Philippine Bicol Association of BC Holds 1st AGM, Reports Continued Membership Growth

Posted by ReyFort Media (By Socorro “Miss B” Newland)

VANCOUVER, B.C. 

by Socorro “Miss B” Newland

Demonstrating steady growth and a continued commitment to serving the Bicolano community in British Columbia, the Philippine Bicol Association of British Columbia (PBABC) convened its Annual General Membership Meeting (AGM) and Community Picnic on July 5, 2026, at Trout Lake Community Centre.

The annual gathering brought together members from across the province to review the association’s accomplishments over the past fiscal year, strengthen community ties, and chart its course for the future. The event reflected PBABC’s enduring mission of promoting unity, preserving Bicolano heritage, and fostering active participation within the Filipino Canadian community.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the President’s Report for Fiscal Year 2025–2026, outlining the organization’s achievements, ongoing initiatives, and strategic priorities. The Treasurer’s Report provided members with a transparent overview of the association’s financial position, while committee reports showcased the collective efforts of volunteers who continue to drive the organization’s programs and activities. Members also approved the agenda of their first AGM under its newly-elected president— Lorry Gavieres Russell, deliberated on new and unfinished business, and presented the association’s new set of officers as follows:

President Lorry Gavieres Russell

Vice- President Pilar De Guzman

Treasurer Juan Dumalasa

Assistant Treasurer Robert Azana

Secretary Allen May B. Robles

Assistant Secretary Eden De La Rama

Business Manager Rene Alcantara

Auditor Jose Arellano

Eman Raguin

Press Relation Officer

Sargeant At Arms Danilo Reyes

Director of Communications Aleta Bombase

Board of Directors: Marilyn Abundo Cunanan

Victoria Tena

Muriel Boncacas

Joy Ann Llamas

Mario Garchitorena

Ms. Russell also announced encouraging membership growth, with the association expanding from 133 members at the close of Fiscal Year 2025 to 147 members by the end of Fiscal Year 2026. The increase reflects the organization’s growing presence and the continued confidence of the Bicolano community in its leadership and programs.

Following the informal business meeting, members and their families gathered for a community picnic marked by warm fellowship, shared meals, and meaningful conversations. The informal setting provided an opportunity for long-time members to reconnect while welcoming new families into the growing PBABC community.

For many years, the Philippine Bicol Association of BC has served as an important cultural and civic organization dedicated to preserving the rich traditions, values, and heritage of the Bicol Region while strengthening friendships among Bicolano’s living in British Columbia. Through volunteerism, cultural celebrations, educational initiatives, and community outreach, the association continues to make meaningful contributions to the broader Filipino Canadian community.

Looking ahead, the association remains committed to expanding programs that celebrate Bicolano culture, support newcomers, encourage greater youth participation, and build stronger partnerships within British Columbia’s multicultural society.

As the Philippine Bicol Association of BC continues to grow, its Annual General Meeting served as more than a statutory gathering—it was a reaffirmation of the organization’s shared vision, resilient spirit, and collective commitment to preserving the Bicolano legacy while building a vibrant and united future for generations to come.

Watch out and support PBABC’s fundraiser on November 7, 2026, entitled, Stayin Alive on the Dance Floor at the Fraserview Banquet Hall, 8241 Chester Street, Vancouver, BC. For tickets, please contact: Lorry Russell (604)785-5987; Robert Azana (604)218-0046: Payment by E-Transfer: officers@pbabc1990.org