Flowers at the foot of Mayon Volcano in bloom, days before the observance of Undas

Flowers at a farm near the foothills of Mayon Volcano in Alcala, Daraga, Albay have started to bloom days ahead of the observance of All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day.

Flower farmer Alice Miras expects an influx of buyers two or three days before Undas, just as the flowers are expected to be in full bloom.

“Alam na nila na pag 28-29 tagpitasan na ng mga bulaklak kaya nasasanay na sila na puminta dito ng 28-29,” Alice said.

Alice grows several varieties of flowers, including local chrysanthemums known as burubutones, baby’s breath, and some other locally grown varieties.

Chrysanthemums are sold at P100 for three flowering plants, while baby’s breath costs P150 per kilo. Other flowers are priced at P15 each.

“Sana maubos lahat. Kasi mas marami kami ngayong tanim,” she said.

Alice attributed the abundant blooms to favorable weather condition since the start of the planting season in July, noting that the flowers are more plentiful than last year despite the looming El Nino phenomenon.

“Mas maganda ngayon ang bulaklak kasi mas maganda ngayon ang panahon, noong isang taon palaging maulan,” she added.

Aside from Barangay Alcala, neighboring Barangay Matnog also has several flower farms now in bloom attracting visitors from nearby towns.

Many have started visiting the farms since last week, not only to buy flowers for Undas but also to take photos amid the colorful blooms.

“Masaya naman kasi marami pumupunta dito,” Alice said.