Volume 21 • No. 7 • April 1-15, 2025
Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Marian Rivera
New Philippine Pavilion to debut at Folklorama 2025
Credit: Marian’s IG
Logo designed by Rey-Ar Reyes
Calendar Girl, Marian Rivera Story on page B8
The Winnipeg Filipino community is set for an exciting summer in 2025 with the launch of a new cultural pavilion at Folklorama. Ten years after the Nayong Pilipino Philippine Pavilion of the Philippine Association of Manitoba (PAM) ceased its participation, the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM) is introducing The Mabuhay Philippine Pavilion. This addition will join the Pearl
of the Orient Philippine Pavilion of Magdaragat Philippines in celebrating Filipino heritage, cuisine, and traditions at the annual festival. According to pavilion coordinator Lou Fernandez, The Mabuhay Philippine Pavilion will showcase the talents of four Filipino-Canadian organizations known for their outstanding performing arts groups. These
groups will undergo auditions and choreography to create at least three distinct performance suites. Fernandez explained that the performances will be developed in a semi-theatrical format, presented in a “postcard-style” manner. This approach will highlight not only personal journeys but also scenic sites, social practices, and the rich tapestry of the Philippines’ tangible See MABUHAY B5
Alex Eala makes history, brings pride to the Philippines
Sharon Cuneta’s stunning transformation Story on page B1
ALAMIN ANG INYONG KAPALARAN Basahin sa pahina B8
Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra “Alex” Eala continues to make waves on the global stage, etching her name in history with a stunning performance at the Miami Open. The 19-year-old rising star delivered one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by defeating Australian Open champion and world No. 10 Madison Keys on March 24, marking a milestone for Philippine tennis. With Eala’s victory over Keys, she became the first woman from the Philippines to defeat a top-10 opponent since the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) introduced its ranking system 50 years ago. Her remarkable performance showcased her resilience, skill, and determination, solidifying her position as a formidable player in the world of professional tennis. As if destiny were on her side, Eala’s journey took another dramatic turn in Miami when her fourth-round opponent, Spain’s Paula Badosa, withdrew from the competition due to a lower back injury. This development See ALEX A5
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Alex Eala makes history. Photo from the Tennis Channel
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