their polo ponies with them and there was keen interest in breeding with European and Australian stock. Tournaments were held in February and May of each year and played for the Far Eastern, Wood, and Langhorne Cups. Source: Guardians of Empire: The U.S. Army and the Pacific, 1902-1940, Brian McAllister Linn. (photo below thanks to J. Rodriguez)

It seemed the Manila Polo Club was favored by the older U.S. officers, who sometimes found the Army and Navy Club a trifle boisterous. Of course, it was politically advantageous as well because that was where the Manila aristocracy gathered; of new money or ancient blood.

“At one end of the famous boulevard, American officers played tennis, swam, and enjoyed cool drinks at the Army Navy Club. At the Yacht Club, “front porch sailors” rocked. Just further south was the Polo Club with the greenest imaginable playing fields. Hooves of the polo ponies kicked up the turf at a bare rumble that from the distance echoed two beats behind their flashing legs.”  Source: On the Road Home by John Russell Frank (photo below thanks to Isidra Reyes)

During the Twenties, the social venues of Manila were still limited and thus the various clubs were quite the popular places, not only for sports events but evening soirees and the occasional wedding as well. The Army and Navy Club had an orchestra every night and dinner was served on the large veranda facing the bay. Although the Polo Club did not have an orchestra every night, dinners on the lawn near the seawall were very popular. The club had a special dinner dance once or twice a month. During the polo season the Sunday afternoon tea dances were very well attended. The polo games started at four-thirty and dancing generally began at six. The lawn by this time was bathed in the gorgeous glow of the Manila sunset and it was a scene that one would always remember.

Dancing at the Polo Club – 1926

Members of the Polo Club c. Apr.1926

My dear friends, Ted and Dianne Cadwallader provided this wonderful photo of Ted’s parents’ wedding reception held at the Manila Polo Club in November 1932. From the left, Elizabeth “Penny” Williams, Florence D. Cadwallader,  Hildur Rogers, Ruth Cadwallader, Mary Cadwallader Elizalde, Billie and Bill, Joseph McMicking, Manolo Elizalde, Mr. Kahn, and William E. Williams. Ted was a child when he and his family were interned at Santo Tomas during the Japanese occupation.

“Socially, the event nearly overwhelmed everything before or since. Every bench on the lawn groaned under its weight, while every inch of standing room was occupied. The fences along F.B. Harrison almost collapsed with spectators fighting for advantageous position.” The Manila Americans, Lewis Gleeck, Jr.

On May 13, 1922, the HMS Renown anchored in Manila Bay. The Prince of Wales landed with his staff and drove to Malacañang Palace where he lunched with the Governor-General Wood and General Wright, Commander of the U.S. troops in the Philippines. In the afternoon he played polo with an American team. As he was playing polo, the Prince was struck by the ball, sustaining an inch and half gash over his right eyebrow, requiring two stitches. Source: The Straits Times, Singapore

Below: This skyview of the Polo Club in 1935, shows additional buildings and the pagoda was dismantled for safety reasons. (click to enlarge).

The orchestra played in a setting which simulated a palm-leaf house, while “dozens of comfortable chairs, settees and davenports were scattered in restful, conversational groups.”

Merv Simpson, a long time Manila ex-pat reminisces of prewar Manila. (He married television personality Lelia Benitez). “It was a peaceful life. We had parties, or at least my parents had parties, but nobody got bombed, at least as I can remember.  My stepfather [John McFie] did very well; he was a successful lawyer here. We weren’t rich, but I never had to worry about money. I’d ask my mother – I’d want to go to the Polo Club, it would be Saturday morning – so she’d give me a peso. That was big dough back then. I’d take a taxi out there. The taxi would be about twenty centavos. At the Polo Club we used to swim, badminton, bowling, tennis – it was a nice life. We would just sign [for the bill], and my stepfather got really mad at me on time because one month I think I signed for fifteen pesos worth, and he was outraged I spent so much money. He banned me from the Club for three months. “ Source: The MacArthur Highway, Joseph McCallus.

The Rift In 1935, a dispute arose which led to a parting of the ways for the Elizalde family and the Polo Club. Don Miguel Elizalde was an avid sportsman and a member of Manila Polo Club’s winning team. The family was quite wealthy and influential. They owned steel, hemp, paint and wine factories, along with a media empire of radio, television and newspapers, and a hacienda and sugar central in Negros Occidental. The photo below was provided by another dear friend, Peter Parsons. It shows his dad “Chick” Parsons with Pres. Quezon and the Elizalde brothers.

This split caused by what was labeled as based on racial discrimination, occurred when the four Elizalde brothers’ nomination of Col. Manuel Nieto, aide-de-camp of President Quezon was blackballed.

