Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso on Monday evening led the countdown to the Chinese New Year in Binondo as the nation’s capital ushered in the Lunar New Year with a call for unity, peace, and stronger ties between the Philippines and China.
Addressing Manileños gathered in the world’s oldest Chinatown, Domagoso warmly welcomed visiting dignitaries and guests, including Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan. The mayor said he appreciates the growing exchanges between the two countries, particularly in tourism and trade.
“Through the leadership of our new Ambassador in the country, there will be more flights coming from China to Cebu. More flights, more tourists, more jobs and business for the country,” Domagoso said, noting that increased connectivity would benefit Filipinos nationwide, including Manileños.
The mayor emphasized Manila’s deep historical and cultural links with the Filipino-Chinese community, pointing out that the capital hosts the country’s largest concentration of Filipino-Chinese residents. He credited local business groups in Chinatown for sustaining the annual celebration and fostering unity.
Domagoso also reminded young Manileños of the shared history between Filipinos and Chinese migrants, citing the wartime contributions of Filipino-Chinese fighters during World War II and the legacy of early Chinese benefactors such as Roman Ongpin.
The mayor encouraged the public to visit Bahay Tsinoy in Intramuros to learn more about their sacrifices. Calling for mutual respect despite past misunderstandings, he urged Manileños to extend warmth to all visitors regardless of race.
Domagoso also assured local and foreign entrepreneurs that Manila remains open for business, pledging protection against abuse while promoting fair enterprise. He reported that from Jan. 1 to Feb. 13, 2026, new business registrations grew by 104 percent compared to the same period in 2025.
“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,” he said.
Domagoso likewise highlighted gains in peace and order, reporting a 13 percent drop in crime in the last quarter and improved efficiency in solving cases. He closed his message with a prayer for peace and collective effort in rebuilding the capital.
“Let there be peace in our home, in our family, in our community, in our city, in our country, and our neighboring countries,” Domagoso said.
In Quezon City, Mayor Joy Belmonte invited QCitizens and visitors to celebrate Chinese New Year in their own Chinatown located in Banawe. Activities include Dragon Dance performances, grand fireworks displays, ‘tikoy’ tasting, an evening concert, and several bazaars from participating enterprises, among others.
“Mula umaga hanggang gabi — siksik, liglig, at umaapaw ang ating mga ganap (From morning until night — our events are brimming, bustling, and overflowing),” she wrote in an Instagram post.
Banawe has been declared an official tourism destination in Quezon City, where one can find many local restaurants serving authentic Chinese cuisines. According to Belmonte, this Chinatown is not just a thriving urban lane but a whole “vibe” in its own right.
“Chinese New Year is a meaningful time of renewal, hope, and shared prosperity not only for the Chinese and Filipino-Chinese community but for all QCitizens. By celebrating this tradition together, we recognize the deep contributions of the Fil-Chi community to our city’s history, culture, and growth, while strengthening the spirit of unity that defines our City,” Belmonte said.
“Holding this special celebration here in Banawe also means this place is more than a commercial center, but is a vibrant symbol of our multicultural identity. We are showcasing Banawe as a cultural and tourism destination where heritage, creativity, and local enterprise thrive side by side, bringing opportunities to our small businesses and joy to our visitors,” she added.
