Hundreds of people, including VIPs, flocked near the Jones Bridge early Sunday to celebrate the Chinese New Year and welcome the Year of the Rabbit.
Several spectators were wearing Chinese outfits and costumes inspired by characters from popular culture.
During the short program held before the fireworks display, Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan said the Jones Bridge played a role in paving the way for the world’s first and oldest Chinatown located in Binondo.
Lacuna-Pangan also recognized the Filipino-Chinese community’s contributions to the City of Manila, which she described as a symbol of the strong ties between the Philippines and China.
Envoys from the 2 countries were also present in the event: Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian and Philippines Ambassador to China Jaime Florcruz.
A pyromusical and fireworks exhibition lit up the Jones Bridge at midnight Sunday.
Some members of the Filipino-Chinese community also enjoyed the Lunar New Year celebration at Lucky Chinatown mall, featuring live performances from Filipino artists.
Couple Benjie Macaraeg and Joyce Calagui, who came dressed as Mighty Steel Leg and Mui from the 2001 movie Shaolin Soccer, ABS-CBN News reported.
According to the Manila Police District, no crimes or any untoward incidents were recorded in the city during the celebrations.
