Successful Tulay at Gabay in Victoria

We are delighted to share the success of our Tulay at Gabay event in Victoria—a gathering dedicated to supporting and empowering our Filipino community and Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs), Migrants and International Students. This meaningful event brought together leaders, advocates, employers, and community members in an atmosphere of solidarity, learning, and collaboration.

A heartfelt thank you to MP Will Greaves and our Labor Attaché Ma. Celeste Valderrama for joining us and showing their steadfast support for our community and TFWs.

This event was made possible through the collaboration of UP Alumni Association in BC (UPAABC), Bayanihan Cultural Housing Society (BCHS), Victoria Filipino Canadian Association (VFCA), Victoria Filipino Canadian Caregivers Association (VFCCA), and UVIC Philippine Community (UPC). We are truly grateful for everyone’s time, energy, and commitment that helped turn this vision into reality.

Special thanks to our speakers and facilitators for sharing their insights, experiences, and encouragement:

• Stephen Andrada, UPAABC President

• Letty Young, Settlement Practitioner, FilNet

• Annette Beech, Victoria Filipino Canadian Caregivers Association President

• Mike Caparas, Victoria Filipino Canadian Association President

• Noel Abrera, Immigration Consultant

• Melissa Badua, Bayanihan Cultural and Housing Society President

  
  

We also extend our gratitude to the local employers who continue to stand with our community and provide opportunities and support:

• Gordy Dodd, Dodd’s Furniture

• Iman Ronaghi, Emerald Eye Care, Emerald Skin Care & Niloo’s Restaurant

• Sandy Findlay, Tim Hortons

• Faye Baligod, Faye’s Foot Spa

• Greg Hawes, Fastrac Printing

  
  

Finally, thank you to our supporters:

• Sandy Findlay, Tim Hortons

• Maricel Perry, Map Production

• Catherine Holmes

And most importantly, thank you to all the participants—your presence, engagement, and contributions made this event truly meaningful. You reminded us that when a community comes together, barriers are broken, bridges are built, and hope becomes stronger.

Key Takeaways from Tulay at Gabay:

• Unity empowers us—working together makes our voices stronger.

• Guidance and support matter—no one is alone in their journey.

• Every contribution counts—whether big or small, your involvement uplifts the whole community.

  
  

Together, we continue to build stronger bridges and provide steadfast guidance, ensuring that our community remains resilient, supported, and inspired.