President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. extended his greetings to the Filipino-Chinese community on Tuesday, February 17, as the nation welcomed the Chinese New Year.
In his message, Marcos encouraged Filipinos to embrace the spirit of the Year of the Fire Horse with courage, discipline, and what he called “purposeful haste.”
He emphasized the importance of moving swiftly when necessary, yet exercising prudence when it matters most.
“I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste—swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results,” Marcos said.
The President highlighted that while the Horse symbolizes “movement, courage, and forward motion,“ and the Fire element evokes energy and determination, national progress requires more than symbolism.
“It progresses when Filipinos show up for work, when households make every peso count with prudence and good judgment, and when government and industries keep the country growing through consistent service, sound decisions, and the rigor that turns daily effort into long-term growth,” he added.
Marcos also noted that the Lunar New Year is a time of renewal for many Filipinos.
“It is a season when households, communities, and businesses set priorities, execute plans, and focus on what truly sustains them," he said.
"Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline, and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together,” Marcos emphasized.
He further called on Filipinos to safeguard essential values, such as fair opportunities and reliable public services, while enhancing productivity and strengthening communities.
“If we keep our course firm and our standards high, we can shape a more prosperous, agile, and empowered Bagong Pilipinas,” Marcos said.
He concluded his message by wishing everyone a “spirited, bountiful, and rewarding year ahead.”
In line with the celebrations, the President declared February 17 as a special non-working holiday.
