Time to swim! Manila’s public pools are now free of charge

The summer heat in Manila is no joke, and as the temperature rises, we’re all searching for the perfect way to cool down without emptying our wallets. 

While Metro Manila is home to plenty of sports clubs, private resorts, and hotel pools, those options often come with a price tag that isn't feasible for a quick afternoon dip. Recently, too, the Department of Interior and Local Government announced that inflatable pools on streets are now not allowed as part of its Safer Cities initiative.

Thankfully, the City Government of Manila has stepped up to provide alternatives. Public sports complexes across the city have opened their doors and pools for free use.

In North Manila, the Vitas Aquatic Center in Tondo welcomes swimmers from Tuesday to Friday between 10 a.m and 12 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m on weekends.

Also in Tondo, the Patricia Sports Complex in Gagalangin offers an indoor option with opening hours of 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to Fridays and 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

In Sta. Cruz, the Andalucia Sports Complex operates its pool exclusively on weekends, specifically from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

For those in Sampaloc area, the Dapitan Sports Complex is open on both weekday and weekend access with extended midday hours. It is open to the public on Tuesdays to Fridays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Bagong Buhay Sports Complex in Paco adjusts its schedule throughout the week. It is open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday to Sunday.

And finally, the Jacinto Ciria Cruz Sports Complex in Pandacan rounds out the list with morning and early-afternoon swim times: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Take note that all pools are closed every Monday for maintenance.