SANTA MARIA

Santa Maria, a vibrant municipality in Bulacan, Philippines, is well-known for its picturesque landscapes and thriving flower industry. Flowers and bouquets hold substantial cultural, economic, and environmental value in Santa Maria.

Flores de Mayo emerged as a festival that beautifully combined religious devotion to the Virgin Mary with a celebration of the natural world’s splendor. The name itself, “Flores de Mayo” or “Flowers of May,” reflects the tradition of offering flowers as a tribute to the Virgin Mary. This annual event takes place during the month of May, honoring Mary as the Mother of God.

Historically, Monsignor Mariano V. Sevilla introduced the “Flores de Mayo” tradition in the Philippine Islands. The initial celebration occurred in 1865 at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Msgr. Sevilla’s hometown, Bulacan. Inspired by the Italian “Mese di Maggio,” he penned “Dalit kay Maria,” also known as “Flores de Mayo.” This Filipino devotion originated from the prayers and hymns in traditional Church literature, featuring the image of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.

Throughout May, daily celebrations honor the Virgin Mary with flowers, prayers, and hymns, culminating in the Queenship of Mary celebration. The tradition includes a procession where maidens are serenaded by young men—a practice even participated in by local hero Marcelo H. Del Pilar in the past.

It is important for every parish or community to continue celebrating Flores de Mayo, allowing today’s children to appreciate the beauty of our Catholic tradition by offering flowers to Santa Maria, the Mother of God. 🌸🙏