WINNIPEG – The Filipino community in Winnipeg joined millions of Filipino expatriates around the world in commemorating the 111^th anniversary of Philippine Independence from the Spanish colonizers. The community also celebrates the 50^th anniversary of Filipino immigration to Manitoba.

The Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba (PHCM) spearheads the various activities to celebrate these two significant events. Perla Javate, PHCM president, said that, “This year, we reflect on our journey through the 50 years. We left the Philippines to take advantage of better opportunities for our families. We packed our bags… and journeyed to unfamiliar grounds. We bravely faced the challenges and conquered them one by one. Today, we are now peaceful and happy in our new home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. We can say too, we are heroes.”