AN EVENING OF HOPE, DIALOGUE, AND COMMUNITY: FILIPINO VOICES HEARD AT A MEANINGFUL MEET-AND-GREET

Bringing Leaders and Community Together

On the evening of August 4, 2026, approximately forty members of the Filipino community gathered at Our Table, 77 Charter Avenue, Suite 100, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, for an inspiring Meet and Greet organized by the Filipino Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Inc. (FILAN) in partnership with the offices of The Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, and The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism).

Photo credit: Ritche Perez. A group photo with Minister Joanne Thompson (Front Row, 4th from the right) and Minister Rechie Valdez (Front Row, 5th from the right) with the Filipino-Canadians in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the gathering was far more than a political engagement. It became an evening of genuine dialogue, with community members speaking candidly with federal leaders about the realities of immigrant life, the aspirations of Filipino-Canadian families, and the challenges they continue to face. More importantly, it demonstrated that effective leadership begins not with speeches but with listening.

The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of Romel and Rochelle Maligaya, who worked closely with the ministers’ offices on behalf of FILAN. Their commitment brought together government leaders and members of the Filipino community in an atmosphere of openness, respect, and friendship.

The Spirit of Filipino Hospitality

From the moment guests arrived, they experienced the warmth for which Filipinos are renowned.

Tea and coffee were served alongside a delightful assortment of homemade finger foods, generously prepared by members of the community. Guests enjoyed the refreshments, creating a table that reflected the richness of Filipino culture and the joy of gathering around a shared meal.

The refreshments signified something far deeper than hospitality. Around the table, conversations flowed naturally, friendships were strengthened, and strangers quickly became acquaintances. Before the formal program even began, the evening had already fulfilled one of its most important purposes—bringing people together in fellowship.

Celebrating Community Leadership

The gathering was further enriched by the presence of distinguished members of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Filipino-Canadian community.

Among those in attendance were George and Hazel Ouano-Alpuerto, with Hazel having served as the Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Newfoundland and Labrador; James Rosario, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Veritas Canada Immigration Services Inc. (VCIS); Phyllis Kinsman, Senior Manager of Annual Giving and Marketing at the Janeway Foundation; Dr. Eric Elli; Don Alivio; Sol and Robert Vardy; Angellette Del Carmen of Gian’s Kitchen; and many respected professionals, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and community advocates.

Their presence reflected the remarkable growth of the Filipino community—not only in numbers but also in leadership, professional excellence, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and civic engagement. Today, Filipinos are an indispensable part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s social, cultural, and economic life.

Hearing the Realities of Filipino Newcomers

Following the opening remarks, Minister Rechie Valdez invited everyone to join an open forum, encouraging them to ask questions and share their experiences.

I was given the opportunity to speak first.

A photo with Minister Joanne Thompson at the Meet-and-Greet Event for the Filipino-Canadian gathering.

Drawing on years of priestly ministry and pastoral accompaniment of Filipino immigrants, I shared many of the realities newcomers face after choosing Canada as their new home.

Canada continues to offer tremendous opportunities, yet many immigrant families face significant financial pressures. Rising housing costs, grocery prices, transportation expenses, and the overall cost of living have made it difficult for many families to make ends meet. Many Filipinos employed in minimum-wage jobs work two or even three jobs simply to support their families.

Yet their responsibilities rarely end in Canada.

Many continue to send financial support home to care for aging parents, assist siblings, and fund the education of children and relatives in the Philippines. These sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they reveal the remarkable generosity, resilience, and unwavering commitment that continue to define the Filipino people.

I expressed my admiration for these hardworking Filipinos, whose perseverance strengthens not only their families but also the communities they now call home.

Government Support for Canadian Families

Minister Rechie Valdez responded with empathy and understanding.

She acknowledged that the financial difficulties faced by Filipino families reflect broader global economic challenges. International conflicts, including those in the Middle East and Ukraine, have contributed to rising costs for food, fuel, and other essentials, affecting households across Canada.

To help Canadians cope with these pressures, she explained that after the federal consumer carbon tax and its associated rebates were eliminated, the Government of Canada introduced new affordability measures to provide direct financial relief.

Among these initiatives is the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which is expected to support more than twelve million low- and modest-income Canadians starting in the spring of 2026. She also highlighted enhancements to the Canada Child Benefit and middle-class tax reductions to ease the burden on working families.

Speaking in her role as Minister responsible for Women and Gender Equality, Minister Valdez reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to creating equitable opportunities for women, promoting safer, more inclusive workplaces, and expanding support for women facing mental health challenges and other barriers to equality.

Her response reminded participants that while governments cannot eliminate every financial challenge overnight, meaningful public policy can help ease the burden on families working hard to build better lives.

Addressing Canada’s Health-Care Challenges

Health care quickly emerged as one of the evening’s most important topics.

