Manansala was born in Macabebe, Pampanga, Philippines, on January 22, 1910. He showed an early interest in art and began drawing and painting at a young age. In 1926, he enrolled at the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts, where he studied under Fernando Amorsolo and other notable Filipino artists.
After graduating from college, Manansala worked as a commercial artist for several years. He also began to exhibit his paintings in local galleries. In 1941, he won the first prize in the Art Association of the Philippines' annual competition for his painting "The Beggars."
During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, Manansala continued to paint and exhibit his work. He also became involved in the underground resistance movement. In 1945, he was arrested by the Japanese and imprisoned for several months.
After the war, Manansala resumed his painting career. He also began teaching at the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts. In 1950, he was awarded a scholarship to study at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
Manansala spent two years in Paris, where he studied under Fernand Léger and other leading French artists. He was influenced by the modernist art he saw in Paris, and his work began to take on a more abstract and geometric style.
After returning to the Philippines, Manansala continued to paint and exhibit his work. He also taught at the University of the Philippines and other art schools. In 1963, he was elected president of the Art Association of the Philippines.
Manansala's work is characterized by its bold colors and geometric shapes. He often used symbols and metaphors to express his ideas about social and political issues. His paintings are often seen as a reflection of the social and political conditions of the Philippines during his lifetime.
Manansala died in Manila on August 22, 1981. He is considered one of the most important Filipino painters of the 20th century. His work is represented in major museums and galleries around the world.