Filipino Community Honors Canada's First Known Filipino Settler in Commemoration of 75th Anniversary of PH-Canada Diplomatic Relations
Mr. Ted Alcuitas shows the tombstone of Benjamin “Benson” Flores at Vancouver Mountainview Cemetery during Benson’s memorial celebration held on 11 April 2024. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
VANCOUVER 24 April 2024 – A memorial celebration was held at Vancouver Mountainview Cemetery on 11 April 2024 to honor the life and legacy of Benson Flores, Canada's first known Filipino immigrant. The memorial celebration served as a platform to honor Flores' contributions and to fill the gaps in Filipino history in Canada.
Benson Flores, an early settler of Bowen Island, BC, was buried in an unmarked grave until its recent discovery by Joseph Lopez, a Vancouver-based radio host and journalist. Lopez's investigative efforts shed light on Flores' journey, tracing his immigration to Canada in 1861, a decade before British Columbia became part of Canada.
Referring to Howard's publication "Bowen Island 1872–1972," Lopez remembered that Flores owned a floating residence in Snug Cove on Bowen Island. Flores not only started the island's first boat rental service but was also known for being a helpful neighbor.
Consul General Arlene T. Magno, in her remarks, highlighted Flores' courage, resilience, and the significance of his journey in shaping the Filipino-Canadian experience. She also thanked the City of Vancouver for its support and commitment to this endeavor.
The event, organized by the UFCABC, brought together members of the Filipino community, supporters of historic preservation, and distinguished officials from the City of Vancouver, which declared 11 April 2024 as "Benson Flores Day." The proclamation was presented by Vancouver City Councillors Lenny Zhou and Mike Klassen.
Vancouver City Councillors Lenny Zhou and Mike Klassen present the Proclamation of Benson Flores Day. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
In addition to speeches and reflections by leaders from the Filipino community and various organizations, the event featured a special performance by the renowned Philippine Madrigal singers, whose soulful renditions touched the hearts of the audience and filled the venue with a sense of awe.
The new monument on Benson’s grave was funded through a GoFundMe campaign, spearheaded by Filipino journalist Ted Alcuitas. It was officially unveiled on 13 April 2024. END
The commemoration featured a moving performance by the Philippine Madrigal singers. (Vancouver PCG Photo)
For more information, visit https://www.vancouverpcg.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.vancouverpcg.org, https://www.facebook.com/PHinVancouver, or https://www.instagram.com/phinvancouver/.