By Benjamin Cuaresma
Manila mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso led the Chinese New Year countdown celebration in Binondo, urging unity, peace, and stronger relations between the Philippines and China during the festivities attended by Filipino-Chinese leaders and visiting dignitaries, including Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan.
The mayor welcomed the growing engagement between the two nations, particularly in tourism and trade, noting that expanded flight connectivity could create more opportunities for Filipinos. He cited plans for additional routes from China to Cebu, saying increased visitor arrivals would help generate employment and business activity not only for the provinces but also for residents of Manila.
Domagoso also underscored the capital’s long-standing relationship with the Filipino-Chinese community, describing Manila as home to the country’s largest concentration of Filipino-Chinese residents. He commended local business groups, including the Filipino-Chinese Chambers and their partner organizations in Chinatown, for sustaining the annual celebration and promoting solidarity.
In his remarks, the mayor reminded younger generations about the shared history of Filipinos and Chinese migrants, including the role of Filipino-Chinese fighters during World War II and the contributions of early Chinese-Filipino patriots such as Roman Ongpin. He encouraged the public to learn more about this heritage by visiting Bahay Tsinoy in Intramuros.
Domagoso called on Manileños to show hospitality and respect to all visitors regardless of nationality, emphasizing that cultural understanding is key to harmony despite past misunderstandings between nations.
The mayor likewise assured both local and foreign entrepreneurs that Manila remains a safe place for investment, promising fair governance and protection from exploitation while encouraging business growth in the city.
He reported that new business registrations in Manila increased by 104 percent from January 1 to February 13, 2026, compared with the same period last year, indicating renewed investor confidence. Improvements in peace and order were also highlighted, with the city recording a 13-percent decline in crime during the last quarter alongside higher case-resolution efficiency.
Domagoso concluded his message with a call for collective action and prayers for peace—from families and communities to the nation and its neighbors—expressing hope that unity would continue to guide Manila’s progress in the coming year./iam
