June marks Filipino Heritage Month in Canada, a time dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture and significant contributions of the Filipino community throughout British Columbia and beyond.
The month-long celebration acknowledges the early migration of Filipinos to Canada, starting with settlements on Bowen Island and New Westminster in the 1880s.
Today, B.C. is home to over 174,000 Filipinos, making it the province with the second-largest Filipino diaspora in the country.
There are an estimated 8,525 Filipinos who call Greater Victoria Home, according to a 2021 Statistics Canada census data.
”The Filipino community is one of the fastest-growing in Canada," said B.C. Attorney General Niki Sharma in a statement issued by the province on June 1.
"During this month, let us honour the community by supporting, learning from, and celebrating Filipino culture together.”
Beyond its rich cultural tapestry, the Filipino community is known for its spirit of civic unity and cooperation, or "bayanihan" in Tagalog, a value that has enriched communities worldwide.
Premier David Eby also addressed the community, stating, “This year, we hold this celebration alongside deep sorrow, under the backdrop of the tragic attack that took place at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver."
He emphasized the resilience and compassion within the B.C. communities, highlighting how they have come together to heal and support one another.
“This strength in unity – ‘bayanihan’ – is at the heart of the Filipino spirit.”
The Philippine Bayanihan Community Centre is set to host its annual Mabuhay festival at Centennial Square in Victoria on June 14 and 15, bringing this spirit of unity to the forefront.
The festival, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., will offer a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture through music, authentic Filipino cuisine, arts and crafts, cultural performances, exhibits, karaoke and games for children.
"This event is our way of sharing Filipino culture and heartfelt hospitality with our neighbours and friends across communities," the centre said.
Mabuhay is proudly supported by the Province of British Columbia, the City of Victoria, and the BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union, in collaboration with the Victoria Filipino Canadian Association, Victoria Filipino Canadian Caregivers Association, and Victoria Filipino Canadian Seniors Association.
