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There are an estimated 1,000 Filipinos living in Neepawa and the surrounding area.

Starting this weekend and running over the next week, the local Filipino Association of Neepawa & Area will celebrate Filipino heritage, past, present, and future. Starting with a Filipino Heritage Day Celebration at the Yellowhead Centre on Saturday at 4 p.m.

Observed every June, the day brings together a time to celebrate and recognise the rich history, culture, and contributions of Filipinos in Neepawa and the surrounding area.  

Van Afuang immigrated from the Philippines 23 years ago and lives in Gladstone. He is the president of the local Filipino Association, and as the Filipino population in Neepawa and the surrounding area continues to grow, Afuang remains the primary voice for the Filipino community in the region.

"It's quite overwhelming, I'm always excited to meet new Filipino immigrants," said Afuang. "I love showing them my experiences and showing them ways to get involved in the community."

Between 2016 and 2021, the population in Neepawa increased from 4,609 to 5,685. As one of Manitoba's fastest-growing towns, Neepawa has become a central hub for the Filipino community in a rural setting. 

"You can go there and feel like you're in the Philippines," offered Afuang. "Every establishment and workplace has Filipinos working. We can speak with our native tongue, and often we crave our foods from back home, which we share amongst each other here."

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Van is a registered nurse in town and welcomes everyone to the Yellowhead Centre on Saturday. You do not need to be of Filipino descent to join. Next Thursday, there will be a Filipino flag-raising ceremony at Riverbend Park at 10 a.m.

Next Saturday, they will celebrate another Filipino Heritage Day at the Yellowhead Centre, beginning at 1 p.m. Van says the events over the next week are extremely meaningful. 

"It's very special. We are trying to promote our culture and heritage," ended Afuang. "We have been doing this for three years, and believe this year will be the best yet."

The Filipino community is thriving in Neepawa and the area, and are looking forward to celebrating.