Uncover the Secrets of Escolta's First United Building in This One-Day-Only Legacy Tour

(SPOT.ph) When we speak of Escolta in Manila, it’s impossible not to talk about the First United Building (FUB). One of the area's best-known heritage structures, it stands not only as a reminder of a bygone era but also of what we can achieve if we continue to appreciate, conserve, and revitalize our historical sites and cultural spaces.

If you frequent Escolta, chances are you’ve seen or even stepped inside this iconic Art Deco building countless times. But even if you think you know it well, there’s likely still plenty about it that you’ve yet to discover. Luckily, there's an upcoming First United Building Legacy Tour, led by the building's current owners, that will let you experience the landmark like never before.

Here’s what you need to know if you want to join this special tour.

On September 13 at 10 a.m., the First United Building Legacy Tour offers a unique exploration of the property, led by Lorraine Young-Sylianteng and her husband, Roberto Sylianteng, the building's current owners.

This legacy tour is usually reserved for their family and close friends, but in this rare instance, they are opening up the experience to the public as a chance to learn more about the building and its increasingly creative spaces

Limited to just 20 guests, the intimate tour will have Lorraine and Roberto sharing the stories of the people and crucial moments that shaped the Sylianteng family’s enduring journey to breathe new life into Escolta and its surrounds. So, expect personal anecdotes, family accounts, and architectural details that will make you see one of Manila’s most storied buildings in a new light. And if you’re curious, yes, there will be bits of tea—both literal and figurative—served along the way.

Today, the First United Building is also known as one of Manila’s prominent creative hubs. As a bonus, the tour will also give attendees a sneak peek at the growing roster of creative studios that call FUB home, along with works in progress and never-before-seen spaces that will soon flourish within its walls.

Interested in joining this special walking tour? You can secure your slot through their registration link and pay a registration fee of P1,100 per person. The form is still open as of writing, but with the tour just days away, it’s best to reserve your slot ASAP.

Attendees are also reminded to arrive before 10 a.m. so the tour can start on time, and to dress comfortably; i.e., don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.

For more information, visit the First United Building Facebook Page.