Col. Manuel Nieto and Pres. Quezon

In his book, “The Manila Americans”, Lewis Gleeck, Jr. maintains that this was not the case: the popular Elizaldes and their candidate represented the same racial group, but his relationship to Quezon had cast him in a role which the predominately American membership, with their perhaps peculiar, at times hypocritical but certainly different views of acceptable behavior, could not approve the candidate as a club member. In any event, it caused a great stir and scandal at the time and led the Elizaldes and the famous WWII hero, Chick Parsons as well as other prominent Filipinos to establish their own polo club called Los Tamaraos Polo Club further south in Parañaque in January 1937. Los Tamaraos Polo Club offered 35 full sized steeds imported by J.M. Elizalde from Australia. The Manila Polo Club itself continued its uninterrupted growth. Source: The Manila Americans, Lewis Gleeck, Jr.

Article from the Sydney Herald, January 10, 1937: Three thousand persons witnessed the dedication of the Los Tamaraos Polo Club by Manuel Quezon, President of the Philippines , after which the Elizalde brothers won a closely fought game from the Australian team comprising P. Braerj, A. A. Henderson,H. Finlay, and B. T. Allison, by six goals to five. The Australians received three goals start.

Smooth teamwork on both sides was a feature of the contest. Both teams were mounted, on Australian horses, those of the Elizaldes being recently imported. The game attracted one of the largest polo crowds in the history of the Orient. A dinner dance followed the game.

The rift between the two clubs seemed to heal over as the members of Manila’s society frequented both clubs. Here’s a photo provided by Ted & Dianne Cadwallader from an article featuring a New Year’s Eve party at the Tamaraos Club in 1937.

This is not to say that there wasn’t an air of discrimination within the community and among the members of clubs in Manila that were predominately American or at least Caucasian. Filipinos were barred from the Elks and except as servants, denied entry to the Army and Navy Club. They could not play golf at the Manila Club or belong to the University Club, created by Taft for leading American civilians. Even the Manila Hotel formed part of the white enclave, which excluded native citizens.

Santa Ana Cabaret-1941

Even in the dance halls, racism reared its ugly head. The cabarets (night clubs were people went to dance, dine, and drink) were all segregated: “The Sta. Ana Cabaret and the Lerma night club had areas reserved exclusively for whites while Filipinos were secluded in a taxi dance area down the hall, fenced off from where the whites amused themselves.”  

The Thirties seemed to be the height of American colonialism. By now, second generation Americans, born in Manila, called this part of the world their home and quite a home it was, in a cosmopolitan city that rivaled any in the world.

Young and old enjoyed the Boulevard, the incomparable sunsets, the gentle sea breezes, and the sight of the American Asiatic fleet silhouetted against the sky. In the growing tide of war in the late Thirties, it gave the American community a sense of security and comfort. The fleet stood as a reminder of America’s defenses, showing the flag as Japan advanced into China.

SeaFront In early 1941, the U.S. government began planning a seaplane base for patrol activities in the Manila area. Included in those plans was an order to develop the Seventh Fleet headquarters however, the war intervened, putting a hold on those plans. On April 8, 1945, the 63 rd Construction Battalion arrived at Manila to begin work on the site on the Manila waterfront formerly occupied by the Manila Polo Club. 33 quonset huts and 14 two story frame units were made available for personnel; eleven prefabricated steel units were erected as office buildings. Eight 75-kw generators were set in a 40 x 128 foot prefabricated steel hut, which included a laundry and drying unit. In addition, electrical, water, and sewerage facilities, 1-10 quonset hospital, an open-air theater, and a chapel were constructed. The project was completed in June, 1945 which included all walks, roads, and necessary drainage. Navy Commands were known worldwide as “Sea Frontier”, so this site was referred to as Philippine Sea Frontier which later became abbreviated to “SeaFront”. Source: Building the Navy’s Bases in WWII, by Bureau of Yards and Docks

SeaFront campus-early 1950s – courtesy Lonn Taylor

The use of the former Polo Club also grew as an extended campus for several elementary grades from the American School in the early Fifties.

American School extended campus at SeaFront (1950) – courtesy John Baker

The War Years News of war in Europe and Japan’s aggression in Manchuria flamed the rumors that the Japanese may attack the United States’ only possession in the Far East. Disturbed by the inadequate plans for civil defense and the apparent lack of cooperation between the officials of the Commonwealth Government and the U.S. High Commissioner Francis B. Sayre, community leaders organized a Coordinating Committee to make preparations for the inevitable.

After assuring the American civilian population that the Japanese would not dare attack the Philippines due to the presence of the American Asiatic Fleet, the military transport, USAT George Washington, departed on May 14 th , 1941 with 700 Army dependents.

On July 8 th , the Philippine General Hospital held the first blackout practice in the city. In August, the Philippine forces until now, under General MacArthur, were incorporated into the U.S. Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE). Below: American and Filipino troops assemble for preparations & training just prior to war with Japan.

