Statement in the Senate Chamber on Filipino Canadians

Hon. Tobias C. Enverga, Jr.: Honourable senators, it gives me great pleasure today to speak for the first time as a Filipino Canadian.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Senator Enverga: I rise today because recent reports indicate that the fastest growing second language in Canada is Tagalog, the native language of the Philippines. Some of my new senator friends call it the “tag-a-long” language. I guess that they can tag along to one of our parties.

I am not surprised that Tagalog is the fastest growing language because of the number of Filipinos who have arrived in Canada. In fact, the Philippines is the number one source of immigrants to Canada.

Filipino Canadians are known for their hard work, dedication, warm hearts and, most of all, for being the best at karaoke.

Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Senator Enverga: To all of Canada, Filipino-Canadians would like to saymabuhay, salamat, or thank you, for adopting us with open arms and open hearts.

 

The remainder of this day’s Senate Debates are available here.