Diplomats, government officials, and Filipino-Chinese community leaders gathered in Manila on January 19 to usher in the Chinese New Year, marking a significant occasion with renewed hopes for prosperity and strengthened ties between the Philippines and China.

This year, the celebration holds added meaning as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian welcomed attendees to the event, which was co-hosted by the Chinese embassy alongside the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Associations, and the Philippine-Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

“China and the Philippines share historical memories and people-to-people bonds,” Huang said, noting that the occasion embodies not just cultural traditions but also the spirit of cooperation that has defined the Philippines-China relationship for half a century.

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, has been recognized globally as a celebration of unity, tradition, and renewal. Huang highlighted that in 2023, the United Nations designated the festival as an official holiday, and UNESCO followed suit in 2024 by listing it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

“Nowadays, many countries and regions in the world proclaim the Spring Festival as an official holiday, and about one-fifth of the world’s population celebrates the Spring Festival in various ways,” he noted.

As part of the celebration, guests were given red scarves embroidered with the Chinese characters “Fu” (good fortune) and “She” (the Year of the Snake), symbolizing prosperity and the promise of spring’s arrival. The snake, known as the “dragon on earth,” heralds a time of renewal, fittingly ushering in a year of optimism and opportunity.

Vice President Sara Duterte, in her videotaped remarks, echoed the importance of the occasion, reflecting on the symbolism of the Wood Snake in Chinese astrology, which stands for wisdom, resilience, and adaptability. She emphasized the shared aspirations of both nations as they look forward to further deepening their collaboration across various fields.

“Over five decades, our nations have sought to enrich our bilateral relations on the basis of sovereignty, equality, achieving milestones in various areas of cooperation,” Duterte noted.

“As we honor this legacy, let us look ahead with hope and determination, working together to address common challenges and foster a harmonious and prosperous future for all,” she said.

Both Huang and Duterte expressed hope that the bonds of friendship between the Philippines and China would continue to flourish in the coming years, benefiting the people of both nations. Huang added,” Let us wish China and the Philippines prosperity!”

The evening was a vibrant reflection of Chinese culture, filled with traditional activities, as guests celebrated not just a new year, but a shared journey of friendship and cooperation.

As the Year of the Snake begins, both nations remain hopeful that their long-standing relationship will continue to thrive, fostering greater mutual understanding and shared prosperity.

“May the people of both countries enjoy happiness and well-being! May the traditional friendship between China and the Philippines be everlasting!” Huang concluded.