Manila’s streets were packed with nearly 3 million people celebrating the Chinese New Year on January 29, 2025, according to City Administrator Bernie Ang. The festivities, described as successful, orderly, and peaceful, attracted locals and tourists alike to the vibrant Binondo district. Ang highlighted the event’s success in a statement released the following day.
The celebration featured a spectacular 25-minute musical fireworks and drone show at the Chinese-Filipino Friendship Bridge, opposite Jones Bridge, which served as a prime viewing spot. Prior to the New Year countdown, a program on Jones Bridge and its surrounding areas, including the esplanade, riverside, and Chinatown, drew close to a million spectators.
A highlight of the day was the ‘Solidarity Parade,’ which showcased around 30 floats representing Manila and various Chinese-Filipino organizations. This parade alone was witnessed by nearly 2 million people. Participants on the floats distributed goodies, small red envelopes known as ‘angpao’ filled with token money, and other items symbolic of the Chinese New Year.
The lead float carried China’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, alongside Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna. Mayor Lacuna praised the efforts of everyone involved in maintaining the peace and order throughout the celebration.