Filipino Community and Cultural Foundations: Building Sustainable Leadership Through Inclusive Systems by Mabuhay House Society

Burnaby, BC – Mabuhay House Society (MHS) successfully hosted the recent Filipino Community Gathering at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, welcoming over 200 attendees, including Filipino community leaders, government officials, and visitors eager to learn about the society’s latest initiatives. The event highlighted key updates, including the Provincial Filipino Cultural Centre (PFCC) development, the introduction of new board members, and unveiling a five-year strategic plan to foster a sustainable and thriving Filipino community.

Recognizing Contributions & Government Support
The gathering was marked by an official letter from Premier David Eby, acknowledging the significant contributions of Mabuhay House Society, particularly its efforts in completing the first phase of the PFCC Vision Survey. Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sports, congratulated the society for its dedication to advancing the PFCC and officially welcomed the 2025 board members. The Mayor of Burnaby, Mike Hurley, welcomed attendees and guests to the gathering with optimism and hope for the development of the PFCC.

Welcoming the 2025 Board Members
The induction of the 2025 Mabuhay House Society Volunteer Board was led by Hon. Adrian Dix, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, comprised of returning and new volunteering board members committed to driving the society’s mission forward. The returning board members include Rudy Antonio, Dexter Tarampi, Sammie Jo Rumbaua, Angelie Boholst-Caspillo, William Canero, Lester de Guzman, and Amado Mercado. As new board members, Dr. Khristine Carino, PhD, Hussein Elhagehassan, Josephine Rose Estrada-Fard, and Dehara Sarao September bring fresh perspectives and diverse expertise to the mission and vision of a PFCC. The board also announced its new leadership, with Lester de Guzman as Chair and Rudy Antonio as Vice Chair.

Outgoing Chair Sammie Jo Rumbaua emphasized the importance of having an intergenerational and diverse board to ensure a wide range of voices contribute to the society’s initiatives. “We are committed to bringing together talented individuals with unique perspectives to further the vision of the Provincial Filipino Cultural Centre. Our collective strength will drive this multi-year capital project and ensure that future generations benefit from a strong and united Filipino community.”

Unveiling the Five-Year Strategic Plan
During the event, Mabuhay House Society showcased its achievements and progress made over the past year. Newly elected Chair Lester de Guzman presented the society’s Five-Year Strategic Plan, which outlines key priorities in fundraising, operational capacity, programming, and governance. Central to this strategy are five major committees composed of community volunteers that will guide the society’s activities and ensure its objectives are met.

In his remarks, Lester de Guzman emphasized the society’s focus on community empowerment: “Our goal is to actively engage and uplift our community by providing opportunities for leadership development and participation. By working together, we will build a sustainable and inclusive cultural foundation that reflects the strength and resilience of the Filipino community.”

Continuing Advocacy and Strengthening Unity
Mabuhay House Society remains steadfast in its advocacy efforts, ensuring that all levels of government recognize and support the needs of the Filipino community. With the backing of over 75 organizations that have signed the Unity Statement, MHS continues to build momentum hosting community programs, events and support.

Sammie Jo Rumbaua and Lester de Guzman echoed their confidence in the new board and the broader community: “With a united and thriving Filipino community, British Columbia and Canada will continue to prosper. Together, we will ensure that our cultural heritage and leadership continue to grow, making a lasting impact for generations to come.”

About Mabuhay House Society
Established in 2021, Mabuhay House Society is a registered non-profit society working closely with the provincial government to develop a provincial Filipino cultural centre that will be an inclusive, intercultural, and intergenerational space that Filipino Canadians can call home, where everyone is welcome. Mabuhay House Society is paving the way for the Filipino connection and community to thrive in BC. Visit our website at mabuhayhouse.ca.