Manila South Cemetery

Manila South Cemetery Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Metro Manila Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Manila South Cemetery, a historical landmark situated within the vibrant heart of Metro Manila, stands as a bridge between the city’s storied past and its multicultural present. Established in the early 20th century, the cemetery was part of Manila’s efforts to relocate burial grounds from the city center to improve public health and urban aesthetics. Today, it encompasses approximately 25 hectares and serves as the final resting place for hundreds of thousands of Filipinos—including national figures such as former President Elpidio Quirino and long-serving Manila Mayor Ramon Bagatsing. Uniquely, it is an exclave of Manila located within Makati City, creating a distinctive legal and administrative arrangement that highlights the complexity of Metro Manila’s urban organization (Esquire; Wikipedia).

More than a burial ground, the cemetery is a living historical and cultural tapestry. The 2021 opening of the Manila Islamic Cemetery underscores Manila’s evolving inclusivity and recognition of its Muslim heritage. Manila South Cemetery is particularly lively during All Saints’ Day (Undas), when thousands pay homage to their ancestors, turning its tree-lined avenues into vibrant communal spaces (Vigattin Tourism; Spot.ph).

Historical Background and Legal Status

Intersection of Vito Cruz Extension, Chino Roces Avenue and South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery in Makati City featuring traffic lights and vehicles

Aerial view of South Avenue and Manila South Cemetery in Makati City showing enclave and exclave boundaries

South Avenue at Manila South Cemetery surrounded by greenery and urban buildings in Makati City, Philippines

Intersection of Chino Roces Avenue and South Avenue in Santa Cruz, Makati City near Manila South Cemetery

South Avenue in Manila South Cemetery enclave and exclave with streets and barangays in Makati City Philippines

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building at the corner of Chino Roces Avenue and Pablo Ocampo Street in Santa Cruz, Makati City, Philippines

Facade of Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building on South Avenue, Makati City, Philippines

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building at South Avenue Santa Cruz Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building at South Avenue corner Chino Roces Avenue in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Vito Cruz Extension along Chino Roces Avenue and South Avenue at Santa Cruz-San Antonio border in Makati City, Philippines, showing street signs and buildings

Street view of Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics at the intersection of Chino Roces Avenue and Pablo Ocampo Street in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Street view of Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics located at the corner of Chino Roces Avenue and Pablo Ocampo Street in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building at the corner of Chino Roces Avenue and South Avenue in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building along South Avenue in Santa Cruz, Makati City Philippines

Street view of Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics at the corner of Chino Roces Avenue and Pablo Ocampo Street in Makati City, Philippines during daytime

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building in Santa Cruz, Makati City, Philippines

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building at the corner of Chino Roces Avenue and South Avenue, Santa Cruz-San Antonio, Makati City

Vito Cruz International Academy of Management and Economics building located on South Avenue in Santa Cruz, Makati City

Street junction at Vito Cruz Extension in Makati City featuring the International Academy of Management and Economics building

Francisco F. Benitez Elementary School building along South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery in Makati City

Francisco F. Benitez Elementary School enclave located on South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery Makati City

Francisco F. Benitez Elementary School located on South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery in Makati City, Philippines

Francisco F. Benitez Elementary School building along South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery in Makati City, Philippines

Francisco F. Benitez Elementary School building and playground along South Avenue near Manila South Cemetery in Makati City

Entrance gate of Manila South Cemetery showing ornate stone pillars, iron fence, and a sign with cemetery name, located at South Avenue, Makati City

Foundation and Land Acquisition

The cemetery’s origins can be traced to Manila’s Ordinance No. 726 (1920), which allocated funds for acquiring land outside the old city center. The selected site was part of the San Pedro Macati Estate, owned by the Zóbel de Ayala family, then under Rizal Province jurisdiction. Negotiations led to both a purchase and a land donation to secure road access (Esquire).

Legal Establishment and Jurisdiction

Formally established in 1925, the cemetery became Manila’s property through a Supreme Court ruling (Jacobo Zobel et al. vs. City of Manila, 1925) (Wikipedia). Despite being geographically within Makati, the cemetery is an exclave of Manila, resulting in shared responsibilities for security and administration between Manila and Makati authorities (Esquire; Vigattin Tourism).

Growth, Demographics, and Diversity

By 2018, the number of interments had grown to over 750,000, often involving multiple burials per plot. Informal settlers—sepultureros—also reside within the grounds, reflecting the city’s broader social challenges (Wikipedia; Worldcrunch).

