City of Vancouver Proclaims June as Philippine Heritage Month

By Janice Lozano

VANCOUVER, B.C. — Mayor Ken Sim and the City of Vancouver on June 18, 2025 officially proclaimed June as Philippine Heritage Month, recognizing the vibrant contributions of the Filipino community to the cultural and social fabric of the city. The proclamation ceremony took place at Vancouver City Hall at 9:15 a.m., with a warm welcome extended to community members and leaders from across the region.

In attendance were Gina Jamoralin, Philippine Consul General to Vancouver; B.C. MLA Mable Elmore, representatives of UFCABC (United Filipino Canadian Associations in B.C.), Filipino B.C., Mabuhay House, the Filipino Seniors Club of B.C., and other distinguished leaders and organizations.

On behalf of UFCABC and the broader Filipino Canadian community, heartfelt thanks were extended to Mayor Sim and the City for standing with the community in both moments of celebration and sorrow.

“As we commemorate the 127th Philippine Independence Day, we not only reflect on our history of resilience and unity—but also confront the recent grief following the tragedy at the Lapu-Lapu Block Party,” said Janice Lozano, Secretary of UFCABC. “In that moment of heartbreak, the City of Vancouver demonstrated compassion and leadership, standing with us in meaningful, tangible ways. They approached every step with compassion and the utmost sensitivity toward the victims and their families.

The Filipino community also voiced strong support for the upcoming benefit initiative, Come Together: Vancouver Strong—a city-supported event aimed at supporting the victims and families affected by the Lapu-Lapu incident. This event, grounded in music, community, and shared purpose, seeks to raise funds and create space for healing, dignity, and long-term support.

“This is not just about one group,” the statement continued. “It’s about choosing unity over fear, and action over silence.”

The Filipino Canadian community expresses deep appreciation to the City of Vancouver for continuing to walk alongside them—recognizing the past, supporting the present, and building toward a more united future.