Pateros is the smallest but a first-class municipality in Metro Manila. However, it's the second most populated with around 64,147 residents. Pateros is known for raising ducks and making fertilized duck eggs or balut, the reason why it's called the "Balut Capital of the Philippines." Pateros is also famous for producing a local rice cake called inutak; it also takes pride in producing its high-quality footwear called alfombra.
Though Pateros is now modernized and highly developed, the place still mirrors its humble beginnings. This can be seen from the old houses that are still maintained by the residents. Some of its tourist attractions have long been part of Philippine history such as the San Roque Parish Church and the Manggahan and Dulong Bayang Shrine. Apart from these historical places, however, there are other wonderful attractions in Pateros such as the C&N Building Pavilion, Villa Monica Clubhouse and Resort, and Jamyka Penthouse. Its residents and entrepreneurs also embrace the balut industry until today. The people of Pateros are very proud of their homegrown products; in fact, they allow tourists to watch how they make the balut and alfombra slippers.
Engaging in sports and different recreational activities exemplify how the residents of Pateros live healthily and develop unity. The youths are encouraged to play various sports such as basketball, baseball, and soccer to keep themselves busy and physically active. Thus, the town often hosts sports leagues especially during the summer when the children and teens have no classes. Though there's no park in Pateros, school and church courtyards are often used to hold different sports and recreational activities. The residents of Pateros also love playing indoor games such as bowling, billiards, darts, chess, and table tennis.
Although Pateros is one of the smallest towns in the country, many people still choose to reside here. One of the reasons is the warmth and hospitality of the people, which also made Pateros clinched the moniker "A Small Town With a Big Heart." Its old residential houses are also part of the town's welcoming characteristic. However, for people who love the feel of the town's modernity, there are lots of first-rate and upscale residential houses to choose from. A lot of people buy house and lots in Pateros because it's peaceful and simple here. Also, the selection of house and lots in Pateros complies with the newest standards and the tang of homebuyers nowadays.
© Photo credits: JCAAmbagan
