Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan (FCAV)
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Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza (VFE) 2025

July 18th, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza (VFE) 2025)

The Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza is a festive celebration that commemorates and honors Filipino Heritage Month, held on July 4-6 at Dufferin District Park, 1441 Clark Avenue West, Vaughan. Since its establishment in 2018, VFE has grown into a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, proudly showcasing this year’s theme: “Sining, Sayaw, at Saya!” (Art, Dance, and Joy).

This exciting three-day festival features spectacular concerts by local talents and special headline performances by Kyle Echarri and Joross Gamboa—Filipino actors, singer, and model—whose energy and voice captivated the audience.

Attendees of the event enjoyed dynamic cultural performances, traditional dances and music, and interactive booths highlighting Filipino heritage. For food lovers, a delicious selection of Filipino dishes like pancit, lechon, halo-halo, and bibingka offered a true taste of the Philippines.

With traditional family-friendly activities, and cultural exhibits, VFE fosters community spirit and multicultural appreciation. It is a celebration that brings people of all backgrounds together in joy, unity, and learning.

We extend heartfelt thanks to our dignitaries incl: Hon. Kerwin Tate, Deputy Consul Gen. of the Philippines, TO; Hon. Steven Del Duca, Mayor of Vaughan and Members of Council (Deputy Mayor Linda Jackson, RC Gino Rosati, RC Mario Racco, Councillors Chris Ainsworth and Gila Martow); Melissa Lantsman, MP for Thornhill & Deputy Leader of the Conservative of Canada; Ms. Salma Zahid, MP for Scarborough Centre – Don Valley East, Toronto; Anna Roberts, MP for King-Vaughan & Shadow Minister for Seniors & for Status of Women; Michael Guglielmin, MP for Vaughan-Woodbridge; Hon. Michael Tibollo, MPP for Vaughan-Woodbridge and Associate Atty. General of Ontario; Laura Smith, MPP for Thornhill and Parliamentary Asst., Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing. As well, we thank the organizers, parade participants, emcees, and technical teams for their dedication, support, and commitment. Your efforts continue to make Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza a resounding success.

Thank you for celebrating with us!

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/16YpuQhmyi/

Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza 2025!

June 27th, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza 2025!)
The official posters for Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza 2025!
This is for July 4-6, 2025, 3 DAYS NA ANG FIESTA!
Everyone is welcome — we hope to see you there!

Celebrating the 127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence

June 13th, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Celebrating the 127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence)

 

On June 8, the Filipino Canadian Association (FCAV) and the Philippine Heritage Band (PHB)
jointly celebrated the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence. The celebration
commenced with a solemn flag-raising ceremony by the Filipino Canadian Association of
Vaughan, Merly Raposas and Attila Magyar. It was followed by outstanding Stand-Up
Performance of PHB, heartfelt greetings, program and vibrant cultural entertainment by the
Christian Family Global Church and BIBAAK that showcased the rich heritage of the Philippines.
It was then followed by the magnificent choir performance by The Young Voices of St. Paschal
Baylon Church, instructor Leonina Magtibay; followed by a beautiful Folk Dance called
“Alitaptap” by the Scarborough Ontario Seniors Association coached by Carol Banez, SOSA
president. The festivities were brightened by the delightful Filipino dishes, adding delight to the
occasion. Erlinda, FCAV president delivered opening remarks. The event was graced by the
esteemed presence and greetings of Hon. Kerwin Tate, Deputy Consul General of the
Philippines, Toronto; Hon. Steven Del Duca, Mayor of Vaughan; Anna Roberts, Member of
Parliament, King-Vaughan and Shadow Minister for Seniors and Laura Smith, Member of
Provincial Parliament for Thornhill and Parliamentary Assistant to the Municipal Affairs and
Housing. As well, event was attended by Melissa Lantsman, Member of Parliament for Thornhill
and Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada; Michael Guglielmin, Member of
Parliament for Vaughan-Woodbridge and Members of Council: Deputy Mayor Linda Jackson, RC
Mario Ferri, RC Gino Rosati, RC Mario Racco, Ward 1 Councillor Marilyn Iafrate, Ward 4
Councillor Chris Ainsworth,and Ward 5 Councillor Gila Martow, Several associations attended,
namely, Scarborough Federation of Filipino Canadian, president Mrs. Monina Serrano Lim;
Mabuhay Lions Club, pres Bong Angeles; Association of Filipino Accountants (AFCA), Sonny
Martinez; The Young Voices of St. Paschal Baylon Church, Leonila Magtibay Instructor;
Scarborough Ontario Seniors Association, president, Carol Banez; Jesus Is Lord Church, Maple-
Vaughan; BIBAAK, pres, Johnson Aben; Garnet W. Williams Seniors Club, Millie Lam; FCAV
Zumba, Christian Family Global Church, pastor Marilyn Baguilod, FCAV officers and members,
PHB officers and members and others.

