Rechie Valdez makes history
as first Filipina-Canadian cabinet minister

Mississauga-Streetsville MP Rechie Valdez made history yet again as she was sworn-in as the first Filipina-Canadian cabinet minister in Ottawa on Wednesday, July 26.

She was among seven rookie parliamentarians appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and will hold the Small Business portfolio.

Valdez first made history when she was elected to the federal seat in September 2021 to become the first ever Filipina-Canadian to hold that post.

Inside Rideau Hall in Ottawa, a visibly emotional Valdez recited her oath with passionate conviction. 

   Valdez, 43, is married to Christopher Valdez and has two children. She is an entrepreneur and considered to be a champion for local businesses.

	Honourable Minister Rechie with MP Kevin Lamoureux, MP - Winnipeg North

Former MP Dr. Rey Pagtakhan was the first Filipino Canadian to be elected as a Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North-St. Paul in 1988 and served in that position until 2004.

“MP, now honourable Minister, Rechie Valdez has always impressed me as a serious, sincere, energetic and hardworking Member of Canada’s Parliament,” said Pagtakhan. “Her appointment as Canada’s Minister for Small Business is a clear indication of the Prime Minister’s trust in her capabilities and business background. In addition, her appointment reflects the importance Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attaches to … the vital role Canadian Filipinos can continue to play in the affairs of our nation – a further validation that our Canadian Filipino community has come of age. She will do well, added Pagtakhan.”

MP Kevin Lamoureux for Winnipeg also had good words for Valdez’ appointment to the federal government.

“I have known Rechie for close to two years now, I have found her to be a quick learner and a hard worker, which will allow her to do well as a Minister. What inspires me about her is how, in a very humble way, you sense a very strong pride that she has in being a woman of Filipino Heritage, which compliments and adds so much value to the entire Liberal Party caucus.”

– Lucille Nolasco Garrido