Join Filipinos in celebrating nation’s independence

Get a taste of Filipino culture through food, music, performances and activities at Mabuhay!, a celebration to commemorate the Philippines’ Independence Day, Saturday in Centennial Square.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Victoria Filipino Canadian Association, as well as the 120th anniversary of the country’s independence from Spain.

The Filipino community decided to combine their annual Philippine Food Fiesta to create their biggest event to date to celebrate this milestone.

Mabuhay, which means “welcome” in Tagalog (the national language of the Philippines), is a day-long family-friendly event with entertainment, food, games and cultural exhibits.

Entertainment includes the award-winning Sampaguita dance group, which will perform traditional folk dances, singers, a fashion show and games.

Filipino food, including glutenfree options, will be available for purchase. Bite into chicken adobo (a traditional dish made up of pieces of chicken marinated with spices, such as vinegar, soy sauce and lots of garlic), barbecue pork, lumpia (spring rolls), ginataang gulay (a vegetarian dish with squash, green beans and okra simmered in coconut milk), pancit (noodles) and rice dishes.

Visitors can join in free activities throughout the day, starting with Zumba at 10 a.m.

The event is hosted by the Victoria Filipino Canadian Association and the Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society. The nonprofit organizations help new immigrants with housing and help each other adjust to Canada.

The event is free. It runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information, go to bayanihan.ca.