On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Lunar New Year dawned with the dynamic Fire Horse taking the lead, marking a vibrant shift from the previous year's contemplative Wood Snake. If 2025 felt like a period of shedding—characterized by meticulous planning, pruning, and quiet positioning—this new lunar cycle promises momentum and decisive action. The Fire Horse is rarely subtle; it embodies execution, energy, and a preference for action over mere rehearsal, setting the tone for a year that rewards movement more than meditation.
Horse-Inspired Jewelry Launch in Cebu
In the weeks leading up to the Lunar New Year celebration, a Cebu-based jewelry brand seized the zodiac's spirited theme by unveiling a collection of horse-inspired pieces. The launch took place during a special Lunar New Year luncheon at Hai Shin Lou in Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, attended by notable figures including Luis Quibranza III, Jaja Chiongbian-Rama, Oro China chief executive officer Jennifer Ty, and Tiffany N. Lerma. In zodiac tradition, the horse symbolizes drive and independence, and when combined with the element of fire, the energy intensifies, encouraging bold initiatives and creative expression.
Valentine's Week Pickleball Tournament
The Lunar New Year's call for action resonated into Valentine's week, where a couples' pickleball tournament was held at Crossroads in Banilad. Among the participants, one couple—referred to as Febe and the author—joined seven teams, ultimately placing sixth. While not podium-worthy, the outcome was far from tragic; they accepted the loss with grace, returning home with only mild bruises to both their egos and quadriceps. This experience underscored the playful yet competitive spirit of recreational sports, which burns calories and generates memorable stories.
From Play to Training: The Coaching Difference
A few weeks after the tournament, the couple decided to enhance their skills by booking their first proper coaching session, a move they realized they should have made before signing up. This transition highlighted a crucial distinction: recreational play is fun and engaging, but coaching fundamentally changes the game. A skilled coach identifies overlooked angles, corrects unconscious bad habits, and replaces raw enthusiasm with structured technique.
Suddenly, aspects like footwork, shot selection, and positioning become paramount, explaining why some pairs glide effortlessly across the court while others scramble. Preparation is often a quiet, behind-the-scenes process, but execution is visibly transformative. As the couple learned, there comes a point when one must stop merely admiring the reins and instead pick them up to steer their progress forward.
This Lunar New Year, the Fire Horse's influence is clear—whether through artistic jewelry launches or athletic pursuits, Cebu is embracing a year of energetic execution and proactive movement.
