Pinoys on Parliament 2026: Bituin brought together Filipino youth leaders from across Canada for three days of learning, culture, and connection in Ottawa. Hosted alongside Kabangka Canada, the annual conference welcomed delegates representing the Central, Prairie, Atlantic, East Coast, West Coast, and the Territories. Now in its eighth year, the gathering focused on leadership, identity, and civic engagement. Among the delegates was Zhyryn Leah Ochoa, Co-President of the UPEI Filipino Society (KABAYAN), who attended to represent the Filipino student community at UPEI.
The conference opened at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building with emcees Abby Rose and Angelo setting a warm and energetic tone. Honourable speakers included Minister Rechie Valdez, Senator Flordeliz (Gigi) Osler, Philippine Embassy Ambassador Chan Gonzaga, and Artist-in-Residence Melanie Yugo. Each shared personal reflections on public service, identity, and the importance of amplifying Filipino youth voices in Canada. Keynote speaker Carlos Bustamante encouraged delegates to embrace their roots while pursuing careers in media, politics, and community leadership.
Day Two featured a Senate tour and a panel discussion with Senators Osler, Rebecca Patterson, and Krista Ann Ross. For many delegates, stepping inside the Senate made civic engagement feel tangible and accessible. Workshops throughout the day provided practical tools in storytelling, organizing, medical pathways, activism, creative arts, and music production, empowering youth to shine in their own unique ways.
The conference concluded at the University of Ottawa with panels focused on purpose, values, and community leadership. For Zhyryn, the experience was both inspiring and grounding. She plans to bring what she learned back to Prince Edward Island, strengthening KABAYAN’s initiatives and continuing to create space for Filipino students to celebrate culture and civic engagement.
Pinoys on Parliament 2026 was more than a conference — it was a reminder that Filipino youth across Canada are leaders, storytellers, and changemakers in their communities.