PH Consulate in Vancouver Visits Filipino Community in Terrace and Kitimat, British Columbia

The members of the Filipino-Canadian Association in Terrace perform Singkil.  (Photo by Shemae Sabo) 

18 October 2023 – A team from the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, headed by Consul General Arlene T. Magno, visited the Filipino Community in Terrace and Kitimat, British Columbia.

On 08 October 2023, the Filipino-Canadian Association in Terrace proudly marked its 35th anniversary with a vibrant and festive celebration that brought together officials, community members, and hundreds of Filipinos residing in Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert and other neighboring towns.  The event, held at the Kitsumkalum Community Hall, was a testament to the rich cultural heritage and the strong sense of community that the association has fostered over the years.

The anniversary celebration kicked off with messages from Association Chairman Ojay Matias, community representatives and government officials who shared inspiring anecdotes about the association’s journey and its significant contributions to the multicultural fabric of Terrace.

In her remarks, Consul General Magno praised the Filipino community for being a beacon of unity, support, and camaraderie, and thanked the government of Terrace for extending a warm and welcoming hand to Filipinos. She also invited guests to participate in the 2024 Winter Escapade which will be held on February 18-27 in Manila, Iloilo, Cebu and Bohol.

(Left photo) Consul General Arlene T. Magno delivers her remarks before the members of the Filipino Community. (Right photo) L-R: MP Taylor Bachrach, MWO-Vancouver Assistant Labor Attaché Olive Macawili, Philippine Consul General Arlene T. Magno, Terrace Mayor Sean Bujtas, Consul Analyn Ratonel and Kitimat Councillor Edwin Empinado. (Photos by Shemae Sabo) 

The highlight of the event was a cultural showcase that featured traditional Filipino dances and performances. The aroma of Filipino cuisine filled the air, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a Filipino fiesta.

On 09 October 2023, the Consulate team visited Rio Tinto BC Works in Kitimat, which employs Filipino workforce.  During the visit, they were given an insightful tour of Rio Tinto’s facilities, providing them with a firsthand understanding of the company’s operations, safety protocols, and the vital role played by Filipino employees in Rio Tinto's success.

Rio Tinto BC Works comprises a newly modernized aluminium smelter and a hydropower facility supplied by the Nechako reservoir. From Canada’s west coast, the company transports products by ship and rail, primarily to customers in Japan, South Korea and the United States. END

(Left photo) L-R: Assistant Labor Attaché Olive Macawili, Rio Tinto Business Partner Devrie Sanghera, Consul General Arlene T. Magno, and Consul Analyn Ratonel after the briefing on Rio Tinto BC Works. (Photo by Councillor Edwin Empinado)

Rio Tinto Business Partner Devrie Sanghera shares with the Consulate Team the company’s operations and safety protocols. (Photo by Councillor Edwin Empinado)