During the Japanese occupation, the Japanese commander’s headquarters were billeted in the American high commissioner’s residence. The head of the Japanese gendarmerie occupied the J. Marsman mansion. General Y. Hayashi, commander of the Japanese administration of the islands, lived in President Manuel Quezon’s home on Calle Robert just two blocks north of the Polo Club. The Army and Navy Club housed the Japanese Finance department, and the Economic Administration took over the Elks Club.

The Japanese Cavalry took over the former Manila Polo Club’s transition to Seventh Fleet’s HQ which became the Japanese Navy Recreation Club. Names of streets were changed. Taft Avenue was called Daitoa Avenue, Jones Bridge was renamed Banzai Bridge, and Dewey Boulevard called Ileiwa, which means peace.

“Early in the morning on January 2 nd , the Japanese entered Manila. They came up the boulevards in the predawn glow from the bay, riding on bicycles and on tiny motorcycles, their little flags with the one red ball looking like children’s pennants. They came without talk and in good order, the ridiculous pop-popping of their one-cylinder cycles sounding loud in the silent city.” Source: More Than Meets The Eye, Carl Mydans

When the Japanese had something of a show, like a parade, they would arrange to have enthusiastic spectators, most of whom were children with small Japanese paper flags that had to be waved to simulate their excitement and joy.

Enrique Zobel was 14 years old when the Japanese entered Manila. Everything closed up, including the banks. His father, Don Jacobo, joined the troops in Bataan and Enrique and his mother were left without adequate funds for supplies and food so he came up with an idea to supplement their income. He went to the Polo Club, now occupied by the Japanese calvary, and with great chutzpah, requested they return six of the family’s ponies, thinking he would hitch them to carretelas for transportation purposes. Imagine ! Beautiful and expensive polo ponies pulling a carretela !

Dr.Jacinto, Enrique Zobel, and Jacobo Zobel – taken in 1952

The sentry on duty of course laughed at the idea that this young lad wanted these beautiful polo ponies. An argument ensued, with both Enrique and the guard yelling at each other until the young Zobel was taken to Fort Santiago. There he was interrogated and proved those were indeed his horses by describing them in great detail. One of the interrogators present was General Ota of the Kempetai (Japan Secret Service), who took a liking to the enterprising young man on account of he said he was of Spanish descent. The general invited him to lunch for conversation as he wanted to practice his Spanish. Later, Enrique and his friend were given the horses with only bridles but no saddles. So they rode the six horses back, bareback; one boy on each horse, and one horse on either side, to Malate where the stables were. Source: Enrique Zobel memoirs

These notices were posted immediately and quite visibly throughout the city, ensuring no one had any doubts as to the real aims of the “Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere” or Asia for the Asians. In fact, it stood for Japan domination in the Pacific.

Antonio Melian

Immediately after the war, the Manila Polo Club in Pasay was in ruins. On Nov. 1, 1947, 80,000 square meters were sold to the American government for P1,490,300. It was evident that a new site had to be found. 25 hectares offered by Ayala y Cia in Makati  was purchased for P400,000 and plans were made for the new club. The project was budgeted at 1.7 million pesos. During the interim period, a temporary location was selected at 318 Dewey Boulevard. The Club had to lease the 1.8 hectare property of Antonio Melian, a wealthy businessman married to Margarita Zobel de Ayala, from 1946 until its transfer to its current Makati location on 4 July 1949.

“Great fun balancing on the beams of the great old [Melian] house as we played tag and hide and seek in there. Softball games on the expanse of lawn. And a fairly small but beautiful pool. A bar and mini restaurant were set up near the pool; we really looked forward to our visits there on weekends. It had an intimate and mysterious atmosphere unequalled. And exploring those ruins could not be beat. They were about the same as the Quezon house ruins that we lived next door to–while we still lived in our prewar home on Roberts Street.” Peter Parsons, film maker and son of Chick Parsons, war hero.

It is said that Jack Manning, who was the manager of the Manila Polo Club, commissioned National Artist for Architecture Pablo Antonio to design the Polo Club after he saw Antonio’s own residence in Pasay. It struck Manning that Antonio’s residence already looked like a country club where there was “lush greenery and a lot of calm tranquility.”

The following photos of the Manila Polo Club were taken in the Fifties, courtesy of Gunter Prittwitz.

Aside from school and government buildings, Antonio also designed theaters and apartments however, he considered the Manila Polo Club as one of his best. Clean lines, plain surfaces and bold rectangular masses characterized his architecture, employing wood, stone and reinforced concrete.

