07 June 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in Calgary joined members of the Filipino-Canadian community in Calgary in commemorating the 128th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence through a co-sponsored Catholic Mass held at the Sacred Heart Parish Church.
The mass, celebrated by the Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Parish, Fr. Rowel Jose “Arjay” Abanto, marked the beginning of Post’s Philippine Independence Day activities for 2026. Under the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History), Consul General Emma Sarne mentioned “ang kalayaan ay hindi lamang tungkol sa ating mga karapatan; ito rin ay tungkol sa ating pananagutan sa isa’t-isa”. She took this opportunity to also encourage all eligible Filipinos to register at the ongoing Overseas Voter Registration, stressing that their votes will help shape the future of our nation.
The celebration served as a moment of reflection on the sacrifices and achievements of those who fought for Philippine Independence and as a reminder of the responsibility to preserve the nation’s democratic values. It also highlighted the importance of educating younger generations about the sacrifices made by previous generations to secure the freedom they enjoy today. END
Photos courtesy of Mr. Rodel Lozano
