The Beatles jostled by angry Filipinos as they depart Manila 50 years ago this hour #OnThisDay #OTD (July 5 1966)


Image: John Lennon (right, dark glasses) at the Manila International Airport as The Beatles are jostled by angry Philippines before their departure for home.

(Tuesday, July 5, 1966, 4:45 p.m. PHT) — The Beatles finally took off from Manila for New Delhi this afternoon after they had found themselves not only ostracized, but threatened with physical violence from all sides as they made their way to the airport and onto a plane.

Although the band members escaped bodily harmed, their manager, road managers and chauffeur all suffered injuries at the hands of both the hostile mob and Manila officials.

Filipino room service and police protection for The Beatles had been withdrawn after the group failed to appear at Malacañang Palace for a reception hosted by Imelda Marcos, the wife of the country’s dictator, Ferdinand Marcos.


Image: Paul McCartney at Manila International Airport after the Philippines leg of the Beatles' final world tour, 5th July 1966.


Image: John Lennon (center) and George Harrison (right) at Manila International Airport after the Philippines leg of the Beatles' final world tour, 5th July 1966.


Image: John Lennon (center, left) and George Harrison (center, right) at Manila International Airport after the Philippines leg of the Beatles' final world tour, 5th July 1966.