The “new” Manila Polo Club formally opened at its new site with the inauguration of the Sports Pavilion, swimming pool, badminton courts, and bowling alleys. On New Year’s eve of 1950, the main pavilion, tennis courts, stables, paddocks and polo field were opened at a total cost of P1.8 million, an overrun of P100,000 but worth it. The clubhouse would become the signature building of the Club and an important architectural work of Antonio, for which it now has a plaque from the National Historical Institute declaring it a protected building. Source: The Manila Polo Club:

“Carefully staying out of the public eye is an intrinsic part of a private club’s nature. Therefore, the Manila Polo Club, hidden away in Forbes Park, is regrettably a place that not too many people get to see. However, those who do find themselves at the Polo enjoy a distinguished piece of vintage 1950s architecture set in an incredible expanse of open space in dense Makati.” Source: Augusto Villalon, Inquirer

Personally, I remember many an afternoon at the Polo Club in Makati, and especially the Teen Room downstairs – which may have had the coldest air conditioner I’ve ever experienced.  There were many gab sessions in the open air bar with the inevitable “liar’s dice” game. My recollections also go back to my first kiss. I must have been in 7th or 8th grade, when a small group of us, boys and girls, went out in the evening by some huts and someone suggested we play “spin the bottle” (was it me ?). It must have been kinetic ESP but I finally got that bottle to point to me. Alas, I’ve forgotten the girl’s name but not that first smooch !

The photos below are courtesy of a friend and classmate, Gunther Prittwitz. His color photos of the Polo Club in the Fifties bring back many memories.

That’s me in the middle with the blue shirt. We all still felt like when we were kids ! It was mostly the same as I remembered although there was a new sign at the entrance. Ah…Manila !

54 Responses to Manila Polo Club: Early Years

I never thought about it until now, but the entrance to the Polo Club seems to bear resemblance to a Frank Lloyd Wright design. Would anyone know if that might have been part of the inspiration for the design?

Fabulous work Lou! Very enjoyable reading about my old haunts…….Yes, I too have been drug over the coals for signing too many chits………-Wm Marvin Rose

Thanks, Lou, for a most informative and enjoyable article on the Manila Polo Club. The Manila Polo Club is indeed an institution in the Philippines. For several decades now, the Manila Polo Club has opened its doors to Filipinos who can now enjoy the camaraderie and the excellent facilties that the club offers. More than a venue for Polo afficionados, the Manila Polo Club is a home away from home for expats and locals alike, a place where members and their friends gather for various social and business functions, and an oasis of verdant fields in the midst of a congested metropolis that Manila has become.

Thank you Isidra. As always, your posts are always fun to read and your help on my blog articles is invaluable.

Thank you! (Salamat Po!),

Wonderful view of Manila, my family was there twice, 1947-1949 and 1955-1957. My youngest brother was born in Manila. There is no nation on earth that is kinder to children. My prayers go out for Filipinos after the horror of the recent typhoons. I urge all to contribute to The Red Cross of the Phillipines.

Thank you for writing. I agree with that we should all do our part to help with the tragedy in the Philippines. Please donate to your favorite charity.

My goodness! What a signal service you are doing by writing about the Manila Polo Club and this forgotten era. It’s valuable social history. Kudos! Come see today’s Polo Club, which we all enjoy because of its numerous well-run facilities. Cheers!

Thank you very much for posting this blog about Manila. I have to read it again several times because I want to feel every word of it. I try to imagine myself being in that period of time, living. We used to leave in 245 Loring Street Pasay City. The house was built during the Spanish period and then American families lived there….. I’ve always been fascinated by the old Manila. I feel I’ve lived in the old days. The emotion always overwhelms me….. I’m based in New York now and like you, I visit old places in Manila when I go home to visit 🙂

Thanks again, Anthony

Thanx for this! It is so cool! What a great childhood we all had in the Philippines! Amazing country. Amazing people! Lucrecia

Wow..while I lived in Manila in the 80s, this page really provided great history! Thanks!

What a great history lesson on an institution that’s played a major role in my childhood and youth. I too, will reread this piece and closely examine every photo so as not to miss a single detail. How lucky and blessed I am that even after living in NY these past 30 yrs., I still go home to Sanlo every year! I will visit the club again and see it with new perspective. Thanks, Lou!

Thank you. It gave me a better insight into the past of Pasay City.

Thanks for the memory, Lou.

Reading your blog inevitably established a deep connection between me and Old Manila – Calle Real, Dewey Blvd. and The old Manila Polo Club. Your photos transported me back into that era where I could now, at least, have vivid impressions of the day my great grand father walked the streets of Manila. His name was George William Funk. He arrived the Philippines from Maryland as a member of the US Armed forces stationed in the North (Camp John Hay) albeit originally from Georgetown D.C. Coming from a family of wheelwrights, he was an expert w/ horses. That was one of the reasons why he got himself a job at the Manila Polo club as a stable Manager. Rumor has it that he talked with the horses. I am not just too sure if the horses understood him. He lived a block nearby at Calle Villaruel (as your old map of Manila shows). He died on the day the Japanese Imperial forces entered Manila. I thoroughly enjoy all your blogs Lou, so much so that I even dream of them in my sleep. How I wish we could travel in time and be transported to those “glory days.” I wonder now if these memories are simple glimpses of images we will encounter in the afterlife where the past, present and future are merged into one continuum. How I wish it were . . . . .