The closing remarks was provided by Lynne Sanders, Vice- President, PHB. We extend our
deepest gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of this
memorable event. Special thanks to the incredible Masters of Ceremonies, Nestor Von Canton,
MCBN Media Group/ PINOY Radio Inc. and Keesh Marcial who skillfully guide the program, and
to the Planning Committee and Event Volunteers of FCAV and PHB, and all volunteers and
donors whose joint efforts and dedication were instrumental in organizing this celebration.
Maraming salamat po!

 

127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence Video:

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1CG6xNSdSY/

We thank Councillor Chris Ainsworth for providing the video.

127th Philippine Independence Day

May 23rd, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on 127th Philippine Independence Day)

Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza (VFE) 2025

April 4th, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza (VFE) 2025)
Vaughan, are you ready?
Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza is bringing you the ultimate celebration of Filipino culture in York Region!
Enjoy non-stop entertainment, delicious Filipino cuisine, and a festival experience like no other!
As part of the Fiesta Extravaganza summer festival series, we’re uniting communities from coast to coast, celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of the Filipino-Canadian community. Let’s bring the heart of the Philippines to Vaughan!
JULY 4-6, 2025
Dufferin District Park – 1441 Clark Ave. W, Vaughan, ON
Save the date, tag your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable fiesta!

Filipino Canadian Association of Vaughan – Spring Dinner Dance Party

March 14th, 2025 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Filipino Canadian Association of Vaughan – Spring Dinner Dance Party)

✨ FCAV Spring Dinner Dance Party!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and community spirit at the Spring Dinner Dance on May 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Patricia Kemp Community Centre (7894 Dufferin St., Vaughan). 

This fundraising event supports the Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan (FCAV) in its mission to restore and relocate the Twin City Marker in Baguio City, Philippines—a symbol of friendship between Vaughan and Baguio, once a tourist attraction since 2016 but now in need of uplift.

For more information, contact:
Claribel – 416-970-7965 | Email: clar_antonio@yahoo.ca
Jonalyn – 647-800-6284 | Email: colomajonalyn@yahoo.com
Mina – 647-880-1858 | Email: mina.benesa@yahoo.ca

#SpringDinnerDance2025 #FCAVFundraiser #BaguioVaughanTwinning #DanceForACause #CommunityStrong

75 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and the Philippines

December 6th, 2024 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on 75 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and the Philippines)

Lighting Ceremony at Vaughan City Hall: A vibrant celebration of 75 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and the Philippines, held on December 2, 2024. Attended by the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto, members of the Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan, City of Vaughan officials, and the Toronto Police Force, the event highlighted unity, friendship, and cultural heritage shared between the two nations. https://www.facebook.com/share/18FXwTe9w7/

 

Celebrating 75 Years of Bilateral Relations Between Philippines and Canada

November 29th, 2024 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Celebrating 75 Years of Bilateral Relations Between Philippines and Canada)
WITNESS AND CAPTURE LIGHTING CEREMONIES TO COMMEMORATE THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF PHILIPPINES-CANADA BILATERAL RELATIONS
In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Canada, the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto invites the Filipino Community in Ontario and Manitoba to witness the lighting of key monuments and establishments in Brampton on 1 December, in Mississauga and Vaughan on 2 December, and in Winnipeg on 4 December.
Capture the lighting ceremonies and tag us on Facebook #PHinCanada and #PHinToronto.
Bilateral relations between the Philippines and Canada were established in December 1949 when Canada established a trade mission in Manila. This year in December marks the 75th anniversary of the bilateral relations between the two countries.
The 75th anniversary, with the theme, “Building Bridges, Celebrating Connections”, encapsulates the dynamic and forward-looking diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Philippines and Canada are again embarking on new pathways for collaboration such as in defense, agriculture and food security, energy, development cooperation, cybersecurity, among others. At the same time, the two countries continue to celebrate milestones and enjoy robust people to people relations.

