ILOILO City – This city is set to transform its downtown district into a rich display of culture and unity today, February 20, as thousands are expected to witness a grand parade and cultural showcase celebrating Chinese New Year 2026.
Bannered by the theme “Harmony in Radiance,” the festivities underscore the partnership between the Chinese community and Ilonggos — a relationship organizers say continues to fuel the city’s economic and cultural growth.
The city-wide celebration, running from February 15 to 21, is hosted by Sun Yat Sen High School of Iloilo in collaboration with Hua Siong College of Iloilo, Iloilo Scholastic Academy, and Ateneo de Iloilo.
Engr. Fulbert Woo, president of the Sun Yat Sen High School Alumni Association, urged Ilonggos to witness the Chinese New Year grand parade at 4 p.m. along the downtown area and the cultural show at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand starting 5 p.m.
“The presentations will showcase our traditions, including dragon and lion dances,” he said.
The cultural show will feature performances symbolizing prosperity, harmony, and hope for the year ahead, with dragon dance numbers expected to be among the main highlights.
Woo said this year’s theme, “Harmony in Radiance,” reflects the strong relationship between the Chinese community and Ilonggos, and their shared role in the city’s growth.
“Through this celebration, we see the good relationship of the Chinese-Ilonggo community, which continues to bring progress and development to Iloilo City,” he said.
Sun Yat Sen High School’s hosting of the festivities comes on the heels of its 100th foundation anniversary last year, reaffirming its long-standing contribution to Chinese-Filipino education and culture in Iloilo.
What began in 2003 as a local initiative has grown into one of the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Manila, drawing thousands of spectators annually and reinforcing Iloilo City’s reputation as a multicultural hub where traditions thrive and communities celebrate side by side./PN
