CAGAYAN de Oro City began its Chinese New Year celebrations at 5 in the afternoo on Tuesday, led by Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy.
The event took place at Rio de Oro Boulevard, where the local Filipino Chinese community came together to share their vibrant culture and traditions.
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most widely celebrated occasions in the country, reflecting the nation’s rich multicultural heritage.
With a significant Chinese-Filipino population, the festivities blend traditional Chinese customs with Filipino influences, creating a unique celebration that unites communities.
In 2025, Chinese New Year falls on January 29, and as we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake, it's a time to explore the Chinese traditions practiced across the Philippines.
In Cagayan de Oro City, the program kicked off with lively dragon and lion dances performed by students from Kong Hua School.
These vibrant performances symbolize good luck and are believed to drive away evil spirits.
Accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums, cymbals, and gongs, the dances bring prosperity and blessings to the audience and their surroundings.
Other schools also showcased their talents, providing attendees with a glimpse into Chinese culture.At 7 PM, the festivities continued with a spectacular Pyro Music Fireworks display that amazed hundreds of residents who attended.
"Today marks the start of an important celebration for our city. The Chinese New Year is a time to honor the contributions of the Filipino Chinese community to Cagayan de Oro," Mayor Uy expressed enthusiastically.
Preparations for this year’s Chinese New Year, running from January 27 to February 4, 2025, are well underway.
The celebrations will begin with a lion dance and ceremonial lighting at City Hall on January 27.
"The lion dance symbolizes good fortune and prosperity, and we eagerly anticipate the year of the Wooden Snake," Mayor Uy added.
He encouraged everyone to join in the celebrations, emphasizing that this is a time for unity and joy within the community.
Later that evening, a New Year’s Eve tradition took place at Bell Church in Barangay Macasandig. Mayor Uy expressed his gratitude at this event.
“I am truly honored to celebrate the Chinese New Year with the Filipino-Chinese community here at Bell Church," said Uy."
It brings me immense joy and appreciation to be allowed to light the first incense—this is a significant honor for me. Your support and unity give great meaning to our togetherness as a city," he added.
The evening culminated with firecrackers at midnight. Mayor Uy highlighted the importance of these customs, noting that they connect the community to its roots and values.
Also today, January 29, a motorcade will showcase the festivities across the city.
He remarked that the motorcade is a wonderful way to involve everyone in the celebrations, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness.The celebrations will also feature lion dances at various locations from January 27 to February 3, along with a Chinese Cultural Performance and Variety Show at Centrio Activity Center on January 29.
"I encourage everyone to participate; these events celebrate our diversity and shared heritage," the mayor said.During the ceremonial lighting at City Hall, Mayor Uy thanked the Filipino Chinese community for their essential role in the city's growth.
"Your contributions are invaluable. You are leaders in business and industry, and your support helps our city prosper," he said.
The event was attended by several officials, including Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez and City Council members.
Mayor Uy acknowledged their presence, saying, "Together, we can achieve great things for Cagayan de Oro. Let’s move forward as one united community."
The ceremonial lighting, accompanied by the ringing of a gong, marked the official start of the celebrations.
"This gong represents not just the New Year but also the hope and prosperity we seek for our city," he explained.
As Cagayan de Oro welcomes the year of the Wooden Snake, the community is ready to embrace its symbolism of wisdom and adaptability.
"Let’s greet this new year with open hearts and a commitment to growth and unity," Mayor Uy concluded, setting a hopeful tone for the festivities.
With excitement in the air, Cagayan de Oro looks forward to the New Year celebration, honoring its rich cultural heritage.