Thanks for putting together all these images and details in one place. It’s a great resource for anyone like me researching prewar Manila.

Hi, Lou I briefly read some of the articles enclosed here. This is my personal opinion in regards the discremination of that time, yes, it is true that was happening because many Filipinos went to the state in that era felts it too. Asian and Hispanic were limited or allowed in the state. Perhaps, that was the main reason Philippines asked for Independence and at that time in the early 20th century, Negroes in the southern states were badly treated. Only Anglo/Saxon were the previledges or Caucasian race. But today the world changes, now we had a Black President and had lots of opportunity for all races, as an American. And Europe too is flooded with Asian. I, myself is interrmarried to an German/Italian ancestry and do all my children to Scotish and Irish descent. So, we are now “Heinz 57” or fruit cocktail. LOL. Bye Lou and I enjoyed reading your blog or article. God bless you I will be with my grandchildren this Easter perhaps join them hunt some eggs. LOL and guess, what I’ll pick up. of course the “Bunny”.LOL If I am not mistaken, we are in the same age group! (Baby Boomers)

The Manila Polo Club was where I learned to swim–we lived over on Ipil Rd. in Forbes Park and the back corner of our property just touched the back corner of the Polo Club property, where the then-manager, Hector MacLean, had his house. I started riding lessons from Sgt. Sebastian, a veteran of the US Cavalry (Philippine Scouts) in the riding school in 1957 at the age of 5, and started playing polo in there in 1965. My polo coach was Bill Andrews, who had been brought out to Manila before the war by Don Manolo Elizalde to play polo at the Los Tamaraws Club. In fact Bill Andrews and Don Manolo were the regular umpires at that time. My father, Don Muni, became president of the Manila Polo Club in ’65-’66, and I played polo at the Club for the ’65-’66 season. Seeing those pictures brought back lots of wonderful memories.

LOU, thank you for sharing this article of the manila polo club. good memories.

Interesantísimo; poco sabemos en America del Sur respecto a ese gran país de Filipinas, con el cual, alguna vez, tuvimos tantos aspectos en común.

Great article. My mom taught me how to swim at the old polo club. They had great hamburgers too and bowling with duck pins was very popular BTW the American School was segregated too before the war. H/3

Sgt. Pedro Sebastian is my grandfather. 🙂 I’m happy to stumble upon this blog. I was trying to search for my grandfather’s old photos from the Manila Polo Club.

I’m glad you found my blog too. If you happen to find your grandfather’s photos, please share !

I have an old photo of my grandfather Sgt. Sebastian and his favorite horse on a frame. It has been in my room for the longest time. I’d be more than happy to send you a copy of the photo. Let me know where I shall send it. Thanks.

some Los Tamaraos photos here also:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/govph/sets/72157647468985249/

I can’t remember if I’ve replied on this but you can send it to [email protected] sorry for taking so long to reply and thanks for sharing !

Unbelievable… That is me holding the Coke bottle in the picnic lunch photo, circa 1955! Mom, Lois North (recently deceased @ 96 years) to immediate right. Also recognize Mrs. Menefee and Mrs. Prittwitz. God bless Bill Andrews–polo bud of my father (WG North Jr., MPC Polo Captain circa 1958)–Bill Andrews gave me a Rolex submariner watch when I graduated from Brent School in 1967–still have it today! Very respectfully, Chris North USFOR-A J3 OPS Support and Readiness Bagram Air Base

Thanks, Lou, for your quoting from my article on the Manila Polo Club. The memory of the old ambiance comes through despite recent building remodeling and expansion. The old Teen Room under the stairs has vanished, but time we spend at the club today still brings the same feel of relaxation among friends.

Toti Villalon

Toti – I remember playing liar’s dice and drinking a lot of San Miguel at the bar. Many good times, si ?

I think a lot of excellent and notable architects of the 1950s were heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright of the 1930s and the bauhaus and international style movement generally

I am researching my uncle Antonio Ubago Miranda (Miranda & Associates) who built many of the home around Forbes Park, Urdaneta, San Lorenzo. Some of my Aunties still live in them. And his firm build several of the first earthquake proof buildings in Makati – PAL, Insular Life Building and so on…or so I am told. But as he had no children and no heirs, the history seems to be partially lost. If anyone has information, please contact me mazinfamily(at)me.com as I would like to work on publishing his work.

Could I ask the source/reference for your 1920 map? Thank you.

