Quezon City Celebrates Chinese New Year in Banawe, Aims to Boost Local Tourism
Happy Chinese New Year! Did you know that in China and Taiwan, they celebrate the Lunar New Year for one whole week! Yes, it’s their biggest holiday – just like our Christmas season in the Philippines!
And with about 10% of the Philippine population consisting of inhabitants with a mix of Chinese blood or decent, Chinese New Year is also celebrated as a holiday in our country.
Quezon City Celebrates Chinese New Year
And the Quezon City government is taking the celebrations beyond today as they will host the Chinese New Year celebration to usher in the “Year of the Metal Rat” tomorrow (Sunday) – January 26, starting 3pm in Banaue / Banawe, which is identified by Feng Shui experts as an “Area of Prosperity”.
Mayor Joy Belmonte will lead the celebration with People’s Republic of China (PRC) Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Huang Xilian as Guest of Honor.
Also expected to join are Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong, Quezon City Association of Filipino Chinese Businessmen Inc. (QCAFCBI) President Joseph Lim Bon Huan and Quezon City Chinatown Development Foundation (QCCDF) Chairman Charles Chen.
Joining the QC Givernement in the Banawe Chinese New Year Celebrations are Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong, Quezon City Association of Filipino Chinese Businessmen Inc. (QCAFCBI) President Joseph Lim Bon Huan and Quezon City Chinatown Development Foundation (QCCDF)
Among the activities lined up are the traditional dragon and lion dance performances, Chinese music and arts performances, and and a Wushu martial arts exhibition to highlight the rich Chinese culture. The city”s very own Symphonic Band will also perform various musical renditions.
A Chinese deli food and trade bazaar and traditional Chinese cooking demonstration will also be held as added attraction to spice up the festivities. Renowned Feng Shui Master Rev. Fr. Wong Seng Tian will also give his predictions for the Chinese New Year.
Moreover, a fireworks display, followed by a grand concert of the Climax Band and singer Rico Blanco will cap the celebration.
In 2013, the Quezon City government installed two Chinatown arches at Banaue Street corner Quezon Avenue,designating the area as “Chinatown of Quezon City” and branding it as a world class hub for the Chinese community.
Furthermore, the Quezon City government passed City ordinance 2453-2015, formally designating the QC Chinatown in Banaue as one of its tourism districts, thus improving its accessibility, ensuring environmental sustainability, and enhancing its infrastructure and amenities.
