Palacio del Gobernador — Local services in Manila

I visited the Palacio del Gobernador in Intramuros and couldn’t resist taking photos of this beautiful and imposing building. Originally, the site served as the official residence of Spanish governors-general from the late 16th century until the mid-19th century, when it was severely damaged by an earthquake in 1863. The current structure, built in the 1970s, is a modern reinterpretation of the original palace and now houses the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and other government offices.

Its location in Plaza Roma, just across from the Manila Cathedral, makes it a prime spot for history lovers exploring Intramuros. The building’s neoclassical-inspired facade blends well with the old-world charm of the Walled City, making it a favorite subject for photographers.

Fun fact: While the current building is relatively new, the original palace witnessed centuries of political decisions, colonial intrigue, and Manila’s transformation under Spanish rule. Today, it stands as a symbolic reminder of the country’s colonial past, even if its interior functions are...

The Palacio del Gobernador is a government building located in Intramuros, Manila City, the Philippines. The palace is located southwest from Plaza de Roma and Manila Cathedral and built in its current form in 1976. As of the present, the building is used and occupied by the Intramuros Administration, the Commission on Elections and the Home Development Mutual Fund National Capital Region Office. It is very accessible since it is near one of the old district's entrances and within walking distance from Fort Santiago. You can reach it by private or public vehicles. Since it is a highly historical building, it should be of interest for tourists to see this building when roaming Intramuros. The architecture of the building is also...

A number of government offices are currently housed in Palacio del Gobernador. For those interested in registering as a voter or running for public office, the Commission on Elections has an office here. Those paying their housing loans can transact with PAGIBIG, and the ones who need an ATM machine will find several inside Landbank Intramuros. The building is lighted at night, much like the nearby Manila Cathedral. Parking space is easier to find between the hours of 6 in the evening to 7 in the morning, though, so you might want to consider commuting. There is a jeepney stop just across Soriano Avenue, in front of the Intramuros...