Hi. Would you be able to describe the actual bounderies of the original Manila Polo Club and Los Tamaraos Polo Club grounds on Dewey Blvd. using the present day street names? Are you familiar with the Villaroman mansion on Los Tamaraos Village (formerly Sunset Village) on Roxas Blvd.? Growing up, I’ve been told that it used to be the grounds of the Polo Club. Not sure which one. Would you be able to help out? Thanks!

Hi Paul – well, I can give you an approximation. The Manila Polo Club was about where the Seafront Compound is today bounded by Dewey on the Bay side, F.B. Harrison in the back and about where Libertad (Arnaiz) is on the north. Los Tamaraos was in Parañaque approximately just west of what used to be Nichols Field – bounded by Quirino Ave and NAIA Rd. There is a Los Tamaraos Polo Club there now at the approximate location I believe. It’s hard to be accurate because the landscape has changed considerably.

Thank you, I have great memories of playing polo and generally lounging about on school holidays from England. These were the best of times spent with the best of people.

Enjoyed your article, Lou. The Manila Polo Club brings back so many memories; horseback riding, polo, the wonderful swimming pool, birthday parties, bowling, badminton, tennis, pelota, eating and drinking in the main pavilion and by the pool, harvest festivals in the early ’60’s, outdoor movies on the rear verandah (also early ’60’s), softball games…the list goes on and on. I lived within walking distance, so it was pretty much a daytime hang-out when I was a teenager. We knew all the service staff by name, and they knew us (which could be both a blessing and a curse, depending on what we were trying to get away with). I think I knew almost every inch of the place. Last time I was there was in ’75, but it seems like just yesterday. Thanks again and I also liked your Army/Navy Club Article. Bob

Excellent research and well told Lou. Thank you so much.

Are you the Bruce Shedden I went to school with in Godalming, Surrey in 1971? Ken

My Dad, then 1st Lt. Clifford P. Chapman, was stationed at Ft. McKinley from 1921-1923. For what ever reason his commanding officer wanted him to play baseball. He didn’t want to play baseball so he learned to play Polo. He was good enough to play on many different Army Polo teams around the U.S. Polo gave my parents a wonderful life and they loved the Philippines.

Excellent article. My first visit to the Polo Club was 1974, and I was fascinated. When we moved to Manila in 1988 the first thing I did was find a sponsor and join. It’s been a privilege to be on the Board a couple of times and serve on various committees over the last 30 years.

In 1992 I was on the Membership Committee. At that time, women were also discriminated against. A friend of ours decided to apply anyway. She and her husband were Malaysian, but had lived in the States for years. He was a scientist at IRRI in Los Banos and she was an executive at ADB. She and her very talented kids loved sports. Because dependents and spouses’ use of the facilities are based upon availability (members get first dibs), she wanted to be the member. It was the longest discussion over any prospective member we had. The Committee finally gave in, and she got her membership.

Hi Mr. Gopal, I am from Pasay Tourism Council and I am so fascinated on your collections about Manila Polo Club in Pasay. If you may remember, you agreed to my email in Oct 2016 to use your photos and article for the research of Pasay history. Once again, i would like to ask if I may use your video for my lectures regarding Pasay history. Your research is excellent, narrative stories are precise and so enjoyable to read. Photos are magnificent. I hope I could meet you in person. I’m a big fan!

Hi Len, yes of course you may use photos or videos that I’ve published. Please give me proper credit. I’m very pleased you like my articles ! I just received your request for a Pasay Map. Check your in basket.

As always superb research and such a great read !! Would like to know where I can source your Pasay map (detailing MH Del Pilar / Harrison / Pasay) in the original ? Those were my old stomping grounds in the 60’s-70’s and would love to possibly obtain a copy. Thank you for your dedication to these topics that bring back such important memories and allow one to see shared subjects from different perspectives!!

Yes I am, and still a David Bowie fan. I live in Montana now, how about you????

Hello Lucretia, wonderful to see your post. My e-mail is [email protected] I would love to hear from you.

Very Interesting, and Great Information. Thank you

I have also some old photos of the Polo Club from the 60’s & 70’s, & great memories.

I just found this article. I’m Kathy Ylitalo – our beloved Schnauzer, Schatzi , came from your mother. My mother, Jean Ylitalo, turned 100 in June. Were you a swimmer at the Polo Club?

All the best to you!

Are you by any chance related to Georgianne Ylitalo ? She was a couple of grades younger than me but dated one of my buddies..Harry Morton

Just want to know what exactly year my father pastor baltazar as general services manager pks

Hi. My Great Grandfather Carlos Ubago Miranda who was the brother of Antonio Ubago Miranda. I have pictures with Lolo Antonio when I was still little when he was still alive.

do you have any historical data about the 3 tennis courts in Manila Polo, which one was built first, is it already a covered court with 5 courts inside? Which was buil next after the first?

Allow me to introduce myself, I am the Chief ENgr here, and there a lot of reapirs or renovations, but I need to give historical background for every project to be approved.

