Binondo marked the beginning of the Lunar New Year with a fireworks display and drone show at the Jones Bridge on Feb. 16, 2026 to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, signaling a push for revitalized economic and diplomatic cooperation.
Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) [resident Victor Lim delivered remarks highlighting the horse as a symbol of “strength, hard work and perseverance,” qualities he said are needed for the community to move forward. Lim urged the continued pursuit of programs that uplift lives, support business growth and promote social harmony.
“May our efforts to achieve personal growth align with our collective aspirations for the greater development of our beloved city and country,” Lim said, adding that great things happen when people work hand in hand.
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan cited the long-standing relationship between the two nations, noting that China has remained the Philippines’ largest trading partner and source of imports for over the past decade.
He confirmed that political dialogues that had paused for over 1 year have resumed, with both sides agreeing on a roadmap to expand cooperation in trade, investments, education and people-to-people exchange.
“We’re neighbors, and we’re friends. Neighbors and friends should always like each other, help each other, respect each other, and learn from each other,” Jing said, noting that officials are working to stabilize bilateral relations.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso lauded the growing exchanges, particularly in tourism and trade. He predicted that leadership from the new ambassador would result in more flights from China to Cebu, creating more jobs and business opportunities.
Domagoso reported that new business registrations in the city rose 104 percent from Jan. 1 to Feb. 13, 2026, compared with the same period in 2025. He also cited a 13 percent drop in crime in the last quarter along with improved case resolution.
The mayor urged young residents to remember the shared history and contributions of Filipino-Chinese fighters during World War II and early benefactors like Roman Ongpin. He reiterated that Manila remains open to business and assured entrepreneurs of protection from abuse.
“No harm will come to you as long as I’m mayor. But in the same manner, I will not also allow abuse to one another. Just do business, strive, and there is a big market in this city,” Domagoso said.