Several participants voiced concern about the ongoing shortage of family physicians, leaving many residents without access to regular primary care. Others shared their frustration with waiting eight to twelve hours in emergency departments before receiving treatment—an experience that has become increasingly common for families across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Minister Valdez acknowledged these concerns and emphasized that although health care falls under provincial jurisdiction, the federal government continues to invest significant funding to strengthen Canada’s health-care system and improve access to services. She and Minister Joanne Thompson encouraged community members to continue raising these concerns, both individually and collectively through FILAN, so they can be brought forward to provincial leadership.

Minister Valdez also shared encouraging developments on Canada’s growing demand for health-care professionals.

She explained that discussions are underway at the federal level, including in the House of Commons, to explore ways to reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers for internationally educated nurses and physicians while maintaining professional standards and patient safety.

Recognizing the outstanding reputation of Filipino health-care professionals around the world, she encouraged qualified Filipino nurses and physicians to prepare for future opportunities as Canada continues to address workforce shortages in the health-care sector.

For many in attendance, these remarks offered hope—not only for improved access to health care but also for greater recognition of the expertise that internationally trained Filipino professionals contribute to Canada.

Strengthening Canada–Philippines Relations

Beyond domestic concerns, Minister Valdez also spoke about the strengthening relationship between Canada and the Philippines.

She shared encouraging updates on negotiations for a Canada–Philippines Free Trade Agreement, highlighting the Philippines’ growing leadership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). She expressed optimism that stronger cooperation in trade, tourism, immigration, education, clean energy, and other strategic sectors would create new opportunities for both countries and deepen their long-standing friendship.

Her remarks reminded participants that immigration is about more than relocating to another country. It is about building lasting bridges among nations through culture, commerce, education, and mutual respect.

Recognizing the Contributions of Filipino-Canadians

Minister Joanne Thompson warmly welcomed everyone and expressed sincere appreciation for the opportunity to meet members of the Filipino-Canadian community in person.

She acknowledged that Filipino-Canadians have become an integral part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s social and economic fabric.

Whether as health-care professionals, educators, caregivers, entrepreneurs, hospitality workers, skilled tradespeople, food service employees, or volunteers, Filipinos continue to make invaluable contributions throughout the province.

She praised their resilience, dedication, and strong work ethic—qualities that continue to help Newfoundland and Labrador address both its economic and demographic challenges.

Her remarks affirmed what many in the room already knew: the Filipino community is not only growing in size but also becoming an increasingly vital force in building stronger, healthier, and more vibrant communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

As the formal presentations concluded, the evening naturally shifted to an engaging exchange between community members and the ministers. Participants welcomed the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and explore practical ways government programs and community partnerships could continue to support Filipino families and organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Questions from the Community

The open forum gave participants a valuable opportunity to engage directly with Ministers Joanne Thompson and Rechie Valdez, asking questions that reflected both the aspirations and practical concerns of Filipino newcomers and community organizations.

Among those who spoke was James Rosario, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Veritas Canada Immigration Services Inc. (VCIS). He thanked Minister Thompson for expanding the 2026 Recreational Cod Fishery, particularly the seven-day recreational fishery schedule introduced in several regions of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Drawing on his work as an immigration consultant, James emphasized that successful settlement extends well beyond obtaining permanent residence. He shared that one of his top priorities is helping newcomers understand the importance of financial literacy, especially in building and maintaining a strong credit history. Good credit, he explained, opens doors to home ownership, vehicle financing, and other opportunities that help immigrant families establish long-term financial stability in Canada.

Another thoughtful question came from Michael Mercado, Vice President and Membership Lead for the Filipino Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Inc. (FILAN), who asked which provincial and federal grant programs are available to support non-profit organizations such as FILAN.

Minister Rechie Valdez outlined several federal initiatives available to registered charities and non-profit organizations, including the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program, which provides wage subsidies to organizations that employ youth aged 15 to 30 during the summer months.

Minister Joanne Thompson added that organizations across Atlantic Canada may also benefit from the Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The program supports community infrastructure, organizational development, and strategic projects that stimulate economic growth and strengthen local communities.

Minister Valdez also highlighted government-backed entrepreneurship initiatives that support aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly young Canadians aged 17 to 39. These programs connect participants with experienced business mentors for up to two years, offering practical guidance on business planning, financing, and sustainable enterprise development.

Minister Thompson also highlighted Youth Ventures Newfoundland and Labrador, which provides mentorship, training, business resources, and startup support for young entrepreneurs, typically up to age twenty-nine. Both ministers encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs in the Filipino community to contact their offices to learn more about available programs and to receive assistance in accessing these opportunities.

The discussion encouraged FILAN and other community organizations to continue exploring partnerships and funding opportunities to expand services for Filipino newcomers and families across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Community First: A Shared Vision

One of the evening’s defining moments occurred during conversations with Ministers Rechie Valdez and Joanne Thompson.

Although the discussion covered public policy, affordability, health care, immigration, and entrepreneurship, both ministers consistently returned to a central message:

Community first.

They emphasized that meaningful change begins when people are willing to advocate for one another, mentor the next generation, and actively engage wherever they can make a positive difference. Leadership, they reminded participants, is measured not only by public office or professional titles but also by a willingness to serve, listen, and empower others.

