THE YEAR OF THE FIRE MONKEY

HIGH ENERGY, CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION. These are key words for 2016, the Year of the Fire Monkey. Beginning Feb. 8 and ending on Jan. 27, 2017, the year will be an exciting time for most of us – a year full of surprises, challenges and opportunities that will define, depending on how we react to them, what’s in store for all of us.

The Monkey is smart, wily, vigilant and naughty. These characteristics will have important influences during the next twelve months. Add to those the ruling elements in the year of the Fire Monkey, and we expect a thrilling year ahead of us.

In Chinese horoscope, each lunar year is ruled by an animal sign and the prevailing basic elements – metal, earth, wood, fire or water. The relationships between these five elements determine what’s going to be in store for us each year. The Year of the Fire Monkey is ruled by two elements, fire and metal, but is also influenced by the water element. The fire element represents the sun and energy, but it also means happiness, warmth and contentment. However, when it interacts with metal and water, the situation becomes volatile. Let us look at how the Year of the Fire Monkey will be like for most of us.

General prospects for 2016

On the personal front, 2016 will be full of energy when people will want to accomplish many things, venture into uncharted territories, take on unexpected projects or simply try new experiences. This will be the time to tick off some items in our bucket lists. It will be wise to be adaptable to new circumstances and if you have the time, acquire new skills or pursue higher education.

The year will also be characterized by greater interest in creativity and innovation. People will want to experiment on new ideas and experience new things. As such, the creative industry including the arts, crafts industry, design and cultural tourism are expected to flourish this year. In the performing arts and media arts, Filipino artists will garner international awards that will make the nation proud. In science and technology, there will be new exciting breakthroughs that will change the way we live.

On the global front, we will see conflicts due to the interaction between the fire and metal elements. In previous years of the Fire Monkey, which comes every 60 years, we saw some violent political and military events. In 1896, the Philippine revolution against the Spanish colonial rule erupted when the Katipuneros led by Andres Bonifacio tore their cedulas during the Cry of Pugad Lawin. In 1956, the French and British forces invaded the Suez Canal when Egypt nationalized it. There was also a revolution against the Soviet communist rule in Poland and Hungary and an Israeli invasion of the Sinai Peninsula in 1956.

The interaction between metal and water could also bring clashes related to the sea. The tension in the South China Sea may escalate as a result of more countries opposing the bold moves of China. Another possible outcome of the contact between metal and water is a major sea accident or disaster. In 1896, a powerful earthquake followed by a tsunami killed 27,000, injured 9,000 and destroyed 13,000 houses during a Shinto festival in Sanriku, Japan.

On the positive side, the prevailing fire and water elements are expected to bring prosperity to the following industries – energy, arts and entertainment, finance, transportation, communication, real estate and mining. The Philippine stock market is expected to go on an upward-downward trend but in general, we shall see it moving upward until mid-2017. While the world economy will generally be sluggish, the economies of Asia and the Philippines will continue to outpace the rest.

Overall, the Year of the Fire Monkey will be a happy year for most of us. Conflicts will be resolved easily. New experiences will energize and inspire people. Lots of opportunities at work and at home will come our way. Now, let us look at what the Year of the Fire Monkey has in store for us individually.

RAT

THE PERSON BORN IN THE YEAR OF THE RAT IS HARDWORKING and thrifty. He rarely lets an opportunity pass and is constantly involved in many plans and schemes. Charming, intelligent and sociable, he is easy to get along with and enjoys parties and social gatherings. He cherishes friends, associates and family relations and often gets enmeshed in people’s lives and affairs.

This will be a better year for Rats compared to 2014 and 2015. You’ll have a carefree and joyous feeling most of the time. The Year of the Fire Monkey favors the quick and decisive so you’ll have to use your innate talents to grab opportunities that will come your way. And mind you, they will be aplenty!

2016 will a positive year for Rats in terms of career and money. For those who are employed, you will accomplish much and will be recognized and rewarded for it. For entrepreneurs, you will enjoy a boost in your business with new investments and partnership opportunities. This may be the best time to expand your operations. If you’re looking for a job for the first time, you will encounter good prospects but it will help to upgrade your skills before you take on the job. As a result of these good career opportunities, your finances will improve considerably. It will be wise to invest in a house or real estate.

