The Santacruzan is one of the events in the Flores de Mayo (Flowers of May) celebration, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. This practice started in commemoration of Helena of Constantinople (Reyna Elena) and Constantine the Great finding the True Cross in Jerusalem. It has already been inculcated within the Filipino culture, dating back to 1854 when the declaration of the Immaculate Conception was pronounced.
In the streets of Daang Bakal, Mandaluyong City, another Sagala has been held. However, this particular Santacruzan has a different twist: it stars gay men, more informally called gays, as the different ‘Reynas’ of the Sagala.
The parade of the most beautiful gays in the community was one of the most anticipated highlights of that particular Santacruzan. In their ‘special’ gowns, they toured around three different barangays and were welcomed by an ecstatic audience.
The Santacruzan has long been a part of the Filipino culture, thus the acceptance of these ‘gay sagalas’ only proves the warmth of Filipinos towards gays. It proves that gays are a part of our community, our nation and the world.
Taking on the streets, they showed off their beauty in the traditional Santacruzan. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
Dressed as different perceived beauties of our childhood, they took on their own Sagala. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
Like with celebrities, people gathered around like fans, applauding at the great entertainment. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
The applause was more than entertainment: it was the applause of approval. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
Acceptance was what the gleeful ambiance allowed them to feel. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
“‘Gay sagalas’ only proves the warmth of Filipinos towards gays. It proves that gays are a part of our community, our nation and the world.” | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
It was more than a simple ‘trip’; it sent the message that gays are a part of us. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
They are more than what we call them: they are gay; and more than happiness, they are like us. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
They are no different from any of us. They are who they are. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN
Like the Cross that Reyna Elena found, it is for all: the right to be who you want to be. | Photo by Will Reyes/MP-KNN