Tags: Festivals and Fiestas
By Marjorie Gorospe
QUEZON CITY, METRO MANILA— The month of May is a time to witness the famous Filipino tradition of Flores de Mayo.
This beloved event is highlighted by the “Santacruzan,” a parade of lovely Filipinas and their escorts dressed in traditional Filipino attire.
The men wear the traditional barong tagalog while women wear Filipiniana-inspired gowns. Towns and cities across the archipelago have their own versions and ways of conducting Flores de Mayo.
In some provinces, women are chosen as members of the procession not only for their beauty but also for their embodiment of traditional feminine qualities.
In my hometown of Tanay, those who are selected for the parade are usually the winners from a pageant or fund raising events. It’s usually organized by the parish and the biggest fund raisers will automatically be the Reyna Elena of the Santacruzan.
For a predominantly Catholic country, the Flores de Mayo is said to be a tribute to honor Virgin Mary in a month long festival.
The parade of the Reyna Elena and her groom symbolizes the search for the True Cross in Jerusalem. This is the reason there is also a child included in the procession who holds the cross.
This tradition was said to originate from Malolos, Bulacan in 1865 when young girls would make floral offerings to the Virgin Mary. The endless offering of flowers thus led to the tradition called Flores de Mayo or Flowers of May.
Santacruzan is the highlight of Flores de Mayo but before it officially starts, a novena is held in honor of the Holy Cross.
The Santacruzan and the whole Flores de Mayo is culminated by pabitin (square trellis) which is a fun activity for children where they will try to grab as many goodies such as candies tied with strings.
Even today, Flores de Mayo is still considered one of the most notable festivals celebrated all over the country and even by Filipinos living abroad.
In Makati City, the Flores de Mayo is graced by celebrities to grace the occasion.
(Photos taken from Asunta Rufino )
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