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4 December 2023, Ottawa – In keeping Filipino Christmas traditions alive, the Philippine Embassy in Canada and Philippine Centre Canada (PCC), in partnership with the National Arts Centre (NAC), organized the “Paskong Pinoy sa Ottawa” on 2 December 2023 at the NAC’s Peter A. Herrndorf Place.
Paskong Pinoy sa Ottawa gathered hundreds of Filipino-Canadians and Canadians in Ottawa and nearby areas to enjoy the festive holiday market. The venue was adorned with Filipino Christmas lanterns made by the Filipino-Canadian couple Ed and Nejie Escares. Photo booth props of the iconic symbols Dyipni and Sari-Sari store made by Filipino-owned Simply Classy and Sassy events planning, were also featured in the event. Forty local Filipino-Canadian business and artisans participated in the event selling items which vary from packed food items to toys and jewelries, Christmas handicrafts, holiday goodies and gifts, and other services. The hall was filled with laughter and excitement as it formally opened.
Ambassador Maria Andrelita Austria warmly welcomed everyone, and noted that Filipino Christmas is renowned for its unique blend of joy and community spirit. PCC Chairperson Lota Bertulfo also addressed and welcomed the audience.
The Embassy provided a storytelling corner at the event, which featured Filipino children’s books, some were distributed to guests who visited the booth. Some children at the event gathered to listen as Ambassador Austria read the story of Araw sa Palengke, one of Adarna House award-winning children’s books. A video of OPCD’s Samu’t Saring Hiraya was also continuously played at the booth.
The Escares couple provided a parol-making workshop to enthusiasts. The Assumption Parish choir serenaded the audience with some of the popular Filipino Christmas songs and went around singing Christmas carols. A Filipino Christmas playlist was also played as background music during the event.
The celebration was further highlighted by the raffle draws with prizes such as parol, and gift cards, and an auction of a golden capiz plate.
Paskong Pinoy sa Ottawa is the first collaboration of the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and Philippine Centre Canada (PCC) with National Arts Centre (NAC).END