MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos joins the Filipino-Chinese community in celebrating the Lunar New Year today, and reminds everyone to pursue “grand ambitions” not just for themselves, but for the greater good.
“I extend my greetings to the Filipino-Chinese community and the entire nation as we celebrate the Chinese New Year,” Marcos said in his message released by Malacañang yesterday.
“As the Year of the Snake dawns, we are recalled to the virtues of wisdom, intuition, and transformation, calling us to embrace its promise of prosperity with courage and determination,” the President said.
“As we welcome a new year of self-improvement and good fortune, let this event inspire us to boldly set our intentions and confidently pursue grand ambitions not only for ourselves, but for the greater good,” Marcos said.
The occasion reminds everyone that every challenge is a chance for growth, and every effort, guided by clarity and resolve, is chance to fulfill shared aspirations, the Chief Executive said.
He said this cherished occasion, steeped in century-old tradition and boundless joy, is a radiant tapestry of cultural splendor, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the indomitable spirit of perseverance.
“Let the vibrant lanterns that illuminate our celebration also brighten our purpose as a nation. May this auspicious time rekindle our commitment to a Bagong Pilipinas – inspiring new beginnings, forging fruitful endeavors, and deepening our duty to strengthen the ties that bind us as a country,” the President said.
“May the Year of the Snake guide us with its wisdom and empower us to move through life with grace,” he said.
Meanwhile, First Lady Liza Marcos shared a photo with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian and members of the Filipino-Chinese community on Instagram yesterday.
In her post, the First Lady recognized the “deep ties between our peoples, built on friendship and mutual respect.”
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte today called on Filipinos to face the country’s challenges this year with the same courage and hard work.
“As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us embrace the spirit of generosity and harmony that defines this season. This vibrant time not only honors our rich traditions, but also highlights the strong bonds of collaboration that enrich our heritage,” Duterte said.
“Let us march ahead with renewed vigor and determination to ring in 2025 with hope and optimism,” she added.
The Vice President said the country should also celebrate the efforts from the past year to bring good fortune and growth.
“As we look forward to a New Year, let us nurture the spirit of compassion and bayanihan in rediscovering the rich and dynamic heritage that have long defined our mutual ties of friendship and cooperation,” she said.
“And whatever lies ahead this year, may we face every challenge boldly with the same diligence, resilience, and hard work which all communities are known for,” Duterte added.
Malacañang has declared Jan. 29, the Lunar New Year, a special non-working day. — Neil Jayson Servallos