On the personal side, the Year of the Fire Monkey bodes well for the love relationships of Rats. For the unattached, you will meet a love interest through your close friends or family members. Men will have the chance to go into a relationship with older women. For those already in a relationship, you’ll need to be more open to each other to avoid serious consequences. Rats are charming and generally good in social relations, so expect an enjoyable year with family, friends and colleagues. Those with pending legal cases will receive a big boost this year. Your health will be fairly good but do watch out for sickness of the kidney, abdomen or urinary tract.

OX

THE OX IS AN ANIMAL THAT SYMBOLIZES PROSPERITY through determination and hard work. A person born under the Ox sign is therefore dependable, calm and methodical. He is a tireless worker and can be entrusted with positions of authority and responsibility. Strong-willed and persistent, he can sometimes exhibit bad temper.

The Year of the Sheep is generally not compatible with the Ox so 2015 must have been difficult for you. This year you’ll have more luck and chances of success because there’s harmony between the Ox and the Monkey. This is the year therefore to make bold moves and decisions and consequently, you’re expected to go far. Conservative Oxen will have limited achievements.

Your professional life will be smooth sailing this year. Do not hesitate to accept new challenges at work. With your usual steady, practical wisdom you’ll have greater chances to succeed. Oxen who own businesses will enjoy moderate success but this will not be the time to expand. Students taking important examinations this year will be blessed. Those seeking new jobs will get new offers that will enhance your careers and bring improved finances. Most Oxen will see good money luck this year but this will not come on a silver platter. Your hard work and talent will be the key to success in 2016.

You will enjoy a harmonious family life this year and will be active in your social circle. It will be an opportune time to strengthen relationships with your friends and family and build new friendships that will provide support for your endeavors. Oxen who are attached will enjoy a smooth year with your partners. Those of you who are single will find new love prospects in May, June or October. There will be lots of opportunities for travel but be selective and choose the ones that you’ve been dreaming of for a long time now. Beware of digestive system ailments and start a new exercise and diet regimen for better health this year.

TIGER

THE TIGER SYMBOLIZES POWER, PASSION AND DARING. A Tiger therefore usually displays a rebellious, colorful and unpredictable character. He is a fearless and fiery fighter but on the other hand has a humanitarian and romantic streak in him. At his best, he is warm, sensitive and sympathetic; at his worst, he is obstinate, unreasonable and selfish.

The Year of the Fire Monkey will be a challenging year for Tigers. You are headstrong and purposeful but you’re not compatible with the Monkey. In 2016, you’ll have a roller coaster ride in your career and personal life as your energy will be in confrontation with that of the Monkey. Care and persistence will be your important key words this year.

At work you will generally succeed but not without some bumps. Oftentimes you will feel frustrated and tired due to a potential career shift, work-related travels or changes in an organization. You’ll need to use your wisdom and sensitivity to surmount these frustrations and if necessary, seek the help of those closest to you. For those planning to change jobs, this is not the time to do so. Entrepreneurs will also have to be conservative in making deals and avoid starting a new business venture. You have to be very circumspect with your expenditures this year and refrain from speculative investments.

On personal matters, try to be careful when dealing with your partner. You’ll need to back off a bit during arguments and try to be more understanding of your loved ones. However, single Tigers could see love blossom with a long-time acquaintance during the third quarter of the year. Nurture this friendship and see it grow into a beautiful relationship. Your health will be good this year but do take care if you’re involved in highly physical sports. Accidents could hurt your limbs. Tigers should also watch out for ailments of the liver and nervous system. So for male Tigers who love to party and socialize, watch your drink.

RABBIT

TO THE CHINESE, THE RABBIT SYMBOLIZES GRACIOUSNESS, good manners, sound counsel, kindness and sensitivity to beauty. The Rabbit is a witty and intelligent speaker and loves being involved in a good discussion. He is an efficient worker and has an extremely good memory.

Rejoice! This is going to be an exciting year full of positive change energies for you. Two stars of luck, the Emperor star and the Dragon virtue star, will give you career, wealth and romantic opportunities that you haven’t seen in years. But these opportunities will not be yours for the picking all the time. You’ll need patience and adaptation to make the best of your luck this year.

