Our Lady of Porta Vaga

The Porta Vaga gate

• 1602 – The Spaniards constructed a massive wall protecting the port town of Cavite. With this wall was a main gate which gave entry to Cavite Puerto. This gate appeared on a 1659 map labelled as "puerta nueva que sales a San Roque". In chabacano dialect, it was called Puetrang Bago. Later Bago which means new was converted to Vaga to be more hispanized. Hence, it was called Porta Vaga.[8]
• Ca 1667 – Tradition says a miraculous lady appeared before a guardia civil. She claimed to be Mary, the mother of Jesus and sought entrance through Porta Vaga to Cavite Puerto. The next day, fisherman and workers at the Cavite Royal Arsenal found the image of the Virgen de la Soledad floating on the waters of Cañacao Bay.
• 1669 – 1689 Tomas de Andrade was the rector of the Jesuits "Colegio de Cavite". He wrote a poem entitled "Himno a la Virgen de Cavite". Later, the poem became the lyrics of the hymn, Reina de Cavite.
• 1692 April 12 – An inscription on the back of the painting states "A doze de Abril 1692 anos puso sima himagen Juan de Oliba haqui (The most holy image was placed here on April 12, 1692 by Juan de Oliba)". This is the basis of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad's Tricentennial celebration.

Port of Cavite, detail from Carta Hydrographica y Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas (1734). Listed on the map as "11. La Soledad" is the Ermita de Porta Vaga

Original Spanish era Frame of Our Lady of Porta Vaga.

• 1739 – The first time that the Ermita de la Virgen de la Soledad was mentioned in the map of Cavite Puerto.
• 1739 – The Chaplain of the Ermita de la Soledad was Nicolas Melo.
• 1739 (October 5) – Marcos Zamora was appointed as administrator and mayordomo of the Capilla Nuestra Sra. De la Soledad. He was asked to submit an inventory of the properties of the said chapel.
• 1742 – Soldedad Patricenante de Maria, Oracion Evangelica de Nuestra Señora de la Soleded apellidada de Puerta Vaga was printed. This was based on the preaching given by the Dominican preachers Fray Juan de la Cruz in the Ermita de la Soledad in 1741.
• 1747 (December 16) – Viente de Segueyra was appointed as chaplain of the Ermita de Nuestra Señora de la Soleded.
• 1748 (January 22) – Vicente de Segueyra asked Don Patricio de Mena Rear Admiral of the ship, Principe de Asturias, to ask for alms in his trip to China and Canton for the said sanctuary, the Ermita of the Soledad. This was approved by the Archbishop of Manila.
• 1751 (January 16) – De Sousa was granted permission by the Archbishop of Manila to ask for alms from passengers aboard the ship Santisimo Rosario bound for Acapulco for the greater glory of the cult and adornment of the Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.
• 1752 (July 7) – de Sousa solicited alms for the image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad aboard Nuestra Señora del Rosario y San Juan Bautista.
• 1755 (November 21) Antonio Gil Adriano was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1757 (November 6) – A document mentioned the existence of Obras Pias de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad under the administration of Don Miguel Cortes de Arrendenio y Oriosolo, Vicar General of Manila.
• 1768 (January 17) – Joseph Aranzana was appointed chaplain of the Ermita de la Soledad.
• 1768 (July 20) – Aranzana was given permission to ask for alms for the Virgen de la Soledad aboard the Frigate San Carlos.
• 1768 (August 11) – Joseph de Jesus Diaz Vardona was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1768 (October 1) – Vicente Hipolito was assigned as mayordomo capella of the Ermita.
• 1769 (July 19) – Vicente Hipolito was given the permission to solicit from the galleon San Carlos.
• 1770 (March 1) - Thomas Nazario Benitez was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1771 – The sanctuary of the Ermita was painted floors, leaks and windows were repaired.
• 1773 (March 1) – Raphael Ochoa was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1774 (April) – Dionicio Vicente Esguera de Leyba was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1775 – Archbishop Sancho of Manila approved the rebuilding of the retablo with gold and silver leaf imported from Canton.

The oldest Estampa or print of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga with the granted 40 days indulgence of Bishop Mateo Joaquin Rubio de Arevalo of Cebu

• 1775 – 1792 – Don Mateo Joaquin Rubio de Arevalo Bishop of Cebu granted 40 days of indulgence to devotees of the Virgen de la Soledad. During this time, estampas printed on silk was a popular one. Devotees adorn the copies with gold and silver embroidery and ivory.
• 1776 – 1788 – Don Basilio Sancho de Santa Justa y Rufina was Archbishop of Manila. He granted 80 days of indulgence to devotees of the Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.
• 1787 – inventory of the Ermita described four altars; much silver vessels and decoration and curtains of different colors hanging in the Ermita.
• 1830 (June 2) – Lighting struck the altar of the Ermita, fire razed the altar to ground but the image of the Virgin remained intact amidst he ashes and debris.

The Ermita de Porta Vaga (Chapel of Porta Vaga) alongside the walls of Cavite, built as the original shrine of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga, circa 1899.

The Replica and marker on the original site of the Ermita de Porta Vaga

• 1832 – Novenario Consagrado a la Piadosa Vrigen de la Soledad llamada de Puerta Vaga printed by the Real Colegio de Sto. Tomas, Manila
• 1848 (April 22) – Macario Goco was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1848 – The church was closed because of its ruinous state. The dome was in danger of falling down. The archbishop allowed the immediate repair of the chapel.
• 1849 (April 6) - Clemente Custodio was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1851 – The chapel of the Nunstra Señora de la Soledad was reported to be well built. The interior is decorated with the paintings of the miracles of the Virgen.
• 1856 – A terrible typhoon flooded Cavite Puerto, Houses and buildings in the whole Puerto went underwater except for the Ermita and its patio where Caviteños sought refuge and prayed to the Virgen de la Soledad the flooding subsided thereafter.
• 1857 (June 30) – Cavite based Spanish frigate Lucero was caught between the shallow reefs of Rauis, Legaspi, Albay amidst a violent typhoon. The crew asked for the Virgen's assistance and she appeared before them. After 22 days, the frigate floated away from the reefs and sailed safely to Cavite.
• 1859 (December 22) - Bernardino Tongco was appointed chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1861 (August 31) – Candido Ureta Manzanares, chancellor of the Arcdiocese of Manila approved the Tagalog novena to the Virgen.
• 1863 – A novena in honor of the Virgen de la Soledad printed by Imprenta Ramirez y Giraudier.
• 1863 – A terrible earthquake destroyed the Ermita and the image of the Virgen de la Soledad was temporarily housed in San Juan de Diós Church.
• 1865 – Another printing of the novena by the Imprenta de M. Sanchez Calle Anloage Binondo. The stabat Mater in Spanish was added together with a prayer in Latin.
• 1869 (July 6) – Timoteo Sanchez was appointed as chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1870 (August 12) – Roman Pilapil was appointed as chaplain of the Ermita.
• 1871 – The convent of the Ermita was repaired extensively. Some properties owned by the Ermita were sold to subsidize the expenses.
• 1874 – A running balcony was constructed in the second floor of the sacristy, worked was initiated by Juan Dilag.
• 1879 – A big bell was donated to the Ermita by various devotees of the Virgen de la Soledad. This bell was recast in 1890. The bell exist to this day and hangs in the belfry of the San Roque church.
• 1880 – The church was closed due to heavy earthquake damage; only the dome and presbytery were spared from cracks.
• 1882 (October) Cholera epidemic spread in Cavite and many residents died. Even the politico military governor Don Juan Salcedo was afflicted. An old lady appeared to him and requested that the fiesta of the Virgen de la Soledad be celebrated with the greatest pomp possible. If the request is granted the epidemic will subside. After the governor agreed, he got well and the cholera epidemic was checked.
• 1883 – 1886 – Height of Cavite Fiesta. The whole province participated in the affair. Streets covered by the route of the procession were carpeted and canopied and lighted with crystal lanterns.
• 1892 – The fiesta of Cavite was featured in the Spanish newspaper, Manililla. The governor of Cavite Don Juan Francisco Rodriguez opened the Exposición Regional de Cavite. The hymn Reina de Cavite was composed by Don Julian Felipe, the national anthem composer.[9][10]

