When did Flores de Mayo begin, and why is it important to Filipino culture?

Every May, one of the most anticipated cultural events in the Philippines is Flores de Mayo, an annual procession that marries art, history, and Catholic faith.

In Saturday's episode of "24 Oras Weekend," Kuya Kim Atienza explained that Flores de Mayo began during the Spanish colonial period and was introduced by foreign missionaries to spread devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The tradition is also connected to European customs that dedicate the month of May to the Virgin Mary because it is the season of blooming flowers in Europe.

The book "Flores de Maria", written by Mariano Sevilla in 1867, also played a major role in spreading the tradition across different provinces in the Philippines.

Aside from the parade of "sagalas," or women participating in the procession, devotees also pray the rosary, while children and young women offer flowers as part of the festivities.

In Manila, the tradition began in 1979, though it was interrupted by the pandemic. This year, organizers revived the tradition, with the procession beginning at The Manila Hotel. —Hermes Joy Tunac/MGP, GMA News