The Filipino Community Association of Slave Lake (TFCASL) welcomed more than 150 people to its second annual Filipino salo-salo on June 13, bringing together families, friends and newcomers to celebrate Filipino heritage, food and community.

According to TFCASL President Jenny Konopka, this year’s gathering attracted a larger crowd than last year’s.

“There were more people this year,” says Konopka. “There was more food too, although people came at different times throughout the day.”

Held in conjunction with Filipino Heritage Month and the celebration of Philippines’ Independence Day, the annual event is designed to strengthen connections within the local Filipino community.

Konopka explains that the word salo-salo means coming together to share food, fellowship and culture.

“It means getting together,” she says. “Since it (the Philippines’ Independence Day) was held in June 12, we also celebrated our Filipino heritage here in Slave Lake.”

The event featured a potluck meal, games for all ages, including bingo, kid’s games, and activities that kept families entertained throughout the afternoon.

She also says that the second year felt smoother because organizers had already learned from their first experience.

“Last year we didn’t know if people would come,” she says. “But they actually came and everyone met each other.”
One of the highlights of the gathering was the opportunity to welcome new Filipino families who have recently moved to Slave Lake.

“We met lots of new people this year,” says Konopka. “That’s one of the reasons we hold this event, so families can get to know one another.”

Konopka says the salo-salo is also about being connected to Filipino roots.

“Everyone brings food to share,” she says. “It’s about Filipino hospitality and spending time together.”

This year’s celebration also introduced a new tradition. Instead of simply sending leftover food home, organizers used some of it as prizes during games, giving participants another fun way to enjoy the gathering.

Looking ahead, Konopka hopes that the event will continue to grow and become an annual tradition in Slave Lake.

“We hope to keep doing this every year,” she says. “It’s a wonderful way to celebrate our culture and bring our community together.”

The next event of TFCASL is the River boat Daze.
Konopka says that she and the Filipino community are looking forward to this event.

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader