The secret behind
Havila’s serene surroundings is more than the greenery that surrounds it; there ONE beholds a 67-year old miracle that happened within
Havila’s 300-hectare township: the miracle of Colaique.
Last Feb. 19, 4,000 devotees from the academe, religious sectors and local government units went to
Havila in scenic Antipolo City to join a procession that will culminate in the revered Antipolo Cathedral, as the city celebrated the Colaique Miracle.
One of the most important events in the history of Antipolo, the Colaique miracle is the story of how the city’s beloved patron, the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, saved the townsfolk in the midst of World War II. During the Japanese occupation, the Old Antipolo Church as well as the whole town was used as barracks by the enemy, and as the war drew to a close on Feb. 17, 1945, with Antipolo being heavily bombarded by American planes, 500 townsfolk made a decision to leave Antipolo and take with them the Image of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.
Even as they walked through the steep and dangerous mountain trails while aerial raids happened around them, the survivors of the war believed that having The Virgin in their midst kept them safe. After stopping at Kulaiki (also spelled Colaique), the group then made their way to the towns of Angono, Santolan and Marikina.
This story of survival, faith and hope is commemorated annually since then by devotees. Like in past celebrations, this year’s procession made its way through the wide roads of the
Havila township, ending in the Cathedral where a concelebrated Mass was held. A short program featured war survivors who shared stories of how they made their way out of Antipolo, protected by the image of the Virgin.
“The message of this miracle has touched not only the local townsfolk, but also people from all places and walks of life, from devotees from far-off towns and even many foreigners. As the project group behind
Havila, we are happy to be part of such an important event, since our annual participation allowed us to build stronger ties with residents and the community at large,” says
Filinvest project officer Sean Imperial.
Havila is a prime development of
Filinvest, a modern-day paradise that is home to four communities –
Mission Hills,
Highlands Pointe,
Villa Montserrat, and
Forest Farms – that offer well-appointed homes blessed with inherent charm, cool climes, clean air and breathtaking views of the city and Laguna de Bay.
A leader in property development for almost 50 years,
Filinvest is committed to making the Filipino’s dreams to have a home of their own come true. Guided by the Gotianun tradition of integrity, qulity and service, it forges ahead with renewed dynamism. Beyond building homes and communities for Filipino families,
Filinvest comes to the fore of building dreams for the Filipino.
Article taken from: Philippine Star
