π±π₯ Manila’s Vintage Post Office Goes Up in Flames β Who Forgot to Turn Off the Stove? ππ
TL;DR: Manila’s iconic post office, a nearly 100-year-old Neoclassical gem, has been burnt to a crisp. The inferno started in the dead of the night, raged for over seven hours, and left seven people nursing injuries. The cause is still up in the air, but one thing’s for sure, Manila won’t be getting its mail anytime soon. ππ«
Let’s face it; snail mail isn’t dead. Not for Manila, anyway. That was, until their iconic post office, a Neoclassical marvel from the 1920s, became an all-you-can-eat buffet for flames. π₯π It happened overnight, while most of us were drooling on our pillows, dreaming of far-off beaches and Bitcoin surges.
So, who burnt the toast? ππ₯ That’s still up for debate, with investigations ongoing. But when the smoke cleared, the five-story post office was just a memory, leaving seven people, mostly our brave firefighters, with minor injuries.
Here’s a bit of trivia for you – this building was one of Manila’s busiest, sorting and distributing mail across the country, despite our digital age. π§β‘οΈπ¬ How quaint, right? The main hub for the Philippine Postal Corporation, now ash and memories.
This architectural beauty was more than just a post office, though. Imagine high columns, a traditional neoclassical style that weathered World War II. Yes, this baby took a beating during the war and got a makeover in 1946. But this recent fiery tango? Not so kind. π₯π
The Manila Central Post Office wasn’t just an Instagrammable backdrop for Philippine movies; it stood near a plaza named after national hero Andres Bonifacio. This spot has been the scene for protests and political movements over the years. ππ¬ Talk about being in the heart of things!
So what’s next for snail mail in the Philippines? They’ve been doing it since the Spanish colonial period, with horse-riding mail couriers. πβοΈ Maybe it’s time for a digital revolution, or perhaps they’ll bring the horses back? We’re on the edge of our seats, folks!
And let’s not forget the burning (pun intended) question – what started the fire? π€π₯ Was it a forgotten stove, an electrical short circuit, or perhaps a disgruntled employee with a love for fireworks? We need answers!
Meanwhile, Manila’s skyline has lost a notable silhouette, a link to its past. It’s not just about the mail. This was a testament to Manila’s resilience, a witness to its history, and now, a poignant reminder of the city’s loss. ππ
Itβs not just Manila that loses here, itβs the world. These architectural gems are a testament to our shared human history, and losing one feels like a blow to us all. ππ But weβre also left wondering: will this fire ignite a serious conversation about preserving our historical landmarks? π₯ποΈ
But the question remains, Manila: what will you do now? Rebuild, move on, or maybe upgrade to a swanky digital office? π’π» And who’s taking responsibility for the world’s worst late-night snack? Let’s hear it, folks! π¬π
Disclaimer: This article does not provide investment, architectural or fire-safety advice. The contents of