12 June 2026 – In celebration of the 128th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence, the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary and the Government of Alberta held a Flag-raising Ceremony at the historic McDougall Centre in downtown Calgary.
The raising of the Philippine flag at one of Alberta’s principal government facilities underscored the province’s longstanding recognition of the Filipino community, whose contributions to Alberta’s economic, cultural, and civic life were formally acknowledged through the proclamation of June as Philippine Heritage Month in the province in 2018.
Despite the inclement weather, members of the Filipino community, government officials, and guests gathered to mark the occasion. The ceremony proceeded with the singing of the Philippine and Canadian national anthems by Ms. Sofia Illaina Madeline Vista, accompanied by two Filipino-Canadian members of the Alberta Sheriffs Branch.
Among those in attendance were Speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly Hon. Ric McIver, Associate Minister Muhammad Yaseen, MLA Kathleen Ganley, Member of Parliament Blake Richards, and Member of Parliament Greg McLean. The Premier of Alberta, the Hon. Danielle Smith, also graced the occasion, taking time to meet members of the Filipino community and other attendees.
More than one hundred guests from across Alberta participated in the ceremony, reflecting the vibrant presence of the Filipino community throughout the province.
In her remarks, Consul General Emma Sarne expressed appreciation to the Government of Alberta for its continued support of multiculturalism and inclusion, and thanked the Filipino community in Alberta and Saskatchewan for serving as bridges of friendship and understanding between the Philippines and Canada.
“As we commemorate the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence, we also celebrate the contributions of Filipino-Canadians who continue to enrich the social, cultural, and economic life of the province of Alberta. Through their hard work, service, and community leadership, they strengthen the enduring friendship between our two countries,” Consul General Sarne said. She also added, “Let us also celebrate not only the freedom won for us by our forebearers, but also the responsibility we share to preserve these freedoms, opportunities, and values that independence made possible.”
As the Filipino diaspora continues to thrive, celebrations such as this ensure that the legacy of heroes who valiantly fought for Philippine independence remains cherished and passed on to future generations.
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered for fellowships and refreshments provided by Jollibee. END
