by aLfie vera mella
The Christmas show organized by MAFTI (Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers Inc., billed as “Mga Himig at Kwerdas para sa Pasko [Melodies and Strings for Christmas],” was successful. It was a fairly organized and well-attended event that took place at Canton Food Gallery. Several community leaders and political dignitaries were there to witness the ceremonies, partake in the dinner, and enjoy the entertainment. Featured performers included MAFTI Rondalla Group, Classical-guitar player Dodi Feliciano Jr., singer Bea Jaime, local Classical New Wave band haLf man haLf eLf, and operatic singer Bénédicte LeMaître, all of whom rendered their respective brands and styles of music with class and detail. The highlight of the night was the induction of MAFTI’s newly elected president, Ernesto Nicolas Ofiaza Jr., and the new set of officers.