The original plan of the proposed carroza.

Procession, 1955 Fiesta

• 1909 (October 21) – the first American Archbishop of Manila Jeremiah James Harty granted 100 days of indulgence to those who will make pious devotion to the Virgen de la Soledad.
• 1914 – The fiesta of Cavite was featured in the society magazine, "Cultura Social".
• 1929 (June 13) – Pedro Lerena of Logroño Spain became the parish priest of San Pedro in Cavite Puerto. He was at the same time appointed as rector of the Ermita. Lerena took care of the Virgin until his death.
• 1932 – Lerena beautified the Ermita. He opened new windows and widened the older ones. He installed a new communion rail made of narra and marble. He also installed electric chandeliers.
• 1941 – 1942 – The Japanese imperial forces entered Cavite. The Ermita de la Soledad was sealed and the image was junked at Sangley Point. Lerena retrieved the image and brought it to Manila.
• 1942 (November) – The fiesta of the Virgen de la Soledad was celebrated in Quiapo Church.

Mass inside the Manila Cathedral celebrating the feast of Our Lady of Porta Vaga

• 1943 – 1944 (November) – The fiestas of the Virgen were celebrated at the Manila Cathedral.
• 1944 – The Ermita was reduced into rubbles by series of American and Japanese carpet bombings. When the Archbishop's Palace in Intramuros was bombed, the image was kept in one of the values of the Philippine National Bank.
• 1945 – What was lef of the Ermita was bulldozed. Lerena returned the image of the Virgen de la Soledad to Cavite and enshrined it at San Roque Church.
• 1946 – A small carroza for the procession of the Virgen de la Soldead was made since the old carroza de plata was lost during the war. This new carroza is still used during the caracol of the Virgin.
• 1951 – A miniature galleon was made a carroza of the Virgin for the procession. It is still used to this day.
• 1954 – The image of the Virgen de la soledad was brought to Luneta for the Marian Year celebration. San Roque Church, the shrine of the Virgin became the venue for the vicarial of the Marian Year.
• 1972 (May 25) – Lerena, the caretaker of the Virgin for 47 yrs. passed away.
• 1976 – The new parish priest Baraquiel Mojica bought the replica of the Virgen de la Soledad to the different towns of Cavite province to promote the devotion to her.
• 1977 – Exhibits of old souvenir programs of the fiestas of the Virgen and old photos of Cavite were displayed at the patio of San Roque Church during the fiesta.

1978

• (Jun 12) The Our Lady of Solitude Foundation was established from the proceeds of the safe of the Ermita lot.

Former Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Bruno Torpigliani crowning the image in 1978.

• (November 17) – The Canonical of the Virgen de la Soledad. The Apostolic Nuncio Bruno Torpigliani placed the crown that was donated by Don Arturo Mañalac.

• 1981 – The story of the Virgen de la Soldedad was made into a movie entitled "Ang Milagro sa Porta Vaga". Sor Agustina Salcedo, the granddaughter of Don Juan Salcedo authored the script.

The condition of the Marian image after it was stolen. Later, it was restored to its present condition.

1984

• (March 16) – The image of the Virgen de la Soldead was stolen from her altar in San Roque church.

• (August 15) – The image of the Virgen de la Soledad was retrieved by Antonio G. Nazareno and had it authenticated by Felix Perez, Bishop of Imus and Monsignor Mojica. The date of the enthronement of the Virgen was found at the back of the Canvass.

• (August 19) Celebration of the Feast of San Roque and blessing of a replica. After the blessing, the bishop announced the recovery of the authentic image of the Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and she was greeted with much emotion as she was being brought to the altar.

• 1990 – Preparatory stage of the Tricentennial Celebration initiated by Felix Perez. The image of the Virgin made a sentimental visit to Quiapo church.

1991

• April 12 – Solemn opening to the Tricentennial Celebration

• May 12 First grand Marian Procession held in Cavite in honor to the Virgen de la Soledad. It was participated by more than 42 images of the Virgin.

• June – July – The replica of the Virgin de la Soledad was brought to the United States to Visit the Caviteño communities.

• September – Oct – the delegation from Cavite brought the image of the Virgin back to the United States upon the fervent request of her other devotees.

• October – A Marian Congress was held in San Roque in honoring the Virgen de la Soldead. A perpetual Rosary Devotion was held before the image of the Virgen de la Soledad.

• October 19 – Development Foundation was launched at the Manila Hotel with the Ambassadors of Spain and Mexico as guests.

• November 1991 – The image of the Nuestra Señora de la Soledad in Barrio Soledad (now Camba in Binondo) was brought to Cavite City. The image must have been brought by the Caviteños who settled in that particular place in Binondo. It has been venerated in Camba since 1887.

• November 1991 – The Historical Marker commemorating the Tricentennial of the Enthronement of the Soledad was unveiled by Bishop Felix Perez of Imus and Mayor Timoteo Encarnacion of Cavite City at the former site of the Ermita de Porta Vaga. The Marker was granted by the National Historical Institute upon the approval of Director Serafin Quiazon.

1992

• December 1991 – The century-old Maytinis of Kawit, Cavite representing the different personalities in the Bible through colorful floats was re-enacted in CaviteCity in honor of the Soledad. It is traditionally held in Cavite on the eve of Christmas.

• February 1992 – The original image of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno made a sentimental visit to the shrine of the Soledad. It was the first time that the said image was brought out of Quiapo to the place where it first landed over three hundred years ago. The most emotional part of the visit was when the Soledad met the Nazareno at the junction of Ronquillo Street. The Sorrowful Mother meeting the Suffering Son.

• March 1992 – The Soledad Visual Art Competition was held. Many young Caviteño artists participated painting the Soledad.

• April 1992 – A press conference was held in Cavite City on the Porta Vaga Festival in celebration of the Tricentennial of the Soledad. Over 30 press people from Manila were ferried to Cavite. Alter a tour to Cavite's historical sites, the members of the press were treated with a sumptuous Caviteño lunch and a press conference was followed.

