The whole month of May is Flores de Mayo or Flowers of May.
1 – Antipolo Pilgrimage– Antipolo, Rizal
Starting the 1st of May but lasting for the entire month, this celebration brings devotees and pilgrims to honor the Lady of Peace and Good Voyage enshrined in Antipolo Church. Religious activities are followed by picnic to nearby Hinulugang Taktak where folks bond with family and friends.
1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 – Santacruzan – Nationwide
The Santacruzan procession commemorates the finding of the “True Cross” by St. Helena’s. It is preceded by a nine-day Novena in honor of the Holy Cross. On the ninth day, usually on a weekend, the Santacruzan is held. The Reina Elena is accompanied by a little boy representing King Constantine. There is a long array of segalas representing biblical characters and the attributes of the Blessed Virgin. Fashion designers showcased their design by sponsoring the gowns of the segalas. Beautiful damsels, led by Reyna Elena, walk under gaily decorated arches.
11- Pista’y Dayat – Lingayen, Pangasinan
This is a day of thanksgiving for bountiful harvests and abundant fishing that is a traditional Pangasinan celebration. Mass is offered on beautiful its beaches following a fluvial parade.
14 – Carabao Festival – Angono, Rizal
Farmers pay tribute to their patron saints by a procession of carabao carts carrying myriads of local produce. Prizes are at stake for the strongest and most beautifully decorated carabaos.
14 – Pulillan Carabao – Pulilan, Bulacan
Farm-owners parade festively adorned carabaos on the street leading to the church. Carabaos are trained to kneel down and offer homage to San Isidro de Labrado, the patron saint of farmers.
15 – Pahiyas sa Quezon – Sariaya, Lucban, Tayabas, Quezon
Every household is decked with kiping(multi-colored paper thin, leaf-shaped rice kropeck) and harvested vegetables. Among the activities are: a trade fair; civic parades and a procession.
17 – 19 – Obando Fertility Rites – Obando, Bulacan
For three-days, the people celebrate the fiesta in honor of San Pascual, Baylon, Sta. Clara and Nuestra Senora de Salambao. Childless couples, thankful parents, grateful farmers and fishermen together with colorfully customed women are dancing on the streets to thank these Icons for children and a good harvest.
May 30 – Tapusan sa Kawit – Kawit, Cavite
There is a procession of gaily decorated floats decked with flowers honoring the Blessed Virgin. This is participated by the town’s fairest young ladies symbolizing the purity and innocence of the Blessed Mother.