Mr. Speaker, last Saturday I participated in a flag-raising ceremony at the Philippine culture centre in Winnipeg. It signalled the beginning of a week-long celebration of Filipino heritage and pride.
It was on June 12, 1898, in Cavite, where the Filipino people witnessed the public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The national flag was also unveiled, along with the singing of the new Filipino national anthem.
Yesterday our Canada-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group hosted a special event to mark the importance of June 12. I especially enjoyed seeing the young children dressed in their heritage attire.
The Philippines is a beautiful country, a place where I have been on many occasions. My desire is to see an expanded relationship between Philippines and Canada.
I would challenge this chamber, as MPs representing all areas of Canada, to not only recognize the many achievements and contributions that the Filipino community has made to our great nation but to also encourage members to consider the potential if we were to build upon that relationship.
On behalf of the leader of my party and my caucus, I stand to acknowledge 116 years of Philippine independence, and say to my kabayans and friends, let us celebrate our diversity and treasure our heritage.