Kong Hei Fat Choi!

The Chinese New Year celebration in Iloilo City opened formally at a mall in the District of Mandurriao on January 27, 2025.

Performances from four Filipino-Chinese schools showcased the culture of Chinese people.

An eye-dotting and blessing of dragons and lions was held, believed to awaken the spirits of the said creatures that have the ability to provide power that could drive away evil spirits and receive luck.

At the downtown area of the city, the traditional dragon dance of the Iloilo Cultural Foundation, Inc. has started in a few establishments.

“Naniniwala ang Chinese na ang dragon, nagdadala ng luck. Ang lion gano’n din. Kaya kamo nag-iikot. Kung sino ang nag-i-invite sa amin, diyan kami pupunta,” said Allendy Tan, member of the Iloilo Cultural Foundation, Inc.

On the morning of January 29, 2025, a Thanksgiving Mass will be offered at the Santa Maria Parish Church, while on January 31, 2025, a parade, cultural show, and fireworks display will be held at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.

Meanwhile in Bacolod City, the mounting of stages in different festival sites goes full swing, especially on Lacson Street which is one of the centers of the activity beginning on January 31, 2025 and on to the weekend.

Temporary road closures will be implemented.

As the Chinese New Year falls on a Wednesday on the lunar calendar, a few pre-Bacolaodiat events will be held at Yuan Thong Temple in Barangay Villamonte which is the center of the activities.

Already on its 20th edition, the festival got its name from the words "Baco" for Bacolod and "Lao Diat," a Fookien word for celebration.

Through Proclamation No. 727 signed by President Marcos, Jr., January 29, 2025 has been declared a special non-working holiday in the entire country for people to partake in the celebration.