THE SPIRIT of vitality and renewal filled the air as the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Davao hosted an advanced celebration for the Lunar New Year on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Red Lantern Seafoods Restaurant.
The festive gathering, held to welcome the Year of the Horse, brought together prominent members of the Filipino-Chinese community, the Davao Federation of Overseas Chinese Associations, and representatives from the Confucius Institute at Ateneo de Davao University.
Consul General Zhao Xiuzhen opened the ceremony by reflecting on the “surreal” global landscape of 2025, noting the rapid socio-economic and environmental shifts witnessed worldwide.
Despite these challenges, she highlighted China’s unwavering stability and technological prowess. She emphasized that China continues to embrace the world with an open attitude, bolstered by a booming economy and a heightened sense of national pride.
In her address, she expressed deep gratitude to the local associations for their tireless service to the communities of Davao and the wider Mindanao region, reminding those present that their motherland remains a steadfast pillar of support.
The activity also featured a keynote address from Mr. Shi Xianyou, President of the Association of Davao Filipino-Chinese Communities, who detailed the long-standing collaboration between his organization, the Consulate General, and the Southern Fujian Federation of Overseas Chinese Associations.
He highlighted their recent humanitarian efforts, including the provision of disaster relief supplies following earthquakes in Tangshan’s Nanhu Lake and in Manay, Davao Oriental. Furthermore, he noted the association’s role in the construction of the Magbok Huizhong Friendship School in Tulunan, Cotabato, as a testament to their commitment to local development.
Mr. Shi also expressed his gratitude to the Consulate General for providing the guidance necessary to formalize the federation’s constitution and standardize its operations. He pledged continued support for future initiatives, urging the community to “unleash the boundless energy of galloping horses” and contribute to the ongoing rejuvenation of the nation. He spoke of the horse as a symbol of a bold, enterprising spirit—qualities that resonate deeply with the community’s goals for the coming year.
The event served not only as a cultural milestone but also as a reaffirmation of the strong bonds between the overseas Chinese community and their homeland. The Year of the Horse is welcomed in Davao with the hope that its inherent strength will drive further success and prosperity for all.