Order of Vaughan

November 22nd, 2024 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Order of Vaughan)
The City of Vaughan has awarded its highest civic honor, the Order of Vaughan, to eight outstanding individuals for their extraordinary contributions to the community.
The investiture ceremony, presided over by Mayor Steven Del Duca, took place on November 13 at 7 p.m. at Vaughan City Hall.
Among the honorees is Erlinda Insigne, recognized for her significant contributions to the Not-For-Profit sector. As a founding director and long-time president of the Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan, Erlinda has been instrumental in fostering cultural exchange, promoting education, and enhancing community wellness. Her efforts include establishing the Friendship Agreement between the City of Vaughan and Baguio City, which has furthered cross-cultural understanding and partnership.
Erlinda is deeply honored to receive the Order of Vaughan. She sees this recognition as a reflection of the unwavering support she has received from her family, community, colleagues, and the officers and members of the Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan all of whom share her dedication to strengthening connections and uplifting the community.
She extends her gratitude to MPP Laura Smith for the nomination, as well as to the Mayor, Members of Council, and the Order of Vaughan Selection Committee for their support.

Celebrating 27th Years of Friendship and Collaboration: Twinning Anniversary

November 15th, 2024 | Posted by fcav in News Updates - (Comments Off on Celebrating 27th Years of Friendship and Collaboration: Twinning Anniversary)

 

Celebrating 27 Years of Friendship and Collaboration: Twinning Anniversary Between Vaughan, Canada and Baguio, Philippines

The Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan (FCAV) proudly marked the 27th anniversary of the twinning agreement between the City of Vaughan, Ontario, and Baguio City, Philippines, an occasion that celebrates the longstanding friendship, cultural exchange, and shared growth between our two vibrant communities.

Since its inception in 1997, this twinning relationship has been a beacon of collaboration, bringing together residents of both cities through cultural, social, educational, and economic opportunities. From student exchanges and economic development missions to the celebration of Filipino Day and the Filipino heritage in Vaughan, this unique partnership has fostered countless memorable exchanges and life-changing experiences. It is a testament to the enduring bond between Canada and the Philippines.

This year’s celebration was graced by the presence of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, along with other distinguished guests and delegates from the Philippines, who were warmly welcomed by Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca and his team. Their participation underscores the significance of this milestone and highlights the shared commitment of both cities to further strengthen this partnership.

In his congratulatory message, Mayor Del Duca expressed his gratitude to FCAV and its President, Erlinda Insigne, for their unwavering dedication and community service. “The Filipino-Canadian Association of Vaughan has been instrumental in realizing the full benefits of this twinning agreement, including multiple official visits, exchanges, and partnerships with Baguio City,” said Mayor Del Duca. “Vaughan is greatly enriched by their invaluable contributions.”

Throughout the years, FCAV has spearheaded numerous initiatives to promote and celebrate this twinning partnership. Highlights include the annual Filipino Day in Vaughan, the establishment of the Twin City Monument in Baguio and the Sister City sign in Vaughan, the creation of the Philippine Canadian Friendship Parkette, and the Vaughan Fiesta Extravaganza. These efforts have fostered a greater appreciation for Filipino culture in Vaughan and strengthened the ties between our two cities.

One of the most recent milestones includes the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in February 2023 between the University of Baguio and Niagara University in Ontario, aiming to facilitate faculty and educational exchanges. This is one of many initiatives that illustrate the potential of this twinning agreement to open new doors for academic and professional growth on both sides.

In May 2023, Vaughan embarked on an Economic and Cultural Development Mission to Baguio City, further reinforcing this partnership and positioning Baguio as a gateway to the ASEAN region. This mission exemplifies the cities’ shared vision for fostering economic and cultural opportunities that benefit both communities.

As we celebrate this monumental anniversary, FCAV extends its heartfelt thanks to Mayor Del Duca, Vaughan’s Council, Members of Parliament, Members of Provincial Parliament, and the Philippine Consulate General of Toronto for their unwavering support. This journey would not have been possible without the dedication of FCAV’s officers, advisors, and members, whose hard work continues to ensure the success of this partnership.

The 27th anniversary of Vaughan-Baguio twinning is not just a celebration of the past; it is a commitment to the future. It serves as a model for other municipalities and a symbol of unity and shared values. With gratitude and optimism, we look forward to many more years of cooperation, growth, and friendship between Vaughan and Baguio. Mabuhay!