Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver Honors Heritage and Progress at the Successful Winter Escapade 2026

Delegates of the 10th Winter Escapade pose in front of the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park (Photo from Rajah Tours)

10 February 2026, Vancouver, B.C. – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is proud to celebrate the resounding success of Winter Escapade 2026, a 10-day immersive journey that brought the Filipino diaspora closer to the heart of their homeland from February 1 to 10, 2026. Now in its 10th iteration, this flagship tourism project is organized by the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada—the Embassy in Ottawa and the Consulates General in Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary—in partnership with the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board. The initiative's primary objective is to foster a deeper connection between participants and the Philippines by showcasing the country's natural beauty, cultural wealth, and burgeoning economic progress, ultimately enticing more travelers from Canada and beyond to discover why the world is encouraged to "Love the Philippines".

Heads of Posts of Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada (from L-R) Consul General Emma R. Sarne (Calgary PCG), Ambassador Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga (Ottawa PE), Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin (Vancouver PCG), Consul General Kristine Leilani R. Salle (Toronto PCG) after the wreath laying ceremony in Rizal Park, Manila. (Photo from Rajah Tours)

The 2026 delegation was led by Ambassador Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga of the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin of the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, Consul General Kristine Leilani R. Salle of Toronto and Consul General Emma R. Sarne of Calgary. Together with a diverse group of participants from across Canada, the USA, and the Philippines, the delegation embarked on a curated itinerary designed to inspire both awe and national pride.

The journey began in Manila with a poignant wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Luneta. This solemn tradition served as the emotional anchor of the tour, allowing participants to pay homage to the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, and reflect on the values of nationalism and patriotism that define the Filipino spirit. Following this moment of nationalistic reverence, the group explored the vibrant capital through various lenses, including the historical "Charms of Old Manila" featuring Intramuros and Binondo, the scenic vistas of Tagaytay, and the culinary treasures of Malabon.

Heads of Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada are welcomed by officials of Negros Oriental Provincial Government representing Governor Manuel “Chacco” Sagarbarria (Photo from FB page of Provincial Information Office of Negros Oriental)

Delegates warmly welcomed at the Provincial Capitol of Negros Oriental (Photo from FB page of Provincial Information Office of Negros Oriental)

The adventure continued to the "City of Gentle People," Dumaguete, where the delegation was warmly received by the local government of Negros Oriental. Representing Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria were Atty. Myles Bejar (Provincial Legal Officer), Woodrow Maquiling Jr. (Executive Director of the Provincial Tourism Board), and Glynda Descuatan (Vice Chair of the Provincial Tourism Council). In Negros Oriental, participants explored the historic Silliman University, the Anthropology Museum, and the Dumaguete Belfry, followed by excursions to the mystical island of Siquijor to visit the Old Enchanted Balete Tree and the stunning Cambugahay Falls.

Governor Jake Vincent Villa greets the Winter Escapade 2026 delegation, marking their arrival on the "Mystical Island." Pictured (L-R) are retired Ambassador Mary Jo Aragon, retired Ambassador Minerva Falcon, Philippine Honorary Consul to Winnipeg Ronaldo Opina, Consul General Emma R. Sarne, Ambassador Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga, Governor Villa, Consul General Kristine Leilani R. Salle, and Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin.  (Photo from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

Delegates are warmly welcomed by Albay provincial government officials and staff at the Bicol International Airport (Daraga Airport). (Photo from Facebook page of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office - Albay)

The final leg of the tour brought the delegation to the Bicol region, where they were greeted with a "Warm Albayanon Welcome" at the Marison Hotel hosted by Governor Noel E. Rosal. The reception, supported by the Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office (PTCAO) of Albay, was a vibrant display of hospitality and cultural dance performances that left the guests with "Albay in their hearts." During their stay, participants marveled at the Mayon Volcano, taking on ATV adventures to the lava wall and visiting the iconic Cagsawa Ruins and Daraga Church. Optional tours even allowed for unique experiences like whale shark interaction in Donsol or exploring the pink sands of Matnog.

Albay Governor Noel E. Rosal personally welcomes the Winter Escapade 2026 delegates during a vibrant reception at the Marison Hotel. His leadership and support were instrumental in showcasing the very best of Albay’s culture, warmth, and legendary hospitality to our Filipino-Canadian visitors. (Photo from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

Albay Governor Noel E. Rosales welcomes participants to a welcome dinner hosted by the Provincial Government. (Photo from Facebook page of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office - Albay)

Governor Noel E. Rosal greets the Winter Escapade 2026 delegation, sharing the best of Bicolano hospitality.  (Photo from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

Delegates enjoy a festive reception at the Marison Hotel, hosted by Governor Noel E. Rosal and the Albay Provincial Government. The evening featured vibrant cultural performances and heartfelt Bicolano hospitality, marking a joyful start to the group’s exploration of Albay and the majestic Mayon Volcano. (Photo from Facebook page of Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office - Albay)

@Albay Video Winter Escapade 2026.mp4
A vibrant display of Albayanon culture! Watch as local dancers welcome our Winter Escapade 2026 delegates with the energy and grace that Albay is known for. A truly heartfelt and rhythmic introduction to the province’s rich heritage.  (Video from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

Winter Escapade delegates take on the famous "Sili Ice Cream" challenge during lunch in Daraga. A true Bicolano classic, this unique treat perfectly blends creamy sweetness with a surprise kick of heat—a must-try experience for every visitor in the shadow of Mayon!  (Photo from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

The Winter Escapade 2026 delegation visits the historic Nuestra Señora de la Porteria (Daraga Church). Standing before its iconic white facade with a sweeping view of the majestic Mayon Volcano, our delegates marveled at the church's exquisite Baroque architecture—a true testament to the enduring faith and rich heritage of the Bicolano people.  (Photo from Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin)

Against the backdrop of the historic Cagsawa Ruins, the Winter Escapade 2026 delegation gathers for a landmark photo in Albay. Standing before the iconic 18th-century bell tower, the group—including the Heads of Post from across Canada—celebrates the enduring beauty and cultural resilience of the Bicol region.

View of the majestic Mayon Volcano from the Oriental Hotel where delegates were billeted during their stay in Legaspi City, Albay. (Photo from Consul General Emma Sarne)

Winter Escapade 2026 was not merely a vacation, but a transformative experience that bridged generations and built lasting memories. The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver invites all who seek to rediscover their roots or experience the unparalleled warmth of the Filipino people to join the next iteration of this extraordinary journey.

For more information and to register for Winter Escapade 2027, please visit www.winterescapadeph.com or contact the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver - vancouver.pcg@dfa.gov.ph

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