From Flame to Frame: The Art of Sonny Dimalanta
In this episode of Tunog Tao, we meet Sonny Dimalanta, a visionary artist who turns simple wood into powerful works of art using pyrography—the ancient technique of wood burning. From humble beginnings as a technician in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, Sonny’s passion for art quietly simmered for decades. It wasn’t until later in life—through correspondence studies in […]
From Potlucks to Packed Events: The Story of Tummy Fillers
In this episode of Katas ng Kusina, we head to Brampton to meet Cherry and Erwin Bansil, the powerhouse couple behind Tummy Fillers, a Filipino catering business that has grown from humble backyard potlucks into one of the most trusted names in the community. What began as word-of-mouth orders from friends and family has turned into a full-blown […]
The Story Behind Hermie’s Filipino & Canadian Diner
In the heart of Ontario, where winter winds meet warm cravings, you’ll find a place where tapa meets grilled cheese, and pancit shares a table with poutine. It’s called Hermie’s Filipino & Canadian Diner, and it’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a dream cooked slowly over time. In this episode of Katas ng Kusina, we meet Hermie, a Filipina who started her […]
Marlon Viaje—The Master Behind the Metal at Impera Auto Collision
In a world where accidents can turn any day upside down, there’s someone quietly restoring more than just cars—he’s rebuilding peace of mind, one dent at a time. Meet Marlon Viaje, a seasoned autobody technician at Impera Auto Collision Inc. in Scarborough, Ontario. For over 25 years, Marlon has been the steady, skilled hand behind […]
Wrapped in Warmth – Aling Zenaida’s Suman sa Lihiya
In a quiet Canadian kitchen far from Tacloban, the comforting aroma of sticky rice and coconut wafts through the air. It’s here where Aling Zenaida Singson-Alex, with a pot in one hand and memory in the other, recreates the suman sa lihiya of her youth—one leaf-wrapped bundle at a time. In this episode of Lutong Kapitbahay, we’re […]
Lake Escape: Anne’s Adventure at the Toronto International Boat Show
Each year, Anne looks forward to the Toronto International Boat Show—a gateway to Canada’s unparalleled lake life. With over 2 million lakes across the country, the allure of boating and water adventures has become an intrinsic part of Canadian culture. This year, Anne’s visit was more than just an exploration of boats; it was a […]
Lola Asty’s Journey: From Caregiver to Culinary Success
Every success story begins with humble beginnings, and Lola Asty’s journey is no different. Featured in Katas ng Kusina, her story is one of resilience, passion, and the deep love of food and family. From being a caregiver in Canada to finally opening her very own store, Lola Asty’s life is a testament to perseverance and […]
Behind the Curtain: Creating Magic with JDL’s Frozen Junior
Theater has a way of weaving dreams and dedication into unforgettable experiences. This was exactly what I witnessed when I joined the JDL Performing Arts School as they prepared for their latest production, Frozen Junior. From the first note sung in rehearsals to the last prop placed on stage, every moment revealed the immense passion, effort, […]
Winter Driving Adventures: Lessons from Shannie
As a long-time driver in Toronto, I’ve braved many snowy roads and icy conditions, but winter driving always brings a unique set of challenges. I still vividly remember my first snow squall. I was driving home from Barrie, and suddenly, visibility dropped to zero. The snow whipped around me, the wind howled, and I felt […]
Hair-cules: Reclaiming Confidence, One Strand at a Time
Hair. It’s more than what we see in the mirror. It’s identity, self-expression, and a little something that helps us feel like ourselves. For some, it’s a fashion statement; for others, it’s a connection to their culture or even a way to rebuild confidence after a difficult journey. In Hair-cules, I stepped into the world of […]
