COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office PHOTO CREDITS: CMO
A Toast to Community and Growth
Hey there, dear readers! Letโs talk about something that warms the heart and fuels the spiritโcommunity! Recently, Cagayan de Oroโs very own Mayor Rolando โKlarexโ Uy expressed immense gratitude towards our vibrant Filipino-Chinese community. During a lively Chinese New Year celebration, Mayor Klarex acknowledged the invaluable contributions this community has made to the growth of our beloved city. How awesome is that?
In his speech, Mayor Klarex said, โToday, the Filipino-Chinese community continues to make a big difference, especially here in Cagayan de Oro.โ This might sound simple, but it packs a punch. He highlighted how the Filipino-Chinese community has been at the forefront of business and industry, influencing our local economy in a positive way. Imagine how thriving our city is partly thanks to their leadership and support!
Yet, thatโs just the beginning. The mayor didnโt shy away from showering compliments, asserting, โFor that, mapasalamaton ang dakbayan sa Cagayan de Oro, ilabina na kanako na kanunay kamong ga-suporta sa atong dakbayan ug sa akong pagdumala.โ Translation? A heartfelt thank you, showing how much our city's growth relies on this communityโs unwavering support.
Festivities and Traditions: A Cultural Showcase
Now, letโs dive into the festivities that marked this grand occasion! The ceremonial lighting at City Hall and Gaston Park really set the stage for the celebrations. It wasnโt just your ordinary flicker of lights; it was an expression of hope and a celebration of cultural heritage! The 20th City Council, along with leaders from the Filipino-Chinese community, joined in this spectacular ceremony on January 27, kicking off a week of vibrant activities.
But what does it mean for our city? Well, the lighting ceremony symbolizes the unity among diverse cultures within Cagayan de Oro. Itโs a reminder that, despite our different backgrounds, we can come together to celebrate and uplift one another. Plus, it adds a splash of color in our livesโwho doesnโt love a beautifully illuminated city?
If youโve never experienced a Chinese New Year celebration, boy, are you missing out! From lion dances to fireworks, and delicious food to heartfelt greetings, itโs a festival that bridges gaps and fosters understanding. And letโs not forget about that delightful aroma wafting through the airโdimsums, spring rolls, and a plethora of delicacies waiting for you to munch on!
The Year of the Wooden Snake: Whatโs in Store?
Now, on to the theme of this year: 2025 is the Year of the Wooden Snake! Benjamin Chan Jr., the chairman of Cagayan de Oroโs Filipino-Chinese community, explained that the Wooden Snake symbolizes wisdom, intuition, and adaptability. How fitting is that? In a world where change is the only constant, these traits are vital for both individuals and communities.
This year, we can draw inspiration from the characteristics of the Wooden Snake. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, let's bet on our intuition and adapt like pros. Itโs a powerful reminder that growth often emerges from challenges, and embracing our struggles leads to wisdom.
Additionally, this theme encourages everyoneโnot just the Filipino-Chinese communityโto harness their skills. Be it in business, education, or social settings, the lessons from the Wooden Snake resonate deeply. Kind of makes you want to take on new ventures, doesn't it?
Building Bridges: A Call for Partnership
Continuing on this empowering note, the relationship between the Filipino-Chinese community and the local government isnโt just a one-time affairโitโs a partnership. Mayor Klarexโs words resonate with the need for collaboration. He emphasized how this partnership has been vital for the cityโs growth, and he gave a special nod to the support heโs received in his leadership.
As residents of Cagayan de Oro, we should feel proud to belong to a city that encourages collaboration. Mayor Klarexโs message is a rallying cry for everyone. If we band together, leveraging our unique strengths and perspectives, we can tackle challenges head-on. So whether youโre a native Kagay-anon or part of the Filipino-Chinese community, nowโs the time to step up and get involved!
Moreover, itโs essential to recognize the value of listening to each other. The Filipino-Chinese community has a wealth of experiences and insights that can benefit us all. By fostering dialogues that encourage understanding, we can pave the way for a more inclusive community.
Wrapping It Up: A Bright Future Awaits!
To sum it all up, Mayor Klarexโs heartfelt gratitude to the Filipino-Chinese community serves as a celebration of unity. The recent lighting ceremony was just the cherry on top of a yearlong partnership filled with potential. As we welcome the Year of the Wooden Snake, let's remember the values of wisdom, intuition, and adaptability, and carry them into our everyday lives.
Letโs keep building bridges and finding ways to collaborate. Together, we can continue to elevate Cagayan de Oro and make it a shining example of growth and harmony. Cheers to the Filipino-Chinese community and Mayor Klarex for embodying the spirit of togetherness! Hereโs to a bright future ahead!
