Trudeau joins Fil-Canadians at Winnipeg festival as surprise guest

Photo from Terry Duguid/Facebook

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a surprise appearance at the Folklorama festival at the Pearl of the Orient Philippine Pavilion in Winnipeg, leaving Fil-Canadian attendees in awe.

Folklorama, a weeks-long multicultural festival, provided the ideal backdrop for Trudeau’s interaction with the community, highlighting the significance of cultural diversity in Canada.

The prime minister made a brief appearance during the second day of the festival, known for drawing big crowds, with participants coming from all over the city to celebrate Winnipeg’s rich and diverse cultural tapestry.

On Aug. 6, Trudeau surprised the attendees, who were unaware he was coming to interact with the Filipino community — shaking hands and posing for photos.

For many attendees, the chance to meet Trudeau was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

One of the attendees, Ruth Provitina, shared her excitement over Trudeau’s visit, saying, “We’re lucky he chose to have his dinner here. He likes egg rolls!”

Maridol Madolora was star-struck. “He has so many fans here,” she said. “He’s almost like a star or something, a movie star.”

“There had been some buzz about Trudeau possibly making an appearance, but you don’t believe anything until it happens,” said another Filipino participant, Eric Garcia.

Thanks to the charity organization Magdaragat Philippines Inc, the Filipino Canadian community had the rare chance to meet Trudeau in person.

The Pearl of the Orient Philippine Pavilion offered attendees not just a glimpse of Filipino culture and heritage but also a culinary experience and entertainment – including karaoke, the cultural pillar that symbolizes the Filipinos’ love for music.

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A multicultural celebration

Proudly holding the title of the longest-running multicultural festival in the world, Folklorama spotlights the cultural richness and diversity of Winnipeg, with 38 pavilions showcasing various cultures.

Meanwhile, Magdaragat Philippines Inc. welcomes everyone, both Filipino Canadians and non-Filipino communities, to experience the richness of Philippine culture and the warmth of Filipino hospitality.

The Pearl of the Orient Philippine Pavilion is open until Aug. 10. The Folklorama festival continues until Aug. 17. Tickets are still available at the Folklorama website.