Lion Dance groups compete for P100,000 grand prize in 2025 competition

Celebrate tradition and witness vibrant, energetic performances at the 2025 Lion Dance Competition on January 19!

The champion will take home a grand prize of P100,000, generously sponsored by Pawchester and the Huang Lion & Dragon Dance Group.

During a press conference for the event, Mr. Gaius Uy, founder of the Huang Lion and Dragon Dance Group, shared his excitement about the event and what attendees can expect.

He said, “…Expected niyo na magiging maganda yung competition kasi …yung groups na nilagay ko dun yung talagang quality. So, expected niyo more on acrobatics [and] high jump.”

The Dragon Dance Competition aims to showcase Chinese-Filipino heritage and celebrate culture in a meaningful way. At the same time, it highlights the exceptional talents of Filipinos and Chinese-Filipinos.

Mr. Gaius Uy also explained that the goal of the competition is to have fun and build more friendships within the lion dance community.

He said, “Ang goal namin [is] to have fun and para magkaroon ng maraming friends sa industry ng mga Lion Dancers.”

He also explained the cultural importance of lion and dragon dances in Chinese tradition. Mr. Uy said lion dances are believed to chase away bad luck, while dragon dances are thought to bring good luck, especially to businesses and families.

“Yung culture kasi ng lion dance, sa culture namin sa Chinese, nagtatangal kami ng bad luck. …Ang lion ang nagtatangal ng bad luck at yung dragon ang nagpapasok ng lucky sa business or sa family,” he added.

Mr. Gaius Uy shared his vision of making the lion dance competition an annual event. He also mentioned that the lion dance is not limited to Chinese culture and can be incorporated into various events.

He expressed, “Gusto naming gawing yearly ‘tong competition na ito. …Hindi lang ‘to pang-Chinese culture, pwede rin ‘to sa mga opening ng stores, wedding, gender reveal.”

The competition will take place at the East Wing Atrium of GH Mall, starting at 10 AM. Ten talented lion dance teams will compete for the grand prize of P100,000, with P80,000 for second place and P50,000 for third place. Hosted by KC Montero, this exciting event will be free of charge for all attendees.

This competition is more than just a contest—it’s a celebration of culture. It’s about building friendships, honoring traditions, and bringing good luck. As the event grows, it shows how lion dance connects communities and keeps traditions alive for the future.