Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) kicked off the Lunar New Year celebration on Tuesday with a vibrant homage to tradition and cultural diversity, marking the start of the Year of the Snake.

The hospital’s festive event, which took place on Tuesday, featured a lively display of lion and dragon dances, traditional drumming, and an array of festive foods.

In Chinese zodiac tradition, the Snake is seen as a symbol of wisdom, intuition and elegance. People born in the Year of the Snake are often thought to be intelligent, resourceful, and charismatic, making it a year associated with introspection and careful decision-making. It is believed to be a time for growth, transformation, and cautious progress.

The highlight of CSMC’s celebration was the dance of illuminated lions, which are considered symbols of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture.

In the spirit of the occasion, the hospital distributed packs of hopia, tikoy, and fruits to doctors, staff, patients, and visitors, extending their well wishes for good fortune in the coming year.

The celebration brought together doctors, patients, hospital staff, and members of the Chinese community to share in the festivities.

CSMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Antonio Say emphasized that the event was dedicated to the hospital’s patients, particularly those from the Chinese community, underscoring the hospital’s multicultural environment.

“Cardinal Santos is a multicultural center, and with many Chinese patients, we celebrate together with them for prosperity and good health,” Dr. Say remarked.

He also shared that this year, CSMC is placing a greater emphasis on personalized patient care, highlighting the importance of both advanced medical technology and a warm, welcoming environment.

“We will offer more high-tech services, but it’s equally important that patients feel at home when they’re here,” he added.

Dr. Say concluded that the annual Lunar New Year celebration reflects CSMC’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, caring, and culturally respectful environment for all patients and staff.