Your professional life will be full of imagination and creativity that will allow you to prosper at an incredible pace. People will seek you out for your talent and expertise, whether you are in business, academe or the arts. Those who are employed could see a promotion or hefty bonus. Rabbits involved in business will get the chance to expand operations or find good investment opportunities. If you’re offered a new job in another company, this is the time to grab it for you’ll surely be successful. As a consequence of your professional success, you’ll enjoy a much improved financial standing. There might even be a windfall from non-work related ventures.

Your social life will be equally rosy in 2016. This year, you’ll be the center of attention in your social and family circles. Enjoy it while spending more time with your loved ones. Single Rabbits will see Cupid aiming his arrow straight at you. You’ll feel doubly romantic during the second and fourth quarters of the year when a new love prospect comes your way. Physically, you’ll sometimes feel exhausted with all your activities. It is best to balance your personal and professional lives with a vacation or family outing. Watch out for accidents involving your head and limbs.

DRAGON

THE DRAGON IS BORN UNDER THE SIGN OF GOOD LUCK and will do well in practically anything he attempts. He is magnanimous, full of vitality and is constantly on the go. Proud and aristocratic, the Dragon possesses an assertive personality. He could be egotistical, eccentric, dogmatic, whimsical, terribly demanding or unreasonable, but is never without a band of admirers.

Dragons will have a lot to smile about this year. You are highly compatible with the Monkey and understand its energies so expect a very fulfilling, trouble-free year ahead. This is the year for taking risks and trying new things. Creativity will flow in your veins so Dragons in the field of arts, culture, advertising and entertainment will see new career heights in 2016.

At work, your success will depend on how you work as a team with your colleagues. While you lead the pack, you will be stronger together with your co-workers. As such you will receive recognition or promotion for your successful efforts. For Dragons seeking a new career, a job offer from another company will be auspicious. Those applying for a job for the first time should use their good people relations to succeed. The Dragon’s wealth will steadily improve and some unexpected income could come your way. Be careful with your expenditures and extra money should be put into wise use or investment.

Your family life will be quite enjoyable and fulfilling this year. Many members of your family will look up to you for comfort and support. Do spend time with them. On the social front, you will meet new people, some of whom will play an important part in your future. Unattached Dragons should attend more social gatherings, especially during the last quarter of the year when you will likely meet new love prospects. Those in a current relationship will enjoy closer ties with their loved ones. As to your health, it will be good to watch your diet and do regular exercise as you will be prone to cardiovascular ailments this year.

SNAKE

THE SNAKE IS THE DEEPEST THINKER AND THE MOST MYSterious in the Chinese zodiac. He is endowed with an inborn wisdom and intelligence. He treasures his privacy and possesses a calm and placid nature. Graceful, soft-spoken but with a good sense of humor, he loves good books, food, music and theater.

Snakes will have a moderately good year in 2016. You will coast along the next twelve months without much drama and hullaballoo. As compatibility between the Monkey and Snake is good, there will be moments for you to shine at work and within your family circle. However, there will be some things you’ll need to watch out for.

One of them is at your workplace. While your career will be generally satisfying, you’ll encounter some business or office politics. Try your best to stay away from any wrangling and let your good work speak for itself. For those in business, 2016 is not the time for high-risk investments. Be mindful as well of being cheated or robbed. Your overall money situation will improve as a result of hard work but there will be no unexpected windfall, so avoid any form of gambling or speculative ventures. If you have extra funds to invest, it will be wise to consult financial experts first rather than relying on friendly advice.

At home, you’ll need to pay special attention to the elderly, especially those with chronic health issues. Get them to undergo regular medical checkups. Other than this, your family and social life will be enjoyable. Snakes who are currently in a relationship will have memorable occasions to celebrate that will further strengthen your bond. Single male Snakes will be especially fortunate as love prospects look promising during the second and third quarter of the year. As to your health, you’ll need to watch out for any skeletal or muscular ailment. There will be some exciting travel opportunities but it will be wise to get travel insurance.

HORSE

THE HORSE IS CHEERFUL, POPULAR AND QUICK-WITTED. HE is very perceptive and loves to talk. He is quite physical and exudes raw sex appeal – the type who will fall in love easily and fall out of love just as easily. Impulsive and stubborn, he will want to have things done his way.

Time to celebrate! The Year of the Fire Monkey will bring you a garden of opportunities that you can revel in. On the whole, your natural self-confidence will get a big boost, propelling you to new career heights. The support system from your family and friends will be there to prop you up for bigger ventures.

