Filipinos celebrate New Year in Luneta

CNN Philippines

Many Filipinos chose to welcome the New Year in parks and other public areas, such as the Luneta or Rizal park.   Some were first-time visitors, while for others, celebrating the New Year at the popular park has been a family tradition.   Ej Gomez tells us more.   Visit our website for more #NewsYouCanTrust: https://www.cnnphilippines.com/  Follow our social media pages:  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNNPhilippines • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnnphilippines/ • Twitter: https://twitter.com/cnnphilippines

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00:00 Thousands of Filipinos flocked to Luneta to greet the new year.

00:04 There were families, couples, and friends who enjoyed the various attractions at the park,

00:10 including the dancing fountain, which kids specially liked.

00:14 Music could also be heard everywhere in the park, with a free concert at the open auditorium.

00:20 Some of our Kababayans arrived as early as noon, some even traveling from faraway provinces.

00:27 We came from Cotabato. It was our first time visiting Luneta.

00:32 We were bound together with our families.

00:36 We watched fireworks, the concert, and the fountain.

00:41 We chose Luneta to play with our son's scooter.

00:46 It was our gift to him on his seventh birthday, December 25.

00:51 When we celebrate here, we bring food and we save money.

00:56 For some, celebrating New Year here in Luneta is a family tradition.

01:01 I'm 83 years old now. I'm just here because I'm happy here in Luneta.

01:08 And many people give me gifts.

01:13 It's fun. There are many people.

01:15 I'm just sad that I'm not with my family.

01:18 We have fireworks, concerts, and food.

01:23 Vendors were also happy with the opportunity to earn more.

01:27 I earn 2,000 pesos a day. Sometimes, I earn 20,000.

01:32 But sometimes, I earn a lot. I can earn up to 5,000.

01:39 On Saturdays and Sundays, we earn 4,000.

01:43 But on Christmas and New Year, we earn 20,000.

01:48 As 2023 ends, many of those who came to Luneta wished for their families and loved ones

01:54 better health, prosperity, peace, and love in 2024.

02:00 EJ Gomez, CNN, Philippines.

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