Tikoy (Niรกn gฤo) and Ampao (Hรณngbฤo) is a famous Chinese symbol of good luck and prosperity. These two are a must-have in the Philippines and among the Chinese-Filipino community during special holidays like the Lunar Chinese New Year and other special occasions.
Ang Pao, or the red envelope, evolved into an all-season object for gift-giving. It is given during the Chinese New Year and during birthdays and weddings. In the Philippines, we have adopted the giving of Ang Pao during Christmas and other events.
I always like special delicacies, so I also like eating Tikoy, which signifies harmony and closeness among the family. It is also the stickiness that symbolizes bonding and togetherness.
In Binondo, the past couple of years was an auspicious celebration as I have experienced the vibrant and enchanting Chinese New Year celebration. The streets of Binondo offer the best in Chinese culture and tradition passed on from generation to generation.
I remember the kilometer-long street of Ongpin in Binondo when fun-filled activities happen during the Chinese New Year. The lion and the dragon dance are always colorful and graceful, giving positive energy to the watchers. The firecrackers ward off evil spirits and negativity, as they would believe. It's fun, and the excellent vibe would bring in a positive mindset and emotion, and that's the essence.
The Chinese influence my beliefs about prosperity, so I follow the feng shui and the Chinese zodiac in some ways. They just guide us to a positive life.
The past years are live-action experiences, and the stories will not be forgotten.
Those were the years of celebrating abundance and prosperity. And so, for this year and in succeeding years, I may not be able to celebrate Binondo, but I will still be open to embracing the culture and tradition that gives meaning to life from different perspectives.
But above all, for this year, it's not just about prosperity; it's about love, peace, and harmony that must reign in our hearts. That's what we all need at this very moment.
© 2020 Del Cusay
