Manila Bay

Manila Bay is one of the most important geographical features in Philippines. It is one of the best natural harbors in the world and a prominent one in Eastern Asia. Serving the Port of Manila, Manila Bay covers an area of about 1700 square kilometers. Extending up to a length of about 60 kilometer, the Bay has varying widths at different points. At one place it is just 22 kilometers, while at the mouth of the bay, the width expands to almost 60 kilometers. The depth of the Manila Bay is about 17 meters.

Another interesting feature of the Manila Bay at Philippines is that there are volcanic peaks on both sides of the Bay. These peaks have thick vegetation. The Bataan Peninsula lies to the north of the Bay, while the Province of Cavite lies to the south of Manila Bay. The city of Manila is located on the eastern side of the Manila Bay in Philippines. The Island of Corregidor divides the entrance of the Manila Bay into two proper channels.

There are two river basin areas that make up the total watershed of the Manila Bay of Philippines. The Pampanga River Basin as well as the Pasig River Basin drain fresh water in the Bay, Manila. These two water systems contribute about 70% of the total water in the Manila Bay, while the other water bodies and river systems contribute the rest 30%.


The history of Manila is also related deeply to the Manila Bay. With several naval battles fought here, Manila Bay became important during the Second World War. The natural water body helped a lot in countering the Japanese conquest of Philippines in World War II. During 1944-45, many Japanese ships were made to sink in the Manila Bay, to protect Philippines.

Manila Bay, Philippines has also developed as a major place of tourist attraction. Thousands of local people as well as tourists visit this place to have a glimpse of the sunrise and sunset. However, with increasing human population, the Manila Bay is under constant threat of pollution. Domestic and industrial wastes have become the greatest threats for the Bay.