Rise of Arrabales
The decentralization of the walled city of Intramuros in Manila to the outskirts or Arrabales saw the development of Binondo and nearby districts into commercial and residential centers. Still, Manila-Intramuros retained its seat of power as expansion ensured further growth of the colony.
1785
25 February
King Charles III of Spain issues a decree mandating the expulsion of the Chinese population from Manila, directing them to reside in a designated district outside the walls of Intramuros under the supervision of Spanish authorities.
10 March
The Real Compañía de Filipinas is established to facilitate direct trade between the Philippines and Spain.
1786
A royal decree mandates the establishment of a customs house in Manila, a decision reaffirmed in 1788.
1796
3 October
The American merchant ship Astrea arrives in Manila, loading indigo, abaca, spices, and sugar for shipment to the United States. This marks the first American ship to engage in trade with the Philippines.
1803
1 September
King Charles IV of Spain issues a royal decree mandating the use of the smallpox vaccine in the Philippines.
1806
20 January
Governor-General Rafael de Aguilar establishes a Bureau of Vaccination in Manila to oversee and administer smallpox vaccinations for the public.
1809
February
News of the French invasion of Spain and the captivity of Spain’s new king, Fernando VII, reaches Manila. In response, local authorities in Manila declare their unwavering loyalty to the captive monarch.
1810
14 February
A decree issued by the Spanish government grants representation in the Cortes of Spain to all its colonies in the Americas and the Philippines. Ventura de los Reyes, a resident of Manila, is appointed as the representative for the Philippines.
1813
17 April
The Constitution of Cadiz is proclaimed in Manila, guaranteeing freedom and rights for each individual under the Spanish Crown. However, upon the return of King Fernando VII, he dissolves the Cortes and abolishes the Cadiz Constitution.
1815
23 April
King Fernando VII of Spain issues a decree terminating the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade and establishing trade relations between Manila and other ports in California, Mexico, and Peru.
1820
October
Manila is devastated by a severe cholera epidemic, resulting in the deaths of many residents living in villages along the Pasig River.
1823
3 April
The cornerstone for the Intendencia building in Intramuros is laid, and Tomas Cortes will oversee its construction.
2 June
Captain Andres Novales leads a revolt in Manila, during which his 800 rebels seize the Cabildo, imprison military chiefs and magistrates, and assassinate former Governor-General Mariano Fernandez de Folgueras.
1824
24 October
A powerful earthquake strikes Manila, causing extensive destruction to numerous public buildings, churches, and private houses. This is followed by a strong typhoon six days later, compounding the devastation.
1825
22 January
The Spanish colonial government acquires Malacañang from the heirs of Colonel Jose Miguel Fomento for the sum of 5,000 pesos.
1826
23 April
King Ferdinand VII of Spain issues a decree ordering the placement of the Crown of Spain above the seal of Manila.
1834
6 September
A royal decree is issued, opening the Philippines and the Port of Manila to international trade.
1863
3 June
A powerful earthquake ravages Manila, resulting in the destruction of numerous government buildings and churches within Intramuros.
