Filipino-Chinese community welcomes Lunar New Year

Kimberly Jane L. Manlapaz

01/31/14

 Manila,Philippines---Thousands gathered today in Binondo, Manila to celebrate the Chinese New Year and welcome the Year of the Wooden Horse.
           Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada and other local leaders together with the Filipino-Chinese community lead in mounting the event.

As a traditional practice, the Chinatown welcomed the Lunar New Year with the dragon dance parade and a 30-minute fireworks display which is known to take away bad spirits.

Officials also gave out free tikoy to the attendees which is believed to keep the family ties closer.

And on the first day of the New Year, Filipino- Chinese families went together to Chinese Temple to give thanks for the blessings.

They also came to buy lucky charms and house ornaments which are believed to usher in good lucks and fortune. 
(Photo credits:philstar.com)