Antipolo City, Philippines

Antipolo City, Rizal is within Region 4-A CALABARZON, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Antipolo City

• As of the 2020 Census, Antipolo City had a population of 887,399 residents.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 776,386, reflecting significant growth due to urban expansion and its proximity to Metro Manila.
• Historically, Antipolo was home to indigenous groups such as the Dumagat and Aeta peoples, who lived in the forested highlands of the Sierra Madre. While urbanization has reshaped the city, traces of their cultural heritage remain in local traditions and oral histories.
• The major dialect spoken is Tagalog, with Antipolo’s own regional accent. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring educational access and global readiness for students.

Location of Antipolo City

• Antipolo City is located in the province of Rizal, within the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 14.6258° N latitude and 121.1225° E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 306.10 square kilometers, making it the largest city in Rizal by area. It sits on the western slopes of the Sierra Madre mountain range, with elevations ranging from 23 to 1,140 meters above sea level. This topography gives Antipolo its cooler climate and panoramic views of Metro Manila.
• Most people reach Antipolo via land transport. The city is accessible through Ortigas Avenue Extension, Sumulong Highway, and Marcos Highway. Jeepneys, UV Express vans, and buses connect Antipolo to Quezon City, Pasig, and Marikina.
• The nearest major port is the Manila North Harbor, approximately 1.5 hours away by bus or car. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is also about 1.5 hours away, depending on traffic conditions.

Tourist Attractions of Antipolo City

• Antipolo Cathedral (National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage): A major pilgrimage site and spiritual center, especially during May.
• Pinto Art Museum: A contemporary art museum set in Mediterranean-style gardens, showcasing Filipino visual arts.
• Hinulugang Taktak National Park: A restored waterfall and eco-park offering nature trails and picnic areas.
• Cloud 9 View Deck: A popular spot for panoramic views of Metro Manila, especially at sunset.
• Sumakah Festival: Held every May 1, this festival celebrates Antipolo’s local produce—Suman, Mangga, and Kasuy—as well as its religious heritage. It features street dancing, cultural parades, and culinary showcases.

Economy of Antipolo City

• Antipolo’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, retail, and services. The city is known as the “Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines” and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
• Key industries include:
  • Tourism: Pilgrimage sites, art museums, and nature parks generate significant revenue.
  • Agriculture: Local produce such as suman, mangoes, and cashew nuts are staples of the city’s identity.
  • Retail and commerce: Malls like Robinsons Antipolo, Vista Mall, and iMall serve the growing population.
  • Emerging sectors: Healthcare and technology are expanding, supported by improved infrastructure and connectivity to Metro Manila.
• In 2024, Rizal Province posted a GDP of ₱381.03 billion, growing by 5.9%. Antipolo, as the capital and largest city, plays a central role in this economic performance.

Educational Institutions of Antipolo City

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • La Salle College Antipolo: Offers programs in business, education, psychology, and liberal arts.
  • Our Lady of Fatima University – Antipolo Campus: Specializes in health sciences, IT, and business administration.
  • University of Rizal System – Antipolo Campus: A public university offering affordable programs in education, engineering, and agriculture.
  • ICCT Colleges – Antipolo Satellite Campus: Provides tech-based programs in computer science, hospitality, and business.
  • World Citi Colleges – Antipolo: Offers allied health, business, and IT programs.

History of Antipolo City

• Antipolo’s name is derived from the tipolo tree (breadfruit), which once grew abundantly in the area. The city’s history dates back to the arrival of Franciscan missionaries in 1578, who built the first church in Boso-Boso. Jesuits later took over in 1591 and organized the town’s religious and civic structure.
• During the Spanish colonial period, Antipolo became a center for religious retreats and missionary work. The image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage was brought from Mexico in the 1600s and enshrined in Antipolo, solidifying its status as a pilgrimage site.
• Antipolo was officially converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 8508, signed on February 13, 1998. The cityhood was ratified via plebiscite on April 4, 1998. The move was championed by Congressman Gilberto “Bibit” Duavit Sr. and supported by Rizal’s political leaders.
• Today, Antipolo is the capital of Rizal Province and one of the fastest-growing cities in CALABARZON. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and urban development continues to attract residents, pilgrims, and investors alike.

Elected Officials of Antipolo City

• As of the 2025 elections, Antipolo City is led by:
  • Mayor: Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III
  • Vice Mayor: Josefina “Pining” Gatlabayan
  • Representative (1st District of Rizal): Roberto “Robbie” Puno
  • Representative (2nd District of Rizal): Juan Fidel Felipe Nograles
  • City Councilors: Refer to the official Halalan 2025 results for the complete list.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Antipolo City Election Results.

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