Got info that the first tennis court was already opened in 1950. But have no idea which one came first among the three courts

Hello Mr Erik,

WOuld it be ok to share those photos?

Yes, please do but with accreditation as http://www.Manilanostalgia.com

Unfortunately I do not have that info.

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For the top choice in business hotels in Manila – it’s Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila

For business travellers the preferred choice among business hotels in Manila – in Ortigas Center in Pasig City to be precise – is without doubt Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila. It is the best hotel in Ortigas for memorable stays, delightful dining and marvellous banqueting, renowned for its five-star luxury, excellent service, exceptional rooms and suites, delicious restaurants and inspirational event venues.

Ideally located in the vibrant Ortigas business area, Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila is a member of Marco Polo Hotels whose international portfolio includes properties in China, Hong Kong and the Philippines. Marco Polo Hotels is managed by Hong Kong-based Wharf Hotels, which owns and manages hotels under the Marco Polo Hotels, Niccolo Hotels and Maqo Hotels brands in the same destinations.

Properties within the Wharf Hotels umbrella are positioned as contemporary chic hotels located in premier city addresses, just as Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila enjoys a well-earned reputation as one of the best business hotels in Manila. Its welcoming and luxurious guestrooms, tantalizing array of restaurants and eateries, and in-demand banqueting spaces make it the perfect choice for business travellers.

Rooms and suites in a class of their own

The exquisite rooms and suites on offer at Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila are appointed with amenities and features that include Bluetooth technology and complimentary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, in-room safe and in the case of most categories daily breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails. They boast the best views of the Ortigas skyline as well as panoramic valley and Rizal mountain landscapes.

The choice of room type is impressive – incorporating the Superior Room, Deluxe City View Room, Deluxe Mountain View Room, Premier Room, Continental Superior Room, Continental Premier Room, Superior Suite, Deluxe Suite and Marco Polo Suite.

The room descriptions speak for themselves, painting an enticing picture of the world-class stay that awaits the most discerning of business travellers. From the Superior Room and its ‘custom furnishings, large windows and marble bathroom’, to the Premier Room with its executive desk and seating area providing ‘more than enough space to unwind or attend to business’. The privacy and exclusivity of the Continental Superior Room and Continental Premier Room come with complimentary access to the Continental Club Lounge and extra privileges.

The Continental Club is a private lounge designed for work and relaxation, and to make the business traveller’s stay at Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila all the more memorable and productive. The privileges to be enjoyed include private check-in, concierge services, breakfast, refreshments, and work spaces perfect for hosting meetings or intimate gatherings.

The Superior Suite with its separate sitting area and Deluxe Suite with living room and dining area are spacious and a true joy to stay in. The magnificent Marco Polo Suite comes with a home theatre system, floor-to-ceiling windows and marble-finished bathroom with a rain shower, deep soaking tub and dual sinks. All the suites naturally include access to the Continental Club.

Scintillating dining for all tastes

Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila’s five dining venues provide perfect opportunities for the business traveller to dine and entertain with mouthwatering flavours from the East and West.

Cafe Pronto

The exquisite assortment of pastries, sandwiches, homemade cakes, buttery croissants, gourmet chocolates and specialty coffees and fine teas make Cafe Pronto the ideal chic setting for a quick bite or mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

The all-day restaurant that’s refined and fashionable, Cucina features an interactive open kitchen, bountiful buffets and an innovative a la carte menu packed with a tempting fusion of Asian and international culinary delights.

Connect Lounge

An artful fusion of gallery space and a state-of-the-art business centre, Connect Lounge is where work and play can be seamlessly blended and light meals, afternoon tea and cocktails flourish with flair. On offer are an array of savoury snacks and dessert samplers, accompanied by a selection of premium coffees, artisanal teas and curated wines.

Cantonese delicacies and the freshest of seafood set Lung Hin apart as an exquisite dining choice. Perched on Level 44 of the hotel tower, the cuisine served is exceptional and meticulously crafted by culinary masters from Hong Kong. The restaurant features both a main dining area and private dining rooms which can be reserved for exclusive gatherings.

Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge

The rooftop bar of choice, Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge boasts the best views of the stunning cityscape, live entertainment and DJ tunes. This is an amazing venue where tantalizing bites, handcrafted signature cocktails and an exceptional selection of wines, spirits and champagnes are complemented by an ever-evolving atmosphere that features a dazzling lineup of new and talented performers. With its two inviting al fresco spaces, Vu’s Sky Bar and Lounge perfectly captures the very best aspects of the city.

Meetings and Banqueting

The world-class events facilities at Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila make it the best hotel in Ortigas for meetings and events. Of all sizes and nature – from intimate dinners to grand anniversaries, strategic think-tanks to corporate gatherings. The different venues are all backed up with state-of-the-art technology and expert events staff to ensure the success of any and all events, each venue designed to delight.

