The Invictus Chinese Federation Mooncake Festival 2025 was an event that truly embodied celebration, unity, and cultural heritage, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended. Held on the evening of October 29 at the elegant Gloria Maris in San Juan, the festival ran from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, drawing a vibrant crowd of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, architects, engineers, and Chinese traders. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and camaraderie as guests gathered to honor the Mid-Autumn Festival—a time traditionally associated with family, gratitude, and the sharing of bountiful mooncakes. This year’s celebration was marked not only by cultural reverence but also by a sense of collective progress and shared aspirations for prosperity.
The evening opened with an inspiring keynote speech from none other than former Senator Cynthia Villar, whose words set a tone of hope, resilience, and unity. Her presence underscored the significance of collaboration among industry stakeholders in fostering national growth and economic development. The event was further strengthened by the support of the DBSI Group of Companies—Fleximetal Inc., Dwightsteel Building Systems, Inc., and Intext Building Solutions, Inc.—whose participation exemplified the strong partnership between business and cultural tradition. Their involvement emphasized the importance of industry collaboration in building a resilient and prosperous future for the Philippines.
Adding a special touch to the evening was the presence of Tarlac Mayor Donya Tesoro, who participated in the festivities and expressed her support for the event’s cultural and economic significance. Her involvement symbolized the unity between local government and industry, reinforcing the event’s message of collective progress and shared prosperity. The night was further enlivened by performances from the East Drive Band, which lifted spirits and kept the mood festive and engaging.
A key highlight of the night was the celebration of tradition through the ancient mid-autumn dice game, a cherished activity that has been passed down through centuries. Hosted by the Federation of Construction Suppliers of the Philippines—commonly known as INVICTUS—under the leadership of President Aldrin Derrick Chua, the evening masterfully blended solemn ceremony with lively entertainment. Guests were invited to participate in the historic game, known in Hokkien as pua tiong chiu and in Mandarin as bo bing, which traces its origins back to 17th-century Xiamen. Originally devised by the military general Zheng Chenggong (Koxinga) to boost the morale of soldiers during the festival, this game has evolved into a cultural ritual symbolizing luck, success, and communal harmony.
During the game, players took turns tossing six dice into delicate porcelain bowls, aiming to hit specific combinations that held symbolic meanings. The most coveted outcome was rolling four dice showing the number four—known as “chiong wan”—which signified the “champion scholar” and brought the greatest rewards, including the largest mooncake as a symbol of triumph and good fortune. The number four, traditionally painted in red ink to symbolize luck and prosperity, became the star of the night’s festivities. The excitement was palpable as players cheered and groaned with each roll, sharing superstitions and strategies that added to the convivial atmosphere. The game’s mechanics, simple yet deeply rooted in tradition, created a sense of equality among all participants—whether seasoned industry veterans or newcomers—emphasizing that luck and camaraderie are universal.
Prizes for the game ranged from small trinkets to substantial rewards, heightening the thrill of each roll. A 55-inch television was awarded as the grand prize, followed by a Nespresso machine for the runner-up, with other prizes like JBL speakers, tower fans, insulated tumblers, and envelopes of ampao. The playful rivalry and shared laughter underscored the event’s core message: that cultural traditions can serve as powerful bridges, connecting generations and fostering a sense of community amid the bustling world of business. Each roll of the dice was more than just a game; it was a reminder of the enduring power of cultural heritage to bring people together in joy and celebration.
Throughout the night, the event was punctuated by lively intermissions, which further elevated the festive mood. As the evening progressed, the formalities gave way to a more relaxed and jovial atmosphere, where guests exchanged stories, superstitions, and well-wishes. The event also featured the induction of new members into the federation, a symbolic gesture that highlighted the ongoing growth and dynamism of Invictus as a unifying force within the construction and trade industries.
As the night drew to a close under the luminous glow of the full moon, it was evident that the true essence of the festival extended beyond material rewards. The spirit of unity, shared tradition, and hope for a prosperous future was palpable in every toast, every cheer, and every earnest conversation. The timeless dice game, with its roots stretching back over four centuries, had once again proven its resilience and relevance, bridging past and present through every clatter of dice and burst of laughter.
The Invictus Mooncake Festival 2025 was more than a celebration of a cultural holiday; it was a powerful reminder that fostering strong relationships, respecting tradition, and embracing shared goals are essential ingredients for sustainable growth. For the Federation of Construction Suppliers of the Philippines, this event underscored their commitment to nation-building and to the enduring values that unite communities—values that transcend time and continue to inspire progress. As the moon shone brightly overhead, illuminating the night, everyone left with a renewed sense of hope, strengthened bonds, and a collective belief that in both business and life, fortune indeed favors the brave and the unified.
