Four story tellers expounded many poignant stories about their lives, their beginnings, their struggles, their persistence and tenacity, and their successes,thus, letting the guests to listen and to engage to the moving narratives with full of wisdom and wit. MLA Bernardette Smith, Zofia Dove, Muuxi Adam and Roddy Seradilla humbly told their stories to the appreciative crowd. And when Perla Javate, president of the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba,delivered her closing remarks and announced the formation of the “Circle of Friends”, the guests immediately took the hands of their friends and made a circle on the dance hall, as the song “Imagine” was sung by Paul Ong. Such a moving spirit of friendliness and oneness felt by everyone, capturing the very meaning of solidarity of various communities into one community.
These are the two inspiring portions of the program celebrating the 119th Philippines Independence sponsored by the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba . The Independence Ball, a dinner-dance, was held recently at the Marlborough Hotel.
Pure nationalism was added when Vina Dimayuga, Queveen Arcedo and Selanne Sangalang of Magdaragat Philippines Inc performed the “Ako Ay Filipino” (I Am A Filipino).
Ms.Tes Aiello, vice-president of PHCMI, delivered the opening remarks followed by the greetings from Right Honourable Justin Trudeau was conveyed by MP Kevin Lamoureux; and the message of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte by Honorary Consul Ronald Opina. Arnold Tongol and Hannah Sagaral rendered songs at the ball. Emceed by Tyler Magnaye, a 103. Virgin Radio personality.
The officers and members and the community at large have extended their thank yous to Scotiabank, Gold Sponsor; RBC, Safeway and Sobeys and Mosaic Funeral, Silver Sponsors; and Bronze Sponsors, Vickar Automotive Group and Youngs Trading; Media Sponsors, Pilipino Express, Filipino Journal, CKJS, Asian Community Guide and Mabuhay TV. And to numerous volunteers from the various associations and organizations.
