In celebration of the International Women’s Month, The Cavite Rising honors these four great Cavitenas who are just some of the women who have made history in their profession and brought glory to Cavite City.
1. Olivia Salamanca
Dra. Olivia Diaz Salamanca (1889-1913) was one of the Philippines’ first women physicians and the first woman doctor in the whole province of Cavite. She dedicated her life to her profession by helping people in the fight against the tuberculosis disease, which also caused her death.
2. Soledad Villareal-Abdon
Dra. Soledad Villareal-Abdon was a dentist, opera singer and mezzo soprano artist born in San Roque, Cavite City. She also performed in various operas earning her the recognition as one of the greatest artists in Cavite at that time.
3. Mercedes Matias Santiago
Maestra Mercedes Matias Santiago (1910-2003) was a renowned Filipino soprano and music educator born in Cavite City. She was recognized as the Ruiseñor de Filipinas (Nightingale of the Philippines) and performed in many stages in the country like at the National Opera House and at the Metropolitan Theater. She has also sung for many prominent Filipino figures in the country, and at necrological services for some former Philippine presidents.
4. Purificacion Quijano Borromeo
Purificacion “Purita” Quijano Borromeo (1908-1995) dubbed as La Diva Filipina, was a prominent star performer at the National Opera House and the Metropolitan Theater during her time. Her performances were always published in the pre-war newspapers. After the war, she dedicated her voice to God and started singing at masses in San Roque Church.
