Today, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is known for its towering buildings, stylish restaurants, shopping centers, modern residences, and pedestrian-friendly streets. But beneath its contemporary skyline lies a much older story—one that began long before BGC became one of Metro Manila’s most recognizable business and lifestyle districts. Beyond its modern attractions, BGC’s history offers visitors another reason to explore the district. Its transformation reflects how places can evolve dramatically while still carrying traces of their past. From its beginnings as a military reservation to its emergence as a thriving business and lifestyle hub, BGC represents one of the most remarkable urban transformations in Taguig.
From Military Grounds to Modern City
Before it became a bustling commercial center, the area now known as BGC was once a military reservation. Its history is closely connected to Fort William McKinley, a military installation established during the American period. In 1935, the area was renamed Fort Andres Bonifacio, honoring Andrés Bonifacio, one of the key figures in the Philippine struggle for independence. For decades, the vast property remained primarily associated with military activities. The area housed facilities, training grounds, and other installations of the Philippine Army, making it very different from the urban landscape visitors see today.
A Major Transformation Begins
The story of modern BGC began to change significantly in the 1990s, when development and privatization efforts opened portions of the former military reservation for new uses.
What followed was a massive transformation. Areas that were once dominated by military grounds gradually made way for commercial establishments, residential developments, offices, parks, and public spaces. Over time, this transformation gave rise to the district now recognized as Bonifacio Global City.
From Military Reservation to Global Business District
BGC eventually developed into a major destination for businesses and investors. Corporate headquarters and office towers began filling the district, alongside condominiums, hotels, retail centers, restaurants, and entertainment establishments. Its carefully planned streets and pedestrian-friendly spaces also helped give BGC a distinct character within Metro Manila.
Today, it is difficult to imagine that the area filled with modern skyscrapers and busy establishments was once largely associated with military activity.
