Because of its proximity to the shore of Manila Bay, the place was named after a piece of fishing equipment called "baklad".

In 1981, Wojtyła as Pope John Paul II returned to the shrine as part of his apostolic visit to the Philippines.

Baclaran is known for its children and youth membership in the local rondalla, which won at NAMCYA in 1996, and the Drum and Lyre Band, as well as its street welding.

Located near the intersection of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue and Roxas Boulevard, Baclaran is a major transportation hub and transfer point.

Many bus and jeepney routes pass through Baclaran or have it as their end destination, especially transportation to and from the province of Cavite to the south.