Celebrating 25 Years of Community, Culture, and Bayanihan

The Philippine Bayanihan Community Centre in Victoria proudly celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a meaningful gathering that brought together community members, supporters, volunteers, cultural organizations, and local leaders.

The celebration reflected the strong spirit of bayanihan that continues to guide and strengthen the Filipino community on Vancouver Island through service, volunteerism, friendship, and cultural connection.

As we marked this important milestone, we honoured the vision, dedication, and hard work of the pioneers, former leaders, volunteers, and organizations whose efforts helped transform a shared dream into a lasting community home for Filipino Canadians in Victoria.

The Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society continues to support programs and activities that bring people together through culture, heritage, education, and community service. Over the past 25 years, the centre has become a welcoming gathering place for families, seniors, youth, newcomers, and community partners.

We also recognize the continued support and contribution of the Victoria Filipino Canadian Association, the Victoria Filipino Canadian Caregivers Association, and the Victoria Filipino Canadian Seniors Association (VFCSA), whose commitment helped shape the strong foundation of the community centre.

The anniversary celebration welcomed many distinguished guests, government representatives, community supporters, and local leaders who joined in recognizing the contributions of the Filipino Canadian community in Victoria and across British Columbia.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Philippine Consul General Dr. Gina Jamoralin, Member of Parliament Jeff Kibble, MLA Diana Gibson, Mayor Marianne Alto, Mayor Dean Murdock, members of local councils, representatives from the Victoria Police Department, and all community partners who honoured the celebration with their presence and support.

Throughout the event, the spirit of bayanihan was reflected in every performance, gathering, conversation, and shared moment — reminding us of the importance of unity, cultural pride, volunteer service, and community connection.

As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead with hope and excitement for the future. Our community continues to dream of a larger and more inclusive community space that will serve future generations and strengthen connections across cultures and communities.

To everyone who has supported the Philippine Bayanihan Community Centre over the years — volunteers, donors, sponsors, performers, leaders, families, and friends — thank you for being part of this journey.

The spirit of Bayanihan continues to guide us forward.