The Year of the Golden Rat is significant in the Lunar Calendar because aside from beginning the new decade, it marks the start of the 12-year cycle on which part of the practice of geomancy — more commonly known as Feng Shui — is based.
OH, RAT! A giant rat takes center stage at the Lucky Chinatown Mall lobby as Filipino Chinese prepare to welcome the Year of the Rat. The rat opens the cycle in the Lunar calendar. PHOTO BY J. GERARD SEGUIA