03 July 2015 - Braving a day-long summer rain and uncharacteristically frosty summer weather, Filipinos in Montreal gathered at the Mackenzie King Park in Montreal to celebrate the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. Philippine Ambassador to Canada Petronila P. Garcia joined the multitude in a parade that also celebrated Canada's enabling multi-ethnic and diverse society.
Historically the largest celebration and parade on Philippine Independence in Quebec, the event was put together by the Federation of Filipino Canadian Association of Quebec (FFCAQ) led by its President James Dela Paz. This year's parade saw a diverse participation from various Filipino community groups in Montreal - including the Knights of Rizal, and provincial/regional groupings, and included a martial arts demonstration of kali and eskrima, as well as dance presentations by the PAMANA Montreal, and from the Japanese and Mexican communities in the city.
Bagpipes and drums were played at the head of the parade by the Pipes and Drums group of the city, with Montreal police providing ceremonial and security escort. Artillery salutes by the Montreal Field Battery of Artillery were fired during the program that followed the parade. Several officials from the municipal and provincial government also graced the occasion and congratulated the community for being part of the Canadian tapestry.
Ambassador Gracia recalled the visit of Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III to Canada this year, as she conveyed to the community that the Philippine government is proud of the contribution of Filipinos to Canada, noting how their host country is equally pleased and delighted of their contribution to Canadian society.
Ambassador Garcia was accompanied by Consul General Eric Tamayo and a team from the Philippine Embassy which also provided overseas voters (OV) registration services to the community. END