Bridging Cultures: Why Filipinos Celebrate Chinese New Year

Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year to honor the deep-rooted cultural and economic connections between the Philippines and China. Historically, the Chinese community have significantly influenced Filipino culture, contributing to various traditions and practices (Wickberg, 2000). In 2012, the Philippine government has recognized this by declaring Chinese New Year a special non-working holiday, allowing both Filipinos and Filipino-Chinese to partake in the festivities (Tan, 2011). This move underscored the nation's acknowledgment of the Chinese community's integral role in a Philippine society. This is shows how much Chinese traditions have shaped Filipino customs over time (Ang See, 1997).

The celebration is marked by various custom and tradition that symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Families prepare special dishes like a tikoy, which are believed to bring unity and harmony among friends and family members (Chu, 2010). Lion and dragon dance was performed in streets and malls to drive away bad luck and attract positive energy. Many Filipinos also follow Chinese traditions like giving angpao to children for a good luck (Wickberg, 2000). These customs have become a festive part of Filipino culture, regardless of one's their ethnic background (Ang See, 1997).

Economically, China plays a pivotal role as one of the Philippines' top trading partners. As of November 2013, China were the country's third-largest export market, accounting for 12% of total export revenues (Tan, 2011). Additionally, Chinese tourists has became a significant contributor to the Philippine tourism industry, with a notable increase in arrivals over the years. Celebrating the Chinese New Year not just acknowledges these economic ties but also fosters goodwill and strengthens bilateral relations between the two nations (Chu, 2010). This traditions helps reinforce both cultural and economic bonds between the Philippines and China (Wickberg, 2000).

References:
Ang See, C. (1997). The Ties That Bind: The Saga of the Chinese in the Philippines. Kaisa Para Sa Kaunlaran.
Chu, R. T. (2010). Chinese and Chinese Mestizos of Manila: Family, Identity, and Culture 1860s-1930s. Brill.
Tan, A. G. (2011). Chinese in the Philippines: Problems and Perspectives. University of the Philippines Press.
Wickberg, E. (2000). The Chinese in Philippine Life, 1850–1898. Ateneo de Manila University Press.