Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris Celebrates Chinese New Year with Fun and Cultural Insights

On January 29, 2025, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris gathered for a vibrant celebration to mark the arrival of the Year of the Wood Snake. The event was held at the prestigious PDG Golden Prince Hotel, where Rotarians and guests enjoyed a memorable and festive atmosphere, filled with camaraderie, delicious food, and insightful presentations.

The celebration kicked off with a lavish lunch buffet, offering a delightful spread of traditional Chinese dishes and a variety of local and international cuisines. The members and guests were treated to an array of mouthwatering delicacies, all while enjoying the warm company of fellow Rotarians and their families. The festive spread not only satisfied everyone's appetites but also set the perfect tone for the afternoon's celebrations.

As the event continued, attention turned to the club’s ongoing projects and initiatives, with President Myra Urbiztondo delivering an engaging update on the club's latest endeavors. Through her presentation, members were reminded of the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris’ unwavering commitment to community service, as well as the positive impact that the club continues to have within Cebu and beyond.

President Urbiztondo’s updates served as a motivating reminder of the collective power of Rotarians working together to serve others and make a difference in the world.

However, it was the afternoon's main activity that truly captured the spirit of the Chinese New Year celebration. Directors Fraulien Co and Dorothy Borces took the stage to lead a fun and interactive reading session that explored the significance of the Chinese zodiac, horoscopes, and birthstones. With their charismatic leadership, the directors guided the attendees through a lighthearted yet enlightening exploration of these fascinating cultural traditions. The reading session offered a unique opportunity for Rotarians and guests to reflect on the symbolism of the zodiac signs and how these ancient beliefs could serve as a guide for personal growth and success in the coming year.

One of the most engaging portions of the celebration was the lively Q&A trivia game, headed by Past Presidents Dr. Vivian Dyhongpo and Christine Ashby, both of whom are of Chinese descent. The trivia game tested attendees' knowledge of Chinese New Year customs, traditions, and historical facts, fostering a fun and educational experience for all participants. Past Presidents Dr. Vivian and Christine’s leadership added a personal and culturally rich dimension to the event, as they shared insights from their own heritage, guiding the Rotarians through the game with both humor and wisdom. The enthusiastic participation in the trivia game further strengthened the festive atmosphere of the day.

The celebration also took a deeply personal turn as members of the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris with Chinese heritage shared their treasured family traditions, favorite foods, and exciting Chinese New Year activities. These heartfelt stories and personal anecdotes added a rich layer of cultural appreciation to the event, allowing everyone present to learn more about the diverse ways in which Chinese New Year is celebrated across generations. The sharing of such traditions brought a sense of unity and understanding to the gathering, highlighting the importance of embracing and celebrating cultural diversity.

As the event drew to a close, there was a collective sense of joy, gratitude, and optimism in the air. The Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris had successfully created an occasion that not only honored the customs and values of Chinese New Year but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and fellowship among its members. With the Year of the Wood Snake now underway, there was a shared sense of excitement and hope for the future. Members of the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris left the celebration feeling inspired, energized, and eager to continue their work in service to the community.

With their dedication to fostering positive change and promoting peace and understanding, the Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris remains steadfast in its mission to build a better world for all. The celebration of the Chinese New Year was yet another reminder of the club’s vibrant spirit, its commitment to learning and sharing, and its unwavering sense of community. Here’s to a prosperous, happy, and successful Year of the Wood Snake!

Written by: Rotary Club of Cebu Gloria Maris, Rotary International District 3860