Minister Valdez spoke passionately about the importance of advocacy in diverse communities. Reflecting on her journey as a Filipino immigrant who arrived in Canada at nine, she encouraged participants to use their voices to uplift others and to inspire young people to become future leaders.

She emphasized that connecting with someone who understands our Filipino heritage is deeply meaningful. These shared experiences strengthen our resolve to mentor young people, build their confidence, and ensure the Filipino community in Newfoundland and Labrador continues to have a strong, respected, and recognized voice.

Minister Joanne Thompson echoed these sentiments, encouraging everyone to stay engaged in initiatives that strengthen neighbourhoods and foster collaboration. She reminded participants that governments are most effective when they listen carefully to the people they serve and work alongside communities to address real needs.

Together, their message inspired everyone present to recognize that stronger communities are built on partnership, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the common good.

An Encounter Beyond Politics

One of the most memorable moments of the evening came from a deeply personal exchange.

I had the privilege of presenting a signed copy of my memoir, Rising Again: A Journey of Faith, Formation, and Surrender, to Ministers Joanne Thompson and Rechie Valdez as a gesture of gratitude for their willingness to meet with the Filipino community and to listen to our stories.

Both ministers graciously accepted the book, thanked me for the gift, and expressed interest in reading it. They also hoped we would stay in touch.

During my conversation with Minister Valdez, she shared that one of her cousins is discerning a vocation to the priesthood. She humbly asked me to remember him in my prayers.

Presenting a signed copy of my memoir to Minister Rechie Valdez at the Filipino-Canadians Meet-and-Greet event.

As a small gesture of encouragement, I gave her a souvenir card featuring the cover of my memoir. Inside, I wrote a personal note assuring her cousin that I would pray for him and included my contact information should he ever wish to seek spiritual guidance or simply speak with a fellow priest about the journey of discernment.

For me, this simple exchange transformed the evening into something far more than a meeting with public officials. It became a pastoral encounter grounded in faith, encouragement, and hope.

The Ministry of Presence

Reflecting on the evening, I was reminded that God often opens unexpected doors to ministry.

Pastoral ministry does not end within church walls. It continues wherever people gather—in homes, workplaces, community centres, hospitals, and around shared tables.

Beyond conversations about public policy and community concerns, I found myself sharing not only my experiences as an immigrant but also my vocation as a Catholic priest. Listening to people’s stories, encouraging those carrying heavy burdens, celebrating their achievements, and simply being present reminded me that authentic ministry begins with genuine human encounter.

Pope Francis often spoke of the “ministry of presence,” a ministry rooted in listening before speaking, accompanying before advising, and loving before judging.

That evening became a living embodiment of that vision.

Sometimes the most powerful proclamation of the Gospel does not come from a pulpit but through attentive listening, compassionate presence, sincere conversation, and simple acts of kindness that convey Christ’s love in everyday life.

Building Bridges Through Dialogue

As the evening concluded with photographs and warm conversations, it was clear that something meaningful had taken place.

The gathering accomplished far more than introducing elected officials to members of the Filipino community. It strengthened relationships, promoted mutual understanding, and fostered a spirit of collaboration between government leaders and the people they serve.

Events like this remind us that democracy flourishes when leaders are willing to listen and when citizens are empowered to share their lived experiences with honesty, respect, and hope.

For the Filipino community, the evening affirmed that our voices matter, our contributions are recognized, and our stories continue to enrich Canada’s evolving narrative.

Hope That Unites Communities

As everyone departed, one message remained unmistakably clear: communities flourish when dialogue replaces division, service takes precedence over self-interest, and hope triumphs over discouragement.

The Meet and Greet was much more than an opportunity to meet two distinguished federal ministers. It celebrated the Filipino community's resilience, generosity, and enduring spirit—a reminder that immigrants do not merely build new lives in Canada; they help build Canada itself.

Minister Joanne Thompson’s recognition of the Filipino community’s invaluable contributions, together with Minister Rechie Valdez’s inspiring testimony as a Filipino immigrant who rose to national leadership, encouraged everyone present to continue serving their adopted homeland with dedication and generosity.

For me, the evening was another reminder that every encounter offers an opportunity to serve God by serving others. Whether discussing the challenges newcomers face, presenting my memoir as a token of gratitude, praying for a young man discerning the priesthood, or simply sharing conversation around a table, I was reminded that the Gospel is most convincingly proclaimed through presence, compassion, and authentic human relationships.

As Filipino-Canadians continue to enrich Newfoundland and Labrador through their faith, culture, professional excellence, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and unwavering commitment to family, they also help shape Canada’s future. Together with leaders who listen and communities committed to collaboration, we can continue to build a nation marked by justice, compassion, opportunity, and hope.

Indeed, the evening was more than a memorable event on the calendar. It was a living testament that when leaders and communities come together in humility, mutual respect, and a sincere desire to serve the common good, hope is renewed, friendships are strengthened, and a brighter future becomes possible for all.