THE City Government of Cagayan de Oro and the Misamis Oriental Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (MOFCCCII) began its celebration of the Chinese New Year with an opening program held at the City Hall's mini park last Friday, January 1.
The program started with a dragon and lion dance by Kong Hua School. There were also performances by Oro Christian Grace School and Wushu-CDO where the audiences got a glimpse of the Chinese culture and tradition.
Simon Ching, the MOFCCCII president, expressed his gratitude to the City Government for conducting events to celebrate the Chinese New Year with the Filipino-Chinese community for four years.
"Special kay ni siya kay lain syudad walay ingon ani. Apan ang Cagayan de Oro nag adopt nga naay celebration sa Chinese New Year, gwapo ni siya aron ang Filipino-Chinese mag sige'g mingle," Ching said, adding that Chinese New Year is important as it also means the reunion of family members.
City Mayor Oscar Moreno, in his message, reminded everyone of the need to live in solidarity, saying it’s the key to a long term sustainable growth and prosperity.
"Why do we celebrate Chinese New Year as well? Number one, because we want to live in solidarity with everyone. We must learn to live in solidarity. We cannot live in isolation. We cannot be exclusive of each other," Moreno said.
"We must learn to live in peace and harmony. Mao kini ang solution for a long term and sustainable growth and prosperity. Dili lang sa Chinese, tanan, including our brother Muslims and sister Muslims as well," he added.
Apart from the several performances during the opening program, the City Hall was also lit up with the Chinese-inspired Symphony of Lights Show which will run from February 1 to 10.
The event is one of the highlights of the city's celebration of the Chinese New Year.
Other events include: Chinese Cosplay Competition on February 2, Spring Festival Dragon Boat Race on February 3, New Year Day Ceremonies/Fireworks on February 4, and Motorcade on February 5.
"Wishing every Filipino-Chinese a Happy Chinese New Year. May this new year bring forth a progressive and healthy family all together, all around, all year through," Ching said.