After attending Mass at the International Shrine of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo City, some pilgrims make sure to include a quick stopover at foodshops and resorts during the "Pilgrimage Season" before heading home.
During the weekend, this writer spotted several individuals and groups enjoying their stay in some resorts and recreation facilities in Antipolo City.
Some of the tourists interviewed by the Manila Bulletin said they attended the morning Mass at the Antipolo’s international shrine, bought some souvenirs and delicacies at the "Pasalubong Center" beside the church before dining in at a restaurant inside the 10-hectare facility of the First Pacific Leadership Academy (FPLA) on Sumulong Highway.
While inside the training facility, which was formerly owned by Meralco and now managed by Manuel V. Pangilinan group of companies, visitors are allowed to dine at its restaurant and a pastry shop located at the basement, both named “Tipulo”, the native tree from which the city’s name is believed to have come from.
Christine Carla Sardona of the FPLA’s marketing office told Manila Bulletin that most of the dine-in customers went to the Antipolo Cathedral before having their breakfast or early lunch at Tipulo.
Sardona said she encourages those who would like to dine at the restaurant to make a reservation ahead of their intended date as it gets crowded specially during weekends and holidays.
Mark Sayno of FPLA’s sales office said the leadership training facility has a forest park where one can enjoy strolling under the shade of Tipulo trees, mangoes and other fruit-bearing trees at no cost.
A swimming pool located beside the restaurant is open for guests who have booked at its hotel, including training participants. Walk-in guests who want to enjoy the pool, however, are required to shell out a certain amount.
Instagrammable surroundings, including the newly opened al fresco dining area of the Tipulo Breads pastry shop, are a perfect backdrop for those who are fond of group and selfie photos.
An old jeepney, which used to be a service vehicle of employees of the training facility years back, is now the pastry shop’s food kiosk at the al fresco area.
Other areas worth visiting are some lodging facilities and swimming resorts on Taktak Road, which offer a scenic and overlooking view of Metro Manila and its picturesque sunset. 
