The Proudly Pinoy Pancit Festival, held at St. Margaret Catholic School on June 12, was a vibrant and meaningful celebration that brought together students, families, staff, and community members in recognition of the 128th Philippine Independence Day, Filipino Heritage Month, and Proudly Pinoy Bursary fundraising. The event was a resounding success, filled with cultural pride, joyful participation, and a strong sense of community connection. Parents and attendees enjoyed an unforgettable evening that highlighted Filipino traditions, student talent, and community collaboration.
A special highlight of the evening was the celebration of pancit, the featured dish of the festival. Pancit was originally introduced to the Philippines centuries ago by Chinese traders and immigrants. Its name comes from the Hokkien phrase piân-ê-sit, meaning “something conveniently cooked.” Over time, pancit has evolved and blended with local ingredients and cooking styles, reflecting the diversity and adaptability of the Filipino people—many of whom share mixed Chinese ancestry. Today, pancit exists in many regional and family variations. One unique example is Pancit Habhab from Lucban, Quezon, traditionally served on a banana leaf and eaten without utensils, creating a fun and memorable cultural experience. Pancit symbolizes not only nourishment, but also long life, unity, and celebration.
The program began with “Pancit Time” at 5:30 PM, where attendees gathered to share and enjoy a variety of pancit dishes. At the same time, excitement built in the VIP Room as the Pancit Dish Competition got underway, with judges carefully tasting each entry in anticipation of selecting the best pancit cook of the evening.
The formal program then opened with a warm welcome from Principal Susanna Rannalli and Community Relations Officer Jody Huang, setting an inclusive and celebratory tone for the night.
The evening continued with a Community Blessing by Fr. Jeremias and a thoughtful Land Acknowledgement by Daniel Rasquinha, followed by student performances of the National Anthems, O Canada and Lupang Hinirang, proudly reflecting both Canadian and Filipino identities.
VP Giancarlo Bancheri and Resource teacher Aileen Santiago introduced the committee members, recognizing the collective effort behind the event’s success. Distinguished guests, including Philippine Consul Rodney Jonas Sumague and Roy Fernandes, Superintendent of Equity & Community Relations, delivered inspiring remarks emphasizing cultural pride, inclusion, and community engagement.
The program performance, led by student emcees Haven, Amy and Priscilla were introduced by Rime Boulos, featured a rich showcase of performances and presentations:
Student performances by Ms. Domanay and Ms. Galingan’s SK group
A lively Tiklos dance by Grade 1/2 students
The Proudly Pinoy Scholarship Award Ceremony, where the Angel Foundation for Learning (AFL) representatives Ms. Emmy Szekeres, Mr. Don Walker, and Ms. Iris Martinez presented the certificates to the 2026 Proudly Pinoy scholars, Arcangelo Orozco and Neo Galario in recognition of their achievements
A song and dance performance by Ms. Montealto’s Grade 3 class
A CSPC Address by Ms. Evangelista and Mr. Sinclair
A community and parent information presentation by Aileen Santiago
A dance video presentation by Mr. Rasquinha’s class
Dance and song performances coordinated by Ms. Boulos
The Announcement of PancitFest winners - The winners were: First: Nanette, Second: Tagpuan; Third: Kanto
A special performance by staff and students led by Ms. Rian
The festival also reflected a deeper purpose: the entire St. Margaret community came together not only to celebrate Filipino culture, but also to actively support the Proudly Pinoy Scholarship, reinforcing a shared commitment to student success and community empowerment.
The celebration concluded with a joyful community dance finale, initiated by staff and administrators, where all attendees were invited to participate. This moment of unity and celebration perfectly captured the spirit of the event.
Overall, the Proudly Pinoy Pancit Festival 2026 was an incredible success—celebrating heritage, uplifting student voices, and strengthening community ties. It was a memorable and meaningful experience that left a lasting impact on all who attended.
Committee Members: Ranalli, Susanna;Santiago, Aileen;Bancheri, Giancarlo; Rasquinha, Daniel; Leila Evangelista; Boulos, Rime; Rian, Virginia; Canaria, Jasmine (St Margaret); Tim Sinclair; Rosel Zinampan-Morana; Virgilio, Josephine; Jennifer Baradi; Roti, Catherine; Geraldine Lacerna; Galingan, Gerlynn; Axibal, Imelda; Domanay, Priscila; Cristina Dominic; Montealto, May; Virginia Rian; Carmelita Sinclair; Eric Tigley; Jody Huang