Embracing Foreign Traditions

Why do Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year? Chinese New Year is one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture. It marks the start of the lunar new year and is filled with traditions meant to bring good luck, happiness, and prosperity. In the Philippines, many Filipinos join in celebrating this occasion, even if they are not Chinese. The strong connection between Filipinos and the Chinese community has made this event an important part of the country’s culture.

The history of Chinese influence in the Philippines goes back hundreds of years. Even before the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, Chinese traders came to the country to buy and sell goods. Some of them decided to stay, married Filipinos, and became part of the local community. Over time, their traditions blended with Filipino customs, creating a unique mix of cultures. During the Spanish period, Chinese immigrants played a big role in business and trade, despite facing some challenges. Today, Filipino-Chinese families continue to contribute to the country’s economy and culture, making their traditions more visible and appreciated.

 

During Chinese New Year, families and communities celebrate in different ways. Dragon and lion dances are common in streets, malls, and temples. These dances are believed to bring good luck and drive away bad spirits. Fireworks and firecrackers are also an important part of the celebration because they are said to scare away bad luck. Elders give red envelopes, called ang pao, filled with money to children as a symbol of good fortune. Special foods are prepared, such as tikoy (sticky rice cake for stronger family ties), pancit (noodles for long life), and dumplings (which symbolize wealth). Many people also visit temples to pray for good health, success, and happiness in the coming year.

 

 

References/Sources:

Rove.me.(2025, January 29).Chinese New Year 2025 in Philippines.https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.rove.me%2Fw_1920%2Cq_85%2Fiy43pdrmi1ch0umdbalu%2Fphilippines-chinese-new-year.jpg&tbnid=-sC4O-j-r3MEdM&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Frove.me%2Fto%2Fphilippines%2Fchinese-new-year&docid=fAeJqWJi1lhAlM&w=1920&h=1275&hl=en-US&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm6%2F4&kgs=440af32eed715217

 

ABS-CBN. (2025, January 24). Chinese New Year 2025: 'Lucky' dishes and new outfits to welcome the Year of the Snake. https://images.app.goo.gl/4LQvjtmE7Co33Fd79

 

Philippines News Agency. (2035, January 28). FINDING LUCK. https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Ffiles01.pna.gov.ph%2Fsource%2F2025%2F01%2F31%2Fchinese-new-year-2025-dragon-dance-01282025jb.jpg&tbnid=-Bi3rEfISJZB6M&vet=1&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pna.gov.ph%2Findex.php%2Fphotos%2F74966&docid=dakCmMgZknIsWM&w=854&h=570&hl=en-US&source=sh%2Fx%2Fim%2Fm6%2F4&kgs=2aa260d697c28924