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Antipolo History, Philippines

It would be interesting to trace back the early civilizations, progressive kick-offs, dramatic stories and old transitions. In Antipolo’s book of “then and now”, one must be surprised to know that its creation was of recent origin: less than a century. Its city dwellers still bear the memories of faith, progress and cultural festivities.

Lying East of Manila, Antipolo was named after a local tree Tipolo (Autocarpus Incisa). It’s where the first Tagalog Homily “Pinagmisahan” was celebrated. From only 3,000 Christians in 1601, its population grew to 633,971 inhabitants as of 2000 stats. Church masses in Filipino language are still celebrated by priests up to present times. Even the Tagals, Indians and Black (the aetas) natives possess faith in spite of their preference to live on the mountains.

Just like the cities of Agoo and Cebu, Antipolo also has a religious story to tell: The image of Virgin Mary was brought to the Philippines from Acapulco on Mach 25, 1626. It was before Governor Juan Niño De Tabora died when he had the image installed at the Sitio Santa Cruz. Lost for several times, the image was always recovered on a Tipolo tree. The Feast of Anunciata was and still is a festival shared by devotees. The festive mood is so influential; visitors from different corners of the world are drawn to come by. The Virgin of Antipolo has gained thousands of followers who foot along mountain rails and springs for gratitude.

Upon Antipolo’s ratification as part of San Mateo District in Rizal province in 1853, it took long for it to be called a first-class component city and later capital of Rizal. The people embraced a culture of simplicity and traditionalism, that’s why. Celebrations of festivities have been aflame like Kapitanas on Easter Sunday as well as serenade nights, Angelus prayers, and Passion of Christ on Lent. It’s very-Filipino to have carried these traditions on.

Socio-economic wise, the city is slowly leveling up the nation’s capital standards. It’s interesting to know that Manila is including it in its built-up area drive that reaches Cardona in the West. Its preserved nature’s gifts and rich history are no doubt turning your curiosity up. You need not dilly-dally in putting Antipolo in your travel calendar.

Having grown into being one of the most flourishing cities with stable local churches in the whole Philippines, Antipolo should excite you to get away from stress, freshen up and relive some moments of amazement.