The air is filled with the aroma of fresh flowers every May, not just for Mother’s Day, but also for Flores de Mayo, one of the most cherished Catholic traditions in the Philippines. 

In my hometown of Barangay Matimbo, Malolos City, Bulacan, this celebration remains very much alive, weaving faith, community and childhood memories into one beautiful bouquet of devotion.

A lot of Filipino Catholics have a special place in their hearts for the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Flores de Mayo (or “Flowers of May”) is a sincere homage to her. Giving Mary flowers during this month has long been a sign of faith, love and purity.

I recall getting up early as a kid full of excitement to collect flowers, like gumamela, sampaguita, roses and anything else we could find. At the “bisita malaki,” we would assemble in our simple yet most pleasant look, prepared to sing, “Itong bulaklak na alay ng ating pagsintang tunay palitan mo Birheng Mahal ng tuwa sa kalangitan.” Those verses still echo in my mind, carrying the scent of childhood and the comfort of faith.

Everyone who took part in the tradition was going to get food from the hermanas, the women sponsors of the day, after the offering and prayers.

In many parishes, the crowning caps off the devotion, placing a floral wreath atop Mary’s statue, honoring her as Queen of Heaven and Earth.

Beyond personal, Flores de Mayo is a celebration of the community. In addition to praying the Rosary and offering flowers, parishioners gather to celebrate with processions such as the Santacruzan, which reenacts Queen Helena’s hunt for the Holy Cross. For a whole month, Filipino culture, family and faith are celebrated.

Flores de Mayo will always mean more to me. It’s an essential remembrance of my youth and hometown, as well as my genuine devotion to the Blessed Mother.