MANILA – Close to three (3) million people gathered in Manila for the Chinese New Year celebration on January 29, 2025, marking a successful and peaceful event, according to City Administrator Bernie Ang.
The highlight of the festivities was a 25-minute fireworks and drone show at the Chinese-Filipino Friendship Bridge, offering a breathtaking view for attendees. Prior to the New Year countdown, nearly a million people packed Jones Bridge and nearby areas, including the esplanade, riverside, and Chinatown.
Another key attraction, the “Solidarity Parade,” featured 30 floats from the city of Manila and various Chinese-Filipino groups. Nearly 2 million people lined the streets to watch, with parade participants distributing “angpao” (red envelopes with money) and other symbolic items.
China’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, joined Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna on the lead float, both praising the efforts of authorities and volunteers who ensured the celebration’s smooth and orderly conduct.
ia/mnm
In a heartwarming tradition, families flocked to Rizal Park in Manila as early as 4 AM on Monday, December 25, 2023, to celebrate Christmas Day and savor precious moments with their loved ones.
Rizal Park continues to hold its status as the preferred destination for families to come together during the festive season, especially given the added allure of free park admission. The park served as a picturesque backdrop as families laid out blankets on the lush grass, creating a cozy setting for enjoying festive meals while children played joyfully in the background.
Capturing the essence of this heartening scene, MNM immortalized the shared joy and togetherness on December 25, 2023, of some Filipino families in the Metropolis.
(Benjie Cuaresma/IAmigo/MNM)