Culture
Morong is an old Tagalog settlement with a strong connection with its rural roots and its colonial past. The Spanish era church and the comandancia are worth visiting. Discover the unique way Tagalog is spoken and Holy Week traditions.
The church is noteworthy. Built by mestizos in the mid 19th century, it fuses the tower with the facade. A carved wooden choir loft and the stations of the cross bear strong marks of indigenous artistry. The reconstructed comandancia houses a museum and gallery.
Morong
The church is noteworthy. Built by mestizos in the mid 19th century, it fuses the tower with the facade. A carved wooden choir loft and the stations of the cross bear strong marks of indigenous artistry. The reconstructed comandancia houses a museum and gallery.
The altar features a stone slab that was found by early Franciscan missionaries.
Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Saint Joseph
The altar features a stone slab that was found by early Franciscan missionaries.
Tanay’s retablo is one of the most ornate and best preserved in the country. The churchyard features a sculpture depicting the Lady of Guadalupe carved out of an ancient acacia tree
Tanay Church
M.H. Del Pilar StreetTanay’s retablo is one of the most ornate and best preserved in the country. The churchyard features a sculpture depicting the Lady of Guadalupe carved out of an ancient acacia tree
Unique menu in the middle of several galleries own by noted national artists. Balaw-balaw is a great start to see why Angono is considered the navel of Filipino artists
6 locals recommend
Balaw Balaw Restaurant and Art Gallery
Phase I Manila East RoadUnique menu in the middle of several galleries own by noted national artists. Balaw-balaw is a great start to see why Angono is considered the navel of Filipino artists
Sightseeing
Daranak is the lower of several waterfalls and is popular with day tourists looking for a swim. The better time to visit is on weekdays, without the crowds
Daranak Falls
A convenient side trip when heading towards Daranak, Calinawan features several chambers that many believe still hide treasure left behind by Japanese troops in 1945
Calinawan Cave
A convenient side trip when heading towards Daranak, Calinawan features several chambers that many believe still hide treasure left behind by Japanese troops in 1945
Great views of the surrounding hills and a great educational trip on the benefits of wind power. Best time is early in the day. The settlement of Bugarin offers a great selection of fruits in season
Pililla Windmills - 54 MW Pililla Windfarm - Sitio Bugarin, Pililla Rizal
Manila East RoadGreat views of the surrounding hills and a great educational trip on the benefits of wind power. Best time is early in the day. The settlement of Bugarin offers a great selection of fruits in season
Tanay Light House
1980 Tanay DikeGreat views of Laguna de Bay especially towards the late afternoon
Religious
Regina Rica is fast becoming a staple pilgrimage destination for Catholics with a huge image of the Lady of the Rosary
Regina Rica
Sitio Aguho StreetFood scene
Lutong Pugon Tiongco's Garden
Wood oven baked pizza in a garden that is also an art gallery
Food from bamboo amidst bamboo thickets with views of the wind turbines nearby
Kawayan Farm Restaurant
Manila East RoadFood from bamboo amidst bamboo thickets with views of the wind turbines nearby
Bulawan Floating Restaurant
Adventure
The Masungi limestone formation is a unique outcrop in the upper Rizal area that has become a unique point of interest for environmental appreciation. Try the rope bridges, ladders and webs as you discover the unique life the rocks protect
27 locals recommend
Masungi Georeserve
Kilometer 47 Marcos HighwayThe Masungi limestone formation is a unique outcrop in the upper Rizal area that has become a unique point of interest for environmental appreciation. Try the rope bridges, ladders and webs as you discover the unique life the rocks protect
Daraitan
Pristine waters, limestone formations and a jump off for hikers and outdoor campers
Treasure mountain sea of clouds
Traveler advice
Customs and culture
Visiting religious shrines and churches
It is always prudent to be conventionally modest. Speak softly once inside. Some churches will not allow photographs when there is on going service
Getting around
Jeeps and tricycles
Jeepneys ply the main routes that link the main towns to Antipolo and Metro Manila. The backbone of transport links Tanay to Antipolo and Crossing in Mandaluyong. Fares are usually fixed by government. Tricycles are the lords of the smaller roads and if there is a road, there is probably a tricycle plying it. Tricycles on the general are more expensive than jeeps. It is always wise to negotiate fares beforehand
Customs and culture
Tipping and gratuities
When travelers are served in restaurants or assisted in establishments like hotels, tipping is often expected. Most tips usually do not go beyond what one gets as change from the bill
Useful phrases
Tara, po, kuya/ate
Beyond the usual salutations, “tara” is a word widely used by Tagalogs in eastern Rizal. It may variably mean “let’s go” or “i shall be on my way”. It may be useful to use hand gestures to make your statement clearer. “Po” is an expression of respect that Tagalogs usually use when speaking with elders, people of rank and status, or strangers. Using it is greatly appreciated. The terms “kuya” or “ate” are Tagalog equivalents of “sir” or “madam” and take the place of names in casual conversation between strangers.
What to pack
Packing for an adventure
Bring dry clothes and shoes/slippers and waterproof them when packing. Prepare for rain, bring a poncho. Prepare for insects, bring bug repellant. Charge batteries and don’t forget water and trail food
Book before you go
Masungi Geo-Reserve
Masungi requires guests to book in advance and walk-in visits are not served. They have an on-line reservation system and you may check their availability for your preferred day and time