Rizal Province, Philippines

People of Rizal Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Rizal Province had a population of 3,330,143 residents.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 2,884,227, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 2.9% annually due to urban expansion and migration from Metro Manila.
• Historically, the area was inhabited by Tagalog-speaking communities and indigenous groups such as the Dumagat, who continue to reside in upland areas of Tanay and Rodriguez. These communities maintain traditional practices and are recognized as part of the province’s cultural heritage.
• The dominant language spoken today is Tagalog, with regional accents and expressions unique to Rizal. As in all Philippine schools, English is the official medium of instruction, ensuring students are equipped for both national and global engagement.

Location of Rizal Province

• Rizal is a landlocked province in the CALABARZON Region (Region IV-A), located immediately east of Metro Manila. It is bordered by Metro Manila to the west, Bulacan to the north, Laguna to the south, and Quezon Province to the east.
• The provincial capital is Antipolo City, which also serves as the largest city in the province.
• Travel access:
  • Land: Rizal is accessible via major roads such as Ortigas Avenue Extension, Marcos Highway, and Manila East Road. Buses, jeepneys, and UV Express vans connect the province to Metro Manila and neighboring regions.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), approximately 1.5–2 hours away by land.
  • Sea: Being landlocked, Rizal has no direct access to seaports. The closest major port is in Manila, about 2 hours away by bus or car.

Tourist Attractions of Rizal Province

• Hinulugang Taktak (Antipolo): A national park and waterfall known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
• Masungi Georeserve (Baras): A conservation area offering eco-tourism, hiking trails, and limestone formations.
• Angono Petroglyphs: The oldest known rock art in the Philippines, dating back to 3000 BC.
• Pililla Wind Farm: A renewable energy site with panoramic views of Laguna de Bay and the Sierra Madre.
• Festivals:
  • Antipolo Pilgrimage Season: Held from May to July, honoring Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage with processions and religious events.
  • Angono Higantes Festival: Celebrated every November, featuring giant papier-mâché figures and street dancing.
  • Rizal Province Founding Anniversary: Celebrated every June 11, commemorating the passage of Act No. 137 in 1901 that created the province.

Economy of Rizal Province

• Rizal’s economy is driven by manufacturing, real estate, retail, and services. Its proximity to Metro Manila makes it a prime location for residential and commercial development.
• Key industries include:
  • Garments and textiles
  • Construction materials and ceramics
  • Food processing and logistics
  • Tourism and eco-adventure services
• While province-specific GDP data is limited, Rizal is part of the CALABARZON region, which posted a GDP of over ₱3.2 trillion in 2024, making it one of the most economically productive regions in the country.

Educational Institutions of Rizal Province

• Young residents pursue higher education at several institutions:
  • Rizal Technological University – Antipolo Campus: Offers programs in engineering, education, and business.
  • University of Rizal System (URS): A state university with campuses in Morong, Tanay, Pililla, Rodriguez, and other towns, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • La Salle College Antipolo: A private Catholic institution offering liberal arts and business programs.
  • Our Lady of Fatima University – Antipolo Campus: Known for health sciences and allied medical programs.

History of Rizal Province

• Rizal Province was officially created on June 11, 1901 through Act No. 137 of the First Philippine Commission. It was formed by merging parts of the old Province of Manila and the District of Morong.
• The province was named in honor of Dr. José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, whose ideals of reform and nationalism inspired the revolution against Spanish rule.
• Antipolo became the capital in 2001, replacing Pasig after it was declared part of Metro Manila. Rizal now comprises 13 municipalities and 1 component city, with Antipolo serving as the administrative center.

Elected Officials of Rizal Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Rizal Province is led by:
  • Governor: Nina Ricci A. Ynares
  • Vice Governor: Josefina G. Gatlabayan
• For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official Halalan 2025 results page: Rizal Election Results.

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