Kalamansi Chats Panel Inspires Filipino-Canadians to Rise Above Crab Mentality

By CC Verzosa

VANCOUVER, B.C. 25 April 2025 — Community, culture, and celebration took center stage as Kalamansi Chats made its dynamic return.

Held at Slo Coffee, baristas welcomed guests with Taho Matcha Lattes. Kulinarya Filipino Eatery presented a Pinoy-style grazing table —  a fitting prelude to the evening’s rich exchange. The main event, in partnership with Myx Global, was a panel discussion, moderated by award-winning journalist Arvin Joaquin of OMNI News Filipino. The theme was rising above “Crab Mentality,” the mindset of pulling others down to get ahead, like crabs in a bucket, clawing at each other to escape. Each panelist shared personal stories and offered insights on overcoming crab mentality.

Delicious Taho Matcha Latte and Iced Coffee were just a few of the specialty crafted drinks by Slo Cafe where the event was held. (Photo by Georgia Esporlas)

Panelists, organizers and attendees of the event huddle for a group photo. (Photo by Georgia Esporlas)

“It is a trauma response that one can’t just turn off,” Alia Chan, RCC, founder of Mango Mental Health explained. “A good first step is choosing to believe others want the best for us,” she recommended. “When we begin to feel safe, we are able to embrace teamwork.”

MasterChef Canada Season 3 finalist Matthew Astorga flipped the script: “Crab mentality comes from a scarcity mindset. With an abundance mindset, that bucket doesn’t even exist!”

Kayla Sanchez, two-time Olympic medal winning swimmer, shared how she personally rises above crab mentality: “I think of my family– why I swim, and what I swim for.”

“You can choose to inherit the fear, or choose to build your own story,” said Rachel Dancel, content creator of immigration-focused information and inspiration.

NBA Raptors Championship reporter Charzie Abendanio added a glimmer of hope: “Younger generations are growing away from crab mentality. It’s changing! Find that community!”

After the discussion, a Q&A portion commenced, followed by a game of trivia, battling for coveted Kalamansi Collective merchandise. The fun culminated in a “bato-bato-pik” decider for the final prize. Guests were then ushered into Pwrforward’s ‘Meryenda Mixer’ to connect and engage while enjoying more refreshments.

Lee’s Donuts offered a fresh assortment of fan favourites. Owner Celine Bacani expressed her pride in sponsoring the event, describing how the smaller setting provides a safe space for Filipinos to exchange ideas: “It’s not intimidating because it’s just us!” Founder Kris Pangilinan echoed the sentiment, saying he created Kalamansi Chats for meaningful dialogue within the Filipino-Canadian community. It continues to grow as a platform to uplift Filipinos, celebrate culture, and make a difference.

Filipino Forward: Kalamansi Chats founder Kris Pangilinan and Lee’s Donuts Céline Bacani (Photo by Georgia Esporlas)

The Author CC Verzosa, Céline Gabriel of PCI’s Fil-Can in Focus and Céline Bacani of Lee’s Donuts. (Photo by Georgia Esporlas)

For more highlights and updates, follow Kalamansi Chats on social media.