Spring Festival outreach benefits Quirino Hill families

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Members of the Baguio Filipino-Chinese community distributed gift packs to indigent families at the Covered Court of Middle Quirino Hill Barangay here on Friday as part of the annual Spring Festival celebration, extending a 28-year tradition of outreach and cultural solidarity.

The beneficiaries, selected from the Lower, Middle, East and West Quirino Hill received packs that included essential food items and the popular Chinese rice cake tikoy, a staple during Lunar New Year festivities symbolizing unity and prosperity.

Organizers said the initiative, which began in 1998, aims to promote inclusivity and strengthen ties between Filipino and Chinese residents in the city.

The gift-giving drive has become a key component of Baguio’s Spring Festival, which features parades, cultural performances and awards nights highlighting the contributions of the Filipino-Chinese community to the city’s social and economic life.

Residents of Quirino Hill welcomed the assistance, noting that beyond material support, the annual visit fosters goodwill and strengthens relationships among neighbors of diverse backgrounds.

City leaders have long recognized the Spring Festival as a symbol of multicultural harmony in Baguio, underscoring the importance of cooperation in advancing local development initiatives.

Now on its 28th year, the barangay-level outreach continues to serve as a bridge between communities, reinforcing the spirit of shared celebration during one of the most significant events in the Chinese calendar.