This year celebrates the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and the Philippines, which began in 1949. To honour this long-standing partnership, events across Canadian provinces are engaging Filipino communities in year-round commemorations.

On October 17, 2024, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, and Winnipeg North MP, Kevin Lamoureux, recognized local Filipino community members for their contributions to Manitoba’s growth. During the event, held at the newly opened Mars Sisig Restaurant in Winnipeg, Minister Miller and MP Lamoureux presented Certificates of Recognition and commemorative coins to honour the enduring friendship between the two countries.

Minister Miller addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude for the positive impact of the Filipino community on Canada’s progress and underscoring the significance of 75 years of Canada – Philippines diplomatic relations.

According to the 2021 census, nearly one million people of Philippine origin now call Canada home, with many more visiting for family, education, or new opportunities. Similarly, Canadians travel to the Philippines each year for tourism, work, and family connections, further strengthening people-to-people ties between the two nations.