Canada is home to a vibrant and growing Filipino community, with over 960,000 Filipinos spread out all over the country.
According to the 2021 Census, the majority are concentrated in five major cities.
Let’s explore these cities and highlight some Filipino stores, restaurants, events and experiences that bring a taste of home to each locale.
1. Toronto, Ontario
Toronto boasts the largest Filipino population in Canada, with over 250,000 Filipinos calling the Greater Toronto Area home.
Neighbourhoods like North York and Scarborough are known for their vibrant Filipino communities.
Must-Visit Spots:
Seafood City Supermarket: A Filipino grocery chain offering a wide range of products.
Remely’s Restaurant: Known for its authentic Filipino dishes.
FV Foods: Offers Filipino baked goods and delicacies.
2. Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is home to nearly 134,000 Filipinos, making it the second-largest Filipino community in Canada.
The city celebrates Filipino culture through events like the annual Lapu-Lapu Day festival.
Must-Visit Spots:
Plato Filipino: A popular restaurant serving traditional Filipino cuisine.
Goldilocks Bakeshop: Offers a variety of Filipino pastries and cakes.
Jollibee: The famous Filipino fast-food chain with multiple locations.
3. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg has a significant Filipino presence, with approximately 77,305 Filipinos residing in the city, making up 8.7 per cent of its population—the highest percentage in Canada.
Must-Visit Spots:
The Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM): A hub for Filipino cultural events.
Jollibee: The first Canadian location of the beloved fast-food chain.
CKJS Radio: A station broadcasting Filipino news and music.
4. Calgary, Alberta
Calgary’s Filipino community numbers over 75,000, contributing significantly to the city’s multicultural fabric.
Must-Visit Spots:
Fiesta Filipino: An annual festival celebrating Filipino heritage.
Philippine Cultural Center Foundation: Offers various cultural programs and events.
Barrio Fiesta: Unique restaurant with traditional “bahay kubo” decor.
5. Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton is home to approximately 64,275 Filipinos, making it the fifth-largest Filipino community in Canada.
Must-Visit Spots:
Max’s Restaurant: The Philippines’ answer to Swiss Chalet, known for their fried chicken.
Karilagan Dance Society: Promotes Filipino culture through dance.
Koro Filipino: Celebrates Filipino music and heritage.
These cities not only offer a sense of community for Filipinos but also provide a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that keep Filipino traditions alive in Canada.
Whether you’re seeking authentic cuisine, cultural events, or community connections, these urban centers are vibrant hubs for Filipino Canadians.
