Chinese New Year 2025
Kung Hei Fat Choy, Filipinos
Chinese New Year is one of the widely celebrated events in the Philippines. Despite being a non-Chinese country, our country has a strong Chinese influence due to centuries of trade and migration. This celebration continues to be relevant because of cultural connections, economic activities, and government recognition.
The Philippines has a long history of interaction with the Chinese. Before Spanish colonization, Chinese traders visited the islands to exchange goods. Many Chinese migrants settled in the Philippines, and their traditions merged with local customs. Over time, Chinese New Year became part of Filipino culture, especially in communities with large Chinese populations. Binondo, the oldest Chinatown in the world, remains a center of this celebration.
Many Filipino families have Chinese ancestry. They continue to observe traditions such as wearing red for good luck, giving ang pao or red envelopes, and preparing round fruits for prosperity. Even those without Chinese heritage participate in these customs, showing the deep cultural influence of Chinese traditions in Filipino society.
Chinese New Year has economic importance in the Philippines. Businesses use this occasion to attract customers with sales, discounts, and special promotions. Shopping malls, restaurants, and food establishments offer products related to the celebration, such as tikoy (glutinous rice cake), believed to bring good fortune.
The event also boosts tourism, especially in areas like Binondo, where dragon dances, fireworks, and parades draw visitors. Hotels, travel agencies, and transportation services benefit from the increase in activity during this time. The economic impact of Chinese New Year extends beyond the Chinese-Filipino community and affects the broader business sector.
Filipinos embrace Chinese New Year not only for its traditions but also for its message of hope and renewal. Many believe it is an opportunity to start fresh, leave behind misfortunes, and welcome good fortune. Fireworks, lion dances, and family gatherings create an atmosphere of optimism
References:
Vecteezy. (n.d.). Chinese New Year Illustration [Illustration]. Vecteezy. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/276901-chinese-new-year-illustration
Rawpixel. (n.d.). Chinese New Year Graphic [Illustration]. Rawpixel. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://www.rawpixel.com/image/384970/chinese-new-year-graphic
Vecteezy. (n.d.). Chinese New Year Illustration Concept [Illustration]. Vecteezy. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/13429213-chinese-new-year-illustration-concept- flat-illustration-isolated-on-white-background
Asia Society. (n.d.). Chinese New Year Celebrated in the Philippines. Asia Society. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://asiasociety.org/philippines/chinese-new-year-celebrated-philippines
Manila Bulletin. (2024, February 8). Why Chinese New Year is important for Filipinos. Manila Bulletin. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://mb.com.ph/2024/2/8/why-chinese-new-year-is-important- for-filipinos
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