First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has joined President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the Chinatown Revitalization Project Phase II, which aims to illuminate key streets, commercial corridors, and cultural landmarks in Binondo, Manila, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The lighting project symbolizes the district’s long and remarkable journey, from its founding in 1594 as the world’s first Chinatown and a historic center of trade and cultural exchange, to its present role as a protected yet vibrant heritage district in the heart of the country’s capital.

Spearheaded by Mrs. Marcos, in cooperation with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce Inc., the project aims to light up and honor more than four centuries of Filipino-Chinese history, resilience, and contributions to the nation’s commercial and cultural life, building on the model of the first phase of the project.

Back then, the lighting of Jones Bridge drew strong inspiration from the momentum and vision of the Pasig River Bigyang Buhay Muli Project, which demonstrated how heritage restoration can catalyze urban renewal and civic pride.

Legacy showcase

The second phase aims to showcase Binondo Chinatown’s legacy, appreciated and celebrated by present and future generations, while positioning the district as a renewed destination for culture, tourism, and economic activity.

In turn, the First Lady reciprocated the community’s generosity by actively promoting the project and providing the initiative with a platform for national visibility.

Through the President and the First Lady’s support, the Binondo Chinatown lighting project aims to gain wider traction, attracting increased interest from tourists, cultural advocates, and the general public.

This kind of partnership elevated the project into a shared national endeavor — one that is not only inspired by, but which also complements the broader urban and cultural renewal efforts of the Pasig River Bigyang Buhay Muli Project.