Prior to the official adoption of Canada’s Parliament declaring “June as Filipino Heritage Month”, there has been various celebrations of Filipino culture and heritage for many years in Manitoba.
This year, it was made more significant as Filipinos across Canada, including Manitoba, marked the first official national Filipino Heritage Month.
Hundreds gathered at the Maples Collegiate this weekend joining MP Kevin Lamoureux and daughter, MLA Cindy Lamoureux as lead organizers.
Close to 80 individuals and groups were given plaque of appreciation for their valuable contribution to the community following a process of nomination.
Event’s performers included MB Association of Filipino Teachers Inc. (MAFTI), BIBAK of MB, Synergy Dance Productions, Magdaragat Performing Arts, Aklan Association of MB, Sisler’s Most Wanted, Sikaran,, Dante Alhambra, Amber Trails Community School, Dufferin School and Rag Dolls. Other artists included Ymma Concepcion, Tina Reynoso, Sheryl Lyn Padua, Gloria Agravante. Mervin Sison, Jason and Vivian Igloria, Emogen Ventura, Glenn Naquila Khaye Tablan Raffy Ramiro Zaldy Ordonez Yvanne & Friends Bea Jaime St. Edward Dance Exercise Group – Senior Dance Group Phoebe Pedrina Ariel Fernando & Ken David, Ferdinand Fave Joey Reynoso, Christine Ronquilo and newly-crowned Junior Miss Galaxy Canada KC Salazar.
The Quezon Province Association of Manitoba held their annual Mayuhan/Santacruzan on the same day in Maples Multiplex Arena.
The Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba will have flag raising on June 8 with various activities lined up throughout the month ending with the annual Picnic at Assiniboine Park on June 29.
