17 JUNE 2025, VANCOUVER.Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin joined the Seniors Intercultural Society of British Columbia (SISBC) as they celebrated the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence held at St. Patrick School’s Gymnasium last 14 June 2025. Also in attendance were Deputy Speaker MLA Mable Elmore, City of Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, City of Vancouver Councillor Lisa Dominato, and City of New Westminster Councillor Daniel Fontaine.
In her remarks, Consul General Jamoralin expressed her appreciation to SISBC for organizing the PH Independence Day celebration. She also took this opportunity to talk about the Consulate’s work and services, particularly those that are relevant to Filipino citizens in the Consulate’s jurisdiction. For instance, senior citizens can come to the Consulate between 12NN - 1PM without an appointment for consular services that they require.
The Consul General also explained that Republic Act No. 11982, also known as the Expanded Centenarians Act of 2024, entitles Filipino senior citizens who reach the milestone ages of 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 years old to cash gifts from the PH government. Consul General Jamoralin also encouraged those in attendance to connect with the Consulate’s Social Security System (SSS) representative and inquire how they may continue to contribute as members and eventually reap the benefits in the future.
City of Vancouver mayor Ken Sim also presented the city’s proclamation of the month of June as Filipino Heritage month.
Vancouver, BC hosts the largest number of persons with Filipino heritage in the Philippine Consulate General’s jurisdiction, with more than 140,000 living in the city. END