• April 12, 1992 – The Soledad Tableau was presented by high school students in San Roque Parish Church. The tableau re-enacted the apparition and the coronation of the Soledad.

• April 24, 1992 – the commemorative stamps issued by the Philippine Postal Services office on Apr 12 19992 was formally presented to Mayor Tim Encarnation and Pedro Arigo, the Diocesan administrator of Cavite. The stamp was designed by Rafael Asuncion and approved by the Postmaster General Jorge Sarmiento. Four hundred thousand stamps were issued under two denominations.
• April 24, 26 – The closing ceremonies to the Tricentennial celebration dubbed as Porta Vaga '92 was held at the former site of the Ermita de Porta Vaga. It was a 3-day religious-cultural celebration honoring the Soledad.

The Image wearing her new regalia of NCT Pins and the Canonical Crown

2017

the 350th Anniversary of the Arrival of the Original icon in the shores of Cavite.

• July 21- Nomination of the image thru a letter address to Director Jeremy barns of the National Museum.
• August 30- Stakeholders meeting and Public hearing for the Nomination of the image as National Cultural Treasure.
• September 28 – The panel of Experts unanimously approved the NCT nomination.
• November 19 - the four venerated images of Our Lady of Solitude of Buhi from Albay, Nueva Ecija, Camba Manila and the Estampa image From the Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol Seminary in tagaytay was brought together for the first time in cavite and graced the streets of Cavite City in a grand Procession

2018

• 18 November – Canonical Coronation of La Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga officiated by Gabrielle Giordanno Caccia, Nuncio to the Philippines.[11] The solemn ceremonies enacting the Papal act was jointly presided by Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, Papal Nuncio to the Philippines, and Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, D.D., Bishop of Imus, on 18 November 2018.[12]

• 24 November – Public declaration of the image of La Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga as National Cultural Treasure. Hon. Gemma Cruz Araneta give the keynote speech.

• 12 April 2019 – Unveiling of the Marker of the image as NCT.[13] According to Gemma Cruz-Araneta, former director of the National Museum, this was the first time an ecclesiastical artifact was declared a national cultural treasure.[14]

According to local legend, a Spanish carabinero on sentry duty on the Rosario isthmus one stormy night saw a halo of bright light amongst storm clouds above Canacao Bay. Thinking the light to be coming from Islamic pirates intent on sacking Cavite, the sentry shouted a challenge to the lights as they approached him. When the light did not stop, he again called out. A calm and soothing voice replied from the light:[15]

"Soldadito, ¿por qué el alto me das en noche tan fría? Dame paso. ¿No conoces a María?" (Soldier boy, why challenge me on a night so cold? Let me pass. Don’t you recognize Mary?)

The soldier, struck with awe and confusion, replied:[15]

"Perdóname, Virgen Maria, Reina de mi devoción; pues solo soy un soldado que cumplo mi obligación!" (Forgive me, my Virgin, Queen of my heart; I am a poor sentinel abiding by his duty.”)

The morning followed the stormy night. The early risers, mostly fishermen and workers at the Cavite Royal Arsenal usually passed through the Porta Vaga gate in entering the puerto. Along the beach of Cañacao Bay, they found a framed image of the Virgen de la Soledad lying on the sandy shore. It was close to the spot where the Virgin appeared the previous night. Others claimed it came with the debris of a Spanish galleon that sank during the fierce typhoon. They brought the image to the parish priest, who temporarily installed it in the parish church. Later, a small chapel was built near the Porta Vaga walls and for three centuries it became the shrine of the Virgen de la Soledad.[15]

An inscription was found at the back of the painting, “A doze de Abril 1692 años Juan de Oliba puso esta Stsma. Ymagen Haqui.” This inscription says that “this sacred image was placed here on April 12, 1692 by Juan Oliva” but it does not clearly tells us the exact date of the Virgin's arrival. It is possible that it is the date when the Virgin was enthroned at the altar of the Ermita de Porta Vaga in the 17th century. Devotees of the Virgen de la Soledad were not satisfied in placing her in one of the seven churches of Cavite Puerto. They decided to build for her the Ermita de Porta Vaga, a small chapel near the gate of the Porta Vaga, the fortlet guarding the entrance to the Puerto de Cavite. For three centuries, it became the shrine of the Virgin.[15]

The heavy files of history prove to be an accommodating ally in the earnest search for the truth about the Virgin. In the past, numerous Caviteño writers attempted to give a definite date of Her arrival. Some said that it must be during the second half of the seventeenth century. Others would give a more definite year –1667.[15]

Impossition of Pins by Gemma Cruz-Araneta and Cavite City Mayor Hon. Bernardo "Totie" S. Paredes

The State also recognized the importance and role of the Virgen de la Soledad in history. In August 2017, the Local Government of Cavite City finally declared her image as Important Cultural Property of the People of Cavite City thru City Resolution No. – 2017–071. The City Resolution also declared the second Sunday of November as "Dia de la Virgen de la Soledad Porta Vaga" or Our Lady of Porta Vaga Day in the whole city of Cavite.[17]

In July 2017, the Parish of San Roque, formally nominated the centuries-old image of La Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga as National Cultural Treasure of the Philippine thru the National Museum. Numerous historical documents were forwarded to their for preliminary study and validation of the data. The National Museum responded to the letter and site visit was conducted by the Cultural Properties Regulation Division. On August 31, 2017, Public Hearing and Stakeholders' meeting for the NCT nomination was conducted by the Diocese of Imus, City Government of Cavite and the National Museum at San Roque Church, thousands of devotees from different parts of the Philippines attended. The Cavitenos and the devotees welcomed the nomination of the Virgin as National Cultural Treasure without objections.[18] The program was closed by singing the Reina de Cavite. The officials of the National Museum were impressed on how the devotees, clergy and local government officials welcomed the nomination, in fact they annotated that this stakeholders' meeting is the biggest in NM's history up to date. The Panel of Experts consists of archaeologist, architects, art historian and archivist unanimously approved the declaration of the image of La Virgen de la Soledad as well as the intangible heritage associated with the painting on September 27. 2017. NM Director, Jeremy Barns signed Museum Declaration 2017–02 on the same date. The ceremony of public declaration was done on November 18, 2018. It was attended by heritage experts. Former Department of Tourism Secretary Gemma Cruz Araneta said that this declaration is very unique, because Porta Vaga is the first ecclesiastical relic declared as NCT of the Philippines. The program was followed by a Concelebrated mass and the traditional Procesion de la Reina. On April 12, 2019, the heritage marker was unveiled by the National Museum, city, province and national officials.[19][20]

The Crowning of the image by Apostolic Nuncio Gabriele Giordano Caccia and Reynaldo G. Evangelista

The notarized decree of Canonical Coronation of the image. From the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, circa 2018.

