Volume 21 • No. 11 • June 1-15, 2025
Publication Mailing Account #41721512
CJ Opiaza
Proudly Filipino Proudly Canadian
Credit: CJ’s IG
Celebrating Filipino Heritage Month in Canada
Calendar Girl, CJ Opiaza Miss Grand International 2024 Story on page B8
Each June, Canada observes Filipino Heritage Month – a time to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, and invaluable contributions of Filipino Canadians to the fabric of this country. For us in Winnipeg, home to one of the largest Filipino communities in Canada, this month carries even
deeper meaning. It is not only a celebration of identity but also a reminder of our collective journey, resilience, and pride. This year, as we raise our flags and share our stories, we also mark June 12 – Philippine Independence Day. It is a powerful convergence of history and heritage: a moment
to remember the bravery of our ancestors who fought for freedom, and to honour the modern-day pioneers who brought our culture across oceans to thrive in a new land. Here in Winnipeg, from the North End to St. James, from downtown to Maples and beyond, we see the See FILIPINO A7
The Man in the Hat Remembering Freddie Aguilar and the song that spoke for a generation By Emmie Joaquin, Editor-inChief, Pilipino Express
Julia Barretto and Gerald Anderson Story on page B1
ALAMIN ANG INYONG KAPALARAN Basahin sa pahina B8
Scan the QR code to visit us at www.pilipino-express.com
Long before Anak became one of the most recognizable Filipino songs in the world, Freddie Aguilar walked into our MetroPop office in 1977 as a complete unknown. He had come from Olongapo, where he played gigs in bars, guitar slung over his shoulder and wearing a quirky sequined silver hat – something between a wizard’s and a rock star’s. That hat, and his unmistakable presence, would later become part of his trademark look for years. At the time, I was just two years out of university – still a very young adult – when my KBP bosses, Tony See FREDDIE B2
Nelson Lantin
General Sales Manager
204-453-5453
Freddie Aguilar’s voice may be gone, but his songs will forever sing for us. Photo credit: Jim Paredes’ IG
First-in-North-America Yamaha Premium Audio System* Seven (7) Seater*
10 years with us on the warranty*
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Robert Misa Sales Manager
204-453-5453