Noemi Victorino brings federal experience and community service to Surrey council race

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 12, 2026

Photo Courtesy: City of Surrey

For Noemi Victorino, public service extends beyond government offices and into the communities where families face everyday challenges, from food insecurity to access to essential services.

The Filipino-Canadian community leader is seeking a seat on Surrey City Council in British Columbia’s October 17, 2026, municipal election, running under the Surrey Connect slate led by Mayor Brenda Locke.

Victorino brings 25 years of experience in federal public service, having worked as a senior trade compliance officer with the Canada Border Services Agency. Her work involved federal administration, enforcement and trade compliance before she shifted her focus to community-based initiatives.

She later founded Harvest for Hope Society of BC, a nonprofit organization that recovers surplus food and distributes it to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. The organization reports rescuing approximately 3,000 pounds of surplus food each week, equivalent to around 2,000 meals, for communities including Surrey, Burnaby, Port Coquitlam and New Westminster.

Through the initiative, Victorino has focused on connecting people with food assistance and other support services, including employment opportunities, housing resources and mental health programs.

Her community involvement also includes serving on Surrey’s Social Equity, Livability and Public Safety Committee, where she contributes to discussions affecting residents’ well-being and the city’s development.

Victorino’s campaign comes as Surrey continues to address issues surrounding population growth, public amenities, housing and community services. As a council candidate, she is emphasizing more efficient local government, support for businesses, improved public facilities and policies that promote social equity.

Running with Surrey Connect, she joins a slate seeking to continue its work under Locke’s leadership. The municipal election will determine the city’s next mayor, eight councillors and six school trustees.

For Victorino, the campaign marks another step in a career that has moved from federal enforcement and administration to nonprofit leadership and local civic involvement. Her candidacy brings that combination of government experience and community service into the contest for a place at Surrey City Hall.