Cultural and Preservation Project
(Left to right) Lisa Miniaci (Director of Conservation and Digitization), Jarred Clariannes (FHSM External Affairs Director), Kimberly Gultia (FHSM Project Manager, PRO), ,Mireille Laforce (Director of Legal Deposit and Acquisitions), Ricardo Ribaya (FHSM Assit. Treasurer) Philippine Ambassador Jose Victor V. Chan-Gonzaga, Antonio Fernandez Jr, Corazon Abdon (FNAQ President) Al Abdon (FHSM Chairman), Prof. Kazue Takamura and Prof. Erik Kuhonta.
Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec (BAnQ).Preserves History of Quebec’s Filipino Community Press
By Kimberly Gultia MONTREAL — The rich, multi generational history of Filipino Quebecers has officially secured a permanent home within the province's historical record. On May 1, 2026, a landmark collection of community newspapers was deposited at the Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec (BAnQ). The profound cultural weight of this preservation milestone was honored on June 19, 2026, during an official visit by the Philippine Ambassador to Canada, Jose Victor V. Chan-Gonzaga, who reviewed the archive and commended ongoing efforts to protect Filipino-Canadian history.The diplomatic event brought together key community leaders, scholars, and institution directors.
GAWAD NG PAGKILALA
Gawad ng Pagkilala (Awards of Recognition) were presented to ten outstanding Filipino-Canadians for their achievements in different endeavors, from the left: Dario Boco, Gerry Danzil, Reynaldo Balansi, Aireen Vargas and her two children, His Excellency, Phil. Ambassador Jose Victor V. Chan-Gonzaga, Al Abdon, Chairman of the Filipino Heritage Society of Montreal, Marilis & Reynaldo Padilla, Jovy Narvas, Jeannette Perrignon, Cora Baquiran and Juan Alejandro Robles. Photo taken on April 11, 2026 during the 8th anniversary of the (Photo by Z. F. Kharroubi)
The Gawad Ng Pagkilala 2026
Montreal, QC — April 11, 2026. The Côte‑des‑Neiges Community Centre came alive with cultural pride and heartfelt celebration as the Filipino community gathered for Gawad ng Pagkilala, an annual ceremony recognizing Filipinos in Quebec who have made exceptional contributions to community life, culture, and professional excellence.
The evening opened with a deeply symbolic tradition: an “Alay” performed by the ladies of the Filipino Heritage Society of Montreal (FHSM). In this graceful ceremonial offering, they bestowed a Guest of Honor Garland upon His Excellency Jose Victor V. Chan‑Gonzaga, Philippine Ambassador to Canada, Guest of Honors and Judges for the Gawad Selection Committee. The gesture set a dignified and culturally rich tone for the night’s festivities.
Ambassador Chan‑Gonzaga later presented each honoree with the Plaque of Recognition and the Medal of Honor, underscoring the significance of their achievements within the Filipino‑Canadian community.
2026 Award Recipients
Aireen Vargas – Community Leadership & Cultural Development Award
Alejandro Robles – Professionalism in Nursing
Corazon Baquiran – Cultural Arts and Music Service Award
Jeannette Perignon – Community Leadership
Josefina Faustino Narvas – Community Service and Compassion Award
Mariliz and Reynaldo Padilla – Humanitarian Service Award
Sir Dario Boco – Community Service and Heritage
Sir Gerry Danzil – Excellence in Senior Program and Sports
Sir Reynaldo Balansi – Community Service and Leadership
A memorable moment of the evening came when Sona Lakhoyan Olivier, Member of the National Assembly for Chomedey, presented a National Assembly Special Award to Mariliz and Reynaldo Padilla, who reside in her district. The surprise recognition drew warm applause and highlighted the couple’s longstanding humanitarian service.
