MANILA, Philippines - The traditional Santacruza and Flores de Mayo rites have merely become a "cultural presentation" and a fashion show, according to a Catholic bishop.
Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa Palawan Bishop Pedro Arigo said Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo have been slowly losing its religious relevance.
"Ang ating mga Santacruzan ay naging cultural na, naging cultural at fashion show these previous years. Pagkatapos nawala yung religious significance nagkaroon ng innovative na mga style na very contrary sa mga traditions ng Flores de Mayo at Santacruzan," he said.
"Napakaganda ng Santacruzan dahil Holy Cross 'yan at ang Flores de Mayo ay offering of flowers 'yan sa Mahal na Birhen. At ang ang ginagawa ngayon ay wala kang makita na religious spirit," the bishop told Church-run Radyo Veritas.