Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day Celebration Held at Bahay Tsinoy Museum

MANILA, Philippines — The Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day celebration was successfully held on March 6 at the Bahay Tsinoy Museum in Manila through the auspices of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Philippines.

The event brought together guests and foreign delegates to celebrate Chinese culture while honoring the important role of women in society. The program began with a guided tour of the Bahay Tsinoy Museum, conducted in two batches for the participants.

Bahay Tsinoy, known as the Museum of Chinese in Philippine Life, showcases the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Chinese community in the Philippines. Its exhibits trace the presence of the Chinese in the country from the pre-Spanish period, through the Galleon Trade era, the American and Japanese occupations, and up to the present time.

According to Teresita Ang-See, founding chairman of the Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order, around 60 foreign delegates attended the celebration.

Ang-See also expressed gratitude to Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, Mayor of Manila, for allowing the use of the Bahay Tsinoy Museum as the venue for the event.

The celebration featured various displays of traditional Chinese clothing and novelty items. Several books highlighting Chinese heritage and history were also exhibited and made available to visitors, including Live the Dream, Tsinoy: The Story of the Chinese in Philippine Life, Chinese in the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal’s Chinese Ancestry, and The Philippines in Ancient Chinese Maps.

A cultural performance featuring the Chinese folk song “Start of the Joy Season” was presented using a traditional Chinese musical instrument similar to a harp. Guests also watched a video presentation of Chinese Kung Fu integrated with robotics technology.

Another highlight of the program was a presentation promoting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2026, shown through China Central Television (CCTV), featuring segments titled “Gather in Shenzhen” and “Amazing Shenzhen.”

The event concluded with a tribute to women in celebration of International Women’s Day, carrying the message that “Women Hold Up Half the Sky,” emphasizing the vital role of women in society and nation-building.

— G.I.E.C.E.L., AN-PAPI VP Visayas