Ivan Man Dy is best known as the passionate storyteller behind Old Manila Walks, the heritage tour company that’s been redefining cultural tourism in the Philippines for two decades. But what many don’t see behind the scenes is the constant learning, research, and inspiration that fuels his engaging tours.
From pop history books to deep archival research, Ivan’s curiosity has always driven his work. He believes that effective storytelling—especially about history and heritage—starts with a solid foundation in knowledge, perspective, and context.
“In my early years, the pop history books of Nick Joaquin opened our eyes to the heritage and narratives of Manila,” Ivan told Financial Adviser. “This fascination became the basis for our heritage advocacy and ultimately, also the theme of our tour programs.”
Nick Joaquin’s accessible yet profound take on Filipino identity and history laid the groundwork for Ivan’s own voice as a storyteller. Over the years, that reading list has grown broader and more diverse.
“Our interests have since diversified and today we read anything on history, culture, design, tourism, business, manuals and even scientific journals,” he added.
The Influence of Local Legends
Beyond books, Ivan draws inspiration from local heritage figures who’ve shaped the way Filipinos interpret and preserve their past. Among them, two names stand out.
“The late conservation architect and writer Augusto Villalon—his writings on heritage and issues related to it made quite an impact in my formative years,” Ivan shared. “Historian Ambeth Ocampo made reading history palatable and fun.”
These influences helped Ivan strike a balance between accuracy and accessibility—a hallmark of his walking tours. The result is a storytelling style that is both intellectually grounded and emotionally resonant, allowing guests to experience Manila’s layered history in a way that feels both personal and meaningful.
Tools of the Trade
To keep his content fresh, Ivan makes time for regular educational engagement and research, often going beyond books.
“Books and, time permitting, archival research. Also educational engagements like conferences, symposiums and lectures,” he explained. “For an everyday dose, there’s YouTube University.”
This blend of traditional scholarship and digital resources ensures that his tours stay updated, dynamic, and relevant to modern audiences.
Beyond the Streets: A New Chapter in Storytelling
Ivan’s commitment to cultural storytelling now extends beyond walking tours. He is currently curating his first museum exhibit at the National Museum, focused on a subject close to his heart—Art Deco design in the Philippines.
“I am now working on our first museum curatorial gig at the National Museum. We are doing a commemorative exhibit on the centennial of Art Deco design that is set to open in October 2025,” he revealed.
His previous work in this area culminated in his 2020 book “Deco Filipino: Art Deco Heritage in the Philippines,” showcasing his depth of knowledge and passion for Filipino architecture and design.
“In my experience working in the cultural field, there are multiple ways to apply your skills and expertise—not just for tourism,” Ivan said.
Lifelong Learning as a Business Strategy
For Ivan Man Dy, continuous learning is not just personal—it’s strategic. His ability to evolve his tours, connect with new generations, and expand into museum curation is rooted in his commitment to lifelong education.
His message to cultural entrepreneurs and storytellers is clear: never stop exploring. Whether through books, conversations, archives, or even YouTube, the pursuit of knowledge will always be the secret behind meaningful storytelling.