The hard work and tribulations you went through during the last two years will provide you the foundation to succeed professionally. Your workload and responsibilities will increase but you’ll have to break down your goals into a doable action plan. As a result, your prospects for a promotion and salary increase will be good. If another company offers you a better option, you may consider it but do get the advice of family and friends. Entrepreneurs will see positive return of investment this year and plans for company expansion are ripe. Your money luck this year is also good but avoid profligate spending and put a reasonable amount in the bank.

On the social front, you will find yourself at the center of attention most of the time. Enjoy this attention but also make use of social connections and interactions to increase your knowledge and experience. 2016 will bode well for single Horses, as romantic liaisons are very likely to happen in June, July and November. If you are currently in a relationship, you have to be more understanding and patient as there will be trying times this year. It is also advisable to stay away from funeral or hospital visits as these will bring negative energy. As to your health, pay attention to respiratory problems and reduce involvement in very physical activities.

SHEEP

THE SHEEP IS THE MOST FEMININE SIGN IN THE CHINESE zodiac. Known for his gentle and compassionate ways, he is considered the good Samaritan in the cycle. He is righteous, sincere and is easily affected by sob stories. Although he enjoys being with nature, the Sheep is usually a homebody.

You have a lot to be thankful for because the Sheep is one of the more fortunate signs this year. If you worked hard last year and had some difficult times, your efforts will bear fruit in 2016. Your lucky stars will shine brighter, particularly on money matters and affairs of the heart.

Your career will take off this year. It is now time to show your talent, expertise and experience, so don’t be shy about it. You will be rewarded for your good work either through a salary raise or promotion. Sheep who are in sales, marketing, media and entertainment business are especially lucky this year. Those looking for greener pastures will receive a good recommendation for a better position in another company. For businessmen, this is the time to expand your business or go into a new venture. As a result of your professional efforts, your financial situation will greatly improve. It is advisable to spend your extra funds on home improvements or family vacation.

Your romantic life will also be colorful in 2016. The presence of the star of Romance will enhance your charm, personality and public relations. Single Sheep will find it easy to get romantically linked, particularly during the first and third quarters of the year. You’ll enjoy the attention of friends and acquaintances. If you’re married or in a relationship, do stay away from temptations as these will have serious consequences. In 2016, Sheep will have to watch what you eat and get enough fiber in your diet. Otherwise there will be possibilities of sickness in the digestive system. When on vacation or traveling, avoid hectic activities because stress could affect your immune system.

MONKEY

THE MONKEY HAS THE CLOSEST AFFINITY TO MAN AND therefore inherits most of his intelligence. He is quick-witted, clever and innovative, and can solve intricate problems with ease. The Monkey is innately warm, natural and spontaneous. He exudes self-confidence and has an enviable joie de vivre.

This is your year and therefore it offers great potential as far as your career and work is concerned. The Chinese calendar works on a 12year cycle and 2016 is the beginning of that cycle. This means that now is the time to lay the foundation for new or bigger plans in your life. The first quarter of the year is an opportune time to retrospect on your past experiences and develop strategies for eventual success.

The star of prosperity will be hovering above your horizon this year. This is a good sign for professional progress. If you’ve been contemplating on pursuing higher studies, this is the perfect time to do so, as it will greatly benefit you in the years to come. At work you’ll be undoubtedly at your most creative and innovative self. Group projects will be successful with you taking the lead. However, if you’re contemplating on a career change, now is not yet the time to do so. Your money situation will improve but any additional investment must be conservative this year. Avoid giving out loans as it could be difficult to get them back.

Your social life will be active but do be always careful with what you say. Build better relationships with members of your family as well as friends by yielding some opportunities and offering favors. Your love life will have trying moments this year. Arguments and misunderstandings with your partners need to be addressed in a quick and amicable manner. Otherwise, this could lead to serious consequences. Single Monkeys will see themselves becoming close to Rabbits, Dragons or Rats. This could develop into a romance during the last quarter of the year.

ROOSTER

THE ROOSTER IS THE MOST MISUNDERSTOOD OF ALL THE animal signs. Outwardly, he exhibits self-assurance and aggression; but at heart, he could be conservative and old-fashioned. Rooster men are usually attractive, even dashingly handsome. On the whole, the Rooster is sharp, neat, precise, organized, decisive and is good at handling money. He loves to budget everything he could lay his hands on.

