Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso led the countdown to the Chinese New Year in Binondo as the nation’s capital ushered in the Year with a call for unity, peace, and stronger ties between the Philippines and China.
Addressing Manileños gathered in the world’s oldest Chinatown, the Mayor warmly welcomed visiting dignitaries and guests, including Jing Quan, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Philippines.
The Mayor expressed appreciation for the growing exchanges between the two countries, particularly in tourism and trade.
“Through the leadership of our new Ambassador in the country, there will be more flights coming from China to Cebu. More flights, more tourists, more jobs and business for the country,” Domagoso said, noting that increased connectivity would benefit Filipinos nationwide, including Manileños.
The Mayor emphasized Manila’s deep historical and cultural links with the Filipino-Chinese community, pointing out that the capital hosts the country’s largest concentration of Filipino-Chinese residents.
He credited local business groups in Chinatown for sustaining the annual celebration and fostering unity.
“And the biggest Chinese community, Filipino-Chinese community, is located in the City of Manila,” he said. “Kaya naman, ikinalulugod ko na taon-taon ang Filipino-Chinese Chambers through Victor and the officers and other member organizations in Chinatown nagsasama-sama, nagkakaisa upang makapaghandog ng isang magandang selebrasyon.”
Domagoso also reminded young Manileños of the shared history between Filipinos and Chinese migrants, citing the wartime contributions of Filipino-Chinese fighters during World War II and the legacy of early Chinese benefactors such as Roman Ongpin.
The Mayor encouraged the public to visit Bahay Tsinoy in Intramuros to learn more about their sacrifices.
“Alam po ninyo, magsiyasat po kayo. Hindi lang ho natin sila kasama para makipag-barter, makipagpalitan ng goods, at makipag-negosyo since time immemorial,” he said. “Especially during World War II, there is a battalion group of Filipino-Chinese who fought against an occupier of this country.”
Calling for mutual respect despite past misunderstandings, the Mayor urged Manileños to extend warmth to all visitors regardless of race.
“Kaya lagi nating ipararamdam bilang mga Batang Maynila, bilang Manilenyo, ang sinumang dadako sa lungsod ng Maynila—anuman ang lahi—lagi natin iparamdam sa kanila ang mainit na pagtanggap,” he said.
Domagoso also assured local and foreign entrepreneurs that Manila remains open for business, pledging protection against abuse while promoting fair enterprise.
“No harm will come to you as long as I’m Mayor. But in the same manner, I will not also allow abuse to one another. Just do business, strive, and there is a big market in this city,” Domagoso said.
The Mayor also shared that from January 1 to February 13, 2026, new business registrations grew by 104 percent compared to the same period in 2025.
“We grew by 104% of new businesses registered in the City of Manila. Dumoble,” he said.
Domagoso likewise highlighted gains in peace and order, reporting a 13 percent drop in crime in the last quarter and improved efficiency in solving cases.
“Our crime rate at the end of last quarter dropped to negative 13%,” he said. “The least thing that we can do as government is maging maaliwalas at panatag ang pamumuhay.”
The Mayor closed his message with a prayer for peace and collective effort in rebuilding the capital.
“Let there be peace in our home, in our family, in our community, in our city, in our country, and our neighboring countries,” he said.
