PARANGAL – a tribute to the Filipino community

WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Filipino community marked its 50th anniversary in Manitoba with a free concert at the Pantages Theatre on Sunday October 25. Billed as a tribute to the community, the Parangal Concert was the penultimate in a series of events organized by the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba (PHCM) to celebrate this anniversary year. Over 30 groups and individuals participated in the show with speeches from notables such as Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger, Fe Ryder – one of the first Filipino immigrants in Manitoba – and Dr. Irene Guzman. See more photos in the Parangal Concert Gallery

“I would like to thank everyone for all the help and support you gave to our Parangal Free Concert project,” said PHCM president Perla Javate. “It was truly an offering and a celebration of our 50th Anniversary.”

During the marathon four-hour show, emcees Roldan Sevillano and Maria Luwalhati Custodio linked the performances with a narrative that touched on every decade of the local Filipino community. Among the performers were the BIBAK Group, MAFTI Rondalla, Philip Bejar, Delia Lopez, Eva and the Sidekicks, Kayumanggi Performing Arts, the Honourable Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg, Andrea Macasaet, Vinna Dimayuga, Jezza, Rey-ar Reyes, Mario Cueto, Highlights, SIK, Angela Jill Guingcangco, Jana Morrison, Reynalyne Gacilan, Magdaragat Philippines, Last Second Chance, Tricia Magsino, Fr. Geoffrey Angeles, Michele Majul, Ken Canilao, Jessica Viray and Souldefy.

PHCM’s final anniversary event will be a lantern festival on December 5.

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