Things To Do
in Bagong Silangan
Bagong Silangan is a densely populated barangay on the eastern edge of Quezon City, Philippines, characterized by a mix of low- to middle-income residential neighborhoods and small commercial pockets. The area sits near the foothills that border Rizal province and offers quick access to pockets of green space and nearby upland trails. Local life centers on community markets, sari-sari stores, small eateries, and active street-level commerce, making it a good place to see everyday Metro Manila life away from major tourist hubs.
Infrastructure can be patchy in places and the community is vulnerable to seasonal flooding and heavy-rain hazards, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bagong Silangan market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you sample tropical fruits and pick up handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors who share stories about their products and the community.
After a hearty lunch at a nearby eatery, take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood to discover local art and murals that reflect the culture of the area. Stop by community centers or art workshops to see artists at work and perhaps even join in on a craft session. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow, making it perfect for capturing beautiful photographs.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant that serves traditional Filipino dishes. Savor the flavors of adobo and sinigang while mingling with locals, who are eager to share their culinary heritage. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk through the neighborhood, taking in the sounds of night and the warmth of community life.
Rise early and prepare for a hiking adventure to the hills surrounding Bagong Silangan. After a nourishing breakfast, set off with your guide, who will share insights about the local flora and fauna along the way. The crisp morning air invigorates your spirit as you traverse scenic trails.
Reach a stunning viewpoint just in time for a well-deserved picnic lunch, surrounded by panoramic views of the city and the lush landscape. Spend the afternoon exploring the hidden trails, discovering small waterfalls and enjoying the tranquility of nature. Take the opportunity to connect with fellow hikers and share stories of your adventures.
Return to Bagong Silangan just as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the landscape. Treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local diner, trying out regional specialties that replenish your energy. Share tales of your day’s journey with new friends, basking in the warmth of camaraderie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee (local cafe) | $1.50-3 |
| 🛺Short tricycle ride | $1-3 |
| 🚌Jeepney/UV Express fare | $0.20-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / small hotel (per night) | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable and authentic local experience away from major tourist hubs
- Close to natural areas and viewpoint hikes in the Rizal foothills
- Strong community character with active street markets and local food
- Convenient access to larger Quezon City commercial areas (Fairview, Commonwealth)
- Infrastructure can be uneven and some streets lack sidewalks or good lighting
- Vulnerable to flooding and heavy-rain hazards during the monsoon
- Limited formal tourist facilities and fewer restaurants/bars inside the barangay
- Traffic congestion on main roads can make travel slower during peak hours
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang palikuran?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Paumanhin / Excuse me" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Pwede bang kumuha ng litrato?" - Can I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Bagong Silangan
Visit one of these nice places.
Select higher streets and ridgelines offer sweeping views toward Quezon City and the Rizal foothills — good for sunrise/sunset cityscape shots and neighborhood panoramas.
A short drive away, the park has lakes, forested trails, and picnic areas ideal for nature photography and capturing urban green-space contrasts.
Scenic river gorges, rock formations, and dam backdrops offer dramatic landscape photos; best in the dry season when access is easier.
Candid street photography opportunities: wet markets, sari-sari stores, tricycle stands, and evening food stalls capture authentic daily life.
Food in Bagong Silangan
Bagong Silangan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The classic Filipino stew of pork or chicken simmered in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper — widely available in carinderias and family-owned eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy tamarind-based soup with pork, shrimp, or fish and local vegetables — comforting during the rainy season and commonly found in small restaurants.
Stir-fried noodles (pancit canton or bihon) served at eateries and market stalls, often ordered for groups or celebrations.
Grilled chicken or pork intestines and other barbecued skewers sold by evening vendors along main roads — a local favorite for casual snacking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A community wet market where you can find fresh fish, vegetables, meat, and local snacks; great for seeing local ingredients and tasting quick market eats like fishball, kikiam, and barbeque.
A dense stretch of street vendors and small eateries selling everything from silog breakfasts to merienda (snacks) and halo-halo, useful if you want more variety and longer operating hours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Kumusta?' (How are you?) or a nod and smile are common; Filipinos are generally warm and appreciate politeness.
Show respect to elders and community leaders; simple courtesy and modest dress in chapels and community events is appropriate.
Ask permission before photographing close-up portraits of people, market stalls, or private homes; many vendors are happy to be photographed if you ask.
Filipino neighborhoods value friendly sociability but also decorum; keep noise reasonable at night and be mindful of public prayers and religious events.
Safety
Tipping in Bagong Silangan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most small eateries and street stalls, but giving loose change or rounding up for good service is appreciated. In restaurants, a 5–10% tip for table service is customary if service charge is not included.
Cash (Philippine peso) remains the dominant payment method for tricycles, jeepneys, markets, and street vendors. Major malls and mid-range restaurants accept credit/debit cards and mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya), but always carry cash for local transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally the most comfortable time to visit — mornings and evenings are pleasant with lower rainfall. Good for hiking nearby trails and enjoying outdoor photography; expect hotter temperatures from March to April.
Temperatures peak in late March to May; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and schedule outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
Heavy rains, thunderstorms, and occasional flooding are common — local streets and low-lying areas may be inundated, and some trails will be muddy or closed. Check weather bulletins and avoid travel during typhoons.
Bagong Silangan at Night
Hiking in Bagong Silangan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike in the Rizal foothills offering viewpoints of the valley and portions of Metro Manila — popular with local hikers and best attempted in the dry season.
Scenic river gorge areas and walkable trails near the dam provide dramatic rock formations and riverside views; check local access rules and conditions before going.
Accessible trails, picnic areas, and forested routes within the La Mesa watershed — family-friendly and good for short nature walks and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Bagong Silangan by plane.
Main airport serving Metro Manila, about 30–60 minutes to 1.5+ hours away depending on traffic; reachable by taxi, airport transfer, or combination of bus and rail from central Quezon City.
Located in Pampanga, roughly 1.5–3 hours away by car depending on traffic; an option for some domestic and international flights, especially budget carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are working-class and lower-middle-income families who commute to other parts of Quezon City and Metro Manila for work.
Many households include migrants from other Philippine provinces (Visayas, Mindanao, and other Luzon areas) who came for employment and affordable housing.
A sizeable youth population who attend local schools or colleges in nearby areas and are active in community sports and youth activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular local sport — barangay courts host informal and organized games almost daily and are a major community hub.
Commonly played in schools and community events, particularly among youth and women's groups.
Residents and visitors use nearby park trails and foothill paths for jogging and short trail hikes, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bagong Silangan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but more limited; ask for vegetable versions of sinigang, tofu dishes, or vegetable stir-fries. Present-day vegetarian and vegan labeled menus are more common in malls and specialty cafés than in small carinderias, so plan ahead or bring snacks.
Halal-certified restaurants are not ubiquitous in Bagong Silangan; seek out Muslim eateries in nearby areas or malls if strict adherence is required, and confirm meat sourcing where possible.
Tell vendors about allergies plainly (in Tagalog or English) and be cautious with fried street food where cross-contamination with shellfish, peanuts, or soy is common.