The University of the Philippines Alumni Association in British Columbia (UPAABC) marked an exceptional milestone on November 16, 2024, with its Annual General Membership Meeting (AGM) and Christmas Party at the Holiday Inn in Vancouver. Celebrating 45 years of "Honor, Excellence, and Service," the event elegantly balanced reflection and revelry.

​The evening began with an enriching Annual General Meeting (AGM) featuring a Land Acknowledgement, the national anthems of Canada and the Philippines, and heartfelt remarks from key figures, highlighting President Bella Balisi-Bevilacqua's detailed achievements report for UPAABC over the past year. The occasion also saw the induction of new board members for the 2025-2026 term, highlighted by the esteemed presence of Consul Analyn D. Ratonel, who led both the discharging and induction ceremonies. A deep sense of pride and continuity was palpable as the UPAABC's vibrant history was honoured and ushered into the future by a short speech by Incoming President Stephen Andrada.

​​The celebration seamlessly shifted from formalities to festivity. The Christmas spirit was fully embraced as the party unfolded with a dynamic performance from the musical duo Pat Fernandez and Rawnna Crisostomo, followed by a tribute to the association's 45 years through a poignant video presentation. The room was alive with energy, especially during the games hosted by Allen Baylosis. Highlights included awarding the Iskotography 2024: Whispers of the Fall photo contest winners and the Best Aurora Borealis attire, while a spirited raffle added to the excitement. Guests also enjoyed two unforgettable sets of live music from Ian Zeta, whose soulful melodies punctuated the night's joyful atmosphere, setting the perfect tone for the evening's celebration of community, culture, and camaraderie

​The camaraderie was palpable as the night wound down, with a joyous community sing-along of the iconic "UP Naming Mahal" and a final group dance by past and present Board members. What started as a formal occasion blossomed into a memorable celebration of not just the association's enduring legacy but the shared spirit of its members—who, united by their roots and values, genuinely know how to celebrate life, service, and tradition. (MBB)

Check out the rest of the photos on our Facebook page, courtesy of Joey Anatalio!

Can't get enough of Balagtasan? Relive this timeless celebration through photos! Also check out our Facebook Page for a live recording of the event and the complete album of photos!

Balagtasan 2024 would not be possible without the support of the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver and the Province of British Columbia.

We would also want to thank our venue sponsor for tonight, which has been the home of Balagtasan for 4 years, Praise International Church through Team Art and Charen.

We would also want to acknowledge our premium sponsor from Greatway, your independent Insurance broker, Vicki Buechler. We would also like to thank our regular sponsors: Foundation for a Path Forward, United Filipino Canadian Associations in British Columbia (UFCABC), Hablon Styles and Hues, Northam Law: A Law Corporation, Terra International Food Inc., and UMAC Express Cargo.

We would also like to thank our food sponsors, Cucina Balai, Paradise, and Think Tank; and our media sponsor PNT: Reyfort Media Group.

Lastly, to the generous donations of oragnizations and fellow UPAABC members: Rotary Club of Mountainview Vancouver, Dr. Iris Radev, Tita Leonore Lim, Tito Dodie Lucas; and Tito Bert Parungao

Muli, maraming salamat po sa inyo.

Hi everyone!  

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is coming up in a couple of weeks. Check out their website at www.tulipfestival.org for information. 

It's an easy drive from Vancouver and once you get there, you'll be rewarded with endless vistas of colorful tulips in many different varieties. After taking in the tulips, on your way back home you can either have dinner at Tulalip Casino (farther south on I-5) or at Silver Reef Casino just south of Bellingham. By the way, if you're into shopping, there's a factory outlet mall next to Tulalip Casino.  

Bert