96th death anniversary of Benson Flores

By Christian Cunanan

On April 11, 2025, we came together to mark the 96th death anniversary of Benson Flores — a beloved fisherman and longtime resident of Bowen Island — at his final resting place in Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver.

Benson Flores, who passed away on April 11, 1929, holds a special place in the hearts of Filipino Canadians. Through a moving ceremony of remembrance, reflection, and community spirit, we honoured his remarkable life and the enduring legacy he left behind.

This year, our tribute carries even greater significance, as the City of Vancouver has officially proclaimed April 11 as “Benson Flores Day” — a powerful recognition of his place in Canadian history and the meaningful contributions of the Filipino Canadian community across British Columbia.

@BENSON FLORES GRAVESITE – Wreath Laying: Hosted by United Filipino Canadian Associations in BC (UFCABC), and support of the following organizations:

• Mabuhay House Society

• Rotary Club Mountain View

• Knights of Columbus

• Groupo Ilocano Association of BC

• Circulo Pampangueno Association of BC

• San Fabian Society of BC

• Forever Young Seniors Society

• Adamson University Association of BC

• Filipino Seniors Club of BC

To Benson Flores — we thank you for your courage and vision. As the first recorded Filipino immigrant in Canada, your legacy laid the foundation for generations to come.

To Canada — thank you for welcoming us with openness and generosity. Your support has allowed our community to grow, contribute, and feel at home.

We stand in gratitude — proud of our heritage and honoured to contribute to Canada’s richly diverse and inclusive multicultural society.

Mabuhay ang pamana ni Benson Flores!

Long live the legacy of Benson Flores!