Since time immemorial, Zamboanga is known as a tropical paradise endowed with numerous ornamental plants which come in various forms, shapes, sizes, and colors.

During the last month of summer, when the first rain of May beckons flowers buds to bloom, local residents and foreign visitors alike are attracted and impressed by the beauty of the May flowers around them.

Aside from the year –round blooms of bougainvilleas, other blooms that blossom during the waning heat of summer are different varieties and hues of hibiscus (gumamelas); chichiricas- those small white and purple flowers that grow wild on candy coastlines; cadena de amor - those small clumps of heart-shape blooms commonly seen carpeting old walls; and the blazing red flowers of caballero (fire) trees lining the roadsides in the country.

Summer also prods other flowering trees to shed "golden showers" and summon "birds of Paradise" to come out in the open. It is also the reason when floral fragrance blends with the kaleidoscope of blooms naturally. Morning is greeted with the familiar aroma of he white sampaguita, hyacinth and the sweet smell of ilang-ilang wafting in the air in villages and towns where they abound. The sweet gardenia or the Rosal makes a natural freshener and a veritable flower offering. At night, one need not see where the strong scent of flower comes from. Everybody knows that it emanates from the delicate sprays of the flowers called dama de noche that give off fragrance only at night.

Then there are those that add not only beauty to an otherwise drab landscape, but also heal the ailments of people as well. Banaba, with its lavender flowers, is used by herbalists in treating a host of illnesses, including diabetes. White and purple chichiricas, on the other hand have anti-cancer properties, according to scientist studying herbal medicines.

Even the drops of the essence of Sampaguita are said to be excellent eye cleanser!

May, being the month of mothers and Mary, is also the time when flowers are gathered by children in the fields to offer to the Blessed Mother during the daily afternoon novenas. Sagalas, dressed in white frocks line up the church altar for the offering.

Culminating this festive religious event is the Santacruzan or the Parada de Bellas y Flores where young women representing biblical characters and girls called Sagalas join the well attended evening procession in the main streets of towns and cities.