THE FALL THAT WOULD MAKE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH ANTIPOLO

Words by Chrisandrea Kaczaral

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Tayo na sa Antipolo, at doon maligo tayo sa batis na kung tawagin ay Hinulugang Taktak

This was the song that was very popular in the 80's which was written by German San Jose that overmuch called the attention of many people. This song was about the beautiful Hinulugang Taktak in Antipolo that was visited by thousands of tourists.

Because of its relaxing environment and cleanliness, it was declared as a National Park in the year 1990 under the Republic Act. 6964. It;s protection was soon transferred to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (DENR-PAWB), adjoining with the Department of Tourism, and the Provincial Government of Rizal for it to be fully protected and preserved.

Over time, its waterfalls and streams have been gradually strained by pollution and oil spills which was also because of the people and towns around it.

The clean water and fresh air was soon replaced with polluted water and scattered trashes.

All photos by Cheiyef Villareal

Because of this, the (DENR-PAWB) and the government of Antipolo decided to implement theRepublic Act No. 6964 (Annex 5) - (Protected Area Suitability Assessment (PASA) in 1997. Hinulugang Taktak was closed and held for the public during the extensive rehabilitation.

They also included attractions such as the swimming pool, several seats, and a wide fence that serves as the waterfall's protection. Illegal settlers have also been displaced since they have a possible potential of harming the waterfall.

The Antipoleños believe that it will soon be restored to its former warmth and majestic beauty that can be witnessed, boasted, and will be preserved by next generation in the city of Antipolo.