Every city has a story about its name, and Olongapo’s is a good one. Elders tell of a wise old warrior, an “apo”, from a group of warring tribes. He worked hard to unite the tribes and settle their conflict, which didn’t sit well with everyone. One day he vanished without a trace.
When the search finally ended, they found his body without its head. Beheading was a known act of assassination between tribes in conflict, and with every lead gone cold, the search was called off.
A young man refused to give up. He promised to find the elder’s head, and searched high and low, week after week, until he spotted what looked like the old warrior’s head hooked on top of a bamboo pole. He ran back to the village shouting, “Olo nin apo! Olo nin apo!” The cry stuck, and over time it became the name of the city: Olongapo.
It’s only a myth, of course, and the real history is richer and far more complicated. For most Olongapenos this is more than a city. It’s a community built on culture, unity, respect and companionship. It’s also the first city you’ll pass through on the way to the northern reaches of Zambales, and it’s at its liveliest during the Mardi Gras, festivals and other gatherings that bring locals and visitors together.
Head to the Public Market on Rizal Avenue East, Bajac Bajac, for souvenirs and “pasalubong” to take home. You’ll find native crafts made by locals, delicacies and “kakanin” to tempt your taste buds, and plenty of bargains to choose from.
Right in the centre of the city, Marikit Park is the perfect place to loosen up and slow down. A concrete mural at the main entrance honours Filipino workers and features an R-A5 Vigilante. There’s a playground for kids and the young at heart, and plenty of space for students to hang out and families to enjoy their “merienda”.
This soaring statue stands at the centre, between Rotonda and Bajac-Bajac. It’s a shrine to the legend behind the city’s name, impossible to miss and a popular stop for visitors.
: good appetite : enjoy your meal
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An Olongapo institution for more than 30 years, Kong’s sits on busy Magsaysay Drive and has become an all-time favourite. Families have been coming back for generations for authentic Chinese food at its best: the crab foo yong, crispy pata and beef and broccoli, to name a few. It’s a top pick for events and get-togethers, with a function room that fits 150 people in one sitting.
Address: Magsaysay Dr, Olongapo, Zambales
Named after Popeye’s burger-loving sidekick, Wimpy’s is the go-to burger joint for locals who grew up in Olongapo. Employees, students, barkadas and families all fill the place. The menu has plenty to satisfy a hungry belly, and the value meals are the best sellers: Burger Steak, Grilled Pork Chop and the famous Jr. Cheeseburger. Wash it down with a fruit shake, a milk shake or an iced drink.
Address: 34 Magsaysay Drive, Olongapo City
A family-owned restaurant established in 1974 and passed down from one generation to the next, Rico’s serves good Filipino comfort food at budget-friendly prices. Try the noodle staples: pancit-bihon, miki-bihon, palabok and canton, all filling and satisfying. Crowds gather out the front from breakfast through lunch, and again for merienda before dinner. There are two branches, one in Olongapo and one in Barretto, serving à la carte meals. The Eat All You Can Buffet is only Php125 per head and covers a big spread of Filipino dishes, desserts and soups. Rico’s also caters for all kinds of occasions, and does takeout and delivery. Come and taste the difference.
Address: No. 21 4th Street, Olongapo City
A hangout for Olongapo’s youth since 2000. Once the sun goes down, head in for dim lights, a chilled vibe and a playlist that will take your relaxation level from zero to a hundred. The comfort food is made for sharing with your barkada, and the pizza, nachos and burgers are the best sellers. Drinks come ice cold, and beyond the usual beer, the one to try is the “Cookie Monster”: a coffee-based drink topped with whipped cream and crushed Oreos. Sit back, eat, drink and enjoy the company of your friends.
Address: 60 Gordon Ave, Olongapo, Zambales
Sam’s is the trendsetter behind the “pizza craze”, serving delicious square pizza for over 38 years, and it’s Olongapo’s cream of the crop. Olongapenos and tourists alike come for a good time with family and friends. Feast on square pan pizzas, salads, appetisers and pasta while local bands play live, and sing along if you like. As of today Sam’s Pizza has served 44 million customers, and the count keeps climbing. Takeout and delivery are available too.
Address: Olongapo, Zambales
Tropical Bay brings a night-out vibe to every visit, right on Magsaysay Drive. Local bands play a great playlist, so tune in and sing along. The Filipino food is generous and satisfying and the refreshments are ice cold, best enjoyed with family and friends. Tropical Bay also caters for functions of 50 to 100 people, from birthdays and meetings to weddings and baptisms.
Address: 610 Magsaysay Drive, East Tapinac, Olongapo City
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Club V is drink and dance in its purest form. It’s a popular go-to for a night of fun and laughter with your barkada, dancing to the latest tunes from the dopest DJs. This upbeat nightspot on Magsaysay Drive has everything from local beers to authentic cocktails. Reserve a VIP seat near the dance floor or up in the loft, or grab a table near the bar, where dancing at your own post is highly recommended.
Address: 39 MAGSAYSAY DRIVE, 2200 Olongapo City, Philippines
Dim and murky, this acoustic bar is one of a kind. It’s on Magsaysay Drive, easy to spot and hard to miss. Bands play rock and acoustic jazz pop, and if the feeling grabs you, you can invite yourself on stage and sing along. There’s a wide range of famous beers and cocktails, plus pika-pika and pulutan to share with your friends.
Address: Magsaysay Dr, Olongapo, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
You’ll know you’re near Willi’s when you see a crowd heading inside. It’s one of the favourite hangouts on Magsaysay Drive, and the drinks and dishes won’t disappoint. Local bands play live and only the most upbeat music, so come from 9:00pm onwards. Sing along or join the band, it doesn’t matter. There’s never a dull moment at Willis Concert Bar.
Address: Magsaysay Drive Olongapo City, Philippines
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