Burnaby, BC, 07 April 2025 – Recent announcements by the Canadian government regarding significant cuts to immigration levels have created widespread uncertainty within the Filipino community, particularly in British Columbia. Temporary residents, a large percentage of whom are Filipino, now face the very real possibility of being left without status, rendered undocumented, or, in some cases, at risk of deportation.
The impending changes to immigration policies, combined with shifts in Canada’s care worker program, will impact thousands of workers and their families. These policy changes threaten the future of many workers who have made significant contributions to Canadian society.
In response to this growing uncertainty, the University of the Philippines Alumni Association in British Columbia (UPAABC) is advocating for immediate action and support:
“Tulay at Gabay: Supporting Filipinos Facing Uncertainty Amid Canada’s Shifting Immigration Landscape”, a one-day Migrant Convention, will be held on May 10, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 312 Main Street, Vancouver.
The convention aims to gather Filipino workers, including care workers, health workers, hospitality workers, construction workers, international students, and others who hold temporary work permits, allowing them to discuss their unique challenges and explore solutions. This event will also act as a podium for the community to develop policy recommendations.
“We are facing an unprecedented crisis. The lives of Filipinos in B.C. are being put in jeopardy,” said Stephen Andrada, UPAABC President. “Many of our community members have built lives here, paying taxes, contributing to the workforce, and raising families.These cuts threaten their security and their future in B.C. and Canada. It is time to stand together and seek the necessary changes to support Filipino workers and their families.”
Join us for a safe, welcoming, and informative event where we will discuss policy changes, share experiences, and explore possible solutions together. UPAABC is committed to standing with our community and advocating for fair immigration policies. Let us connect with, learn from, and support one another. Your voice matters.
For more information or to support the cause, please contact UPAABC at [email protected].