A Night of Culture and Celebration
The program featured a stirring rendition of the Philippine national anthem by Cadet Xyril Sison of the 555 Air Cadet Squadron, followed by a rich lineup of cultural performances:
A powerful tenor performance by Mishael Eusebio
A vibrant folkdance presentation by Pamana ni Luzviminda
A musical serenade by the Panday Tinig Choral Ensemble
The dance floor was later opened with high energy by Moomshee, inviting guests to join in the celebration.
Guests also enjoyed a unique culinary experience catered by I & I International Cuisine, offering dishes that stepped beyond the ordinary and reflected the multicultural spirit of Montreal.
A Celebration of Heritage and Service
Gawad Ng Pagkilala 2024
From the left: Cesar Manuel - Community Service for Benevolence, Al Abdon - Chairman of FHSM, Thea Cruz-Community Service for Vocal Performances, Michelle Vargas Lao - Community Service in Public Events and Performances, , Ellie Israel - Commissioner of English School Board, Tenne-Rose Dayandante - Community Television, Anthony Housefather MP - Mont Royal, Michael Davantes - Community Television, Councillor Stephanie Valenzuela - Darlington District, Sameer Zuberri MP -Pierrefondsfonds-Dollard, 2nd row, Lilia Esguerra - Community Service on Education, Zenaida Kharroubi - Community Service in Journalism, Amelia Manon-og - representing Magdalena B. Calcetas for Professionalism in Nursing.
Gawad ng Pagkilala 2023
Natatanging Parangal (Exceptional Recognition) - Councillor Stephanie Valenzuela
Gawad ng Pagkilala Recipients:
· Alberto Abiera – Community Service
· Alvin Veloso – Community Leadership
· Angelita Ogerio – Community Service
· Fely Rosales Carino – Community Service
· Fred Magallanes – Community Service in Journalism
· Julita Parado – Community Service
· James Dela Paz – Community Leadership
· Rev. Orlan Racacho – Leadership & Service
· Pamana Ni Luzviminda – Cultural Heritage (Folkdance)
· Panday Tinig – Cultural Heritage thru Music
· Salvador Cabugao – Community Leadership
Community Leaders Forum (CLF)
CLF 1 - 24 January 2026 at the FAMAS Centre
CLF 2 - 14 March 2026 at PROMIS
The Heritage Hour
by
Amelia Manon-g
A moving collage of video highlights the individuals who have become shining examples of leadership, service, and cultural pride within the Filipino community. Each frame captures people of significance — community builders, artists, educators, and advocates whose contributions uplift our heritage and inspire the next generation.
This presentation is guided by the FHSM panel of administrators, whose reflections and insights honor these remarkable figures and celebrate the spirit of Filipino excellence in Montréal.
Mishael Eusebio is a second-generation Filipino Canadian. He is a proud member of the Atelier lyrique de l’Opéra de Montréal and an emerging talent on the operatic stage. Mishael is often described as a charismatic performer who brings warmth, positivity, and energetic presence to every project he undertakes. He recently received his master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, further refining his craft. While completing his bachelor’s degree at The Juilliard School in New York, Mishael led an outreach performance ensemble that connected with hospitals, community centers, and hospices throughout the city, bringing music to diverse and underserved audiences.
Carmina Franco is a second-generation Filipino Italian singer and educator currently pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Vocal Performance at McGill University's Schulich School of Music. She grew up between Montreal and Benevento, and with her diverse cultural background she has developed a deep conviction that we are united across time and space by our shared capacity to be moved by expression, regardless of its form or origin. She has served as a soloist and member of Panday Tinig Choral Ensemble, continuing to open and refine her voice to th Filipino kundimans
A second‑generation Filipino born and raised in Montreal. A social worker by profession, she volunteers each year with the Annual Christmas Basket drive organized by Willibroad Parish. She is also an active member of the Salinggawi Performing Arts Organization, participating in cultural performances and community events.
A Registered Nurse by vocation, creative artist, promoter for the Indigenous people in the Cordillera region, Jason Palolan is the FHSM's Person of Interest (POI) for the month of August.