New PCCM board hosts third welcome party for new immigrants
The new board of directors for the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba hosted its third welcome party for newly-arrived Filipino immigrants on Sunday, March 29th. Board members Noel Cadelina and Evelyn Sy who acted as hosts that afternoon welcomed a total of 22 families who came from different parts of the Philippines. Vice President Lito Taruc gave the welcome address on behalf of the Board, followed by an invocation by Pastor Joel Saladaga of Mabuhay Christian Church.

Opportunity to vote on May 2010 is realized by Orli and Carrie Barroga when they went to Victoria Inn to register as absentee voter. Many had applied to exercise their rights as they carried dual citizenship. Some had taken an Oaths of Allegiance to the Republic of the PHilippines. And with these Filipino Canadians carry Canadian and Filipino passports are qualified to exercise their duty. At least, 18 years on the day of elections and not otherwise disqualified by law, may vote for president, vice-president , 12 senators and party-list  representatives.  The voting period will be from April 10 , 2010 until 3 p.m. an don May 20,2010.Philippine time.

An Evening With Larry and Tova Vickar will be a history making event when PCCM honors a major donor from the private sector who has been unconditionally support the various projects in the Filipino community. Larry Vickar, CEO & President of Vickar Automotive Group and his wife Tova, are synanymous to an exemplary philantrophy.
Lately, Larry and Tova’s donation to PCCM has marked to $100,000.
 On May 9, Saturday, 6 p.m. at a Red Carpet Gala Dinner, Larry and Tova and his family with be the special guests and will be given special citations on their involvement with the PCCM and the Filipino community. Most Filipino organizations have been also the recipients of their kindness and dedication to help. And also to mention, Larry and Tova’s charitable work with Gawad Kalinga in the Philippines. Thier  latest visit was last year to see the progress of  the construction of Vickar Village, home for the homeless in the Philippines. They are the 1st honoree outside the Filipino community.
 Under the chairmanship of Tess Newton, PCCM’s recording secretary, the fundraising effort will be the first for PCCM where the gala dinner will be held at the Multi Purpose Room. This MPR will be converted into a first class venue for this special event.
 “We want to make Larry and Tova and his family to feel at home as we offer our special brand of hospitality for thanking their involvement in our community. Everything will be first class, from the moment they enter the lobby, to decor and preparation of the hall; to the special menu and visual presentation. This is the way to thank them for their continuing support,” Tess Newton said. “And let our kababayan see how we make the MPR a first class venue for any formal event.”
 Just two weeks ago, Chef Gildbert de la Cruz, the caterer, food tasting was conducted with Dr. Irene Guzman,  asst. treasurer;Julie Javier, treasurer; Tess Newton, recording secretary and chairperson, fundraisng committee;James Mariano, of Century 21, volunteer;and Rod Cantiveros, PCCM president. Chef de la Cruz and his wife, offered the soup, then, the special salad, and to top of them all, as if food fit for a king, the main menu; and then the dessert. Our verdict: 5 stars! “ Wow, as if we were dining in a 5-star hotel restaurant!, said Rod E. Cantiveros, who, in some ways, has been in gourmet cooking. “ This is an excellent menu...”, Steven Minken said with a smile. “I enjoyed it very much.This is a first dinning experience. I love it,” Dr. Irene Guzman commented. And Julie Javier said:”A very special menu, for special people.” “This is what we want for May 9, a Night With Larry and Tova Vickar,” finaly said Tess Newton. “Thanks, Gilbert for your wonderful menu.”
Tasting the menu for that special night on May 9, 2009 at PCCM.
Ticket is $100 per person ($50 will be tax receipt). Proceeds will go to PCCM community programs and services. For more information please phone the following: Julie Javier- 291-7955/787-2733; Dr. Irene Guzman -889-4559; Vida Venzon - 897-0083; Tess Newton- 955-3203