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 […]
Breathe Again at Friday Harbour: A Hidden Oasis Near Toronto
In a world that moves too fast, where every second is scheduled and silence is a luxury, we sometimes forget to breathe. That’s exactly what poet and storyteller Anne Wong reminds us of in this soul-soothing episode set in Friday Harbour, a lakeside retreat just an hour from Toronto. Through her verses, she paints a vivid picture of escape—not […]
Marching to a Shared Beat: Philippine Heritage Band Shines at Vaughan International Music Festival
This year’s Vaughan International Music Festival (VIMF) press conference hit all the right notes—not just with music, but with meaning. Now on its fourth year, VIMF continues to grow as a vibrant platform for cultural unity. Co-founder and chair Sandra Yang Rako shared the festival’s vision: using music to bridge divides, spark connection, and celebrate diversity. “You don’t need […]
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 […]
Our Vote, Our Voice: The Rise of the Filipino Voter in Canada
If there’s a place in Toronto that feels like a piece of Manila, it’s right here—Bathurst and Wilson. Little Manila. It’s where the stories of arrival, survival, and new beginnings come together, along with the largest cluster of Filipino-owned businesses in the city. But this time, the question isn’t just about where we’ve gathered—it’s about […]
Spring in Canada: A Lesson in Trusting the Wait
Spring in Canada doesn’t arrive with fanfare. It tiptoes in, like someone who texted “on the way” an hour ago but still hasn’t shown up. The calendar says it’s here—but step outside and the cold air, silent birds, and undecided trees will have you questioning everything. Canadian spring is an exercise in patience. It’s the […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]