Through the joint efforts of Msgr. Baraquiel Mojica and Bishop Felix Perez, a petition was sent to Rome for the canonical coronation of the Virgin. The Holy See grants the privilege of crowning an image only in very rare and exceptional cases. "The Catholic rite of crowning originated in 1640, when Alejandro Sfortia, Marquis of Placencia, died leaving in his will a provision in which a large sum of money was to be invested and the proceeds to form a fund for the purchase of crowns of precious metals for the coronation of the most celebrated images in the world.

After a favorable response from Rome, Bruno Torpigliani, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, crowned the image of the Virgin on November 17, 1978. Present were Artemio Casas, Archbishop of Jaro, and the first Bishop of Imus; Cirilo Almario and Leopoldo Arcaira,

In an effort to rectify whatever was lacking in the coronation of 1978, the present officers of the Cofradia de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga, Inc., with the usual support and guidance of the present Parish Priest, Dominador B. Medina and its Spiritual Director Virgilio Saenz Mendoza, requested the Vatican for a Papal Bull and authorize the coronation of the sacred image during the papacy of Francis.

On March 19, 2018, Pope Francis issued the decree for the Pontifical Coronation of the 300-year old image of the Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga. The coronation was carried out on November 18, 2018 by Papal Nuncio Gabriele Giordano Caccia with Reynaldo G. Evangelista, the Bishop of Imus.

On the same occasion, her church was declared as the Diocesan Shrine of the Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga. Because of this momentous occasion of the Catholic faith in the province of Cavite, the Holy See thru the Apostolic Penitentiary granted plenary indulgence from November 18, 2018 to November 18, 2019 for those who will visit the Shrine of the Virgin. Pope Francis through the papal nuncio blessed those present during the coronation and via the Internet, radio and television.[21]

During the terrible typhoon in 1830, a fire caused by lightning bolt hit the wooden altar of the Ermita and razed the chapel to the ground, but the image of the Virgin remained intact among the ashes.[22]

In 1856, another terrible typhoon flooded the houses, churches and public buildings within the Puerto but the Ermita, as well as its patio were found dry so the people took refuge in the Church.[22]

On June 30, 1857, a Spanish frigate based in Cavite and named Lucero was caught by a violent typhoon off the coast of Albay. It ran aground on the rocky place known as Rawis, legaspi. For twenty two days, the ship was unable to move not only because of the low tide, but also because of the absence of even a slight breeze. The crewmen were worried because their provision was running low. It happened that one of the crew members was a devotee of the Virgen de la Soledad. He took out Her picture and asked his fellow sailors to pray before Her. One night, the Virgin appeared before the crewmen in the light of the pale moon. As they fell to their knees, the tide rose higher and higher and the wind began to blow. The frigate floated free from its rocky trap and was able to return safely to Cavite. There was so much jubilation. As the crewmen set foot on the ground, they proceeded right away to the Ermita. There, to the tune of the Te Deum, they expressed their gratitude to the Virgin.[22]

An epidemic plagued the Province of Cavite in October 1882. Due to the severity of this case, Don Juan Salcedo Y Mantilla de los Rios who served as the Provincial Governor from 1880 to 1886, ordered that the feast of the Virgen de la Soledad be postponed until the whole Province has been freed from such disaster. At one night, when the Governor was sick and resting, he ordered his guards not to let anyone in his quarters. However, to his surprise, an old lady dressed in black, came knocking at his door. The lady asked him to promise to celebrate the feast of the Virgen de la Soledad with greatest pomp for the epidemic to leave. Dismayed at such untimely request, he agreed and gave the lady some silver coins wrapped in a white handkerchief. After the lady left, he summoned his guards and reprimanded them for letting the old lady in. To their surprise, they told him that they saw no one in the vicinity. At once he himself was healed and he immediately visited the Ermita de Porta Vaga to give thanks to the Miraculous Virgin. To his surprise, he saw the silver coins wrapped in white handkerchief in front of the icon, just as he had given it to the lady. In thanksgiving for healing the whole of Cavite from such malady, he ordered that the feast of the Virgin be celebrated on January 20–21, 1883. He required all leaders of localities in the whole province to participate in the celebrations. On the day of the fiesta, the bells of all churches in Cavite rang to pay homage to their Queen. It was likewise answered by canyons from the Fort San Felipe. All gobernadorcillos of all towns of Cavite together with all of their officials (tenientes mayors, jefes de policies, ganados, sementeras, tenientes, cabezas de Barangay and aguaciles) came with their colorful gala uniforms with their own town's brass bands. All roads of the Cavite Puerto were decorated with beautiful arkos,and buntings. The Calle Real was illuminated by beautiful crystals and lanterns called globos, virinas and bombas. The road going to the Ermita de Porta Vaga was piled up with sederas or temporary stores. The whole route of the Virgin's procession were not only brightly-lighted but carpeted with expensive rugs and were covered overhead by canvasses and sails of boats to protect the participants from getting wet in case of rain. Genoveva Edroza Matute, a writer in Filipino, stated that the grandiose celebration of the fiesta of San Diego in Rizal's Noli Me Tangere was based on the fiesta celebration of Cavite. Thus, the Virgen de la Soledad was called the Queen of the Whole Province of Cavite.[22]

The First Saturdays Devotion (or Act of Reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Blessed Virgin Mary) is a Catholic practice which, according to the visionaries, has been requested by the Blessed Virgin Mary in several visitations, notably Our Lady of Fatima and the subsequent Pontevedra apparitions. This devotion, and the marian apparitions, have been officially embraced by the Roman Catholic Church.[23]

The devotion fits on the Catholic tradition to venerate the Virgin Mary particularly on Saturdays, which originated in the scriptural account that, as the Mother of Jesus Christ, her heart was to be pierced with a sword, as prophesied during the presentation of Jesus in the temple; such sword was the bitter sorrow during the Crucifixion of Jesus (which Catholic devotees understand as the union of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus). Such sorrow is particularly bitterly endured on Holy Saturday after Jesus was placed on the Sepulcher (before the Resurrection on Easter). Devotees of Fátima believe that the First Saturdays help to console the sorrows of the Lord Jesus and the Virgin Mary for the sins against Her Immaculate Heart.[23]

In the Shrine of the Virgen de la Soledad, this devotion is being observed through a simple yet profound activity. Every first Saturday of the month, the original icon is exposed for veneration beginning with a Rosary and Novena at 5:00 in the morning, followed by a "Misa de la Reina" which is said in the local dialect of Cavite, Chavacano. The monthly meeting and general assembly of the Cofradia de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga follows to discuss activities uplifting the devotion to the Reina de Cavite..[23]

The original image in its kamagong wood altar frame on its feast day. The original three-century old image is enshrined in a chapel behind the Retablo Mayor (right)

