Ringing in the Year of the Wooden Snake: A Heartfelt Celebration

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDITS: CMO

The atmosphere around Cagayan de Oro was electric as the city embarked on a vibrant journey to welcome the Year of the Wooden Snake. Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy kicked off the 2025 Chinese New Year Festival with an incredible display of community spirit and cultural unity. With colorful decorations lining Rio de Oro Boulevard, the excitement was palpable. Right from the get-go, it felt like everyone was part of something special, doesn't it? 

In his opening speech on January 28, Mayor Klarex openly expressed his gratitude towards everyone who showed up to support this major event for the Filipino-Chinese community. His words echoed across the bustling street, reminding everyone in attendance about the importance of unity. “By being here, we acknowledge that we need each other and support one another,” he stated warmly. There’s something heartwarming about a leader acknowledging the collective effort of the community. His vision of embracing values such as wisdom, intuition, and transformation resonated deeply, setting a positive tone for the festivities ahead.

Cultural Performances That Mesmerize

What really stole the show were the vibrant cultural performances lined up for the evening. Schools like Kong Hua, Oro Christian Grace, and the Wushu Federation Philippines–Cagayan de Oro Chapter poured their hearts into the performances, showcasing the rich tapestry of Filipino-Chinese cultural heritage. Each act served not just as entertainment, but as a window into traditions and customs that have thrived for generations. 

It’s fascinating how these performances intertwine history and modernity. From dazzling lion dances to intricate martial arts displays, the audience was treated to a visual feast. You could almost feel the energy from the performers pulsing through the crowd. As the night unfolded, cheers erupted, bridging gaps between different cultures. It was a reminder that while we might come from diverse backgrounds, we can all join hands in celebration. 

Fireworks and Festivity: A Scene to Remember

Now, let’s talk about the fireworks! Picture this: the sky exploding in vibrant colors, leaving trails of sparks that dance through the night. The pyro-musical fireworks display marked the grand finale of the evening. Everyone had their eyes glued to the sky, and it felt like time stood still for just a moment. 

As bursts of color illuminated the faces of attendees, the crowd erupted in applause. There’s a certain magic in fireworks; they encapsulate joy, wonder, and celebration. It’s hard to resist the allure of watching the sky light up in a grand farewell to the old year while welcoming the new. This beautifully orchestrated display was the cherry on top of an event that celebrated cultural unity and community spirit. 

Looking Ahead: A Year of Unity and Transformation

As we stand on the brink of the Year of the Wooden Snake, the symbols it embodies—wisdom and intuition—serve as guiding lights for our community. Mayor Klarex's speech was a bright reminder of how interconnected we all are, urging us to take these values into the new year. It sparks a tremendous opportunity to reflect on how we can support one another in everyday life. 

As the festival concluded, people walked away with more than just memories; they carried a renewed sense of hope. Eager to embrace what lies ahead, the community was buzzing with ideas, plans, and dreams. Here’s to a year where we amplify our wisdom, trust our intuition, and transform our visions into reality. After all, there’s something truly special about coming together to celebrate who we are and where we come from. 

As we reminisce about this unforgettable event, it’s clear that the Chinese New Year Festival is more than just a yearly tradition. It’s a celebration of life, culture, and community. The outpouring of support from Mayor Klarex and everyone who came together truly embodies the spirit of togetherness that we all cherish. As we move forward, let’s hold on to that spirit and make the most of every moment in this promising new year!