Surrey Celebrates Filipino Heritage Month in a Fiesta Extravaganza

(Top photo) Philippine Consul General Arlene Magno (center), DMW Assistant Secretary Violeta Illescas (6L) with local government officials of Vancouver and Surrey. (Photo by PCG Vancouver)

SURREY, 03 July 2024 – On its second year, the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, led by Consul General Arlene Magno, attended the Surrey Fiesta Extravaganza held at the Surrey Civic Centre on 29 June 2024. The event, organized by the Fil-Can Cultural Heritage Society and Canada Fiesta Extravaganza, welcomed attendees of all backgrounds to enjoy a day filled with Filipino food, music, arts, and entertainment.

The day began with a grand parade led by the Vancouver PCG team, joined by a delegation from the Department of Migrant Workers, the Department of Budget and Management, the House of Representatives, and the Senate of the Philippines, headed by DWM Assistant Secretary Violeta Illescas, who were in Vancouver on an official trip.

In her message, Consul General Magno emphasized the importance of cultural diversity and the contributions of the Filipino community to the multicultural fabric of British Columbia. BC officials followed with speeches, underscoring the province’s support for cultural events and the Filipino community.  A highlight of the opening ceremony was the presentation of the British Columbia’s proclamation of Filipino Heritage Month, marking a moment of pride and recognition for the Filipino community.

Throughout the day, local artists captivated the audience with their performances.  On the 2^nd day, Filipino celebrity Ariel Rivera serenaded the crowd, adding a special touch to the celebration. His heartfelt renditions of popular songs created an unforgettable atmosphere, resonating with attendees and celebrating the spirit of the Filipino culture. END

(Top photo) The Philippine flag was raised at the Fiesta Extravaganza in Surrey, British Columbia. (Photo by PCG Vancouver)

(Top photo) Team Vancouver PCG, headed by Consul General Arlene Magno (center), with a delegation from the Department of Migrant Workers, the Department of Budget and Management, the House of Representatives, and the Senate of the Philippines, led by DWM Assistant Secretary Violeta Illescas, at the community parade. (Photo by PCG Vancouver)

(Top photo) Consul General Arlene Magno delivers her message before the Filipino community and attendees. (Photo by PCG Vancouver)

(Top photo) BC local government officials join the Filipino community during the Zumba dance at the Surrey Extravaganza. (Photo by PCG Vancouver)