OLDS – The Association of Filipino Canadians of Mountain View County (AFCMVC) held a celebration in Centennial Park June 8 to celebrate Philippines Independence Day.
That day is actually June 12, but organizers decided to hold it on June 8 because they figured the turnout would be better on a weekend, AFCMVC president Nimfa Donaco said during an interview with the Albertan.
“The Philippines were colonized by the Spaniards for over 300 years and also by the Americans and Japanese,” she said.
The theme for the event, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., was “preserving out Filipino culture and heritage to unite generations.”
The highlight was a talent showcase featuring local groups and individuals as well as some from as far away as Wetaskiwin.
Activities included performances by the St. Stephen’s Youth & Kids Choir; AFCMVC adult, youth and kids dance groups, the duo of Nimfa Donaco and Apolinario Veryara, the 10:30 band and Juan Pipti band, and the Wetaskiwin Dance Group.
“We were planning this for over three months now,” Donaco said.
Donaco said roughly 400 Filipinos live in Olds and area and almost all belong to the AFCMVC.
She said the organization is very active, participating in the Canada Day parade as well as holding its Independence Day and Christmas celebrations.
