The Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Inc. (FMAACI) proudly announces the successful culmination of its “Music Upbeat for Seniors Inclusion and Community Connection” (MUSICC) program, funded in part by the New Horizons for Seniors Program.
This initiative aimed to enhance the quality of life for seniors through music, arts, and social engagement. Over several months, the program featured guitar workshops, line and chair dancing, intergenerational open stage and other community gatherings designed to foster connection and creativity among seniors and community members. Participants engaged in various musical activities, including singing, instrument playing, a storytelling circle, and songwriting, all while building friendships and sharing cultural experiences.
“We are thrilled with the positive response from the seniors and their family members,” said Jun Isla, President of the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg. “Music has a unique way of bringing people together, and it has been heartwarming to see our participants not only enjoy the activities but also to form lasting bonds.”
The culminating event, held on February 22, 2025, at the Filipino Seniors Group Event Hall, 49 Euclid Avenue, showcased the talents of the seniors who participated in the program. Families and friends gathered to support their loved ones as they performed songs that resonated with their cultural heritage. The event featured a blend of traditional Filipino music and contemporary hits, highlighting the diverse musical tastes of the participants.
Performances included the Ukulele Filipino Club, the BIBAK Manitoba Seniors guitar ensemble, and special appearances by the On the Que Acoustic Band, and featured singers: Mikaelah Ramos, Keesha Arguil, Jun Llanos, and Apollo Buenaventura. The event was emceed by Jeanette Perez and opened with a land acknowledgment by Denby Perez, followed by a welcome remark from FMAACI’s president, Ernesto Ofiaza Jr.
The New Horizons for Seniors Program, which provided funding for this initiative, aims to support projects that encourage seniors to participate in their communities and improve their well-being. FMAACI expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing the importance of such funding in facilitating meaningful programs for seniors.
Certificates of appreciation were presented to collaborators, including the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg, BIBAK Manitoba, and Barangay Manitoba for the Steinbach program, as well as to BIBAK president Marife Cadag and dance facilitator Aida Champagne. FMAACI also acknowledged Quezon Province of Manitoba and Pinoy Alliance of Canada as future collaborators.
As the event concluded, many participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage in music and arts, with some stating that it reignited their passion for creativity.
“I never thought my Mamang could still perform by playing the guitar at her age,” shared Cely of BIBAK Manitoba. “This program has brought joy back to our seniors.”
On its 10th year as a non-profit organization, the Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Inc. plans to continue similar programs in the future, aiming to reach more seniors and create inclusive spaces for artistic expression and social interaction.
FMAACI’s officers are Ernesto Ofiaza Jr., president; Levy Abad, vice president; Paige Dimayuga, secretary; Jun Isla, treasurer; Elmer Aquino, secretary; and Daniel Tabo-oy Jr., Jeanette Perez, Jogin Tamayo, Susan Dimayuga, Jet Tabuena, and Denby Perez, on the board of directors.
Acknowledgments to Pilipino Express for featuring this article in their April 1, 2025 issue.
