Sports have a unique way of bringing communities together, building confidence in young people, and creating spaces where culture, identity, and teamwork can thrive. These values were on full display during the official opening ceremony of the 20th Victoria Invitational Basketball Tournament hosted by the Filipino Centre Toronto at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre in Scarborough.

I am honored to be invited in celebrating this important milestone for one of the Filipino Canadian community’s most cherished events together with fellow parliamentarian MP Salma Zahid. For 20 years, the tournament has created opportunities for young people across the Greater Toronto Area to connect through sports while embracing their Filipino heritage and cultural identity.

The energy throughout the opening ceremony reflected the strength and unity of the Filipino Canadian community. It was inspiring to witness families, volunteers, and organizers come together in support of youth empowerment and cultural celebration.