Mabuhay House Society Commends Provincial Government on the Release of “What We Heard” Report on Filipino Cultural Centre in British Columbia
Photo by: Khim Mata Hipol
Mabuhay House Society Commends Provincial Government on the Release of “What We Heard” Report on Filipino Cultural Centre in British Columbia
Vancouver, BC – Mabuhay House Society, in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, proudly announces the release of the “What We Heard” report, summarizing the results of the province-wide public engagement efforts for the development of a Filipino Cultural Centre. This landmark initiative marks a historic step forward in recognizing the vibrant and growing Filipino Canadian community in British Columbia.
The report captures the voices of over 1,200 Filipino Canadians and allies from across the province and reflects the community’s aspirations for a space that honours their roots, contributions, and future in BC. The key themes from the engagement include:
Bayanihan or Community Spirit – A resounding desire for a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible cultural space that fosters community connection and collaboration.
Recognition and Representation – A clear call for a centre that physically symbolizes Filipino heritage, and formally acknowledges the many contributions of the Filipino community to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of British Columbia.
Learning and Sharing – A strong emphasis on education and cultural exchange, creating opportunities for both Filipinos and non-Filipinos to learn, celebrate, and share in the richness of Filipino culture.
Statement from Lester de Guzman, Chair of Mabuhay House Society
“This report represents more than data—it reflects our dreams, our pride, and our shared identity as Filipino Canadians. We commend the Government of British Columbia for its commitment to listening to our voices and making space for our stories. This milestone is not just about a building, but about feeling like we belong in the province and Canada we call home."
I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to our past and present board members, dedicated volunteers, and every member of our community who took the time to promote and complete the provincial survey, and who attended the roundtable sessions.
On behalf of Mabuhay House Society, we thank Premier David Eby for his leadership, and we especially recognize the tremendous efforts of former Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sports Ministers, MLA Lana Popham and MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert, who have supported this project from its earliest days through to the publication of this report. We look forward to working with Minister Anne Kang as we move into the next exciting phase of this journey.”
Mabuhay House Society remains committed to the vision of a Filipino Cultural Centre that will serve generations to come—uniting our stories, strengthening our culture, and celebrating our Filipino Canadian identity with all British Columbians.
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About Mabuhay House Society
Established in 2021, Mabuhay House Society is a registered non-profit society working closely with the provincial government to develop a provincial Filipino cultural centre that will be an inclusive, intercultural, and intergenerational space that Filipino Canadians can call home, where everyone is welcome. Mabuhay House Society is paving the way for the Filipino connection and community to thrive in BC. Visit our website at mabuhayhouse.ca.
For more info:
Lester de Guzman
Chair, Mabuhay House Society
chair@mabuhayhouse.ca
778-960-5988