Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society

The Bayanihan Community Centre continues programs for education support services for youth seniors new immigrants caregivers and skilled workers cultural heritage and arts programs pursuit of creative interests and recreational activities for the general public. There are now an estimated 8 000 residents of Greater Victoria of Filipino ancestry who can benefit culturally from the Centre’s programs. The centre continues to hire a part time staff to oversee safe use of the centre through the help of the Victoria Foundation grant. Renters have come back – small church services small restaurateurs martial arts and Latin dancers. The seniors meet once a month to socialize. Many international students with their families gather to hold informational sessions and socialize. Our own groups have likewise resumed folk dance and choral classes so much so that we were able to sponsor a two day Mabuhay celebration of Philippine culture on June 8 and 9 2024 to coincide with June as Heritage month across Canada at Centennial Square. The event was a success with over 3 000 attending to enjoy the food entertainment and over 50 booths. We were able to stage a Christmas choral concert 'Paghimugso' in the studio. We continue our focus on Cultural Art programs that provide insights into complexities of Filipino-Canadian identities Philippine history customs and traditions. Plays music and dance written and created by Filipino artists are planned on a long term basis for the benefit of the community. We officially launched the Bayanihan Creative Collective in June this year to mark the 23rd anniversary of the Bayanihan Community Centre. The Philippine Consulate was also able to hold a two-day consular outreach to renew passports and provide service to temporary workers. A summer youth camp which included history crafts and heritage classes was safely held and was well attended. Hybrid – zoom and personal attendance – meetings continue to be conducted. This