Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Under the glow of lanterns and the rhythm of drums, Davao City celebrated the Chinese New Year at the Bucana Bridge on February 16, 2026. It blended heritage, culture, and modern progress.
City Mayor Sebastian Duterte led the lighting ceremony at the bridge, with representatives from the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Davao City.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only the new year but the long standing relationship between Davao City and China. Tonight, we are also launching the Davao City Chinatown coffee table book which chronicles the journey of the first Chinese families in Davao City and showcases the deep rooted history of our Chinese communities,” he said.
In his speech, Duterte also emphasized that the bridge represents Davao’s friendship with China and its commitment to modernization and building stronger communities.
“Bucana Bridge serves as the vital part of the Davao City coastal road network and the city government’s goal towards modernization and infrastructure development. It stands as a monumental reminder and a symbol of friendship within China and Davao City,“ he added.
The night came alive with dragon and lion dances performed by students from Chinese schools across Davao.
The celebration also unveiled the Davao City Chinatown Coffee Table Book, a project that narrates the journey of the first Chinese families in Davao and highlights the vibrant history of the city’s Chinatown.
Chinese Consul General Zhao Xiuzhen also extended wishes of prosperity, emphasizing that the bridge is more than concrete and steel as it is a living monument of the shared achievement that strengthens the friendship of both countries.
“This year, the Bucana Bridge serves as our venue for celebrating the Chinese New Year, a gift we present to the people of the Davao,” she said. CIO
Written by: K. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar
