The Manila Hotel ushered in a grand cultural revival with Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak, drawing nearly 2,000 attendees to a vibrant celebration that seamlessly blended Marian devotion, Filipino heritage, fashion, and philanthropy.
Mounted in collaboration with the City Government of Manila, the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila, Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines, and the National Parks Development Committee, the event marked the highly anticipated return of one of Manila’s most cherished traditions.
A revival rooted in faith and heritage
Anchored on the theme “Dalisay at Halimuyak,” the celebration drew inspiration from purity and fragrance—symbols deeply tied to Filipino Catholic devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. While Flores de Mayo has long been a floral tribute, in Manila it has evolved into a broader cultural showcase, highlighting the artistry and identity of the Filipino people.
The celebration began at Kilometer 0—a symbolic starting point of the nation—before a grand procession made its way from the hotel grounds to the Quirino Grandstand and back, officially opening this year’s nationwide Flores de Mayo observances.
Leading the festivities were Isko Moreno and Diana Lynn “Dynee” Domagoso as Hermano and Hermana Mayor, alongside Jose D. Lina and Loretta “Lory” Lina as Hermano and Hermana de Honor.
Tradition meets artistry
Originally launched in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus—founded with the late Ben Farrales—the tradition has long been part of the hotel’s cultural legacy. After a pause during the pandemic, its return this year signals renewed commitment to preserving Filipino heritage.
The day unfolded in two key segments. A solemn yet colorful procession featured hermanos, hermanas, sagalas, public figures, and representatives from fashion and entertainment sectors, culminating in a floral offering to Nuestra Señora de las Flores. The revered image of Nuestra Señora de la Consolacion y Correa de Intramuros was also enshrined on a beautifully adorned carroza during the procession.
Fashion with purpose
The celebration’s second highlight, the Fashion Show for a Cause, elevated the event beyond pageantry. Proceeds will support Young Focus—which provides education for underserved children in Smokey Mountain, Tondo—and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition, championing early childhood health and development.
On the runway, 35 designers from the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines showcased their creations, led by industry veterans Renee Salud, Albert Andrada, Toni Galang, Glenn Lopez, and Lito Perez. Under the creative direction of Raymond Villanueva, the show transformed into a living gallery of Filipino design—featuring intricate gowns and floral-inspired ensembles that brought the theme to life.
Top honors were awarded to standout designers and their muses, with Cathy Capistrano taking the Reina de las Flores title, followed by Hoho Alidio, Arhon Macaraig, and Eys Vergara as runners-up in various categories.
A unified cultural effort
The event also underscored strong institutional support, with assistance from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Red Cross—ensuring a safe and seamless celebration.
With its successful return, Flores de Mayo: Dalisay at Halimuyak reaffirmed The Manila Hotel as a steadfast steward of Filipino culture. More than a religious tradition, the event evolved into a powerful convergence of faith, fashion, community, and purpose—reviving a beloved heritage celebration for a new generation.
