Vancouver, BC 27 October 2025 – The Philippine Artists Network for Community Integrative Transformation (PANCIT) Art Collective, the cultural and artistic arm of Migrante BC celebrated its 13th Anniversary on 24 October 2025 at the Sunset Community Centre, with the opening of “Healing Colours Art Exhibit 2025”, an inspiring showcase that highlighted the power of art as a means of therapy, healing, recovery and remembrance. The exhibit brought together community leaders, artists and supporters in a moving tribute to the victims of the Lapu-lapu tragedy that claimed eleven (11) lives in April 2025. The opening night was graced by the delivery of messages of Consul General Gina Jamoralin and two members of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, MLA Sunita Dhir and MLA Mable Elmore and the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marked the opening of the exhibit.
A message was also conveyed to the audience by Mr. Noel Johansen, husband of one of the victims, Jen Darbellay, whose artwork is featured in the exhibit. He shared his reflections on love, loss and the healing power of artistic expression.
The exhibit was initiated and guided by Mr. Bert Monterona, an internationally recognized artist, educator and cultural worker, who encouraged the community artists to take part in a series of art therapy and trauma healing mural painting workshops. As part of the exhibition, a silent auction of some artworks was featured to benefit those affected by the tragedy and sustaining Migrante BC and PANCIT’s ongoing community healing and cultural programs. The exhibit will run at the Sunset Community Centre from 24 October to 7 November 2025. END