Located on Level 9 of the hotel are eight inspired meeting rooms featuring natural daylight, complimentary high-speed wireless internet and everything needed for the perfect meeting. These include:

With the best views of Marikina Valley and the Sierra Madre mountain ranges, Aloe is ideal for small meetings and banquets. It seats up to 80 people theatre-style, 60 people classroom-style or 42 people boardroom-style, or 80 people for cocktails or 70 people for a banquet.

With more of the best views of the Sierra Madre mountains, Freesia is perfect for meetings and personal occasions. It seats up to 60 people theatre-style, 45 people classroom-style or 18 people boardroom-style, or 50 people for cocktails or a banquet.

Boasting its own panoramic views, Oudh seats up to 110 people theatre-style, 75 people classroom-style or 52 people boardroom-style, or 100 people for cocktails or a banquet.

Verbena inspires creativity and collaboration between minds, and seats up to 80 people theatre-style, 60 people classroom-style or 42 people boardroom-style, or 80 people for cocktails or 70 people for a banquet.

Kashmir is the perfect choice for gatherings of fewer than 60, seating up to 40 people theatre-style, 36 people classroom-style or 24 people boardroom-style, or 50 people for cocktails or 40 people for a banquet.

The Marco Polo Grand Ballroom on Level 7 is a truly magnificent venue for spectacular events with a pre-function area and floor-to-ceiling windows for some of the best views around, and is divisible into two sections. It can accommodate up to 350 people for a banquet or 400 people for cocktails.

Book a stay now and discover for yourself everything that makes Marco Polo Ortigas, Manila the top hotel in Pasig city and best among business hotels in Manila for memorable stays, delightful dining and marvellous banqueting. Visit the hotel’s website to find out more, contact [email protected] , or call +63 2 7720 7777.

Forbes Travel Guide 2018 recognizes the best hotels in the Philippines

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Welcoming Our New General Manager

Dear Members and Staff,

Greetings! I am delighted to advise that I accepted the offer to become the General Manager of the Manila Polo Club and commenced duties on Thursday 20 April 2023. I was honored to accept this most prestigious appointment and I am confident that my past experiences in the hospitality industry will help me in guiding the improvement and development of the Club.

For some personal background, I was born in Singapore to Eurasian parents, but emigrated to Australia at the age of 5, and I am very much a proud Aussie. My wife of nearly 30 years, Sarah, is also an Australian, but was brought up in Dallas, Texas. Sarah operates our two restaurants in Boracay, being, Lemoni Café and Dinibeach Restaurant & Bar. We have a son, Liam, who celebrated his 1 st birthday in Subic in 1998 and completed all his schooling here in Manila at the Beacon School.

We have lived for over 26 years in the Philippines. I have personally managed several iconic properties here, namely, Crown Peak Hotel & Convention Center in Subic Bay 1997-98, Fridays Boracay Resort 1999-2002, El Nido Resorts 2004-2010, as well as the Tower Club 2011-2020. My experiences prior to the Philippines covered Performing Arts & Convention Centers, Sports Stadiums, Luxury Villas, Resorts, Hotels, and even a Yacht Club in Southport, Queensland.

During my term, I aim to take on a leadership style that has been effective in my past experiences in organizational management. Situational leadership is both directive and supportive. It is through this style of leadership that every member of our team will be thoroughly assessed regarding specific tasks and will be given the guidance and support that is needed for them to fulfill their roles to the best of their ability.

I aim to work with the rest of the key management team to develop the skills of all personnel at the Club and pursue mastery through training sessions and developmental activities. More than the Club being a business and a place for work, I would like for it to remain a sanctuary for all employees. We will hold regular team building activities to strengthen the camaraderie among us and help all get to know each other more as one team.

Under my management, there will be an open-door policy, where anyone is free to raise their concerns, propose plans and give honest feedback at any time. This very much applies to our members, staff, as well as key contractors and stakeholders. This feedback will help guide us to achieve our goals and provide a better quality of products and services, ensuring higher member satisfaction, and exceeding our financial targets as well.

I give many thanks to the Board of Trustees who have entrusted me with this role to lead the organization, and I accept this tremendous challenge in guiding the Club to maintain its status as the premier sports club that Members will be proud of. I look forward to meeting you all very soon.

Best Regards,

Etienne La’Brooy,

General Manager

Food  & Beverage  

at the Manila Yacht Club

Function Rooms 

Monday to Sunday

Business Hours:  07:00hrs-22:00hrs

A. Amihan Room B. Veranda C. Helm Room D. Commodore’s Lounge E. Sunset Room

MYC NEW MENU

Banquets Enquiry please contact F&B Supervisors

F&B Supervisors: Mr. Antonio Antopina  Email Address:  [email protected] Telephone No.   +63 (2) 8521 4458 Mobile No.  +63 926 374 4285