THE Year of the Fire Horse begins on Feb. 17 with a mix of optimism and caution among Filipinos as the nation enters a year astrologically associated with energy, speed, ambition and transformation.
Cultural forecasters and Philippine feng shui practitioners say 2026 could be a year of bold moves for government, business and everyday life, but only for those who plan carefully, stay disciplined and adapt quickly to change.
In the Chinese zodiac, which has been embraced in Filipino culture through centuries of Chinese Filipino influence and festivities, the Horse is the seventh sign of the 12-year cycle, symbolizing freedom, progress and vitality. This year’s Fire element adds intensity, passion and the potential for rapid change to that core symbolism.
International and local astrologers note that the Fire Horse, which occurs only once every 60 years, is traditionally associated with heightened energy, urgency, and sweeping change that can influence both personal decisions and national and global trends.
With Lunar New Year celebrations rolling across Binondo and Filipino communities nationwide, feng shui experts say the Fire Horse year will reward decisiveness and strategic planning while challenging the unprepared.
“It’s a fast, fierce, transformative year. Speed and strength are rewarded, but impulsiveness and indecision are punished,” said feng shui master Marites Allen, one of the Philippines’ best-known cultural forecasters, during her January forecast.
Allen, often dubbed the country’s Feng Shui Queen and followed by business leaders and public figures, urged Filipinos and local enterprises to stay focused on long-term goals while remaining flexible enough to pivot when opportunities arise.
Her outlook for 2026 highlights rapid movement and opportunity in sectors that are agile and innovative — including technology, digital platforms, education and wellness.
Meanwhile, beyond personal and cultural forecasts, Allen said that since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte have opposing zodiac signs in 2026, astronomical tensions will contribute to the ongoing political tensions.
Marcos is a Yang Rat with Rooster influences, while Duterte is a Yin Snake — a pairing that can result in conflict in decision-making and leadership dynamics.
Allen suggested that the tension between the two leaders would be better addressed through direct dialogue rather than prolonged public conflict.
“If you ask me, it would be better for them to sit down... and maybe talk openly rather than dragging [their issues] for a long time,” Allen said.
Feng shui practitioner Johnson Chua also said on GMA Network’s morning program, “Unang Hirit,” “This is not a year for indecision. Leaders who hesitate may lose momentum, while those who act without foresight may face backlash.” Chua also advised placing an image of a horse on the front door to attract good fortune in the Year of the Horse. He added that hanging nine ang paos or red envelopes on the door is considered auspicious, symbolizing manifestation and completion.
“Write your wish using a red marker and put them inside the ang paos,” he added, stressing the importance of being clear and specific about intentions. The envelopes, he said, should be arranged in a diamond shape to enhance positive energy.
What this means
According to traditional Chinese metaphysics, each zodiac sign experiences the year differently.
ChineseNewYear.net says people born under the Horse sign are described as lively, charming and adventurous, thriving in dynamic environments and often emerging as natural leaders and motivators. To counter the bad luck traditionally associated with Ben Ming Nian, or one’s zodiac year, Horses are encouraged to wear red throughout 2026. Red underwear, socks or accessories are believed to ward off misfortune and invite blessings.
The same source notes that while a zodiac return year may bring obstacles, these challenges often lead to greater wisdom and personal growth for those born under the Horse sign.
Lunar New Year was officially declared a special (nonworking) holiday. The Year of the Fire Horse runs through Feb. 5, 2027, carrying with it the promise of transformation and renewed focus for those ready to ride its powerful energy.
