𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐖𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 | 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗮: 𝗔 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗜𝗰𝗼𝗻

Report by Ryza Reign Dizon | Graphics by Hannah Aurea Medina | Layout by Jayane Leslie Feliciano

𝐒𝐂𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐖𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 | 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗮: 𝗔 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼 𝗜𝗰𝗼𝗻

In the heart of the Philippines, the Kalesa—a horse-drawn carriage—was once a common sight, especially in the busy streets of Manila during the late 19th century and early 20th century. Though now considered a nostalgic piece of history, the Kalesa was an innovative solution to transportation needs, combining local craftsmanship with European influence. Today, we take a throwback look at how the Kalesa became an essential mode of transport and its significance to Filipino culture.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗮

The Kalesa traces its roots to the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines, inspired by the European "calash," a type of carriage used by the Spanish elite. It underwent several modifications to adapt to the local environment and needs. The traditional Kalesa was made to be sturdy enough to handle the tropical climate, often built with durable wood and metal, while also being lightweight to allow horses to pull it easily through narrow and crowded streets.

𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗞𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗮

The Kalesa was more than just a mode of transportation; it was an innovative response to the needs of Filipino society during its time. It was designed to be nimble and efficient, featuring large wheels for navigating uneven roads and an open design for easy ventilation. Kalesa served various social classes, with wealthier families having elaborate, finely decorated versions, while simpler models were used by the working class. Its versatility extended to function, catering to both transporting goods and carrying passengers.

Local artisans often embellished Kalesa with vibrant colors, intricate carvings, and detailed fabrics, turning each vehicle into a unique piece of art. This personal touch reflected the region’s creativity and love for craftsmanship.

𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁

For decades, the Kalesa was indispensable in Filipino daily life. It played an essential role in facilitating trade, connecting rural areas to urban centers, and carrying people across various social classes. Not just a mode of transport, it became a part of cultural and community life. In cities like Manila, the sight of a Kalesa—whether carrying passengers, goods, or even serving as a stage for musicians—was a symbol of Filipino resilience and creativity.

In rural provinces, the Kalesa served as a vital link between farming communities and larger markets, bringing agricultural products from the hinterlands to urban centers and supporting the local economy.

𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹

With the advent of motorized vehicles in the 20th century, the Kalesa slowly fell into decline, replaced by jeeps, buses, and cars. Yet, it has never fully disappeared. In recent decades, the Kalesa has experienced a revival, especially in tourist areas. Cities like Intramuros in Manila, and Vigan in Ilocos Sur offer, Kalesa rides to visitors, providing a glimpse into the Philippines’ past while supporting local culture and economy.

Some have also reimagined the Kalesa in an eco-friendly context. Innovations like solar-powered or electric Kalesas have emerged, blending traditional design with modern technology. These new adaptations allow the Kalesa to maintain its charm while contributing to sustainability efforts in tourism.

The Kalesa stands as a remarkable symbol of Filipino innovation. It embodies the intersection of European influence and local ingenuity, created to meet the transportation needs of the time. As we look back on its legacy, the Kalesa reminds us of the importance of adapting technology and tradition for the future, preserving a piece of cultural history while embracing sustainability.