Photos by AJ Palcullo/PN
ILOILO City burst into color, rhythm, and movement as thousands of residents and visitors on Friday, February 20, lined the downtown streets for the grand parade, a highlight of the city’s weeklong Chinese New Year celebration under the theme “Harmony in Radiance.”
Leading the vibrant display were delegations from Ateneo de Iloilo, Hua Siong College of Iloilo, Sun Yat Sen High School of Iloilo, and Iloilo Scholastic Academy. Students filled the parade route with dragon and lion dances, graceful cultural performances, and intricately designed floats. Each display reflected more than just artistic excellence; it showcased deep-rooted friendship between Ilonggos and the Chinese-Filipino community – a bond shaped by shared history, trade, and tradition.
The festive energy culminated in an evening showcase at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand. The Grand Cultural Show featured the talents of the four participating schools through a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, symbolizing prosperity, harmony, and hope.
More than a celebration of the Lunar New Year, the event served as a moving portrait of unity, where generations came together, cultures intertwined, and Iloilo once again affirmed its identity as a city that honors diversity while standing strong as one community./PN
