A cherished Filipino tradition takes center stage once more as Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso and his wife, Diana Lyn ‘Dynee’ Domagoso, step into the roles of Hermano Mayor and Hermana Mayor for this year’s revival of Flores de Mayo—a celebration that beautifully weaves together faith, culture, and fashion.
Set for May 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., the event will unfold across two iconic venues—The Manila Hotel and the Quirino Grandstand—under the theme “Dalisay at Halimuyak,” evoking purity and fragrance as symbols of devotion and grace.
During a courtesy visit led by Joey Lina, president of The Manila Hotel, Mayor Isko expressed his strong support for initiatives that celebrate Manila’s heritage while creating meaningful platforms for artists and designers. “Maaalala natin ang pamana sa atin,” he shared, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural memory through community-driven events.
The celebration is mounted by The Manila Hotel in partnership with the City Government of Manila and the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines, with support from the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM). Together, these institutions aim to spotlight a tradition deeply rooted in Filipino identity.
Dating back to the 1800s, Flores de Mayo remains one of the country’s most enduring expressions of Marian devotion. At The Manila Hotel, it gained a distinct cultural dimension beginning in 1979 through the Congregacion del Santisimo Nombre de Niño Jesus, led by Ben Farrales, widely regarded as the Dean of Filipino Fashion. The tradition seamlessly fused religious devotion with Manila’s creative spirit—a legacy that continues to resonate today.
After a revival in 2019 and a pause during the pandemic, the celebration returns this year as a tribute to a city where faith, artistry, and heritage converge.
Beyond its cultural significance, the event also carries a deeper social mission. Proceeds and partnerships will benefit Young Focus and the Children’s First 1000 Days Coalition, supporting programs focused on children’s welfare, education, and nutrition.
Mayor Isko also highlighted the symbolic simplicity of the procession. “Wala nang gasolinang kailangan dahil lakad ito… we practice what we preach,” he remarked, emphasizing sustainability and unity in a time of global challenges.
Preparations are underway to ensure a safe and orderly celebration, with the Philippine National Police deploying at least 300 personnel, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority assisting with traffic management. Coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines is also being arranged for ceremonial participation.
With Mayor Isko and Mrs. Domagoso leading the festivities, Flores de Mayo at The Manila Hotel is poised to become one of Manila’s most anticipated cultural highlights—honoring tradition while reaffirming the capital’s enduring role as a center of faith, heritage, and civic pride.
