In 1887 a Philippines Exposition was organised in Madrid. There was a section devoted to Geografía botánica del Archipiélago, su flora, la forestal y fauna ('Botanical geography of the Archipelago, its flora, forest and fauna'). Plants were exhibited at the newly constructed Palacio de Cristal in the Retiro Park. For his contribution, Vidal received the honour of entry into the Order of Isabella the Catholic.
