i went to the official cbs-amazing race website and found this:

MANILA, PHILIPPINES
Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Asia, Manila serves as capital, main port, and center of government, commerce, industry and culture for the Philippines. Situated on Manila Bay, Metropolitan Manila actually comprises several cities, Makati, Pasay, Caloocan, Pasig, Quezon and Manila, along with 12 smaller towns. Because it was virtually destroyed during World War II, Manila is a very modern-looking city of towerblocks, with a few surviving colonial structures nestling here and there. It is a city of sharp contrasts: very wealthy areas and huge slums, new cars driving alongside humble jeepneys and horse-drawn calesas. This vast urban sprawl can be daunting for some, but if you explore its nooks and crannies, you can find rich pockets of traditional culture, excellent food and friendly people.

i'm just glad we're on the amazing race. hopefully, we can attract more tourists, what with el nido on center stage next week. i do wonder if gordon's part of the reason why we made it to the show.