Chinese New Year: A Celebration of Unity

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        Every year, our calendar marks every Celebration including New Year, Valentine's Day, Christmas, and even the birth and deaths of our National Heroes. With every dates having a red color as mark of its holiday, I always have my mind thinking why we celebrate that one holiday?- the Chinese New Year. It was vague to me because we are in the Philippines yet we are celebrating a "Chinese" New Year. By the way, Chinese New Year is a holiday that marks the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar Chinese Caldenar. It is a time to celebrate the end of winter and start of a new year in China. After a long time of thinking and analyzing, I have found out that the observance of Chinese New Year in the Philippines is a demonstration to the rich cultural tapestry that weaves together various traditions and influences. It is a reflection of historical ties between the Filipinos and the Chinese, cultural integration, and respect for the Chinese people.

One main reason as to why we celebrate Chinese New Year is due to the historical bond between us Filipinos and Chinese people. This bond is the root of all the people whom what we call the Tsinoys or Chinese-Filipino community. Trade and intermarriage between Chinese traders and Filipino locals created a culture consisting of both. As a matter of fact, 7 out of 10 richest people in Asia are Chinese-Filipinos.

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        Additionally, Chinese community traditions and celebrations have been integrated culturally into the Filipino society, adpating into their taste of food, language, and festival. Example of it is the Tikoy, dragin dances, and fireworks. Filipinos celebrate Chinese New Year because they want to experience new things and new cultures, patronizing the traditions of the developing neighbour country.

        Apart from this, we celebrate Chinese New Year as an honor for respecting the rich and cultural heritage of Chinese-Filipino Community. By this means, Filipinos develop their hospitality and thoughtfulness as shown to guests through servings of food and warm welcomes. It's a way to show respect for the traditions and customs that have been passed down from generations to generations.

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        In the Philippines, celebrating Chinese New Year is more than just a festive event. It signifies a rooted historical ties between the Filipinos and Chinese community, enabling them to unite as one and share one's culture and traditions. This holiday reflects the cultural identity that influences, respects, and honors the Chines-Filipino heritage. By embracing this celebration, we, Filipinos, not only dive into new experiences and tradions, but by delving into our sense of hospitality, thoughtfulness, and integrity. It creates a beautiful example of how a historical tie create wonderful bonds and association, flourishing a spirit of unity and mutual respect.

References:

Asia Society. https://asiasociety.org/philippines/chinese-new-year-celebrated-philippines

Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1061008