Roosters will have a good year in 2016. Because of the presence of some lucky stars in your horizon, your career and romantic life will be especially exciting. But the Year of the Fire Monkey is also a period to take stock of your current situation, discard aspects of your life that you’re unhappy about in preparation for your year in 2017 – the Year of the Rooster.

If you are a student, your hard work will pay off this year – getting good grades, passing an important exam or graduating with distinction. For businessmen, starting a new venture is favorable as you will receive backing and encouragement from your investors and clients. For Roosters who are employed, career advancement is expected this year and you’ll meet unconditional support for the challenges you’ll face. It will be good to listen to your superiors all of the time. For those who are in the money or stock market, it is advisable to be conservative this year as your money luck is not strong. Roosters will feel an urge to overspend in 2016. Be careful with non-essential large expenditures.

The Tao Hua or Peach Blossom star will hover above you, which means your romantic life will take off this year. You will initially feel lonely or depressed at the beginning of the year but a new love interest will cross your path during the second half of 2016. Rather than being swept off your feet immediately, get to know the person well and nurture the relationship. This could be the one you’ve been waiting for all these years. If you’re married or in a relationship, there will be some major temptations that will test your resolve.

TDOG

HE DOG IS HONEST, GENUINE, LOYAL, SINCERE AND REspects law and order – qualities of an ideal citizen of the country! He is not materialistic and possesses humanitarian instincts. He is the type who will lay down his life for a friend or relative. However, he can suffer bouts of melancholy or when the situation calls for it, show flashes of temper.

Dogs will have harmonious energy with the Monkey in 2016. As such, there will be positive influences particularly in the professional, financial and health aspects of your life. It will be up to you to grab these opportunities that will come your way and transform 2016 as one of the best you’ve ever had.

At work, if you’re offered a new position, take it but be ready to face the challenge by learning new things or skills. Dogs who are in business will unexpectedly receive partnership offers that could, if properly handled, bring renewed life to your business. If you have to sign a major contract, you will need to read and understand all the provisions carefully and choose an auspicious time to do so. Otherwise, this could cause disagreements later that could lead to legal dispute. Your financial situation will improve steadily and those in the social network or info-technology industry will enjoy a big boost in income.

Your personal life will be quite satisfying this year. You will be attending many social activities where you will meet and develop new friendships that will become meaningful and important to you in the future. However, avoid attending funerals or visiting cemeteries or hospitals as these will bring bad energy. Single Dogs will find romantic prospects in August, September and December. Those who are in relationships need to pay special attention to your partners and spend quality time with them. Your health will be all right this year but avoid extreme sports and activities as you’ll be prone to ailments of the bones and muscles. Also pay attention to the health of the elders in your family.

PIG

THE PIG IS THE MOST EASY-GOING AND LAID-BACK OF ALL the signs. Cheerful, friendly and overflowing with good intentions, he does not bear grudges. He is the connoisseur of the Chinese zodiac and thus enjoys good food and has a healthy appetite. Despite lacking strong ambitions, he is hardworking and is generally successful in life.

Your luck will be much better this year compared to last year. You will feel positive energy most of the time and will be excited to accomplish many things. Many doors are also expected to open for you, particularly in your career, finances and love life. Now is the time to try new things and go into uncharted territories.

Professionally, you will feel more at ease with your job and will therefore receive some offers for training and higher education. Take the opportunity, for this will benefit you in the long run. Those who will receive a job offer from another company will have to think twice before accepting the offer. The money luck of Pigs is also good this year. Entrepreneurs will see good financial returns, but be conservative as far as expansion or new investments are concerned.

In the Year of the Monkey, you’ll realize that people you’re close to love you very much. Pay attention to their needs and spend more time with them. If you are looking for love, attend social activities or family gatherings. It is likely that you’ll meet someone special in one of these gatherings, especially in the third and fourth quarters of 2016. Pigs in a relationship should spend more romantic time with your loved ones. Your health will be generally good but do watch your sugar intake and ailments of the digestive and nervous systems. You will also experience insomnia and exhaustion at times so try to de-stress when you can through a vacation or travel with your loved ones. Be careful with your belongings for there is a chance of loss of important properties or documents.