Xin Nian Kuai Le!
By: Mrs. Henevy M. Escanillan (GS Faculty)
The Early Education Unit held its Chinese New Year Celebration last February 16, 2026 at the Early Education lobby. The program commenced with Chinese greetings followed by a weather check. Afterwards, the pupils were introduced to the significance and meaning of the Chinese New Year.
Laoshi Cherry, our Chinese teacher, shared various traditions observed during the celebration, including the giving of hongbao (red envelopes given as a symbol of good luck and blessings) and the preparation of special food such as tikoy (a sticky rice cake symbolizing unity and harmony) and maci (sweet glutinous rice balls symbolizing togetherness).
The pupils then performed the “Gong Xi” dance, which conveys wishes of happiness and prosperity. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Sofia Andrea Paciencia, a Grade 3 pupil, serenaded the Early Education pupils with the song Yuèliang Dàibiǎo Wǒ de Xīn (The Moon Represents My Heart), a well-known Chinese song that expresses deep and sincere affection. The pupils listened attentively and were captivated by the beautiful melody.
The celebration continued with lion and dragon dances—traditional performances that symbolize good fortune, strength, and the driving away of negative spirits. Through these activities, the pupils gained a deeper appreciation of Chinese culture, which is an important part of the heritage of Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu as a Chinese-Filipino School.
Following the program, the pupils returned to their classrooms and learned more about Chinese food. Each child brought a variety of traditional delicacies, and the teacher introduced their meanings. These included lumpia (spring rolls, symbolizing wealth due to their gold-like color), siopao (steamed buns, symbolizing fullness and good fortune), and rice rolls (symbolizing harmony and completeness). The pupils then joyfully shared the food with their classmates.
As a special token, the teachers also distributed hongbao containing a gold chocolate coin, representing wealth, prosperity, and good fortune in Chinese culture.
The celebration concluded with hearts full of gratitude and joy, as the pupils not only enjoyed the festivities but also deepened their understanding of Chinese traditions and values.
