About Angono Petroglyphs
The Angono Petroglyphs is a rock art site located in a shallow rock shelter in the hills of Binangonan, Rizal, on the boundary with Angono. Discovered in 1965, it contains 127 engraved human and animal figures carved into volcanic tuff, considered the oldest known rock art in the Philippines dating to the late Neolithic period. Declared a National Cultural Treasure, the site is managed by the National Museum of the Philippines and features a small museum and viewing deck.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a small rock shelter set in a forested hillside overlooking Laguna de Bay, accessed via a short trail and stairs. The main feature is a rock wall with 127 pecked engravings of stylized human and animal figures enclosed behind a viewing deck and protective barrier. A small on-site museum displays archaeological finds, replicas, and interpretive panels. The area is quiet and shaded, with guides available to explain the carvings. The visit is primarily for viewing, photography from the deck, and learning about prehistoric art.
Key highlights
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Oldest known rock art in the Philippines with 127 engraved figures
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Shallow rock shelter carved into volcanic tuff dating to late Neolithic period around 3000 BCE
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Declared National Cultural Treasure in 1973 and National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum
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On-site museum with artifacts, interpretive displays and viewing deck overlooking the engravings
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Scenic hillside location with views toward Laguna de Bay and surrounding forest
History of Angono Petroglyphs
Discovered in 1965 by National Artist Carlos V. Francisco during a field trip with scouts. The 127 engravings are pecked into volcanic tuff and dated to the late Neolithic, around 3000 BCE, making them the oldest known rock art in the Philippines. Excavations yielded stone tools, earthenware sherds and other Neolithic materials. Declared a National Cultural Treasure in 1973 under Presidential Decree No. 260 and preserved as an archaeological site managed by the National Museum of the Philippines.
Culture & Context
Recognized as a National Cultural Treasure and important cultural property, representing early Filipino artistic expression and prehistoric belief systems. The stylized anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures are associated with healing and sympathetic magic practices. The site is a significant educational and heritage destination illustrating Neolithic culture in the Philippines and is included in the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage consideration as part of Philippine petroglyphs.