2019 2nd Fiesta Procession

The Fiesta of the Soledad continues to be one of the most important in Cavite and a fulfillment to the request of Our Lady that they still celebrate up to this day. The Fiestas in honor of the Soledad is celebrated every second and third Sunday of November in Cavite City. Devotees include Overseas Filipino Workers and other foreign nationals who flock to the country to join the Porta Vaga Festival. The Festival of the Soledad lasted for almost two and a half weeks that started with a Motorcade on ante- Visperas on a Friday before Second Sunday of November. The Caracol dela Tierra and Caracol del Mar then took place on the Visperas of the Fiesta that it is one of the most awaited where the devotees danced all throughout the day and the Virgin is carried in an Andas. On the day of the Day of the Primera Fiesta - the Second Sunday of November, people from all over the country flock the Shrine and join the grand Procession dela Reina in the evening. The Primera Fiesta is dedicated for Pilgrims and devotees nationwide. On the Segunda Fiesta - the Third Sunday of November, is dedicated to Caviteños and a procession of the patron saints of different parishes and chapels of Cavite City caps the grand festival.[24]

• Motorcade

The Grand Motorcade attended by hundreds of vehicles is held on Friday a day before the karakol at the first fiesta of Our Lady of Solitude, in memory of the return of the original image from theft in 1984. The fun and colorful motorcade entry into the City of Cavite reminds the devoteers of the joy of the return of their Mother and Queen and her importance as the Mother of God and of all. At the sound and accompaniment of cheerful music, colorful balloons, banners and confetti the motorcade makes its way to San Roque Parish.

The much awaited karakol tradition attended by the multitudes

• Karakol

Karakol Processions are held during town and barangay fiestas in Cavite and some rural areas in The Philippines. It is done mostly on the eve of the feast in thanksgiving for all the blessings and graces received through the intercession of the Patron Saint. Also, some Karakol rituals are done to ask for rain or deliverance from calamities and epidemics. Caracol, which is a specie of a snail, refers to the snail-like dance done during these celebrations. It is a fun tradition that dates back from the Spanish era and is still in practice to the present within the province. In Cavite City, the Karakol has two parts as follows: CARACOL DE LA TIERRA and CARACOL DEL MAR. Caracol de la Tiera or the Karakol sa Lupa is the usual Karakol Procession done as in most communities in Cavite. The Caracol del Mar or Karakol sa Dagat is a fluvial procession wherein the image of the Virgin is brought back to the open waters of Manila Bay where She was found floating in the year 1667. It is also done, to ask for Her blessing since Cavite City has fishing as one of its main sources of livelihood.

Traditionally, the Most Reverend Cirilo Almario, Bishop Emeritus of Malolos, who is a native of Cavite city, presides annually a concelebrated Mass during this Caracol in thanksgiving to the Virgin whom He lovingly calls as his dear Mother, Queen and Patroness.

• Translacion

A new part of the fiesta is the Translacion commemorating the events of the feast on November 8, 1896, during the historic Battle of Binakayan-Dalahican during the opening months of the Philippine Revolution. Revolutionary soldiers of the Magdiwang faction based in what is now General Trias, Cavite brought the original image from Cavite City and celebrated the feast of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga in the premises of St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church in the city proper, away from Spanish naval artillery fire and gunfire from both Spanish and Filipino soldiers.

The commemoration starts at the Diocesan Shrine with a motorcade to the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, where a welcome Mass is held followed by an overnight vigil. In the following day another mass is held followed by another procession going back to Cavite City by foot, wherein the image of the Virgin is escorted by devotees.

On Good Friday a silent procession marks the faithful who wear black garments and walk barefooted accompanies the sorrowing icon.

As one final salvo to the celebrations of Good Friday, devotees of the Virgen de la Soledad come out after the traditional Santo Sepulcro Procession for a time of profound penance and prayer for the Procession del Silencio de la Virgen de la Soledad. Devotees, mostly clad in black, barefoot and silently praying with their candles in hand, accompany the age-old icon of the Virgen de la Soledad on a short route to symbolize the Virgin's lonely walk back home after bringing Christ's body to the Holy Sepulchre. This procession brings out the grief believers have in giving consolation to our Lady in Her time of bereavement. As devotees remember, the icon of the Virgen de la Soledad is a depiction of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the night of the first Good Friday, where She spent time alone in solitude, in quiet prayer and meditation, pondering over the great sufferings that Her Son has endured, thus the evening procession is to them a reminder of Her fervent presence in the hearts of the faithful.[25]

Candles offered at a makeshift altar or "kubol" by the bay at the 2018 "Soleda" Festival Sta. Margarita, Calbayog, Samar

This is a less popular but a more traditional celebration of the folks from Sta. Margarita and Barangay Matobato in Calbayog Samar about merry dancing at the shores bearing the image of Nuestra Senora de Porta Vaga, more popularly known as "Soleda". This festival is specially pursued and initiated by the descendants of the early settlers in the community called "Tagalugan" referring to Tagalog speaking migrants from Cavite City during the Spanish era. The celebration is prominently highlighted by the presence of "kubol" or sea-shanties made up of bamboo and coconut palm leaves. The devotees dance their way from the local Chapel as they bring out the image and pass by the different "kubols" until reaching the main "kubol" where a simple ceremony is conducted. The date of celebration though is not very prominent because of the confusion of the actual festival day which falls every second Sunday of November.

Novenario Consagrado a la Piadosa Vrigen de la Soledad llamada de Puerta Vaga printed by the Real Colegio de Sto. Tomas, Manila

The origin of the novena for the icon and its purported author is unknown. According to local historian Ricky Jose, some of its prayers may have been taken from a booklet published in 1742 entitled "Soledad patrocinante de Maria. Oracion evangelica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, appelida de la Puerta Vaga" (English: Under the patronage of the Mary of Solitude, with the prayers of propagation of Our Lady of Solitude, under the name of the Open Gate); a printing of a prayer or discourse book preached in 1741 by the Dominican priest Juan de la Cruz, an early local historian of his order and a Christian missionary in China.

In the 19th century, a Tagalog translation of this Novena was made by Juan Dilag, a chaplain of the Ermita. On 31 August 1861, the chancellor of the Archdiocese of Manila, Don Candido Ureta de Manzares approved the Tagalog translation with the following decree:

We attach herewith to act as license to print in the Tagalog language manuscript entitled Pagsisiyam sa mapagpalang Ina, na ang pamagat Nuestra Senora de la Soledad. (English: Novena to the Blessed Mother, under the title of Our Lady of Solitude), in response to that as reported by the Censor that our Order has examined such, not contain anything against the dogma and morality, but rather deemed highly desirable for the pious reading of the faithful. Recorded for the Secretariat in testimony of this decree and filed the original subject.

— Archbishop Gregory

an inscription on an estampa venerated at the chapel of "Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol",the Diocesan Seminary for Cavite. says that the Spanish Archbishop of Manila, Don Basilio Sancho de Sta. Justa y Rufina granted 80 days indulgence for those who would say the novena in her honor.

Bishop Mateo Joaquin Rubio de Arevalo of Cebu granted 40 more days for those who did likewise.

Another Archbishop, Don Juan Antonio de Obrigo y Gallego granted indulgence to her devotees.

On October 21, 1909, the first American Archbishop of Manila, Jeremiah J. Harty, granted 100 days of Indulgence to those who would make a pious devotion to the Virgin.

