Olongapo City, Philippines

Olongapo City Description

There’s an interesting story about how Olongapo City got its name. According to popular legend, Olongapo City got its name from a wise, old man’s head, resting on top of a bamboo pole after he was found dead. Olongapo literally means “head of the elder”; translates as “ulo ng apo” in Tagalog language. Now, the old man’s head acts as a symbol of the unity of the people modern city. There is more to this story that the people of Olongapo City would be glad to educate you in all the crazy details of this event.

Olongapo City is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the province of Zambales, Philippines with a population of 194,260 people in 43,107 households and is characterized by rugged and mountainous terrain. It’s a former US reservation and the Negrito Resettlement areas.

Olongapo City Attraction

Subic Bay’s one of the nature’s blessings in Olongapo City. The calm waters in Subic Bay has natural harbor protected by mountains on three sides and its recreational area for tourists and visitors. Other attractions in Olongapo City are:

GORDON MEMORIAL PARK – This is where the late Mayor James L. Gordon, dubbed as the “Father of Olongapo City” was interred.

SUBIC BAY LIGHTHOUSE – this old lighthouse’s panoramic view, perfect for picture taking, overlooks the Subic Bay Area.

GROTTO OF OUR LADY OF PARDON – this is where Catholic devotees pray and pay homage to the Lord of Pardon at this Sacred Place.

MARIKIT PARK - Designed for the enjoyment of children and the young at heart, this park located at the center of the city features a scenic playground and a scattering of benches for relaxation.

FRIENDSHIP PARK – A mini-children’s park lies at the Northern side. The Olongapo Bremerton Sisterhood Marker, symbolizing the sister city relationship between Olongapo City and Bremerton City can also be found here.

WORLD PEACE MEMORIAL – The dove that greets visitors at the entry point to Olongapo City stands as a sign of peace, in memory of those who died during the battle of Zigzag Pass, one of the longest and most hazardous battles during World War II.

Olongapo City Location

Olongapo City is situated at the Southern entry point of Zambales and the Northwestern interior of the Subic Bay area. Olongapo City is approximately 127 kilometers North of Manila.

Olongapo City Hotels

Bayfront Hotel – known for its rich history and deep harbor amidst tropical rainforest. Enjoy the best water sports, the Ocean Park, rainforest and safari trek adventures and tropical island life.

Arizona International Hotel - this hotel has it all figured out to give you the best tropical vacation getaway in a more comfortable living space this side of Asia. It’s a family hotel right on the beach with water sports and entertainment for all.