UFCABC Celebrates Successful Heritage Dinner and 10th Anniversary

By Christian Cunanan

The United Filipino Canadian Associations in BC (UFCABC) proudly marked a major milestone with the successful hosting of the 2025 Philippine Heritage Dinner and its 10th Anniversary celebration on June 7 at the Continental Seafood Restaurant in Richmond. The event brought together friends, partners, and supporters to honor Filipino heritage, culture, and the achievements of Filipino-Canadians in British Columbia.

The night’s guests, including Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin and consular staff, Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie, Member of Parliament Parm Bains, MLA Mable Elmore, and MLA Steve Kooner. Their attendance added significance to this important occasion, showing strong support for the Filipino community.

The program was emceed by Cookie Aytona and Mike Calingo, who kept the evening engaging for all in attendance. Highlights included inspiring cultural performances, the presentation of the 2025 UFCABC Gawad Awards, and the recognition of outstanding contributions in community service, public service, and the arts. Among this year’s honourees were UPAABC, Pinoy Bahay Paupahan Canada and young artist Klarissa Narukami.

UFCABC extends its gratitude to the hardworking Board of Directors, thank you to our organizing team: Salve, Janice, Clifford, Bert, Rain, Allan, Kamila, Merlina, Agnes, Esther, Mylene, Arcie, Glen and Eagles group and Member organizations, our generous sponsors, and dedicated volunteers, as well as its many community friends and supporters. Special thanks to TransLink, our partner at the Flag Raising Ceremony and some of the sponsors together with, Air Canada, Fame Diamond, University of Canada West(UCW), Natie Sotana, Flyer Moda, Paradgm Optical, Marlon Parel, Spectrum Prints, Clarity Group and Reyfort Media of this memorable dinner. Performances PRE-Event Entertainment, by Salve Dayao & friends, Himig Kabataan, National Anthem of Canada, and National Anthem of the Philippines – Himig Kabataan. Song Numbers: Zsarina Concepcion, Edz Dulatre ,Charlo Cedro, Kevin Ibanez, and Gabriel Regehr, Together, we continue to celebrate our heritage and strengthen unity within our growing community. 

Photo credit: Phillip Louis Pua