Filipino-Chinese groups participate in the 21st Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival at the Chinese Garden in Rizal Park on Feb. 9, 2025.
The 21st Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival kicked off at the Chinese Garden in Rizal Park on Feb. 9, 2025, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines.
The event was organized by Manila City Hall, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, the Filipino Chinese Youth Educational Center, the National Parks Development Committee, the Department of Tourism, Culture and the Arts of Manila, the Manila Chinatown Development Council and the Confucius Institute at Ateneo de Manila University, with additional support from various Filipino-Chinese associations.
China Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xi Lian delivered a message of congratulations to the Filipino-Chinese community and those who support Philippine-China friendship.
“The relationship between Chinese and the Philippines is deeply rooted in history and culture. As witness to centuries of history, the Chinese-Filipino community, through thick and thin, have embraced the changing times, and have remained steadfast in their cultural identity throughout.” he said.
“We hope that China and the Philippines will take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to foster an even more stable and long-term partnership for the sound development of bilateral relations by drawing wisdom and strength from history,” Huang said.
Manila Chinatown Development Council executive director Willord Chua, Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) vice president George Chiu, Filipino Chinese Youth Federation chairman Gao Ming Seng and several other Filipino-Chinese community leaders also attended the ceremony.
Chua and Chiu noted that the friendship between the Philippines and China has endured for many years, with cultural exchanges serving as a vital bridge to strengthen the bond between the peoples of both nations.
The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Spring Festival. It is celebrated with lantern displays, fireworks, and the sharing of glutinous rice balls. People enjoy the first full moon and the beauty of the lanterns.
