Vancouver, BC – September 27, 2025.
The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) Vancouver Chapter lit up the autumn season with its much-anticipated Autumn Dinner & Dance held Saturday evening at St. Patrick’s Hall in the heart of Vancouver. The event brought together Philippine CPAs from across Metro Vancouver - along with their families, friends, guests, and community leaders, for a night of celebration, connection, and meaningful impact.
Guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, lively dancing, and captivating performances by The Sisters - Roxanne and Mara – as well as PICPA members including Josephine Lagayan-Dereh, Gloria de Guzman Fidel, Josie Villaroman, Maria Pamela Belgica Gonzales, Rowena Rosales, Lori Leano, and Francisca Ruiz, who showcased their talents on the dance floor. The evening proved that Philippine CPAs are not only experts in their field but also knows how to have fun.
Beyond the festivities, the event carried a deeper mission; raising funds to make a difference in the lives of Philippine CPA immigrants in Canada and initiative to sponsor scholars in the Philippines. This initiative was made possible through partnerships with the UP Alumni Association of BC and Mr. Bert Parungao, a Philippine CPA and passionate advocate for Filipino communities in Vancouver.
“This isn’t just about dancing and dining – it’s about giving back,” said PICPA Vancouver President Jorge Ligason. “We’re proud to turn joy into generosity and make a lasting difference in the lives of Philippine CPAs and Filipino communities in Vancouver”.
The evening featured a mix of classic and modern entertainment, raffle draws, and a stunning autumn-themed mural backdrop – painted and installed by Raymon Maliwat and the M3ASBC team-that became a favorite photo spot. Guests were also treated to elegant decorations by Creative Notes, which added warmth and charm to the venue.
PICPA Vancouver continues to build bridges between the Filipino diaspora and the broader Canadian community through events like this, along with professional development seminars, community involvement, and diplomatic engagements – including a recent luncheon welcoming Philippine Consul General Gina Jamoralin.
The event also spotlighted Filipino-Canadian owned businesses such as Eureka College of Canada and Spinny Cars, with support from Facebook page Amazing Vancouver & Beautiful British Columbia. It also highlighted the wholehearted willingness of PICPA Vancouver’s members – and their families – to give their time, talents, and energy to make the event a resounding success.
As the night drew to a close, attendees left with full hearts and are with eager anticipation for next year’s Autumn Dinner & Dance. The event reaffirmed PICPA Vancouver’s role not only as a professional organization, but as a vibrant force for unity-bringing together Filipino communities across Vancouver to celebrate shared heritage and collective pride.
Gentlemen from left to right:
Ernesto Ong (Treasurer), Ramon Salcedo (VP Membership), Antonio Matias (Past President), and Jorge Ligason (President)
Ladies from left to right:
Gigi Abroguena, Maribeth Acosta (Secretary), Josephine Lagayan-Dereh (Board of Director), Marissa Velarde (Past President), Maria Pamela Belgica Gonzales (Past President), Gloria de Guzman Fidel, Josie Villaroman, Francisca Ruiz, Rowena Rosales (VP Professional Development), and Lori Leano.