In the 1950s Cesar Ma. Guerrero, former Archbishop of the Diocese of San Fernando (Pampanga) and Tarlac, whose ancestors were full-blooded Cavitenos, permitted the publication of the prayer entitled: "Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga: CELESTIAL GUARDIANA Y PROTECTORA DE LA PROVINCIADE CAVITE Y SU PUERTO". The holy bishop likewise granted 300 days indulgence to all who would pray it.[26]

A warm welcome from the parishioners of Sto Niño Parish, Maycauayan Bulacan

A replica of the sacred image of the Blessed Virgin of Soledad in the custody of Cofradia de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga, Inc. or the Vyajera image enshrined at the shrine will visit communities. The icon or picture is the exact replica of the original image of La Virgen de la Soledad found on the coast of Cañacao, Rosario isthmus in Cavite Puerto. It has traveled to various communities and has been blessed by the clegys of Cavite and the bishops it has visited. These include Archbishop Paciano Aniceto of Pampanga, Teodoro Bacani, Bishop emeritus of Novaliches, Cirilo Almario, bishoop Emeritus of Malolos, Manuel Sobre, Bishop Emeritus of Imus, Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila and then Bishop of Imus, and the Extraordinary Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, former Apostolic Nuncio of the Philippines.

• When the image arrives the Prayer of Receiving will be said. There is also a time for confession and celebration of the holy Mass.
• It is also suggested that the town pray the "Solemnne Septenario" during the seven-day stay of the "Virgen de la Soledad" in the community.
• Veneration or "Pahalik" can be done at an appropriate time. There can also be a short procession while praying the Holy Rosary and singing songs for the Blessed Mother.
• The "Prayers of Goodbye" and "Consecration of Self" will be offered before the divine Image is passed to the next community.
• The community is required to inform the leadership of Cofradia de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga, Inc., to prepare prior to their actual implementation.[27]

The current silver frame use on special occasions mostly processions is made of wood covered in pure silver and the back made of bronze, the Silver is made of old coins donated by devotees and Mexican silver given by Antonio Jose Sr. owner of a metal trading business. the original frame was destroyed during the Philippine Japanese occupation.

A frame made of kamagong wood with brass appliques and silver rays was donated by the Roxas family Matriarch. the frame acts as her throne and used to hold the original image on her altar, now it holds the Vyajera image or the official replica on ordinary days. During the fiesta or on special occasions this frame will hold the original image.

Pectoral Cross of the late Rufino Cardinal Santos altered into a crown for Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga

A Crown made of gold fashioned from the Pectoral Cross of the late Rufino Cardinal Santos, Archbishop of Manila given as an ex voto during the November 17, 1978 Canonical Coronation.

the Crown made of pure gold was donated by Don Arturo Mañalac and the auspice maria inlaid with precious gems was funded from donations of various devotees residing abroad when the image of the Soledad de Porta Vaga visitaed the US in the 70'S. this crown was used for the November 17, 1978 Canonical Coronation and is use during the 1st fiesta on the 2nd week of November

A crown made of gold and precious gems donated by various devotees mostly from the Cofradía de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga for the November 18 Canonical Coronation. Designed by King Nikolai Viray of Pampanga under the guidance of Cofradía President, Jonnell Ryan Enriquez and digitized by Peter Paul Alvarez. the crown is manufactured by the jeweler "Fedesto" of Fort Bonifacio, Global city, Taguig and YUG INTL. LTD. , Kowloon, Hongkong

Ivory dove of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga

The original gold dove went missing in the late 90's and a new dove made from Ivory with rays of gold vermeil studded with cubic zirconia Symbolizing the Holy spirit was given by a devotee for the 2018 Canonical Coronation.

Medallions were made in 2018 to commemorate various civil recognition to Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga. the pins were made of Silver dipped in gold and bearing the seals of each government institution.

• National Cultural Treasure Pin

Symbolizes the Philippine Government's recognition of the image of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga as a National Cultural Treasure according to National Museum Resolution No. 2-2017.

• Patroness of the Province Pin

It indicates that the image of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga as a unique treasure and Patroness of the whole Province of Cavite.

• Patroness of the City Pin

Symbolizing the honor of the Cavite City government through the city Resolution No. 2017-071 recognizing the image of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga as the city's treasure and Patroness.

Gold Choker filigree Necklace and the Tambourine Necklace at the center

Various Ex Votos was given by devotees a sign of answered prayers to our lady of solitude of Porta Vaga most notably

• Gold Choker filigree Necklace was given by the Valdez family patriarch as a promise for a prayer granted through the intercession of Our Lady. the promise was if he was able to go abroad he will offer an ex voto to the Virgin. this necklace is used as an accent piece whenever the 1978 Canonical Crown is being used,
• Gold Tambourine Necklace
• Gold puzzle ring

Rosaries once use alternately to adorn the frame during processions

• • Two silver Rosaries
  • One pearl rosaries

Goldwork Cape or Mantle used on the 2018 Canonical Coronation

During Processions and events devotees would adorn the frame of the image with a large cape or mantle, a recent tradition state that the cape should be divide into with 7 panels symbolizing the 7 sorrows of Mary. usually a small veil is place on top of cape so when viewed from the back it resembles an outline of a woman.

Every time the image is carried without the frame on processions and during the "Pahalik" tradition a simple veil usually black is placed on top of the image itself. the veils are brought by devotees and returned to them afterwards as mementos.

During Lent, especially on the "Procesión del Silencio" on Good Friday, a translucent black veil covers the image of Our Lady of Solitude symbolizing her mourning at the loss of her Son.

don Julian Felipe

The main hymn of our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga. In 1892, Julian Felipe, composer of the Philippine national anthem, penned the hymn "Reina de Cavite" on the occasion of her fiesta and the opening of the Exposición Regionál Caviteña (Cavite Regional Exposition). The lyrics were taken from the poem Himno a la Virgén de Cavite (Hymn to the Virgin of Cavite) by Fr. Tomás de Andrade, S.J., the rector of the Jesuit College of Cavite sometime in 1689.[9][10]

In 1991, in preparation for the celebration of the Tricentennial of the Enthronement of Our Lady of Port Vaga, the National Artist Lucio San Pedro made a four-voice arrangement of the hymn

In 1945, in commemoration of the return of the icon of Our Lady of Porta Vaga to Cavite and its enthronement in San Roque Parish Churth which is now known as the Diocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga, Fr. Pedro Larena wrote a poem entitled "O Purísima Flor". After some adjustments, the poem became the lyrics of the hymn originally composed by the famous Recollect composer, Fr. Domingo Carceller, OAR in honour of the image of Our Lady of Mount Carmel venerated at the Minor Basilica of San Sebastian in Quiapo district, Manila.

The longest and one of the oldest song in honor of Our lady of Porta Vaga. not much is known about when and who composed the song.

