The Filipino community in Canada continues to, as it always has, contribute significantly to the economic and social framework of Canada. This is a thriving community with a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

Since 1992, Filipinos have consistently ranked as independent immigrants to Canada. That means they are selected for immigration based on skills and adaptability to contribute quickly to Canadian society and to the Canadian economy. This is significant.

Further, Canada enjoys very strong and friendly ties with the Philippines. Philippines is an important trade partner and is one of the countries in which Canada.

Now is our time to come together in solidarity and support for one another; to celebrate our accomplishments, to enrich and uphold the culture from which we have emerged, and to flourish and contribute within this beautiful Canadian cultural mosaic. Invests in international development efforts.

It is widely accepted that the largest export of the Philippines is, in fact people – not only to Canada but also to many the parts of the world. This reflects the Filipino character: resilient, perseverant, and adaptive; we are chameleons to our environments. But as inspiring and admirable these traits are, it cultivates the mindset that the culture and community to which we belong to are the very same things we are trying to escape; leaving home and working abroad harbors the mentality that we have escaped a life of poverty, perhaps even giving us a feeling of success and superiority. 

Although this may hold truth, this mentality is belittling to our community and waters down our rich, splendid culture. We may also become ignorant to certain issues or parts of our culture that may not be so pleasant – the idea that it is no longer our problem because we are no longer part of it. 

This is evident in our tendencies to assimilate to other cultures, especially in the Western society – meaning we mold ourselves to fit into the world around us whether it be through our behaviours, attitudes, trends, fads, beauty standards, and even within the entertainment and media industries. But our Filipino culture has so much more to offer than simply mirroring the culture of others and blending into the background, all at the expense of silencing the voice within us. 
It may be uncomfortable to accept all parts of our culture, but understanding and appreciating our unique strengths, perspectives, and ideas can only help us to become stronger, in one united stance.

As we move forward in celebrating our culture, we hope that you will join us in our endeavour in spreading a wide-cast support system for one another, across the country! 

We will tell stories of our shared past, encourage cultural and social engagement, and provide a platform from which we can all grow and flourish as a strong and cohesive community. 

Appreciating our culture, as well as the cultures of those around us, will help in creating a just and equitable society – it starts with breaking down barriers and putting our own differences aside…only then can we make a lasting difference, for us, and for generations to come. 

~Monica de Jesus, Editor in Chief