Marcos says Dragon Year
Marcos said.
“As the vibrant colors of lanterns illuminate the sky and the rhythmic beats of drums fill the air, a new chapter unfolds before us. We revel in the jubilant festivities and embrace the spirited heartbeat of the dragon’s realm, knowing that the limitless horizon of this Year of the Dragon brings endless possibilities,” he added.
The President said dreams turn into reality through firm commitment and resolve.
“As one diverse yet united community, may we immerse ourselves in the richness of our cultural identity and lay the groundwork for a more peaceful, harmonious and progressive Philippines. I wish everyone an auspicious and bountiful Chinese New Year,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte urged Filipinos to embrace the energy of the dragon, a symbol of good fortune, abundance, strength, bravery and triumph.
“Let us channel its remarkable qualities to conquer any obstacles that come our way and pursue our wildest dreams,” Duterte said.
She added that the Lunar New Year brings opportunities to immerse in timeless traditions passed down to generations.
“With the spirited essence of the wood dragon, I extend my wishes for boundless success in all aspects of your life. Embrace this fresh chapter with optimism and open hearts, ready to embrace the infinite possibilities that lie ahead,” Duterte said.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco also released a New Year greeting, highlighting the richness of FilipinoChinese heritage.
“Woven into our Philippine heritage and traditions is the fabric of Chinese culture throughout millennia of relations, creating a harmonious blend that is uniquely Filipino-Chinese,” Frasco said in a statement.
“In the Philippines, the Chinese community has played an integral role in shaping our history, contributing
to the diverse cultural landscape that defines our nation and people,” she added.
Residents of the Filipino-Chinese community in Binondo, Manila, said they were looking forward to a healthy and peaceful 2024.
“We’re very happy and excited for the parade. We are grateful for the city government of Manila and the Manila Chinatown Development Council for their support. And I think the most important thing now is health and prosperity,” said Elaine Chang Xiao Wei, president of the Fooking Merchant Benevolent Association Inc.
“We’re looking at it very positively. Every year, we maintain a very positive attitude because with us, we always look for opportunities where we could help out in the community because we don’t think of big things, only the things that we can contribute,” Samuel Uy, member of the Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. said.
He said the organization has many benevolent projects helping the youth, noting everyone should aspire for harmony.
“Of course for our family, we would like to have harmony and good health among all the members. But for the country, we are looking forward for peace within here and with other Asian neighbors. That’s what we want to emphasize now. Because if there’s conflict with our Asian neighbors, it will push our country backwards,” Uy added.
Simultaneous with the celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Binondo Chinatown has commemorated its 430th founding anniversary as the oldest Chinatown in the world.
This year’s festivities were marked with a 12-minute fireworks display at Binondo-Intramuros Bridge on Friday, a free concert at Lucky Chinatown, a food bazaar at Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz and a solidarity parade by Filipino-Chinese organizations.
The Manila Police said around 50,000 visitors came to Binondo to celebrate the Chinese New Year since February 9.