PH Consulate General in Vancouver Joins 2025 British Columbia Philippine Experience Festival in Burnaby

Consul Analyn Ratonel leads the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the opening ceremony of the 2025 British Columbia Philippine Experience Festival at Central Park, Burnaby.  (Photo by Vancouver PCG)

BURNABY, BC. 16 July 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, represented by Consul Analyn Ratonel, joined the Filipino-Canadian community in celebrating the 2025 British Columbia Philippine Experience Festival held on 13 July 2025 at Central Park, Burnaby.

Organized by the Philippine Days Festival Society, led by Mr. Rey Calinisan, the two-day event was a celebration of Filipino culture, food, and community under the theme, “Together, We Are Strong!”

Consul Ratonel, who delivered the remarks on behalf of the Consulate, emphasized the importance of unity and shared identity among Filipinos in British Columbia, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the community.

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, including the Consulate’s Vancouver Emergency Response Mapping Registry, or VERMAP.  Consul Ratonel also commended the Philippine Days Festival Society for organizing this year’s Philippine Experience Festival.

The Philippine Experience Festival featured cultural performances, live music, traditional and modern Filipino cuisine, and activities for families and children, bringing together people from all walks of life in a vibrant display of Filipino identity and unity.  END

(Top photo) Consul Analyn Ratonel with Mr. Rey Calinisan of the Philippine Days Festival Society and officials from Burnaby led by Acting Mayor Daniel Tetrault and Councillor Maita Santiago during the opening ceremony. (Photo below) Consul Ratonel and Cultural Officer Remedios Domingo visit the various booths at the festival grounds, including a stop at the Dimasalang Artist Group booth showcasing the works of Filipino-Canadian visual artists. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)