Santacruzan transcends generations

The month of May is a grand celebration of diverse festivities in the Philippines. From a barrio, a town, a city, May is the season full of merriment and fun all over the country. The tradition has been instilled in the minds and hearts of every Filipino that dates back during the Spanish period, introduced by the Franciscan missionaries. Fiestas, festivals, fl oraloffering and food abound all throughout.

Flores the Mayo (Flowers of May) refers to the fl oraloffering to pay homage by the devotees of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a grand nationwide tradition that culminates with the Santacruzan, a commemoration of the finding of the Holy Cross by Queen Helena ( known as Reina Elena) and her son, Constantine the Great, who became a convert. This is done through a procession representing saints and icons from the bible. It is said that after the founding of the Holy Cross, it was returned to Rome and thanksgiving and celebration were held.

The Filipino Heritage Festival, Inc., in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Department of Tourism ( DOT), National Museum, Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP -PCCHC), AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. and Security Bank Corp., brings back a tradition based on its historical and fairly accurate replication of the attire worn and symbols held representing the participant’s role based on the biblical stories and characters.

Santacruzan will be held in the following towns and cities:

May 25 – Fort Santiago Grounds, Intramuros, Manila and Parish Church of The Assumption of Our Lady, Maragondon, Cavite

May 29 – Holy Rosary Parish Church, Angeles City

May 31 – Parish of San Gregorio Magno, Majayjay, Laguna