Amid the fast-paced city life and the constant movement of Manila’s streets, the local government has placed the spotlight on its historic clock tower, designating the Manila City Hall Clock Tower as the official time standard of the entire city, according to Boy Gonzales' report.

In a Facebook post, through City Ordinance No. 8847—authored by Councilor Elmer Joel Par—mandates that all offices, schools, and businesses in the city synchronize their operations with the Philippine Standard Time (PST) provided by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

According to Par, the goal is to promote security, order, and efficiency by ensuring that everyone operates under a unified time system.

"Bilang ang clock tower ay itinuturing na official timekeeper ng Manila, gawin na rin nating na mai-synchronize ang lahat ng oras sa lahat ng Pamahalaang Lungsod gamit ang historical symbol ng Manila," Par said in a statement on Office of the Vice Mayor Facebook page.

Under the ordinance, establishments or institutions that fail to adhere to the rule may face fines ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000. Moreover, repeated violations could lead to the suspension of one-month business permits.

The Office of the City Administrator, Manila Barangay Bureau, and Bureau of Permits will spearhead the enforcement of this measure.

In a speech at the Clock Tower Museum, Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza emphasized that the Manila Clock Tower is more than just a timekeeper; it is a symbol of the city’s history and culture.

"It's significant and vital in this administration that we make culture richer in Manila to ensure that the young ones appreciate our traditions," she said.

Atienza added that Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso's goal is to elevate Manila to the level of global cities like Singapore.

Alongside the ordinance’s implementation, the public is encouraged to visit the Clock Tower Museum, a cultural destination that showcases Manila’s love for art and history. Currently featured is "Tornaviaje," an art exhibit by Maestro Manuel Baldemor, which celebrates the city’s enduring journey.