The shortest song in horror of Our lady of Porta Vaga invoking the intersession of Our Lady during hard times. The rhythm is based on an old traditional Spanish language folk song "De Colores"

In celebration of the 350th year of the arrival of the original icon of Our lady of Porta Vaga in Cavite, By the Request of Fr, Virgilio Saenz Mendoza, fr. Francisco, SJ, a famous composer, together with Fr. Randy de Jesus who wrote the lyrics. the hymn was used at the 2018 Canonical Coronation

For the Declaration of the Original Icon of Or Lady of Porta Vaga as a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines, Seminarian Genesis Frances M. Toledo, DS, composed the song, "Preciosa y Poderosa" with the lyrics written by Marco Federico Dalma, a Devotee from Las Piñas

Genoveva Edroza Matute, a writer in Filipino, stated that the grandiose celebration of the fiesta of San Diego in Rizal's Noli Me Tangere was actually based on the grandiose fiesta celebration of Cavite.

The story of the Virgen de la Soldedad was made into a movie entitled "Ang Milagro sa Porta Vaga". Sor. Agustina Salcedo, the granddaughter of Don Juan Salcedo authored the script. directed by Florencio Orbeta and starring Julie Vega and a famous caviteño Leopoldo Salcedo dubed as "The Great Profile"[28]

The Internationally known Bayanihan Philippines Dance Company once depicted the fiesta celebration of the Virgin in songs and creative dances entitles "Porta Vaga Suite" which was presented at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 1994. Old Caviteño dances and Chabacano folk songs were collected and used in the said presentation of Cavite Fiesta de Antigos [29]

The Teatro Baile de Cavite under the direction of Breshnev Larlar presented a musical play in honor of Our Lady of Port Vaga. Many songs used in the play was composed by Gary Granada [30]

• Act One

The musical play is about the Soledad de Porta Vaga as a part of Cavite's rich history and culture. The play shows the Virgin's apparition up to the discovery of the icon by the town's people, enthronement to the Ermita Church and the declaration as the Queen of the Galleon. The showcase of the three among the thousand miracles of the Virgin of Solitude, tells the story behind why Caviteños celebrate a festive fiesta and how the Virgin saves Don Julian Felipe's life as a devotee and a church worker.

• Act Two

The second act opens with the Cavite scenario during the Japanese era up to the America's declaration of Philippine independence. The 1984 social issues that affects the economic crisis due to personal vested interest, leads to the reason why the image was stolen. Cavite City then was in a state of depression and after the recovery of the icon; everyone rejoiced and continued their devotion to the Virgin. The play ended with the song “Reina de Cavite”, composed by Prof. Julian Felipe.

The founding members of the Confraternity of the Virgin of Solitude of Porta Vaga

On 10 August 1998, Imus Bishop, Most Reverend Manuel C. Sobrevinias founded the Cofradia de la Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga. The group was officially inaugurated on 17 November 1998 on the 20th Anniversary of the image's coronation by former Apostolic Nuncio, Bruno Torpigliani. It was led by the late Antonio G. Nazareno as its founding president, Reverend Virgilio Saenz Mendoza as its Spiritual Director and Reverend John Brillantes as its Spiritual Advisor. Reverend Virgilio Saenz Mendoza and Jonnell Ryan I. Enriquez presently lead the devotees of the confraternity.

• Vision

Founded with a common zeal for the Blessed Mother and guided by the ideals, teachings, principles of the Catholic Church, the Cofradia envisions itself as a guide and guardian of the devotion to the Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga with its promotion of relevant and meaningful programs and activities for the devotees of our Blessed Mother in this particular title.[32]

• Mission

Filled with a lively faith and confidence in God and the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Cofradia aims to uphold, strengthen and sustain the devotion to the Most Blessed Virgin Mary particularly under the title Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga among the lay faithful in the Roman Catholic Church.

It shall support, empower, affirm and challenge the efforts of our communities in their ministry to, with, for and by the devotees of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga. Moreover, it shall help the lay faithful organize, implement and maintain a comprehensive devotion to Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga, in order to create an environment in which people can be involved together liturgically, sacramentally, and catechetically.[33]

One of the oldest organization of devotees of our lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga in Cavite, Founded on September 15, 1979 on the rectorship of Avenido Sapida once called Daughters of Mary Immaculate (DMI). today headed by there current regent Elena Domingo Jose [34]

the group gather every 1st Sunday of the month after the 6:00 mass on which the group is the sponsor.

• Mission

To Propagate the Devotion to Our Dearest Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga here in Cavite City and to participate in all of the activities of our church an etc.

Family altar by the bay. Brgy. Matobato, Calbayog, Samar

The Oldest existing organization of devotees of our Lady of Solitude of Porta Vaga the "Soleda" group from Cautod, Sta Margarita, Calbayog Samar organizing the yearly "Soleda" festival

At the turn of the Century, a group of enterprising young Caviteños with their families ventured into the waters of a shoreline village of Sta. Margarita, a small fishing town of Samar whose wealth is sea products was very popular among traders. It served them doubly to find greener pastures and to escape from the boiling revolution.

Juana Olaes de Santiago brought a copy of the Miraculous Image back to Ca-utod late in 1934, after several years of going to Cavite City to attend the fiesta celebration of the Our Lady.

A family story has it that a so-called "Lolo Tinong" asked her to secure a copy of the image and to start celebrating the fiesta in Ca-utod because he got tired of her going back and forth to Cavite and leaving him with the care of their children and their fishing business.

In the late 1960s, Ibyang Santiago Rorna-Leonor, a daughter, bought a lot across the family home. Her family, especially Itoy and Ago Santiago, her two brothers, build the present Chapel for the Senora with the help of relatives and association members.

Another story tells a couple, Conon Munson and his wife. Munson's wife, a devout Catholic brought with her the image (icon) of the Virgin, Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. In less than a year, the Caviteños flock to the home of the Munson located at the present site of the Gomez compound, they adore and pray, thanking the Virgin for their fortunes in fishing.

As the Caviteños grew in numbers, the young men and women from the Sta. Margarita's Rising young men Pablo Baltero as its first president with Luciana Mendoza as secretary-Treasurer, with a host of Advisers: Juana C. Santiago, Margarita Beligon, Petrona Delos Santos and others which old memories can no longer recall.

Trained and educated with democratic Ideology and principles, the present and modern citizens of Cautod formed the SOLEDA, inviting all Catholics of barangay to join and until the present, the association is a power by herself with professionals.[35]

the Soldaditos de la Virgen during the cavite leg of the 2019 dalaw soledad

known simply as the “Soldaditos” is a motorcycle group that sprung up from a group devotees mostly from around manila that volunteers to accompany and leads the way of the caravan of the yearly dalaw Soledad and also acts as bearer and human barricades when the image arrive at its destination.

