Two distinct cultures seek unity, peace, and prosperity through the Spring Festival celebration – Peter Ng
BAGUIO CITY – (January 20, 2025) The city government and the Filipino-Chinese Community in Baguio renewed their ties as they launched the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival 2025 by unveiling the calendar of activities and a festive program during the Monday flag-raising ceremony at the city hall grounds.
After the presentation of the Bell Church Baguio Dragon Lion Martial Arts Team.
Mr. Thomas Nathaniel Ang – Vice President of the Association of Baguio Chinese-Filipino Youth, Inc (ABCFYI) expounds on the significance of the Year of the Wood Snake for 2025.
In a message from Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong, “This celebration is a long-standing tradition in the city that symbolizes renewal, unity, and progress. It not only showcases the rich cultural heritage and brotherhood within the Filipino-Chinese community of Baguio but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation that have flourished in Baguio over generations,”
“This bond is one built on mutual respect and trust, which over the years, has only gotten stronger and more special not only through the sharing, as well as fusion, of practices and traditions, but also partnerships in commerce, and other collaborative efforts that have contributed to the city’s progress,” Mayor said.
“As we welcome the Year of the Snake, we draw inspiration from its symbolism of strength, wisdom, prosperity, and renewal– qualities that we can use to help guide us as we continue to work together for the betterment of Baguio and our individual aspirations. May the coming Spring Festival bring joy, health, and prosperity to everyone.
Together, let us carry forward the values of hard work, gratitude for good things and happenings, and generosity that our communities hold dear,” Magalong concluded.
On behalf of the City Government, Magalong expressed deepest appreciation to the Filipino-Chinese Community in Baguio for their invaluable contributions to the city’s progress, development, and growth.
Mr. Peter L. Ng – Chairperson, Spring Festival Execom 2025 formally declared the launch of the Spring Festival Celebration.
“The City Government of Baguio and the Filipino-Chinese community in Baguio have continuously partnered together for over 27 years. We are truly grateful to our city officials for their continued support and for making this event as one of the city’s major community activities. The goal and objective of the festival is to promote better understanding and cooperation between the Filipino and Chinese communities in order to strengthen our historical friendship and unity,”
“As we have emphasized in every Spring Festival celebration, we greatly value relationships and the celebration of this grand event fosters a closer and stronger bond between the Filipino and Chinese communities, the highlights and the importance of the Spring Festival of renewing our commitment to camaraderie and cooperation. The assimilation and blending of these two unique cultures through this celebration will promote unity, peace, and prosperity for all of us,”
“Let us all join our hands and bring cheers to the people of Baguio.
“So, let us welcome the year of the Wooden Snake with much determination, wisdom and vigor. This celebration is not only for the Chinoy but for the whole community of Baguio.
“Maraming Salamat po. I wish everyone prosperity in all our undertakings. Happy Chinese New Year to all,” Ng concluded.
Congressman Marquez O. Go delivered a speech on the Congressional update.
Baguio City’s Spring Festival 2025 will be highlighted by a Grand Colorful Parade set at 2:30 PM of Jan. 30 assembly at the Upper Session Rd. Main thoroughfare proceeding to Melvin Jones Grandstand. Followed Dinner Awards Night (Ticketed) at 7:00 PM at the Hotel Supreme Magsaysay Avenue. ### Photos by: Mario Oclaman //FNS
