By Christian Cunanan
Burnaby, BC – Premier David Eby met with the Filipino community leaders last October 18. A key topic was the NDP’s $15-million election pledge toward the long-awaited Filipino Cultural Centre. Questions were raised about how the commitment would be fulfilled if the NDP were re-elected, given the province’s significant budget deficit. The Conservative Party’s promise to match the proposed funding was also discussed.
Health care was another major concern. It was noted that the NDP has a stronger record on health care policies and support for workers, an important consideration for many Filipino Canadians employed in the health care sector.
Premier Eby also discussed the provincial government’s partnership with the federal government and B.C.’s strategic location along the Pacific, which offers opportunities to expand trade with Southeast Asian countries, particularly the Philippines. These initiatives could create jobs and generate economic benefits for British Columbia.
Representatives from the Rotary Club of Vancouver Mountainview, United Filipino-Canadian Associations in British Columbia (UFCABC), Mabuhay House, Filipino Legacy Society, Filipino BC, M3ASBC and Reyfort Media attended, along with Filipino business owners and realtors.
Organized and hosted by Boni Barcia at his Coquitlam residence, the gathering provided community leaders an opportunity to raise questions and hear directly from Premier Eby ahead of the final voting day on October 24, 2026.
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