The Philippine National government announced earlier the Chinese New Year 2015 as one of the Special Non-Working Holiday which falls on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The proclamation of Chinese New Year as Special Non-Working Holiday was released by the national government through the Official Gazette.
See Also: Chinese New Year 2015 Holiday Pay Rules
President Aquino noted that “those of Chinese descent have been an integral part of Philippine history, first as traders and, later, as citizens and game changers, active participants in the country’s ongoing journey,” the President stated on Wednesday.
According to the President, the Philippines joins in the celebration of the Lunar New Year, “as it enriches your unique heritage, sustains the diversity of our nation, and stands as an embodiment of the harmony that mutual respect and goodwill can achieve.”
The national government noted that based upon Proclamation No. 831, the joint celebration of the Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, was “a manifestation of our solidarity with our Chinese-Filipino brethren who have been part of our lives in many respects as a country and as a people.”
The Department of Education (DepEd) also announced that there will be no cl(–foul word(s) removed–) tomorrow, February 19, 2015 as part of the Chinese New Year 2015 nationwide celebration.
Here’s the Message of Pres. Aquino During the Chinese New Year 2015:
Message of His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III
President of the Philippines
To the Filipino-Chinese Community
On the observance of the Chinese New Year
[Released on February 18, 2015]
My warmest greetings to the Filipino-Chinese Community, as you gather in observance of the Chinese New Year.
The Philippines is a melting-pot of cultures; our collective identity is shaped by the interplay of the customs and traditions of the people who have found homes on our shores. It is a narrative that allows us to become adaptable and resilient in this ever-evolving world, empowering us to make the most of our opportunities. Those of Chinese descent have been an integral part of Philippine history, first as traders and, later, as citizens and game changers, active participants in the country’s ongoing journey. Your government joins you as you celebrate the Lunar New Year, as it enriches your unique heritage, sustains the diversity of our nation, and stands as an embodiment of the harmony that mutual respect and goodwill can achieve.
Our country’s dynamism is driven by our multifaceted milieu, which allows us to harness the many talents and perspectives of our people for the benefit of all. May today’s festivities reinforce the values and qualities that enabled your community to contribute to a more vibrant Philippines; may it forge a stronger Filipino nation that is conscious of diversity and united in purpose.
May you have a Happy New Year.
(Sgd.) BENIGNO S. AQUINO III
