Chongqing cultural festival opens in Manila

The “Chongqing Meets Manila – A Mid-Autumn Festival Celebration” opened at the SM Mall of Asia on September 12, featuring cultural performances, themed exhibitions, and brand presentations. Hosted by the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Information Office of the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government, the event was organized by the Western China International Communication Organization (WCICO).

The two-day festival showcased Bayu culture, Mid-Autumn traditions, Chongqing cuisine, and “Made in Chongqing” innovations. It aimed to foster cooperation in sectors including tourism, education, automotive, and aviation. Approximately 400 guests from political, business, cultural, and educational circles attended the opening.

Maria Christina G. Aquino, Assistant Secretary of the Philippine Department of Tourism, noted that China is currently the Philippines’ fourth-largest tourist source market, with nearly 320,000 Chinese arrivals recorded as of September 9. Zhou Zhiyong, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, highlighted the event as a means to strengthen friendship and cultural exchange between the two nations.