Dozens rejoiced in an evening full of culture and cuisine at the Annual Filipino Night Dinner and Dance on Oct. 12 in Prince Rupert.
More than 200 people attended the occasion which lasted until late with a lively dance party. The gathering included notable politicians such as former MLA Jennifer Rice, Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach, Rupert city councillor Teri Forster, and the BC Conservative candidate for North Coast-Haida Gwaii in the recently-held provincial election Chris Sankey.
Founded in 1973 by Filipino immigrants, the Filipino Canadian Association in Prince Rupert aims to promote culture and foster engagement in civic activity. For decades, the club has hosted popular fundraising events that have become community traditions.
These include selling their renowned shish-kebob at Seafest and the Annual Filipino Night Dinner and Dance, a highlight of Prince Rupert’s social calendar featuring traditional Filipino dances and cuisine.
“I have been a member and mostly an officer since 1977 when I first arrived in Prince Rupert from the Philippines to marry my late husband Randy, who was one of the founding fathers in 1973,” said Fidez Melegrito, the association’s treasurer.
Like many non-profits, they faced challenges in terms of continuity. Very few original members remain, and to ensure that the association continues to thrive, they need the younger generation to be enthusiastic about getting involved.
Open to members and guests, the association also organizes family-friendly activities such as potluck picnics, Halloween parties, and Christmas celebrations. One of the standout events is the Filcan Northern B.C. Community Summerfest, a three-day camping event in Terrace that attracts hundreds from across the region.
The association provides relief funds to the Philippines during natural disasters. It also contributes a portion of its yearly fundraising to support high school graduates with their post-secondary education through bursaries.
The annual dinner Oct. 12 featured a series of lively dance performances including the Kid’s Little Bird Dance (Ibong Pipit), Bongahan Dance, Mamang Sorbetero Dance, and the traditional Tinikling (Bamboo Dance).
The audience also sang along to popular hits performed by the FilCan PR Band Group. Several local businesses donated toward raffle prizes, including gift cards for food, hotel stays, cash, groceries, thrift shopping, and driving lessons.
“We are excited to continue sharing these meaningful moments with you, Mabuhay at Maraming salamat!" said the association's representative.