Cultural Milestones

Manila Islamic Cemetery

A milestone in inclusivity, the Manila Islamic Cemetery was established by Ordinance No. 8608 (2020) and inaugurated in June 2021, providing a culturally appropriate burial area for Manila’s Muslim community (Wikipedia).

Operational Policies

The cemetery, managed by Manila’s local government, enforces visitor guidelines—especially during Undas—to maintain order and respect. Rules include regulated visiting hours, prohibited items, and designated areas for specific activities (Spot.ph; Pinoy Builders).

Visiting Manila South Cemetery

Hours and Access

Regular Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Undas (Oct 30 – Nov 3, 2024): 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with special policies (no private vehicles, suspended burials/cremations).

Ticketing and Entrance

General Admission: Free.
Special Events/Tours: May require registration or tickets—check with the administration for details.

Getting There

Address: Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street, Makati City.
Public Transport: Jeepneys, buses, and taxis serve the area.
Nearest Stations: Vito Cruz (LRT-1) and Buendia (MRT-3).
Parking: Available outside the cemetery; expect full lots during Undas.

Facilities and Accessibility

Restrooms: Available but may be crowded during peak periods.
Paths: Paved but some areas uneven or muddy; limited wheelchair access.
Maps: Obtainable at the administration office; internal roads labeled A–Q for easier navigation.

Visitor Tips

Bring ID, especially for children during Undas (they may need identification tags).
Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
No private vehicles inside during peak periods; plan for parking.
Keep valuables secure and stay in groups during crowded events.
Respect the solemn atmosphere—no alcohol, gambling, or loud music.

Cultural and Community Practices

All Saints’ Day (Undas)

Manila South Cemetery becomes a vibrant communal space during Undas, as families gather to clean graves, pray, and honor loved ones. Temporary food and flower vendors line the entrances, and security is heightened (Spot.ph).

The cemetery is home to informal settlers and workers who form a unique community within its grounds—children play, families live, and daily life intertwines with remembrance and ritual (Worldcrunch).

Intercultural Heritage

With the addition of the Manila Islamic Cemetery, the site now reflects the religious and cultural diversity of Manila, bridging Christian and Muslim traditions and promoting inclusivity (Wikipedia).

Navigating the Cemetery

Use the grid system (Streets A–Q) for orientation.
Maps and assistance available at the main office.
Notable graves—such as President Quirino’s—are centrally located.

Nearby Sites and Attractions

Ayala Museum – Modern art, history, and culture exhibits.
Salcedo Park (Jaime C. Velasquez Park) – A green urban oasis.
Century City Mall – Dining and shopping nearby.
Rizal Memorial Sports Complex – Historic sports venue.

Visitor Safety and Etiquette

Travel in groups during busy periods or after dark.
Keep personal belongings secure.
Follow all posted rules and instructions from security personnel.
Dispose of trash properly and maintain cleanliness.
Dress respectfully; avoid disruptive behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Manila South Cemetery visiting hours?
A: Generally 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM; extended to 5:00 AM–7:00 PM during Undas.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free. Guided tours or events may have fees.

Q: How do I get to Manila South Cemetery?
A: Via public transport (jeepney, bus, taxi) along Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street; nearest train stations are Vito Cruz (LRT-1) and Buendia (MRT-3).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, often during special events or by arrangement with heritage groups.

Q: Is the cemetery wheelchair accessible?
A: Some paved paths, but overall access is limited. Contact administration for assistance.

Q: Can I bring a car inside?
A: Not during Undas; parking is outside the cemetery.

Summary Table: Key Milestones

Year	Event/Action	Source
1920	Ordinance No. 726 authorizes land acquisition	Esquire
1925	Cemetery formally established; Supreme Court affirms Manila’s ownership	Wikipedia
2020	Ordinance No. 8608 creates Manila Islamic Cemetery	Wikipedia
2021	Inauguration of Manila Islamic Cemetery	Wikipedia

Conclusion

Manila South Cemetery is a vital thread in the tapestry of Manila’s history. Its legal and cultural evolution, role during key Filipino traditions, and commitment to inclusivity make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Metro Manila’s heritage. Whether you are paying respects, exploring history, or seeking a peaceful urban green space, a visit here is both meaningful and educational.

Stay updated on visiting hours, special events, and guided tours by checking official sources and following city advisories. Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, digital maps, and virtual tours of Manila’s cultural sites.