The Philippines was once known as the ‘City of Flowers’. During the month of May, the fragrance of Philippine flowers fills the air in and around the city. After a long heat spell during the summer, the flowers magically bloom and the air is suddenly filled with festivities. During this time, Filipinos celebrate the occasion by praising the Blessed Virgin Mary. This Philippine tradition was introduced by the Spanish conquerors and is more than 1000 years old. The Filipino community all over the world still celebrate the “Queen of May Festival” with the same enthusiasm. The history of sending flowers in the Philippines can be said to have links with these religious traditions and festivities.

The people gather in the Parish church altars and aisles to celebrate ‘Flores De Mayo’ where people offer flowers to the Virgin Mary after praying the rosary and sharing home made delicacies and snacks. The highlight of the procession during the Flores de Mayo is the majestic Queen Helena who walks with her consort under a huge covering of May flowers followed by the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. After the festivities, Filipinos would often collect the left over flowers and bring them home to the people they love. Because of this century old tradition, Filipinos were introduced to flowers and its role in special events. As time went by, the Americans introduced Filipinos to using flowers as a gift for numerous other occasions. But the roots of using flowers for special occasions remain with the traditional Flores De Mayo celebration.

Filipinos who live in North America still maintain the tradition of Flores De Mayo. In Europe, the festival is hosted by several Filipino communities. In the month of May, Philippine flowers do not go unnoticed by the tourists and residents in the different provinces in the Philippines; the fragrance which fills the air is a reminder of the roses, kalachuchis and other flowers that bloom here.

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The tradition of sending flowers in the Philippines is kept alive by Island Rose. Send a bouquet and see their reaction!

A message from Island Rose - Flowers Philippines