PR-66- 2025

H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria, together with her spouse, Mr. Carlito Austria, was joined by Minister Rechie Valdez, as Guest of Honor, and members of the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (CPIPFG), led by Senator Gigi Osler, in a toast to celebrate the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Filipino Heritage Month in Canada.

16 June 2025, Ottawa – This year’s celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence under the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” (Freedom. Future. History.), ties the hard-won freedoms of the past to the nation’s aspirations for the future, while reaffirming the present generation’s commitment to preserving and honoring that legacy.

From a flag raising and unfurling ceremony to a diplomatic reception hosted by the Embassy of the Philippines, in collaboration with the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (CPIPFG), the Filipinos’ celebration of cherished freedoms, the excitement for the future, and the lessons of history dominated the mood on Parliament Hill, Canada’s seat of democracy.

The diplomatic reception was hosted by the Embassy, led by Ambassador Maria Andrelita S. Austria, in collaboration with the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (CPIPFG), led by Senator Gigi Osler on June 12, 2025. The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Youth, and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism, and first Canadian woman of Filipino descent to join Canada’s House of Commons, graced the event as the Guest of Honour.

Delivering their remarks: Senator Gigi Osler (left photo); H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (right photo).

Over 250 distinguished guests, including federal government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, Filipino community leaders, and key partners from various sectors, gathered at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building to celebrate this significant occasion.

Senator Gigi Osler, co-host and Treasurer of the CPIPFG, welcomed attendees. Other CPIPFG members present included Senator Yonah Martin, MP Salma Zahid, MP Michael Kram, MP Xavier Barsalou-Duval, MP Leah Gazan, and MP Kevin Lamoureux, all delivered their messages for the occasion.

H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria delivers her remarks.

In her remarks, Ambassador Austria shared that, as the Filipino community in Canada commemorates the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence and Filipino Heritage Month, the recent Lapu-Lapu Block Party tragedy in Vancouver serves as a poignant reminder of the shared sorrow and the unity between Filipinos and Canadians. Lapu-Lapu notably reminds us of the Philippines’ history of resistance, bravery and battles fought for independence. 

Ambassador Austria proudly highlighted the resilience, progress, and bright future of the Philippines, emphasizing the country’s promising economic growth projections, fueled by ongoing reforms, infrastructure development, and a robust labor market. She also acknowledged the significant contributions of Filipinos worldwide, particularly the over one million in Canada, who play vital roles across various sectors and strengthen the bonds between nations.

H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria (second from left), together with her spouse, Mr. Carlito Austria (leftmost), was joined by Minister Rechie Valdez (third from left), and members of the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (CPIPFG), led by Senator Gigi Osler (middle), MP Kevin Lamoureux (third from right), MP Salma Zahid (second from right), and MP Xavier Barsalou-Duval, in a pose.

Minister Valdez, in her response, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as Canada's first Filipina Cabinet Minister and emphasized the importance of community and inclusivity. She noted the government's efforts to build the strongest economy in the G7, support diverse communities, and ensure opportunities reach everyone. Minister Valdez also acknowledged the tragic loss of lives at the Lapu-lapu Festival in Vancouver, standing in solidarity with the community in grief and strength.

H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria and members of the members of the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group (CPIPFG)

The evening featured cultural performances, including a rendition of the Philippine National Anthem, "Lupang Hinirang," played on the angklung by Markus Gauthier of the Philippine Dance Troupe of Ottawa (PDTO). Ryan Mendoza delivered a rendition of the Canadian National Anthem, and the PDTO showcased traditional Filipino folk dances such as maglalatik, tag-araw, sakuting, subli, binasuan, and tinikling.

This year’s celebrations at the Hill showed that the presence of the Filipino diaspora in Canada undoubtedly connects the Philippines’ and Canada’s kalayaan, kinabukasan at kasaysayan. END.

Top left photo: Ryan Mendoza sang the Canada national anthem, “O Canada”; top right: Markus Gauthier played the Philippine National Anthem on angklung; bottom left: PDTO members performed Subli; bottom right: PDTO members performed  Tinikling.

Officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy in Canada, led by H.E. Maria Andrelita S. Austria, and their families.

📷Courtesy of Wil Photography