Volume 21 • No. 10 • May 16-31, 2025
Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Honouring trailblazing Filipino Women
Credit: Ahtisa’s IG
Ahtisa Manalo
Calendar Girl, Ahtisa Manalo Miss Universe Philippines 2025 Story on page B8
L-r: Teresita Chiarella, Dr. Mira Villegas, Ethel Fernandez, Michele Majul-Ibarra and Perla Javate The Pinays Manitoba Trailblazers Recognition Awards took place on May 10, 2025, at the Viscount Gort Hotel. Now in its ninth year, this annual celebration, organized by Pinays Manitoba Inc., continues to highlight the organization’s commitment to recognizing and honouring Filipino women who exemplify leadership,
inspiration, and service to the community. The well-attended event drew nearly 300 guests, all gathered to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Filipino women in Manitoba. “Tonight, we celebrate five incredible awardees – three Pinays Trailblazers, one Outstanding
Young Pinay, and the first-ever recipient of our Legacy Award,” said Winnie Navarro, president of Pinays Manitoba. “This is a proud moment for our community. At Pinays Manitoba, we believe that empowered women uplift and inspire others. If we can spark change in just one woman’s life, See PINAYS B4
PM Carney appoints Rechie Valdez to Cabinet Vilma Santos-Recto and Ryan Christian Recto Story on page B1
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Filipino Canadians have reason to celebrate once again. On May 13, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney introduced his new Cabinet, and among the 28 ministers and 10 secretaries of state is Rechie Valdez. She was named Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism. Valdez is the only Filipino Canadian in Carney’s Cabinet. This is another milestone in a fast-rising political career. Just this past March, Valdez was appointed Chief Government Whip in the Prime Minister’s transition Cabinet. She previously served as Minister of Small Business under former PM Justin Trudeau. Valdez made history in 2021 when she was elected Member of Parliament for MississaugaStreetsville, becoming the first Filipino Canadian woman elected to the House of Commons. She is also the second Filipino Canadian See RECHIE A6
Minister Rechie Valdez
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