Two Filipino-Canadians seek seats in Burnaby’s 2026 local elections

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 04, 2026

Photo courtesy: Burnaby Citizens Association

BURNABY, British Columbia — Two Filipino-Canadians have been named by the Burnaby Citizens Association (BCA) as candidates in Burnaby’s 2026 local elections this October.

Incumbent Burnaby City Councillor Maita Santiago is seeking re-election to City Council, while Filipino-Canadian community leader Stephen Andrada has been named by the BCA as a candidate for the Burnaby School Board.

Santiago, who was born in the Philippines, is a longtime Burnaby resident, community service provider and small business owner. Before joining City Council, she was involved in community organizing and advocacy and served as a citizen representative on Burnaby committees dealing with social issues and childcare.

She currently serves on several city committees covering areas including public safety, social planning and the environment.

Santiago is also set to formally kick off her campaign with a fundraiser and birthday celebration on September 15 at Personas at Grand Villa Casino in Burnaby. The event will run from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., according to her campaign announcement.

Meanwhile, Andrada is seeking a seat on the Burnaby School Board.

According to the BCA, Andrada has lived in Burnaby for 14 years and has worked with newcomers on settlement, employment integration and access to skills training. His children also attended and graduated from Burnaby public schools.

Andrada holds degrees in political science and economics from the University of the Philippines, as well as graduate degrees in management and public administration. He has also served as president of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in British Columbia.

Both Santiago and Andrada were among Filipino community figures who attended the August 8 opening of the constituency office of Burnaby South-Metrotown MLA Paul Choi. Philippine Consul General in Vancouver Gina Jamoralin also attended the event alongside elected officials, community leaders and residents.

Burnaby’s General Voting Day is October 17, 2026, with advance voting scheduled for October 3, 7 and 10.

Voters will elect one mayor, eight city councillors and seven school trustees who will serve four-year terms.

The nomination period for candidates runs from September 1 to September 11.

As of September 4, Santiago is listed on the City of Burnaby’s official candidate profile page. Andrada has been announced by the BCA as its school board candidate while the official nomination period remains ongoing.