Sara Duterte urges Filipinos to embrace courage, bayanihan as Lunar New Year begins

Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to welcome the Lunar New Year with courage and unity, describing the occasion as a chance to move forward with renewed purpose.

In a video message released Monday, 16 February, Duterte greeted Filipino-Chinese communities across the globe, saying, “Happy Lunar New Year to our Filipino-Chinese communities around the world! Xin Nian Kuai Le!”

She said the Year of the Fire Horse represents momentum and decisive action, encouraging Filipinos to take on new opportunities despite uncertainty.

“As we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, let us embrace this beginning with courage. This is a year of high energy and bold action — offering big rewards for those with the courage to take them,” she added.

Duterte also highlighted the importance of bayanihan, urging Filipinos to strengthen community cooperation and collective support.

“Now is the time to ignite the spirit of bayanihan and charge forward into a new year of possibilities,” she said.

She expressed hope that the year ahead will bring progress and stability to families, saying, “Together, let us strive for growth. May this year bring abundance, good health and peace to every home,” the Vice President added.

Duterte also called on Filipinos to work together in pushing for “a more developed and prosperous Philippines for all.”