By Matthew Go
As 2025 dawned, Taguig City hosted an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration that brought together hundreds of thousands at Bonifacio Global City (BGC). Dubbed “NYE at the 5th”, the event featured a world-class lineup of performers, including Filipino icons Sarah Geronimo and Rico Blanco, British electronic duo HONNE, and K-pop sensation ITZY. With dazzling fireworks displays and cutting-edge stage designs, the celebration was not only a feast for the senses but also a powerful statement of Taguig’s emerging status as a cultural and economic hub under the visionary leadership of Mayor Lani Cayetano.
The event drew an estimated 250,000 attendees, highlighting the city’s capacity to host large-scale events that foster community engagement and tourism. As the crowd gathered at BGC’s 5th Avenue, the vibrant energy of the celebration was palpable, blending diverse musical performances with high-tech production elements. Beyond the revelry, this event demonstrated the city’s growing capability to balance entertainment with public safety and efficient urban planning, thanks to the comprehensive preparations undertaken by the local government.
Mayor Lani Cayetano’s administration has consistently emphasized innovation and inclusivity, principles that were evident in this New Year’s celebration. The event catered to a wide audience, combining local talent with international acts, bridging generational and cultural divides. It reflects Mayor Cayetano’s leadership style—dynamic, forward-looking, and deeply rooted in community-building. Her focus on cultural initiatives as a means of fostering social cohesion has made Taguig a model city not only in Metro Manila but across the country.
This New Year’s Eve event also showcased Taguig’s infrastructural readiness. The city’s roads, transport systems, and security measures worked seamlessly to accommodate the influx of visitors, many of whom traveled from neighboring cities. This level of preparedness underscores the Cayetano administration’s broader vision for Taguig as a premier urban center—one that is both accessible and welcoming.
Taguig’s New Year’s Eve festivities are emblematic of Mayor Cayetano’s broader achievements. Since her return to office in 2022, she has spearheaded initiatives that prioritize healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. From establishing modern health centers to implementing sustainable urban planning, her leadership reflects a commitment to holistic progress. Events like “NYE at the 5th” complement these efforts by enhancing the city’s cultural vibrancy and global appeal.
The success of the event also underscores the importance of public-private partnerships, which were key to its execution. Collaborations with international and local artists, as well as private organizations, elevated the event’s stature, drawing attention to Taguig’s potential as a global destination. The seamless coordination between government agencies, private stakeholders, and community groups ensured that the celebration was not only enjoyable but also safe and orderly.
As the city moves forward into 2025, the “NYE at the 5th” celebration serves as a testament to the transformative leadership of Mayor Lani Cayetano. By blending world-class events with inclusive governance and sustainable development, she is redefining what it means to lead a modern Filipino city. Taguig’s New Year’s celebration wasn’t just a party—it was a showcase of what the city has become and a preview of its even brighter future. Under Mayor Cayetano’s stewardship, Taguig is setting a benchmark for urban progress that other cities would do well to emulate.