Filipino Heritage Month Celebrated in Richmond, British Columbia

(Left photo) Philippine Consul General Arlene T. Magno delivers her keynote remarks before the Filipino community. (Right photo) L-R:  MLA Teresa Wat, MLA Henry Yao, MLA Kelly Greene, MLA Mable Elmore, MHHS Board Director Marilou Yodogawa, MHHS President Janet Teves, Consul General Arlene Magno, MHHS Executive Director Ann Nienaber, MLA Aman Singh during the presentation of the Proclamation of the Filipino Heritage Month at the flag raising ceremony in Richmond. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)

19 June 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, led by Consul General Arlene Magno, participated in the annual hoisting of the Philippine flag at Richmond City Hall on 15 June 2024, in honor of the 126th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, Filipino Heritage Month, and the 75th Anniversary of the Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations.

In her message, Consul General Arlene T. Magno, highlighted the multi-year Philippine Independence Day theme of “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.,” and the warm hospitality of the City of Richmond, which has openly embraced the Filipino community through the years.

The event started with a parade, followed by the flag raising ceremony, and then greetings by local government officials. The ceremony was attended by Acting Mayor of Richmond Andy Hobbs, MP Parm Bains, MLA Henry Yao, MLA Kelly Greene, MLA Mable Elmore and MLA Aman Singh.

Multicultural Helping House Society (MHHS) Board Director Ms. Marilou Yodogawa welcomed the guests who were treated with traditional dances and musical performances, providing a glimpse into the Philippines' rich cultural traditions.

This event continues to be a highlight in the city’s cultural calendar, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino heritage and its vibrant community in Richmond.  This is annually organized by the MHHS, together with MHHS Richmond 55+sers, a registered non-profit society and charitable organization dedicated to serving the needs of newcomers to Canada as well as its permanent residents and citizens.  END

(Left photo) Team Vancouver PCG leads the parade at the 10th Flag Raising Ceremony at the Richmond City Hall on 15 June 2024. (Photo by Vancouver PCG)

(Left photo) The members of the Richmond School District 38 Youth perform a musical play, directed by Artist Danvic Biones and Marlyn Dadural, retelling their immigration experience. (Photo by Ms. Marilou Yodogawa/MHHS)

PhilCas performs the Carinosa and Tinikling dances during the cultural program at the flag raising event in Richmond. (Photo by Vancouver PCG).