Proclamation at Vancouver City Hall for Philippine Independence Day and Filipino Heritage Month

By Janice Lozano

VANCOUVER, BC — The Filipino Canadian community gathered at Vancouver City Hall as the City of Vancouver officially proclaimed June 12, 2026, as Philippine Independence Day and recognized June as Filipino Heritage Month, commemorating the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and contributions of Filipino Canadians.

The proclamation was presented by The Honourable Mayor Ken Sim, alongside Deputy Mayor Sarah Kirby-Yung, Councillor Lenny Zhou, and Councillor Pete Fry.

Also in attendance were MLA for Vancouver-Kensington Mable Elmore and Dr. Gina A. Jamoralin, Consul General of the Philippines in Vancouver, who joined community leaders and organizations in celebrating this important occasion.

Representing the Filipino Canadian community were members of the:

• United Filipino Canadian Associations in BC (UFCABC)
• Filipino Legacy Society
• Filipino Seniors Club of BC
• Philippine Nurses Association
• Filipino BC
• Community leaders, volunteers, families, and members of the Filipino Canadian community

A highlight of the ceremony was a powerful address delivered by Allan Fernandez, Public Relations Officer and representative of UFCABC, who accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Filipino Canadian community.

In his remarks, Fernandez expressed gratitude to the City of Vancouver for recognizing the significance of Philippine Independence Day and Filipino Heritage Month.

“This proclamation is more than just a document. It is a recognition of the generations of Filipino Canadians who have worked tirelessly to build stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger Canada. It acknowledges our history, our culture, our heritage, and the countless contributions that Filipinos have made and continue to make in Vancouver and across this country.”

Fernandez spoke about the significance of June 12, which marks the historic declaration of Philippine Independence in 1898, and reflected on the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and self-determination.

He also highlighted the remarkable journey of Filipino Canadians—from the pioneers who first arrived in Canada to the thousands of professionals, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, caregivers, educators, artists, community leaders, and volunteers who continue to enrich Canadian society today.

“The Filipino community is proud to call Vancouver home. We are grateful for a city that embraces diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism, and for leaders who recognize the importance of ensuring that every community feels seen, valued, and represented.”

The proclamation comes at a time when the Filipino community continues to demonstrate strength, resilience, and unity. Fernandez acknowledged the support shown by the City of Vancouver, Mayor Ken Sim, Council, and community partners during both celebrations and challenges faced by the community.

“This past year has reminded us of the strength of our community. In times of celebration and in times of challenge, we have come together with compassion, unity, and resilience. The support shown by the City of Vancouver, Mayor Ken Sim, Council, and our many community partners has demonstrated what can be achieved when we work together.”

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of preserving Filipino culture and heritage while inspiring future generations to continue contributing to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Vancouver and Canada.

“Today, we celebrate not only our heritage but also our future. We celebrate the next generation of Filipino Canadians who will continue to share our culture, preserve our traditions, and contribute to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of this great city.”

The proclamation serves as an important recognition of the Filipino Canadian community’s lasting contributions to Vancouver and reinforces the City’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism.

As celebrations continue throughout June, Filipino organizations across Metro Vancouver will host cultural events, community gatherings, educational programs, heritage activities, and flag-raising ceremonies in honour of Philippine Independence Day and Filipino Heritage Month.

UFCABC extended its sincere appreciation to Mayor Ken Sim, Vancouver City Council, and the City of Vancouver for their continued support and recognition of the Filipino Canadian community.

Maraming Salamat Po.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.

Mabuhay ang Filipino Canadian Community.

At Mabuhay ang Lungsod ng Vancouver.