Filipinos flock to Binondo ahead of Chinese New Year

Filipinos headed to the oldest Chinatown in the world ahead of the Chinese New Year, which begins on Tuesday, February 17.  

As seen in Aubrey Carampel's report on "24 Oras," Monday, many visittors have flocked to Ongpin Street in Binondo, Manila, where food, round fruits, and lucky charms abound. 

For best friends Jen and Lauren, they visit Binondo every year to go around, have a food trip, and buy charms. This year, the pair wished for good luck for themselves and their families, money, and a trip to the United States.

Paolo, who came all the way from Cavite, also shopped for charms and enjoyed a food trip in Binondo. He hopes to receive blessings this Chinese New Year.

Meanwhile, Aling Norina, who sells charms, reported that sales have been low so far. 

"Ngayon po matumal, baka bukas po maswerte na po kami, mabili na po kami bukas," she shared. 

Aside from lucky charms, sellers sold horseshoes, believed to be lucky this Year of the Fire Horse, as well as the staple tikoy. 

While visitors also enjoyed the food stalls at Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, many others took the opportunity to visit Binondo Church just next door. 

Per Carampel's report, traffic has increased in Binondo, and some roads have been closed to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. Police officers have likewise been deployed to the area to maintain peace and order.

A grand fireworks display and a drone show are set for tonight,10 p.m. along Jones Bridge, while a grand parade will be held on Tuesday, 3 p.m., at the Manila Post Office, in celebration of Chinese New Year. 

—Nika Roque/CDC, GMA Integrated News