THE colorful parade at 3 p.m. of February 11 from Session Road down to Melvin Jones Grandstand marked the start of the year of the water snake for Chinese community in Baguio City and Benguet.
A total of 86 Chinese business establishments, organizations, which were accompanied by elementary and secondary schools, government agencies, and private entities joined the grand parade for the celebration. Most of them were in red and yellow or gold, colors symbolizing luck.
Children from elementary and secondary schools, and other groups showcased their talents in dance, music, and gymnastics.
Several city officials and Chinese dignitaries also joined the parade, namely Representative Bernardo Vergara, Mayor Mauricio Domogan, city councilors, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing and Spring Festival Committee chairman Peter Ng.
Ng said the festival gained more supporters and participants as it marks its 18th year. He said every year is a lucky year to everybody; it is only how we behave, which usually lead to unfortunate situations.
He advised the public to be very industrious and honest to their business so that success will follow. Ng also urged businessmen to be smart because the market today is very competitive.
He said the yellow color of the festival symbolizes money, while the red means happiness, prosperity, good health, and long life.
Ambassador Ma said she is impressed by how Chinese and Filipinos prepared for the festival.
She said she was amazed to discover that Chinese and Filipino friendship is getting closer and is evident during the festival.
The year of the water snake marks new beginnings, rebirth of life, and the season of burgeoning to the Chinese. Peoples who were born in 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013 are under the snake zodiac sign based on the Chinese lunar calendar.
Snake people are described as calm and cunning but they react immediately when confronted with a sudden change of situation. They also have the characteristic of deception. Snake people hate to fail which makes them determined to achieve what they want in any means.