Ottawa, June 11, 2010 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing tomorrow’s celebration of Philippine Independence Day:
“This national day commemorates the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898.
“For people of Filipino descent, tomorrow’s event is an important celebration of their heritage, an expression of their pride, and a chance to rekindle their roots.
“Currently the Philippines is among the top source countries for temporary foreign workers and permanent residents. So for all Canadians, Philippine Independence Day provides an excellent opportunity to learn about Filipino culture and traditions, and to reflect on the tremendous contributions the Filipino community has made to this country’s rich and diverse heritage.
“Our government is proud that we were able to offer special measures to facilitate immigration to Canada for residents in the Philippines who were significantly affected by Typhoon Ketsana. We moved quickly to reunite Canadians and permanent residents with their families by extending a welcome to those who wished to come to our country.
“The government has also consulted the Canadian Filipino community widely regarding the Live-in Caregiver Program and has made changes to the program that better protect the rights of live‑in caregivers and make it easier for them and their families to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
“As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for a very happy Philippine Independence Day, and a bright and successful future, to all members of the Filipino-Canadian community and to Filipinos everywhere.”
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alykhan Velshi
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca