MFFC celebrates Philippine Independence Day, kicks off summer programme
By Victoria A. Torres
Despite the clouds and cool temperatures, the Markham Civic Centre was warm with colours and an overwhelming sense of Philippine national pride as the Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians (MFFC) celebrated Philippine Independence Day on Sunday, June 4, 2017. The singing of O Canada by the Youth Performing Arts Group (YPAG) and Lupang Hinirang by the Seniors’ Choir was accompanied by the raising of the flags. Though Mayor Frank Scarpitti was unavailable due to an appointment in Ottawa, speeches from officials such as Member of Parliament Michael Chan, Markham Councilor Alex Chiu, and many others graced the crowd.
Following the flag-raising ceremony and speeches, the celebration moved to the MFFC Centre at 1151 Denison Street in Markham for an afternoon of food and music. The Youth Performing Arts Group and the Seniors’ Choir were among the performers for the afternoon, along with many other group and individual songs and dances, ranging from traditional Filipino songs to current Top 40 hits.