After a spiritually uplifting Holy Mass at the historic Manaoag Church, there’s another sacred destination that pilgrims and devotees flock to in the quaint town of Manaoag, Pangasinan – the miraculous “Virgin’s Well.” This natural spring well, believed to be blessed by the Virgin Mary, has spawned countless stories of healing and serves as a powerful symbol of faith for many.
The History of Virgin’s Well:
The Virgin’s Well, nestled in Barangay Pugaro, Manaoag, has a rich history dating back to Spanish times. Legend has it that an apparition of the Virgin Mary appeared to Cirilo Casabar, the father of the current landowner, Daniel Casabar. This mystical event marked the beginning of the well’s significance as a site of healing and divine intervention.
A Place of Faith and Healing:
Today, the Virgin’s Well draws groups of Blessed Virgin Mary devotees, especially during Holy Week, to fast and pray. Countless tales of miraculous healings, ranging from simple ailments to terminal illnesses, have been shared by those who have used the well’s water for drinking or bathing. It’s a place where faith takes center stage, and many believe that their prayers, coupled with the well’s water, have led to miraculous recoveries.
Facilities and Services:
Visiting the Virgin’s Well is a spiritual experience accessible to all, as there are no entrance fees. The well’s caretakers only charge nominal fees for the use of facilities such as toilets and bathing areas, typically ranging from 5 to 10 pesos. The proceeds are primarily used for maintenance and upkeep. However, the beautifully built chapel and stations of the cross were funded by donors who themselves have experienced miracles through their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the well’s miraculous waters.
How to Get There:
Finding the Virgin’s Well may require a bit of local guidance, as it’s tucked away on a farm. The friendly locals are knowledgeable about the location and will be more than willing to direct you to this sacred site. Alternatively, you can hire a tricycle driver from Manaoag Church to take you there. The journey is an integral part of the pilgrimage, symbolizing the path to healing and spiritual renewal.
A Testimony of Faith:
The Virgin’s Well’s popularity has grown primarily through word of mouth, with pilgrims and devotees sharing their personal stories of miraculous healings. It’s important to remember that the faithful believe that it is God who truly heals through their faith, and the water from the well is merely a divine instrument.
The Virgin’s Well in Manaoag, Pangasinan, stands as a testament to the unwavering faith of devotees and the belief in the miraculous intercession of the Virgin Mary. Whether you seek spiritual solace, healing, or simply wish to witness the power of faith, this sacred spring well is a must-visit destination.