MANILA, Philippines — Hundreds of thousands of people welcomed the Lunar New Year in Manila’s Binondo district, home to one of the world’s oldest Chinatowns, according to the Manila Police District (MPD).
Most of the spectators gathered along and at the vicinity of Jones Bridge, where a stage was set up behind the China-funded Binondo-Intramuros Bridge, venue of a fireworks and drone display.
In a speech read by his representative, Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian said China and the Philippines would welcome the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.
“We hope both China and the Philippines can take the 50th anniversary as an opportunity to renew regional commitment to diplomatic ties, overcome distractions, work together toward common goals and promote continuous health and steady development of our bilateral relations,” Huang said.
The relationship between China and the Philippines, he said, “maintained a steady trajectory of progress despite the twists and turns and ups and downs.”
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna thanked Filipinos of Chinese descent who set up and sustained their businesses in Manila over the years.
“May all of us extend mutual respect and high regard to our countries and let us all work hand-in-hand to make our world a better place to live in,” she said.
A 30-minute fireworks and drone show followed the program.
As day broke, thousands flocked to the streets of Chinatown, particularly Ongpin street, basking in the sights and sounds of the Lunar New Year, assigned to the Wood Snake.
Some performers improvised their lion dance with plastic carts of fruits and plastic, while mascots paraded the crowded Ongpin street.
The city government and Chinese embassy also held their “Chinatown Golden Parade,” wherein Lacuna and Huang gave away ang pao or red envelopes containing coins.
The parade started at the Manila Central Post Office building and traversed Magallanes Drive, Jones Bridge, Escolta, Dasmariñas, Quintin Paredes, Ongpin, Alonzo, Soler and Reina Regente streets.
Peaceful celebration
Lunar New Year celebrations in Metro Manila yesterday were generally peaceful, police said.
Except for a fire incident at a condominium in Binondo that killed two people, no other incidents marred festivities, Metro Manila police director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin said.
About 4,904 police officers were deployed to the capital to secure venues and manage traffic.
Potential threats were monitored by 286 intelligence operatives.
In Quezon City, at least 314 police officers secured celebrations at Chinatown along Banawe street, according to city police director Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. – Emmanuel Tupas