AJ Mandani: Bigger Than Basketball
AJ Mandani has played the game at the highest levels. From college basketball in Missouri to pro leagues in Indonesia and Thailand, his journey was full of highs and lows. But after 14 years away, missing birthdays, holidays, and milestones, AJ found a new reason to come home. That reason was family. More specifically, his […]
Where Music Begins: Anjo’s Story at Long & McQuade
Every Filipino musician in Canada has a Long & McQuade story. Mine began 20 years ago. We had no budget, just a head full of melodies and dreams that needed mics, an audio interface, and a stand. We found everything—plus a little encouragement—at Long & McQuade. It’s more than a music store. It’s a launchpad. […]
Tropang Ilonggo: April Cabrias and the Taste of Grit, Garlic, and Gratitude
In a quiet commercial strip in the Greater Toronto Area, a humble kitchen simmers with stories of resilience, family, and Ilonggo flavor. This is Tropang Ilonggo—a restaurant built not just from scratch, but from pure heart and late-night teamwork. And at the center of it all is April Cabrias, whose journey from food festivals to full-fledged […]
Craving Comfort, Finding Compassion: Filbert & Rosary at Buddha’s Vegan
What do you get when you combine vegan nostalgia, Chinese comfort food, and good company? A warm, flavorful episode of Crave and Company—this time featuring Filbert and Rosary as they dine at Buddha’s Vegan Restaurant, a modest but mighty gem tucked in downtown Toronto. For Filbert, who has been vegan for over a decade, Buddha’s is more […]
Ali Nizam: From Pain to Purpose at Core Basketball
There’s a rhythm to Ali Nizam’s voice on the court (part coach, part motivator, part older brother). But behind the drills and instruction is a story rooted in adversity. Ali grew up facing brokenness, disappointment, and instability. The basketball court became more than a game. It was an escape, a space where he could release […]
Tanong Lang Po: “Pinakamahalagang Tao sa Buhay Mo” with Drei
In this heartfelt episode of Tanong Lang Po, host Drei asks a deeply personal question: “Sino ang pinakamahalagang tao sa buhay mo?” The answers are as varied as they are inspiring, drawing on themes of family, resilience, education, kindness, and faith. This episode becomes a tapestry of reflections on the lessons we carry from those we hold dear […]
Stuck sa 401: Life on Canada’s Busiest Highway
Good morning, Toronto! Let’s be real—if the 401 is part of your daily route, “good” mornings can feel optional. This highway isn’t just a road; it’s a way of life. Dubbed the busiest highway in North America—and maybe even the world—it’s where patience is tested, time is lost, and hope for a smoother commute lives […]
Reflecting on 2024: FTV IRL’s Year-End Review
As the curtain closes on 2024, the FTV team, led by Cherie, takes a moment to reflect on their collective journey over the past year. Joined by Filbert, Jeff, Kyle, Anjo, and Drei, the discussion shines a light on the team’s growth, challenges, and successes, setting the stage for an exciting 2025. A Year of […]
3 Hiling sa Bagong Taon
Another year has passed. The New Year is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and think about what lies ahead. What have we left behind? What lessons have we learned? And most importantly, what do we want to create moving forward? As a Filipino Canadian, I often reflect on the stories we tell about ourselves—stories […]
Kiko’s Restaurant: Where Filipino Cuisine Meets Innovation at Bathurst and Wilson
Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s Bathurst and Wilson neighborhood, Kiko’s Restaurant is redefining Filipino cuisine under the creative leadership of Chef Derick. With a passion for quality and a flair for modern innovation, Kiko’s offers a dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Filipino food while appealing to a diverse audience. A Fresh […]
