I am travelling from Manila to NYC via Shanghai how do I get transit visa

Max, if you just transit in Shanghai for less than 24 hours, you don’t need to apply for transit G type. You can enjoy direct transit.
But if it’s more than 24 hours, you should apply for a transit G type. You should first prepare your passport and copy of its data page, the application form attached with a bareheaded color photo, and the confirmed air tickets and then submit your application to the embassy of PRC to apply for a transit G type.