Devotion to Virgen de la Soledad started when a Philippine Navy officer in Cavite city transferred residence in Mendez, Cavite in the 1970s. His son, Alex Peñafiel brought home a framed image and started organizing prayer groups doing the 2000 Hail Marys in the Virgin's honor. It was in 2010 that Marvin Dimaranan and Irma Mendoza requested permission from then parish priest, Mel Sandoval to establish an organization to formally take charge of the devotion to the Queen of Cavite. It was first called the “Hermanidad de la Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga” which later came to be known as the “Kapatiran ng Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga”. It was formally established on 11 November 2011 with over sixty (60) founding members headed by Alex Peñafiel as the first Hermano Mayor. An official replica was then commissioned to be passed on the next Hermano/a. In 2013, through the leadership of John Paul Dimapilis, a replica was donated by the Cofradia in Cavite city and was permanently enthroned above the Parish's Santo Sepulcro so Parishioners could venerate the Virgin daily in the Church. Presently, the group has roughly seventy-five members who regularly celebrate the Virgin's feast on the 17th of November each year.[36][37]

Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Manila, Camba, Tondo, Manila

Venerated in a little chapel a few meters away from CM Recto Ave. in Manila, is another version of the Virgen de la Soledad. Though not much is known of the icon, many believe that it is one of the many representations of the famous and miraculous Virgin of Porta Vaga in Cavite and that this replica may have been honored in this community since 1884. According to accounts and stories of old people, the Camba area has been inhabited by mostly residents from Cavite city that is why it has been called in the older days as Barrio Soledad.

Miracles have also been attributed to this mysterious icon. It is said that the entire neighborhood where it resides has always been protected from the fires which guttered the Binondo district many times. The Camba area has always been spared from other kinds of calamities and even the ravages of wars.

Her feastday is celebrated annually every 1 January through a traslacion going to the Mother Parish of Sto. Niño de Tondo capped by a festive caracol procession going back to its home in Camba St., Manila.[38]

Nuestra Señora de la Soledad of San Isidro Labrador Parish Church in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija

A lesser known version of the Soledad is venerated in Nueva Ecija. In a leaflet written and published by Jaime C. Laya, he narrated that the icon has occupied a niche above a side altar of the town church and that it was honored in a fluvial procession on the Rio Grande de Pampanga. This tradition was held from the mid-19th century till the 1920s. In 1982, the image mysteriously vanished. It was thought to have been stolen but no police records exist to support this.

Sometime after its disappearance, the image found its way to an antique dealer in Manila and was purchased by a private individual. Upon hearing rumors of a missing icon venerated in Central Luzon, the buyer confronted the antique shop owner who insisted that it was taken to the shop legitimately. The owner kept the icon but informed some of his friends (including Laya) of its story.

In October 2002, Laya had a business meeting with Arch. Cristina Turalba who mentioned a project in San Isidro. Remembering the icon, he asked her if she knew anything about the town's Patron. Arch. Turalba also researched on the Patron and upon further inquiries, it was confirmed by Mayor Sonia R. Lorenzo that their “Patrona” has been missing.

An old sacristan of the church by the name of Ruperto Flores provided the icon's description. He narrated that it was a painting on wood, enclosed in an ornate solid-silver frame. It is a 19th-century work, depicting the grieving Mary—similar to the one honored in Cavite. Aside from the instruments of torture, the painting is embellished by gold and silver appliqués—the Holy Spirit, angels, Virgin's golden rostrillo, her cloak with its silver lining and metal stars, silver boat-like pillow, a letter “V” and a galleon.

The elaborate silver frame done in baroque, shows ines, leaves and flowers. Within this frame is a faded, crimson velvet background with silver miniatures of an empty cross, two ladders, nails, and hammer. Also shown are an angel holding a chalice, Veronica’s veil with 3 faces of Christ, a reed, a man in priestly robes, a spear, a pitcher (Pontius Pilate), a rooster and key (St. Peter), a pillar (scourging), a sponge on a pole, and eyes (probably an ex-voto given in thanksgiving for restored sight).

Upon hearing the sacristan’s exact description of the icon, the buyer returned the missing icon to its rightful owner, hoping it will receive better security and care. After about 20 years, Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is again venerated in San Isidro Labrador church.[38]

Soledad of Tambo, Buhi, Camarines Sur

This is one of the three carvings on the calpe tree on the Story of Our Lady of Salvacion. One was of San Antonio de Padua. As the Story goes, it all began on a certain day when Dacoba was clearing the land which he was tilling. He cut a calpe tree, which is good for use as firewood or post. However, he was amazed because despite the many hours that passed by, the tree remained as fresh as it was before; its leaves did not wilt “Milagro!” he said to himself. He informed his landlord about it. That landlord was Don Arcilla who then consulted the pastor of Buhi of what could be done with it. The friar pastor of Buhi summoned as sculptor named Bagacumba. Out of the tree, he was able to carve three statuettes-Nuestra Señora de Salvacion, San Antonio de Padua, and Nuestra Señora de Soledad—now in Brgy. Joroan of Tiwi, and in the poblacion and Brgy. Tambo both of Buhi, respectively.[38]

The devotion of the Caviteños to their Queen is one that is admirable, from the way they celebrated their fiesta in her honor, the increasing number of devotees of the Soledad and the presence of the images of the Soledad, whatever the medium that was utilized that are seen in different residences, churches, chapels, business establishments within and outside Cavite is a living testament of their love and devotion to the Queen of Heaven in her Solitude. She has truly captivated the hearts of many devotees through the centuries and she in turn continues to shower them with numerous miracles that are still persistent to this day. It is no wonder that she is also known as the "Virgin of Thousand Miracles."

• La Virgen María: Venerada en sus Imágenes Filipina Manila : Imprenta de Santos y Bernal 1904
• Barcelona, Mary Anne. Ynang Maria: A Celebration of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Philippines. Edited by Consuelo B. Estepa, P.D. Pasig City: Anvil Publishing, Inc., 2004.
• Cavite Studies Center-De La Salle University Dasmariñas. CAVITE Cultura e Historia. Edited by Teresita P. Unabia and Victor Immanuel R. Cuarto. Cavite: Cavite Historical Society, Inc., 2002.
• Almanaque de N.S. del rosario, 1946, p. 284.
• Archdiocesan Archives of Manila: (Document Nos. 92 LGE1C9 1751-1752A; 109-10, LGE 1010 1767-1771; 182, LGE 1 C 8 - 1750 1742 A; 250, LGE 1 C 9 - 1747 1756; 294, LGE 1 C 9 - 1751-1752 A; 321, LGE 1 C 8 - 1737 1742; 436, Libro del Govierno Ecclesiastico 1 C 8 1737 - 1750; SV4A1 1805 - 1806 A; 475, 522, 960 LGE 1010 1767 - 1771; and 20 S V 4aL 1786 - 87 B)
• Avellanedad, Miguel. Catologo de Los Religiosos de la Orden Agustinos Recoletos, 1606-1636.
• Don Gervacio Pangilinan. Historica de Cavite, mss.
• Aviado, Lutgarda. Madona of the Philippines. [n.imp.]
• Braganza, Jose Vicente, SVD. Early Church History of Cavite: Dominicans, Recoletos and Filipino Secular Clergy. DIWA Studies in Philosophy and Theology. Vol. VIII No. 1, Tagaytay City: Graduate School of Divine Word Seminary.
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• Fernandez, Antonio J., Algunos Milagros Hechos Por Nuestra Señora, La Virgen de la Soledad de Porta Vaga- Patronas del Pueblo de Cavite. Programas de las Fiestas Generales de Cavite, 1932, pp. 11–15.
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