The provincial government has declared August 14, the day the Filipino community celebrates Pinoy Fiesta: Unang Hirit sa Tag-init, as Filipino Fiesta Day in British Columbia.
The proclamation was made by Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton, and B.C. Lieutenant General Judith Guichon.
Jojo Quimpo, organizer of the Pinoy Fiesta, hailed the declaration on his Facebook account as a “historic moment”.
“Wow this is another historic moment for our community,” Quimpo wrote on a post. “Just imagine there’s now an official Proclamation of “Filipino Fiesta Day” in the City of Vancouver and in the Province of British Columbia. Hindi lang pang City ang dating ng “Pinoy Fiesta” pang whole Province na. This is something that the Filipino community should be proud of.”
“Personally I’m a bit emotional and so proud of this,” Quimpo also said. “My simple dream (7 years ago) and desire to showcase and share our beautiful culture to all Canadians is now recognized with an official Proclamation of “Filipino Fiesta Day” by the City and Provincial Government. In our own little way, we were able to uplift our community in the Canadian society.”
This year’s Pinoy Fiesta: Unang Hirit sa Tag-init will be held on Sunday (August 14) at the Memorial South Park in Vancouver.
The main guest in the celebration is Megan Young, an actress, model, TV host, VJ, and beauty queen. Young was the first ever and so far the only Filipina crowned Miss World.
The provincial government’s proclamation stated that the Pinoy Fiesta has “created a celebration of the rich and colourful culture of Filipino community, presented in partnership with other community organizations”.
In a message, B.C. Premier Christy Clark hailed the Filipino community’s contributions to the life of the province.
“It’s wonderful to see all members of the community gather to celebrate Filipino culture,” Clark wrote in her message.
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson also sent his good wishes in a separate message. The mayor noted that the festivities will “showcase he best and brightest attributes of the community”.
