Flores de Mayo or also called Flores de Maria is one of the most celebrated Christian festivals in the Philippines. It is a Spanish term that translates to ‘Flowers of May’.
Spanish conquistadors and friars introduced it in the mid-1800s. It is a tribute to the Virgin Mary, who gives rain when farmers ask for it, and the celebration for it represents the farmers’ unwavering gratitude. Stories say that it makes various flowers bloom and grow new crops for food. It has been practiced for hundreds of years, but we still observe them today. In fact, it is widely celebrated throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Furthermore, it is gaining further recognition abroad, such as in Europe and America because of the Filipino immigrants who brought it with them.
It has been dubbed as the ‘Queen of Philippine Festivals’ because it is not only celebrated for the entire month of May but is also the most-anticipated festival of all. In Filipino tradition, they will make this moment colorful, magical, and pleasing. It is so extravagant that no other celebration can surmount its grandeur beauty. The tradition follows an order of gathering the town folks during the afternoon.
Flores de Mayo is different from Santacruzan.The latter is only a part of the whole celebration, but it is the pinnacle of the said festival. It is a grand procession that is meant to re-enact the quest of St. Helena to find the sacred cross, which makes her the main character of the grand parade. It consists of 19 Biblical figures and 21 Marian titles, and they are arranged based on a standard order and roles.
The festival of the Holy Cross is conducted on the last Sunday of May, which starts and ends at the town’s church. It is an outlandish parade that collates fine young women to participate in representing Marian titles. It is usually formed by a group of talented dancers and musicians. The brass band or a local Filipino stringed band called Rondalla will play Dios Te Salve or the Spanish version of Hail Mary.
After that, devotees will be next to the line while holding a lit candle and singing the hymns of praise. The biblical figures and the Marian titles will then be organized in a specific manner. The boys or escorts are customary to wear Barong Tagalog, whereas women are expected to wear any Filipina-inspired gowns or dresses. Arches that frame the Reynas are also colorfully decorated with paper flowers and crepes.
Flores de Mayo is a re-enactment of the Christian faith. It intends to show Christianity’s history and proof of Filipinos’ undying love, faith, and devotion. It is an annual festival that gives food to the body and soul.
According camella.com.ph
