President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed his warm wishes to the Filipino-Chinese community and the entire nation as they celebrated Chinese New Year on Wednesday. Marcos highlighted the significance of the occasion, describing it as a treasured event filled with age-old traditions and happiness. This year’s celebration marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes hope, renewal, and resilience.
Marcos encouraged Filipinos to find inspiration in these values, particularly during challenging times. He emphasized the virtues associated with the Year of the Snake—wisdom, intuition, and transformation—urging the nation to embrace the promise of prosperity with courage and determination. The President called on the Filipino people to use the Chinese New Year as a springboard for personal growth and to pursue ambitious goals that benefit not only themselves but the entire nation.
“Let this celebration motivate us to set bold intentions and pursue grand ambitions not just for our own benefit, but for the greater good of our country,” Marcos stated. He stressed that every effort, driven by clarity and resolve, presents an opportunity to achieve our collective dreams.
Reflecting on the symbolism of the colorful lanterns that are a hallmark of the celebration, Marcos likened them to the bright future that the Philippines could achieve if its people are united in their purpose. He called on Filipinos to strengthen their commitment to building a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ (New Philippines), a nation characterized by fresh starts, successful endeavors, and stronger community ties.
“As we usher in the new year, let the vibrant lanterns that light up our festivities also illuminate our national purpose,” he added. Marcos expressed his hope that the Year of the Snake would guide the nation with its wisdom, enabling Filipinos to navigate life with grace and resilience.
“May the Year of the Snake lead us with its wisdom and empower us to move through life with grace,” Marcos concluded. The National Security Council (NSC) also extended its warm greetings to the Filipino-Chinese community, emphasizing the importance of wisdom, resilience, and transformation in building a brighter, more secure future. “Together, let us embrace hope, strengthen our bonds, and inspire change for a prosperous Bagong Pilipinas!” the NSC stated on social media.
In observance of Chinese New Year, January 29 has been declared a special non-working holiday across the nation.