THE PROVINCE OF RIZAL

By: Juan Carlo D. Fadera

I have been a resident of the Province of Rizal for over thirty (30) years now and
some say that Rizal is the most underrated province which is nearby the Metro. But, like
Laguna, Batangas, and Cavite, Rizal has a lot to offer also to everyone.

Rizal is one of the provinces in Luzon which is situated in Region IV-A. It is one of
the provinces adjacent to Metro Manila which is accessible via Ortigas Avenue and from
Quezon City via Commonwealth Avenue and Marcos Highway. It is composed of one (1)
City and thirteen (13) Municipalities. Rizal is the perfect destination for those interested
in food, nature, and adventure, among others.

Food in Rizal

“Kakanin” or Rice Cake is the most sought after delicacy in Rizal Province where
you can find in its different Municipalities.

The municipality closest to Metro Manila is the Municipality of Cainta where you
can find the famous “Bibingka”. You will see people even need to fall in line just to het a
box of bibingka. Also, if you happen to be a trailing the steep road going to Timberland in
the Municipality of San Mateo, Rizal, you will come across this stopover where they offer
one of the most sought after “Suman” or Sticky Rice with “Latik” Sauce which is a hit
specially for the mountain bikers. Finally, if you are a devotee of the Church in Antipolo
City, there you will find the most famous Suman wrapped in Coconut Leaves.

Nature Tripping and Adventure in Rizal

Rizal’s topography is a combination of valleys and mountains that is why Rizal is

the home for the mountaineers and mountain bikers.

In my hometown, in Rodriguez, you will see a lot of mountaineers going to Mt.

Balagbag, which is, according to some, a great hiking spot for beginners. Another famous
mountain in Rizal is the Daraitan Mountain in Tanay where you can see its crystal clear
river and is famous for its sunrise view. Finally, one of the famous destination for
adventure seekers is the Masungi Georeserve in Baras which is famous for its trails, rope
courses, formidable rock formations and forestry.

Truly, Rizal Province is one of the go to places if you are a foodie or fond of nature
and adventure. Actually, there’s a lot more, but I suggest for you to discover them yourself
and see what are the things that Rizal Province has to offer!