The Filipino Association of Newfoundland & Labrador Inc., also known as FILAN, aims to achieve its goals by engaging in ACTIVITIES that align with its mission, both directly and indirectly.
CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNITY
to promote community spirit among Filipinos and Canadians living in Newfoundland and Labrador
COLLECTIVE HARMONY
to stay united and achieve goals common both to members of the association and the community
NEWCOMER SUPPORT
to welcome and assist newly-arrived Filipinos to adjust to life in Newfoundland and Labrador
HeRITAGE ADVOCACY
to preserve, promote and perpetuate the heritage, culture and values of both the Philippines and Canada through member participation in social, cultural, charitable and educational activities
FUNDRAISING MISSION
to raise funds for the administration and operation of the Association and for such charitable purposes as are designated by the Association membership from time to time
Meet Our Leadership Team!
Here are the dedicated individuals who will help guide our mission for 2026-2027:
Michael Mercado, RMT
President
Joseph “dandan” Flores
Vice President for Internal Affairs / IT and Communications Lead
MArielle ANN “Yielle” Nayga
Vice President for External Affairs / Public Relations Lead
Gloren Reyes
Interim Secretary
Lorenzo Alday
Interim Treasurer
Ailene Angolo
Sponsorship and Partnerships Lead
Christian “Ian” LAUREL
Production and Technical Lead
RAYMOND GALANG
Cultural and Performances Lead
Daniel Plima
Programs and Events Lead
EMILLINE MALIHAN
Logistics and Volunteer Management Lead
Dr. Henry Borja
ROMEL MALigaya
Arnaldo “Don” Alivio
DR. ERIC ELLI
Advisers
Throughout its esteemed history, FILAN has been led by a succession of visionary past presidents, each leaving an indelible mark on our mission and legacy.
| YEAR | PRESIDENT |
|---|---|
| 1967-1968 | Mr. Felipe Corpus (founder) |
| 1968-1969 | Dr. Florencio “Ray” Firme |
| 1969-1970 | Dr. Exequiel Magat |
| 1970-1971 | Dr. Pete Isada |
| 1971-1972 | Dr. Arturo Cruz |
| 1972-1973 | Dr. Roger Lacuesta |
| 1973-1974 | Ms. Gloria Terrenal-Angulo |
| 1974-1975 | Ms. Esperanza Aquino |
| 1975-1976 | Dr. Romulo Magsino |
| 1976-1977 | Mr. Maurice Pasqua |
| 1977-1978 | Mr. Herminio Solidon |
| 1978-1979 | Ms. Zeny Lopez-Lang |
| 1979-1980 | Mr. Dante de Leon |
| 1980-1981 | Mrs. Tessie Kennedy |
| 1981-1982 | Ms. Jean Marquez |
| 1982-1983 | Ms. Zeny Lopez-Lang |
| 1983-1984 | Dr. Mely Cruz |
| 1984-1985 | Mr. Crisanto “Jun” Aguilar |
| 1985-1986 | Ms. Cora Ochoa |
| 1986-1987 | Mrs. Annie Pascua |
| 1987-1988 | Ms. Sophie Corrales |
| 1988-1989 | Mr. Wilfred Riego |
| 1989-1990 | Dr. Florencio “Ray” Firme |
| 1990-1991 | Mrs. Pilar Riego |
| 1991-1992 | Dr. Narciso “Jun” Baldonado |
| 1992-1994 | Mrs. Rose Bourgeois |
| 1994-1995 | Dr. Dennis Sunio |
| 1995-1997 | Dr. Henry Borja |
| 1997-1999 | Dr. Eric Elli |
| 1999-2000 | Mrs. Tessie Kennedy |
| 2000-2007 | Dr. Eric Elli |
| 2007-2009 | Ms. Elisa Mercer |
| 2009-2010 | Ms. Sol Modesto-Vardy |
| 2010-2011 | Richard Salas/Thess Isorena |
| 2011-2012 | Mr. Romel Maligaya |
| 2012-2013 | Ms. Mary Joy Frogoso |
| 2013-2016 | Dr. Eric Elli |
| 2016-2024 | Dr. Henry Borja |
| 2025-2026 | Mr. Romel Maligaya |
| 2026-2027 | Mr. Michael Mercado |