At the Waterfront Park in North Vancouver, British Columbia, with a picturesque view of the Vancouver skyline, a throng of people in the thousands, young and old alike, trekked here to participate in the Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 12, 2011.  Recognition of two countries, the Philippines and Canada through the singing of both countries' national anthems, was the protocol in the programme honoring the commemoration of the 113th Philippine independence Day declared in 1898.  Energetic drum beats heralded the Ati-Atihan Group delegation.  The Sinulog Festival performers, garbed in colorful attire, danced gracefully to a native tune.  As expected, there were a good number of Filipino food booths swamped by long lines of eager customers. Halo-halo, pansit, lumpia and all sorts of Filipino dishes and goodies were offered to and enjoyed by attendees.

Canada, which is home to a large number of Filipino immigrants and Canadian citizens with Filipino heritage, recognizes the contributions of this ethnic heritage group and the richness of the tapestry of multicultural diversity in this country.  This was apparent in the show of support and attendance by the provincial and local officials at this event.