ANGONO PETROGLYPHS

The Angono Petroglyphs located in Binangonan, Rizal is the oldest known Rock Art in the Philippines dated approximately 1000 years B.C. Originally there are 127 engravings of human and animal figures but due to neglect and vandalism, some rock carvings are disappearing. Studies on volcanic tuff deterioration on conservation is undertaken and site development is on-going. 

A small museum, viewdeck and stone catwalk were constructed and a weather monitoring devices were installed to record the daily environmental condition

The conservation and site development of the petroglyph was supported by World Monument Watch Fund, Department of Tourism, and the National Museum. Todate, researches on conservation is on-going and the Dept. of Invironment and Natural Resources is conducting airblast test on the harmful effect of the quarrying operation in nearby hill. Geologic survey is also on-going.
 
In 1997, Dr. Nicholas Stanley-Price a Rock Art expert from Scotland was invited to assist the National Museum in formulating the site conservation and management policy for the petroglyphs.

Further geological study was conducted in coordination with the Mines and Geo-sciences Bureau and the PHILVOLCS. Seismographic recording was conducted at the site to determine the stability of the rockshelter during earthquake or rock blasting effect of the nearby quarry.

Dra. Elena Charola, a rock art specialist from Argentina was invited to assess the deterioration of the volcanic tuft where this figures are engraved. The rock was fairly stable, however, continuous monitoring and documentation was recommended in order to establish the rate of deterioration due to microenviromental changes at the site.

The Angono Petroglyphs site is tentatively scheduled for opening to the public in March 20, 1999