The Forgotten Art of Manila Skate Park

Since the demolition of Manila Skate Park last January, its community has lost not only a vital cultural and communal space but also a key part of their identity.

Words Yra Luis Gener Gutierrez
Photos courtesy of Manila Skate Park & 222tilmidnight
March 16, 2025

It’s no secret that the availability of third spaces in the Philippines, such as parks, is very limited. Amid the towering mall buildings and presence of cafes and restaurants, young people used to flock to the Canonigo Sports Complex along Quirino Avenue to play roller sports. 

Known as the first public skate park in the country, the Manila Skate Park was demolished in January of this year without notice. Its unexpected demolition is not only an erasure of another third space, but also of the culture and identity of its community.

The Trudge for Space

On January 9, 2025, an organization of skaters, 222TilMidnight, released a petition online about the shutdown of the skate park. 

“Erasing this cultural and communal hotspot in such an abrupt manner is not only alarming, but also disheartening for many who called this park their home,” they stated in the petition. 

Petition starter and member of 222TilMidnight, Niel Atienza, told Art+ Magazine that Filipino skaters are persistent with finding places to skate at. 

“Maghahanap lang ‘yan ng lugar para maglaro, kahit private, sirang gasoline station o basketball court, maglalaro sila diyan,” he said to our team.

He felt the immediate need to fight for the space as this has become a significant place for many skaters. Niel described the Manila Skate Park as a lively space that is inclusive; skaters of all levels, from beginners to pros, gather in the area, making it a shared space for everyone.

Going Back To Streets

Since the municipal government of Manila funded the skate park, the 29-year-old skater always anticipated the possibility of its closure, “Parang sanay na mawalan ng spot, pero siyempre nilaban pa rin. Pero dahil nga government provided, madali din bawiin at gets na namin ‘yon.” 

Currently, skaters are back skateboarding in their natural spot. Atienza called this “Balik Sa Street,” which meant “balik ulit sa bawal,” and “balik sa roots ng skateboarding, which is ‘yong [being] creative.” 

He views this as the true art of skateboarding. By utilizing available and accessible spaces—like abandoned buildings—skaters can spark their creativity, turning their tricks into a form of self-expression.

“Simpleng hagdanan [at] ledge, may maiisip ka agad na tricks,” he said. “Andoon ‘yong art side, kung paano mo iisipan ng trick ‘yong mga natural obstacle.” 

While Atienza views skateboarding in parks more as a sport, he acknowledges the benefits of having a designated space for it. “Home siya ng mga skater na bata. Mas madali kasi matuto pag may mga spot.” 

Lost Identity Of Artistic Expression

Skateboarders are often seen rolling through vibrant, colorful spaces. According to Niel, mural and graffiti art have always been closely intertwined with skateboarding.

"Ang roots ng skateboarding ay nasa kalye, katulad ng mural at graffiti. Magkasama palagi ‘yan at hindi mo sila mapaghihiwalay," he explained.

Atienza and other members of their group used spray paint to transform the walls of Manila Skate Park. At that time, the walls became a canvas for a variety of artistic expressions, ranging from depictions of media characters and national heroes like Andres Bonifacio, to thought-provoking commentaries on contemporary society and culture.

There are several reasons behind the unique design of skateparks. Often, they serve as a platform for artistic expression, challenging traditional views on art, and most importantly, fostering community identity. This community values individuality and self-expression, yet when combined, these elements create a distinctive identity that pushes against societal norms.

For Niel, skateboarding and the designs in these parks have had a profound impact, particularly in shaping his creativity. “Katulad ko, laki akong skate so may mga influences sa akin na mag-fine arts noong college. Ang skateboarding ay sobrang lapit sa art, kami tinuturing naming art ang skateboarding,” he added.

Every barangay in the country has at least one or two courts dedicated to ball sports, each with its own culture and characteristics. However, the continual loss of spaces dedicated to a sport with its own artistic identity denies individuals the opportunity to excel and pursue their creative passions. As Niel emphasized, "Importante na may skatepark para sa mga batang gustong matuto at maging iba, iba ‘yong atake at porma sa creativity.”