Publisher's Note

Publisher’s Note
It was 22 years ago when I arrived in Canada and chose Calgary, Alberta to be my home. Leaving my family and friends behind, it was a new adventure for me to be in a new country without knowing anyone. That was the time I looked for a Filipino community paper and never found any, [...]
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Page added on February 25, 2011

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The Philippine-Calgarian 31st Anniversary and Valentine’s Day Celebration

by: Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

[email protected]

February 5th 2011 at 6:00 pm marked the the 31st year celebration of the social gathering of the close- knit, family oriented Philippine Calgarian Association (PCA), held at Sheraton Cavalier at Barlow and 32nd Avenue.

Jun and Beng Cruz, the evening masters of ceremony, active members and former PCA officers, said that the idea started in 1979 with handful of Filipino friends and neighbors.PCA held its first Valentine Dinner Dance in 1980 and since then, the said gathering generated tremendous fun and success.

The event was officially opened with the singing two nations national anthem the “Lupang Hinirang” followed by O Canada. Then Stephen “Roy” Dait, PCA President addressed the welcome remarks. A convocation followed prior to the partake of sumptuous “Roast Beef Dinner”. While During dinner a slide presentation is being played that featured previous years of the association doing all fun activities like fishing, camping and Christmas Party which entertains the guests and attendees.

The event was also graced by the presence of Manmeet Bhullar, MLA Calgary Monrose. All members and officials of the event had their share of group photos meet as well as meet and greet.

Part of the programs was their tradition of with a a touch of sweetness where 31 roses were offered as tokens by the gentlemen members of the group as appreciation to the 31 women who arrived early at the venue during the event. There were lots of prizes given away including 2 free “balik bayan padala ” ( parcel and freight boxes) . There was also 50/50 draw which added fun to the night. After dinner, the crowd gathered on the dance floor and officially started Valentine’s Day, through dancing the night away.

It was wonderful to know that the ever growing PCA is heading towards more years with a promise to pursue and fulfill their roles as community uniting Filipinos in Canada. Happy Anniversary PCA and more power!

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