By Socorro Babes Newland (Guest Writer)
Lower Mainland, BC — The sound of bowling pins crashing and cheerful camaraderie filled the air as members of the Filipino community gathered for a spirited fundraising bowling event that brought together organizations, families, and friends from across the Lower Mainland. Organized by the Philippine Bicol Association of British Columbia (PBABC), the event drew 55 enthusiastic players and strong support from various Filipino groups and community partners.
Representatives from several respected organizations joined the gathering, including Circulo Pampangueno, One Coop, the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, fellow Bicolano groups such as Pamilyang Bikolnon and members of the Catanduanes International Association, as well as the friends and families of PBABC. Corporate support was also present through Regency Toyota, highlighting the strong partnership between community organizations and local businesses.
Beyond friendly competition on the lanes, the event carried a deeper purpose. Proceeds from the fundraiser will help support a range of humanitarian and community initiatives focused on the Bicol Region in the Philippines, an area frequently affected by powerful typhoons. Funds raised will contribute to a calamity fund for disaster relief, ensuring timely assistance to communities in need after natural disasters.
Other initiatives supported by the fundraising effort include the distribution of school supplies for elementary students, a school feeding program, and the donation of medicines and medical supplies for the upcoming humanitarian and medical mission organized by the Catanduanes International Association scheduled for January 2027. The group also plans to donate medical equipment, hospital linens, and bedsheets to under-resourced hospitals in the Bicol Region.
The event also helps support the annual celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the revered patroness of Bicolandia. The religious celebration remains one of the most meaningful traditions for Bicolanos worldwide, strengthening faith and cultural identity among members of the diaspora.
This year marks a milestone for PBABC as it celebrates its 36th anniversary in 2026. For more than three decades, the organization has worked to promote Bicolano heritage while fostering unity, fellowship, and cooperation through civic, religious, and educational activities.
“Our vision is to unite Bicolanos in British Columbia as an inclusive and empowered community,” President of PBABC, Lorry Gavieres Russell shared. “We strive to preserve our heritage while encouraging active engagement within Canada’s multicultural society.”
The bowling tournament served as the first of many fundraising events planned for the year, setting the tone for PBABC’s continued commitment to service, culture, and community solidarity.
With laughter echoing across the bowling lanes and a shared sense of purpose among participants, the event demonstrated that when community members come together—even for a friendly game of bowling—they can make a meaningful impact both locally and abroad.
– by Socorro Babes Newland
ReyFort Media 
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