The first Filipino Heritage Day on the Hill was a day of celebration in line with the Philippine Heritage Month of June which culminated in an evening cultural show organized and presented by various Filipino-Canadian associations, including the Philippine Centre Canada (PCC), in Ottawa.  Held at the Sir John A. MacDonald Building on June 22, 2019, the cultural show was made possible by the sponsorship of the Honourable MP Chandra Arya who delivered the welcome remarks. Mr. Alan L. Deniega, Minister and Consul General for the Philippine Embassy, was also present to show his support. The event boasted an impressive turnout of 300 attendees, including the PCC Board, Philippine Independence Committee of Ottawa Valley (PICOV) officers, Philippine Embassy personnel, three Members of Parliament, and representatives from the ever-growing Filipino-Canadian community in Ottawa. A medley of cultural Filipino performances filled the entertainment program– musical performances by choral groups, a flute rendition of “Sampaguita”, balagtasan (a Filipino form of debate done in verse), and cultural dances. News reports by publications in Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver revealed that the lineup of activities was both grandeur and impressive.

“MP Kevin Lamoureaux, Chair of the Friendship Group, and PICOV Chairperson Nora Arriola welcomed guests and served as Masters of Ceremonies. Co-Chairs MP Michael Levitt (Liberal), MP Alice Wong (Conservative), and MP Wayne Stetski (NDP) delivered messages on behalf of their respective caucuses while MP Salama Zahid, author of Motion 155 that paved the way for the recognition of June as Filipino Heritage Month, and Senator Yonah Martin also spoke and extended their greetings to the audience.” (Source: Embassy of the Philippines)

PCC would like to thank Hon. MP Chandra Arya’s office for their generous support in celebrating the first Filipino Heritage Day on the Hill.

Photo source: Embassy of the Philippines