President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday went down memory lane during the Jones Bridge lighting ceremony in Binondo, Manila, describing the delicious and comforting food and busy way of life in the world’s oldest Chinatown.
The President named dumplings, lumpia, mami, hopia, and siopao as some of the familiar treats that are part of the Filipino palate.
“Lasang-lasa naman ang sarap. Hindi ko makalimutan. So, always looking for new delicious dishes to try. I still always return to the comforting delicacies from the Binondo shops that have stood the test of time,” President Marcos shared.
The President fondly recalled the culinary treasures of Binondo, noting where to find the best bites: soft, savory dumplings along Ongpin and Yuchengco Streets; crisp lumpia and fresh fruits tucked in the narrow lanes of Carvajal Street; and steaming plates of pancit and glistening Peking duck proudly displayed in the windows houses on Benavidez Street.
“Of course, more than the food, it is also about the feeling. When we are here, we can feel the sense of place that has shaped Manila and its people. Now, essential to Binondo is the historic Jones Bridge – a landmark – it has endured wars, floods, and a long, long history,” said President Marcos.
Jones Bridge has witnessed generations of workers crossing the bridge to reach Escolta, students rushing home from class, taho vendors, jeepney drivers, as well as lovers meeting halfway- all passing under the same lamp posts, said the President.
The lighting of Jones Bridge and the weekly lights and sounds show in the bridge are part of the Chinatown revitalization initiative under the First Couple’s Pasig: Bigyang Buhay Muli (BBM) campaign to revive the Pasig Riverbanks system for public enjoyment.
With the ongoing Pasig River enhancement project, President Marcos encouraged the public—especially the youth—to rediscover and visit Binondo.
“Kaya kaibiganin natin ang mga tindero’t tindera. Subukan ang viral na recipe ng hopia at lumpia. Suportahan ang mga lokal na negosyo. Linisin ang ating paligid. Tumawid sa Jones Bridge at gumala sa tabi ng Ilog Pasig,” said the President. | PND
