Zambo Sur dad extols chinese contributions as they celebrate new year

by Gideon C. Corgue

PAGADIAN CITY, Jan. 24 (PIA) -– The government acknowledged the great contribution of Chinese culture to our country.

Thus declared Zamboanga del Sur governor Antonio H. Cerilles in his message during the opening program of Chinese New Year celebration on Friday at the Taclobo stage here.

Speaking in front of a large crowd, Cerilles the guest of honor of the activity said the Chinese culture, one of the oldest civilizations of the world has a unique place among cultures in Asia, and in our country.

Cerilles said Philippines who is very rich in history and in culture used to celebrate New Year for the Chinese, Christians and Muslims alike. “Philippines used to celebrate 3 most important New Year celebrations—the Chinese New Year, the Christian New year, and the Muslim New Year,” Cerilles added.

Cerilles said we are very lucky that we have diverse cultures in our country. “These cultures were already included in our religious or traditional practice and even in our laws,” he added.

The governor lauded the city government for celebrating the Chinese New Year every year hoping that the festivity will be replicated in other cities and neighboring municipalities in Mindanao to prove to the world that Philippines is very rich in culture.

“We are very happy that Pagadian thru Mayor Co and the rest of city officials are the only people that celebrate Chinese New Year in Mindanao for eight consecutive years ,” Cerilles added.

In a related development, Mayor Samuel Co, who is Filipino-Chinese blooded official said the celebration revitalizes the “bonds of friendship, harmony and cooperation” among our people.

Co said in the 2-day celebration, the city government and the Pagadian Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PCCCII) have prepared several activities such as: field demonstration, Chinese cultural show, gift-giving, Chinese food festival, fireworks display and dancing fountain show, which did not only make people happy but to express “our thanksgiving to the Almighty for the abundant blessings that our city has received”.

The chief executive particularly mentioned the establishment of more hotels, department stores, restaurants, and the undergoing construction of new commercial buildings which showcased the best potential of the city and the good business and investment opportunities.

Co said the great success of the Chinese New Year celebration was attributed to the active support of the City Tourism council, PCCCII headed by its President Felix Hao, Filipino Chinese community, and the DepEd family for their time, efforts and financial support as it welcomed the year of the water dragon.

Co also recognized the contribution of Filipino-Chinese community in the sustained progress of the city. (JPA/GCC/PIA9-Pagadian)