Due to its military importance, Cavite had been attacked by foreigners in their quest to conquer Manila and the Philippines.

In 1647, the Dutch made a surprise attack on the city, pounding the port incessantly, but were repulsed. At Sangley Point still stands the ruins of Porta Vaga Church which was destroyed during the attack. San Roque Church, near the ruins, houses Porta Vaga’s patron – a 17^th century painting of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.

During the 17^th century, Cavite City developed as a center for shipbuilding and naval operations. Giant molave trees from the forest around Paete were floated across Laguna de Bay, down the Pasig River, and across Manila Bay to Cavite, where many of the great Manila galleons were built.

When the Spaniards decided to withdraw…