Mabuhay House Society Updates Filipino Community Leaders for Provincial Community Cultural Centre in preparation for June Filipino Heritage Month

Capital Projects Timeline-Government Supported Investment 101 (Supplied Photo)

Vancouver, B.C.- The Filipino community is poised for a transformative cultural endeavor as Mabuhay House Society rallies community leaders in support of its mission, vision and plan to establish a Filipino Community Cultural Centre in BC. On May 8, 2024, the Mabuhay House Society shared updates with community leaders on the current multi-year “Capital Project Timeline” based on the general guideline provided by Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture and the next steps to create an inclusive and vibrant hub that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Filipino Canadians. 

At the heart of the Mabuhay House Society lies a vision of fostering unity, celebrating diversity, and preserving heritage within the Filipino community. Guided by the principles of inclusivity (Lahat Kasama), unity (Bayanihan), and community service (Serbisyo sa Komunidad), Mabuhay House Society is committed to creating a space where individuals of all backgrounds and generations can come together to learn, share, and connect through cultural exchange and educational programming. 

Mabuhay House Society’s close working relationship with the BC Ministry of Tourism Arts Culture and Sport signifies a pivotal milestone in the realization of its vision. The generous grant of $250,000 provided in 2023 for capacity building underscores the province’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote cultural diversity and community engagement. To which the final report has been delivered to the Minister in which she says she “was happy with the work that was done. Now the engagement comes back to the government, and we will be launching a website through the government.” 

Capacity building is the process of developing skills to overcome obstacles and techniques for sustainability. It gives the non profit society the ability to deliver its mission and goals effectively now and in the future.

It is a mandatory requirement of the Provincial government/s capital funding.. Through this funding and close relationship with TACS, the organization has been able to establish foundations in the community that will catapult the development of the Filipino Community Cultural Centre, especially with the recent announcement of federal support to becoming a funding partner. We are looking forward to the launch of a provincial survey that will provide the community an opportunity to provide their direct feedback.

Mabuhay House Society is solidifying its multi-year strategic plan that outlines a comprehensive roadmap from engagement to construction, ensuring the sustainable growth and success of the Filipino Community Cultural Centre and the underlying Filipino Communities and Organizations. Beginning with extensive community engagement initiatives to gather input and feedback, the strategic plan encompasses the development of a robust business plan that aligns with the community’s needs and aspirations, and supported by the provincial and federal government funding programs. With a clear focus on transparency, accountability, and collaboration, the Mabuhay House Society is dedicated to realizing the Filipino Community Cultural Centre as a beacon of cultural pride and heritage that will last beyond generations. 

“Mabuhay House Society, along with its board members, is poised and ready to undertake this intentional and lengthy process to develop the Filipino Community Cultural Centre. It is important we take the time to engage with our community and take into account their needs and requirements, from space, programming, and services, to truly celebrate the diverse history and background of Filipinos,” said Sammie Jo Rumbaua, Chair of Mabuhay House Society. “We have to work together as one community with all levels of government moving forward in order to have a Filipino Community Cultural Centre that represents our pride and strength as Filipino Canadians.” 

In light of these developments, Mabuhay House Society extends its heartfelt gratitude to the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sports, Canadian Government as well as the Filipino community leaders and stakeholders who have demonstrated unwavering support and commitment to this transformative project. 

About Mabuhay House Society 

Established in 2021, the Mabuhay House Society is a registered non-profit society working closely with the provincial government to develop a provincial Filipino Community Cultural Centre that will be an inclusive, intercultural, and intergenerational space that Filipino Canadians can call home. Mabuhay House Society is paving the future where the Filipino connection and community thrive in BC. Visit our website at mabuhayhouse.ca.