Angono Plaza
Angono is a picturesque town located in the province of Rizal, which is part of the Calabarzon region in the Philippines. It is approximately 30 kilometers east of Manila, making it easily accessible by both private and public transportation.
Angono City Hall
Art Capital of the Philippines:
Angono is known as the "Art Capital of the Philippines" due to its rich history and culture in visual arts. The town is home to several art galleries and museums that showcase the works of local artists, including the famous Filipino painter, Carlos "Botong" Francisco.
Angono is renowned for its flourishing art scene. From traditional to contemporary works, the town has produced numerous talented artists. The art forms encompass various mediums, including painting, sculpture, pottery, and mixed media. The town's artistic heritage can be witnessed through the exhibitions and galleries that showcase the works of local artists, both established and emerging.
Known as the "Art Capital of the Philippines" and attracts visitors with its vibrant art scene and natural beauty. The town is also home to numerous art galleries, where visitors can admire and purchase local artwork.
Here are some of the known art galleries in Angono;
Nemiranda Art House
Balaw-Balaw Art and Restaurant
Historical Landmarks:
Angono is rich in history and has several historical landmarks that visitors can explore. One example is the Angono Petroglyphs, which are ancient rock carvings believed to be over 5,000 years old. Additionally, the town has preserved several ancestral houses that date back to the Spanish colonial period.
Religion:
Angono, Rizal is predominantly Catholic. The majority of the population follows the Roman Catholic faith and actively participates in Catholic traditions and practices. The town has several Catholic churches, including the Angono Church or the Saint Clement Parish Church, which is a significant religious landmark and a place of worship for the locals. The church plays a central role in the community and holds regular masses, sacraments, and religious events. However, it's important to note that Angono also has residents practicing other religions, such as Protestant denominations and various indigenous belief systems. The town embraces religious diversity and promotes tolerance among its people.
Festivals and Events:
Angono celebrates several festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Higantes Festival on November 22nd. During this festival, locals parade colorful papier-mâché giant figures around the town, accompanied by music, dances, and other cultural performances.
Higantes Festival
(picture from Devian art by OrangePiano)
Economy:
The economy of Angono is primarily driven by its thriving art industry, which includes the production and sale of paintings, sculptures, and crafts. Many local artists in the town rely on tourism and art sales for their livelihood. Angono is also known for its traditional "balaw-balaw" sauce, made from fermented shrimp paste, which is a popular food product in the region.
Apart from the arts, agriculture also plays a role in Angono's economy. Some residents are engaged in farming, particularly in rice cultivation, vegetable farming, and poultry raising. The fertile lands in the surrounding areas support agricultural activities, providing livelihood opportunities for those involved.
As Angono continues to develop and attract visitors, tourism has also become a significant contributor to the local economy. The town's art festivals, cultural events, heritage sites, and natural attractions draw tourists who spend on accommodations, food, and other services. The influx of visitors helps generate income for hospitality establishments, restaurants, souvenir shops, and transportation services.
Gastronomical Delights:
Angono is also known for its unique culinary delights and specialties. The town is famous for its smoked fish, locally known as "Tinapa", which is popularly served as an appetizer or main dish. And also the famous "Fried Itik" that can be seen in every corner of Angono. In addition, Angono has a lively market where visitors can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. Another must-try dish is "balaw-balaw." This traditional Filipino dish features fermented shrimp paste and is often paired with a variety of vegetables or meat. Angono is also known for its delicious kakanin (rice cakes) such as suman (sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves) and bibingka (rice cake cooked in a clay pot with coconut milk).
Recreational Activities:
Angono offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The town is located near the scenic Laguna de Bay, which offers water sports such as boating and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy nature hikes and bird watching in the surrounding hills and mountains.
Nature lovers will be delighted with the ecotourism opportunities in Angono. The surrounding hills and mountains provide excellent hiking trails and panoramic views of the Laguna de Bay. There are also bird-watching areas where visitors can observe various species of birds, including migratory ones, during certain times of the year.
Angono Lakeside Wawa
Mermaid 🧜♀️ Tale of Angono Lake
People:
The people of Angono, known as Angonoenses or Rizaleños, are proud of their cultural heritage and are recognized for their artistic talents. They are friendly, welcoming, and known for preserving their traditions and customs. The residents often participate in local festivals and actively support the arts in their community.
Known People:
Apart from the Blanco family, Angono is home to several other notable individuals in different fields. One such person is Carlos "Botong" Francisco, a National Artist for Visual Arts, who was born and raised in Angono. His murals, inspired by Philippine folklore and history, can be found in various locations across the country.
Angono, Rizal has been home to several famous personalities who have made significant contributions in the fields of art, music, and literature. Here are a few notable individuals from Angono:
1. Carlos "Botong" Francisco: Botong Francisco is regarded as one of the most influential Filipino muralists. He was born and raised in Angono, Rizal. His iconic and monumental works depict scenes from Philippine history and culture. Francisco's masterpieces can be seen in various locations around the country.
2. Lucio San Pedro: Lucio San Pedro was a renowned Filipino composer and conductor. He composed numerous classical and folk-inspired musical pieces, with his most famous composition being the popular Filipino song "Sa Ugoy ng Duyan." San Pedro's musical genius has left a lasting impact on Philippine music.
3. Nemiranda Family: The Nemiranda family is a well-known artistic family from Angono. Nemesio "Nemi" Miranda Jr. is a celebrated painter and sculptor known for his vibrant and dynamic artworks depicting Filipino culture and traditions. His wife, Brenda Fajardo, is also an acclaimed visual artist. Their daughter, Ivi Avellana-Cosio, is a respected theater director and actress.
4. National Artists: Apart from Carlos "Botong" Francisco, Angono has produced other national artists. Francisco Arcellana, a writer and essayist, was recognized as a National Artist for Literature. Meanwhile, Amado V. Hernandez, a poet and labor leader, was likewise honored as a National Artist for Literature.
These are just a few examples of the talented individuals who have emerged from Angono, Rizal. Their contributions to Philippine art, music, and literature have made them widely respected and admired figures in their respective fields.
Angono Lakeside Eco Park during dusk
It is a town that embodies the Philippines' love for art, history, culture, and nature. Its vibrant artistic community, historical sites, festive events, delectable cuisine, and natural landscapes make it a remarkable destination worth exploring.
Angono Rizal - Art Capital of the Philippines
Angono Carabao Boundary Arc
Angono Higantes Festival
Angono Lakeside Eco Park
