By: Chair Mann
The municipal elections are in full swing in the Province of Alberta with a large number of Filipino Canadians running for council seats. Filipino-Canadian candidates are rising in prominence, seeking to serve in their respective wards in the cities and municipalities in the province. At the same time, Filipino community leaders are lending a hand in the various campaigns, supporting candidates they believe can best promote the interests of the Filipino Canadian community in Alberta.
EDMONTON COUNCILOR RACE
A good number of Filipino-Canadians are running for City Council seats in the various wards in the City of Edmonton. The Filipino Canadian candidates are as follows: Mr. Manny Bautista running for Ward Karhiio, Ms. Giselle General for Ward Sipiwiyiniwak, Mr. Nicky Gocuan and Ms. Rajia Magay for Ward Nakota Isga, and Ms. Annie Chua-Frith for Ward Sspomitapi
Pinoy Candidates in Edmonton: Manny Bautista, Giselle General, Nicky Gocuan .
It is the first time in the long history of our community’s engagement in the socio-civic and political life of Edmonton that a large number of Filipino Canadians has come out to seek election in the city. This is a testament to the growing political maturity of the Filipino Canadian community, their proficiency in local governance, and their desire to serve for the greater good. To win, our beloved candidates need all the support and the votes not only from their kababayan but also from other community members.
PINOY ENGAGEMENT IN RED DEER & CALGARY
The City of Red Deer is home to some 9,000 Filipino Canadians and is the number one visible ethnic minority in the city. Our community is very much loved by the officials who rely on our excellent administrative, managerial, and people-to-people skills to run the city. The FilCans’ significant contribution to the Red Deer economy can be seen in its food industry, healthcare, education, hospitality services, and various trades. The presence of many FilCom organizations lend much vibrance to the socio-civic and cultural mosaic of Red Deer.
While we may not have any kababayan running in the upcoming municipal elections in Red Deer, our community is supportive of candidates who embody trust, responsibility, hard work, and dedication to the interests of the wider community; values that are embodied by every Filipino. Outgoing councillor Lawrence Lee, who is running for Mayor of Red Deer, is supported by many Filipino Canadians in the city.
Red Deer FilCom Leaders Lhen Mercado, Alexis
Tolentino, Mayor Candidate Lawrence Lee, & C. Mann
The City of Calgary boasts some 84,000 of Filipino descent. The incumbent Mayor Jyoti Gondek is a close friend of the Filipino Canadian community in Calgary, has been very supportive, and pays close attention to our community’s interests.
Filipinos in Calgary show support for Mayor Jyoti: Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Sanchez and Mr. & Mrs. Ferdi Zantua
She was the first Mayor in Canada to extend her heartfelt sympathies over the tragedy of the Lapu-Lapu incident in Vancouver, BC. She personally led the vigil and prayer rally at the steps of Calgary City Hall, becoming one with us in our time of grief and sorrow. Her closeness to our community makes her a true representation of Filipino Canadian interests in this great city. Pinoys are working hard for her re-election this October.
Through the Bayanihan Spirit, here’s hoping that the Filipino Canadian dream of a successful political engagement in Alberta will become a reality.