A popular weekend destination for cyclists in Antipolo has vanished. Saturday morning shocked many cyclists. They frequented the Daang Bakal Road, just tens of meters past the Immaculate Heart of Mary or Diocese of Antipolo. A vibrant collection of food stalls and coffee shops catered to the growing number of cyclists. Now, they have disappeared. An empty lot replaced them. A few workers were dismantling the remaining structures.
This area was typically quiet. Only the occasional vehicle visited the Diocese, along with resident tricycles. It became a bustling hub because of the cycling community. Cyclists came because of the challenging climb of Antipolo. After that, they did laps on Daang Bakal. This drew cyclists in droves. It turned the previously overlooked spot into a popular weekend hangout. The area even attracted celebrities at times. Local residents capitalized on this, setting up small businesses to serve the hungry and thirsty cyclists.
Now, only the barangay-run stalls outside the Diocese remain. The removal of the cyclist-supported businesses has left many feeling disheartened. Locals express that no prior notice was given about the demolition. There was no community consultation, which seems at odds with the responsibilities of public servants to consult with residents before such projects.
While barangay officials cite an ongoing project, possibly related to road widening, the decision seems counterintuitive. The road sees minimal motor vehicle traffic. Cyclists arrived in large numbers and transformed the area into a thriving micro-business ecosystem. This transformation is a testament to the economic impact of cycling tourism. The demolition raises questions about the planning and community engagement surrounding the project. Many are left wondering if a valuable community asset has been needlessly sacrificed.
