Antipolo City – Life Up in the Hills
While Antipolo City has become a residential suburb of Metro Manila, it still retains much of its highland provincial character. As one goes up through the hills that make up the greater part of the city, the breeze blows stronger and buildings are gradually replaced by greenery, a reminder of Antipolo's background as a resort town for Manila's rich and famous. Nowadays, Antipolo now has all the trappings of a modern city while keeping its rustic character.
Pilgrimage City
Antipolo City is the administrative center of Rizal province, with many government agencies setting up offices within city limits. It is accessible through Tikling Road, Sumulong Highway, and Ortigas Avenue Extension, placing it within minutes of Metro Manila. However, those who have built houses there say that Antipolo feels distant from the big city, with its grand views of Laguna de Bay and the surrounding urban centers as well as the mountains that encircle Antipolo itself.
It is also known as a pilgrimage center. Every summer, thousands of devotees make the long trek from Metro Manila up to Antipolo Cathedral, also known as the Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, a scene that has been repeated since the 17th century. In fact, even Jose Rizal himself made the pilgrimage with his father as a young boy. Today, motorists take their cars up to the cathedral to have them blessed, believing that doing so will keep their cars and passengers safe from harm.
Antipolo also boasts many natural marvels, including the Hinulugang Taktak waterfalls near the city center. While the waterfalls themselves have seen better days, efforts are under way to restore the river and surrounding areas to their former condition. Resorts and restaurants also dot the hills, including Seven Suites Hotel, Casa Abuela, Crescent Moon Café, and Tipulo Restaurant. Art connoisseurs will enjoy Pinto Art Museum, which features collections of both indigenous and contemporary art. Finally, parents can send their children to Assumption Antipolo, La Salle College Antipolo, and Antipolo Lady of Lourdes School, all located within a few minutes of the city center.
Buying a Townhouse in Antipolo City
True to its reputation as a residential suburb, Antipolo City is the site of residential subdivisions such as Town and Country Executive Village, Esguerra Compound, Bridgepoint Place, and Kingsville Executive Village. These subdivisions have 24/7 security and recreational facilities such as basketball courts and swimming pools. For P1.6 million to P29.5 million, you could enjoy the fresh air of Antipolo City while staying close to Metro Manila.
