Distinguished guests and friends,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening!  

It is a great pleasure to celebrate the Lantern Festival with all of you. I’m glad to see the Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival once again lighting up the Chinese Garden, especially as this year marks the 50th anniversary of China-Philippines diplomatic relations. On behalf of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, I would like to extend seasonal greetings to the Filipino Chinese and fellow compatriots, and to all those who have generously supported China-Philippines friendship. 

In December 2024, the Spring Festival was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It has become a widely recognized, respected and cherished symbol of Chinese culture around the world. The Lantern Festival is a concluding major celebration during the Spring Festival season. Since ancient times, it has been marked by the custom of lantern displays. People go out to admire the first full moon, the beautiful lanterns, the fireworks, and share glutinous rice balls as a festive treat. The Lantern Festival is the true carnival of the season.

Culture and art serve as bridges connecting hearts and fostering understanding. The relationship between Chinese and the Philippines is deeply rooted in history and culture. As witness to centuries of history, the Chinese-Filipino community, through thick and thin, have embraced the changing times, and have remained steadfast in their cultural identity throughout. Their resilience and dedication have allowed the Chinese culture to flourish and be passed down from generation to generation. As seen today in the Chinese Garden, with dragon and lion dances, lantern riddles, and calligraphy of the character "Fu"--good fortune, the Chinese traditions have become deeply integrated into the local culture, complementing Filipino traditions beautifully.

We look forward to the Philippines-China Traditional Cultural Festival strengthening cultural exchange and mutual understanding, bringing warmth and vitality to the future of China-Philippines relations. We hope that China and the Philippines will take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to foster an even more stable and long-term partnership for the sound development of bilateral relations by drawing wisdom and strength from history.

Finally, I wish the event great success and everyone a joyful Lantern Festival!  

Thank you!