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FILIPINO CULTURAL OCCASIONS
Balikbayan
Literally "returning to the country/nation," “Balikbayan” refers to a Filipino who visits or returns to the Philippines after living abroad. Cultural activities include filling a “Balikbayan Box” with goods for family and rekindled friends and a “Balikbayan Night” full of song and dance.
Filipino Heritage Month
Filipino Heritage Month takes place every June in Canada and is a month-long celebration of Filipino culture and achievements. In 2018, Toronto became the first Canadian municipality to mark June as Filipino Heritage Month and Alberta was the first Canadian province to do so.
Binyag/Baptism
A “Binyag” is a traditional Filipino baptism or christening of a baby. Surrounded by friends and family in a church, a practitioner sprinkles water over the baby’s forehead. Afterwards, friends and family gather for a meal.
18th Birthday/Debut
A “debut” is a traditional Filipino celebration of a young woman's 18th birthday and coming-of-age in the Philippines. Key elements include traditional dances of the "18 Roses" or "9 Roses," close friends presenting of 18 or 9 candles, and the ceremony of the "18 Treasures" where 18 special guests present the debutante with a gift.