A well-known Winnipeg Filipino cultural group, BIBAK, together with the more than 150 Filipino residents in Morden, Manitoba, joined the parade celebrating the annual Morden Corn and Apple Festival last August 24, Saturday.
Marcos Simpao, one of the organizers of the parade says: “We have been joioning the festival since 2015 to showcase our cultural heritage, and the camaraderie of the more than 400 Filipinos living in Morden and to give back to the Morden officials and residents for welcoming us into their community. And with the enthusiasm and the happy faces of the Filipinos and the unique performance by the BIBAK dancers, the Morden residents would know how happy we are, and sharing to them a glimpse of the culture of our country.”
BIBAK, founded in 1994, and one of the most unique and artistic performing groups in Winnipeg (some members live in Morden), stands for 5 provinces in the North Philippines and these include: Benguet, Ifugao, Bontoc (now Mt. Province), Apayao and Kalinga. Its traditional dances celebrate good harvest, health and peace.
Added to the attraction in the parade is Manny Pacquiao’s look-alike, Richard Sapida who received so much attention. After the parade, a Fiesta type-celebration was held to celebrate another successful participation at the annual Morden Corn and Apple Festival.
(Editor’s Note: Armando Mariano, a BIBAK Morden member, provided the information. Photo credits: Aldrick Lagmay, Brian Estacio and Ruselle Collantes.)
Photos by Aldrick Lagmay, Brian Estacio, Russelle Collantes
