Edmonton welcomes its first Filipino park

Photo from Heather McPherson MP/Facebook

Edmonton, the vibrant capital city of Alberta, Canada, has recently unveiled a new gem in its landscape—a park that not only adds beauty to the city but also pays tribute to the rich heritage of its Filipino community. 

Mabuhay Park, the province’s first Filipino concept park, symbolizes the contributions and cultural significance of Edmonton’s Filipino population.

Located in the southeast of Edmonton, Mabuhay Park received its official name on a significant occasion. “Mabuhay” is a Filipino greeting that conveys both “welcome” and “long live.” It’s a word that reflects the Filipino spirit of hospitality and inclusivity. The park’s name was chosen in honor of the local Filipino population, which has become an integral part of Edmonton’s multicultural tapestry.

But Mabuhay Park is more than just a park; it’s a generational legacy that encapsulates Filipino heritage, culture, traditions, and values, says its organizers.

At its heart, the park embodies the essence of Filipino identity and serves as a gathering place for the community. During the park’s opening ceremony, organizers expressed their pride in having a second home to fulfill their dreams and continue being good citizens. It highlights the deep connection that the Filipino community has formed with Edmonton.

In a gesture of recognition and gratitude, the city of Edmonton presented a formal proclamation during the ribbon-cutting event. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi acknowledged the contributions made by the Filipino community to the city’s growth and diversity. 

“This addition absolutely is phenomenal in recognizing the contributions that Edmonton’s Filipino community has made,” he said in an interview.

Photo from Philippine Bayanihan Association in Alberta/Facebook

With at least 65,000 Filipinos calling Edmonton home, the Filipino community is the fastest-growing demographic in the city. Aside from honoring the contributions of the Filipino community, Mabuhay Park also symbolizes the kaleidoscope of cultures comprising Edmonton’s identity. 

Now that Mabuhay Park has officially opened, the community can also expect more cultural events to take place at this location in the future. 

Visit Mabuhay Park at 2608 14 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6T 0R7