Philippine Historical Society of Canada: Traversing the Post-Truth Era

Philippine Historical Society of Canada: Traversing the Post-Truth Era

The Philippine Historical Society of Canada, Inc. founders with volunteers and performers at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights during the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Martial Law.

By Nico Bryle Alfafara

Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Martial Law

The Philippine Historical Society of Canada, Inc. (PHSCI), formerly known as the Philippine-Manitoba Historical Society, Inc., is a Filipino non-profit organization that was established to respond to the post-truth era where the massive proliferation of fake news and historical revisionism is increasing. It aims to be an institution that safeguards the objective history of the Philippines. The organization was established by seven founders who serve as co-directors, namely, Nico Bryle Alfafara, Jomay Amora-Dueck, Nathan Dela Cruz, Reyna De Mesa, Danica Dimaray, Ning Upton, and Jhoanne Villegas. The directors are united in their commitment to creating events that not only preserve the history of the Philippines that is based on documented, independent, and verifiable facts but also foster a culture of critical thinking. The organization’s projects aim to remind the Filipino community in Canada about the real history and create an avenue for healthy discourse.

On September 2022, PHSCI spearheaded a momentous event at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which commemorated the 50th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines. This event encapsulated the gruesome juncture in Philippine history, marked by rampant human rights violations and lingering economic repercussions that persist to this day. The organization, in conjunction with historical institutions and civic organizations such as the historical research center, Bantayog ng mga Bayani, and the Center for Youth Advocacy and Networking, effectively illuminated the harrowing events of that period. Survivors of the Martial Law were provided a platform to tell their stories, which were poignantly connected to the historical exhibit, a documentary, and cultural performances. The event was a stark reminder of the harsh realities that heavily influenced the push factor for Filipino migration.

Co-founder, Nico Bryle Alfafara at a panel in Pinoys on Parliament 2023 in Ottawa.
(Credits to Pinoys on Parliament)

As a relatively new organization that was officially registered in August of 2022, PHSCI is focused on strengthening its internal members through capacity building by learning more about Philippine history. It also recognizes the importance of engaging with the youth and empowering them to cultivate the habit of scrutinizing facts while emphasizing the significance of their history. The organization and its members not only create events but also endorse initiatives that provide avenues to bolster these values. Recently, during the Pinoys on Parliament in Ottawa, one of the co-founders represented the organization in a panel discussion titled, “Politics and Community Organizing: Mobilizing Ancestral Knowledge in Civic Engagement”. Such interactions enable the organization to be an instigator of change that sparks conversations grounded in factual veracity.

The PHSCI is geared toward an academic approach to analyzing history. The urgency of this pursuit is underscored by the organization’s commitment to creating a research-oriented outlook on history through the conduct of historical seminars and education initiatives. It aims to expand its connection with the Filipino community in Canada to foster a greater understanding of the history of the Philippine migration and the challenges faced by the diaspora. Through the critical examination of historical events and their socio-cultural implications, the community can develop a sense of belonging firmly rooted in the Philippine culture. Through these efforts, individuals can cultivate a sense of cultural pride and identity, while also developing a greater understanding of their place in the wider Canadian society.

Expect the continued commitment of PHSCI to create spaces that highlight significant events in the history of the Philippines. PHSCI believes that analyzing the past can provide a better understanding of the challenges faced by the Filipino community both within and outside the country. History serves as a guidepost to uphold and protect the rights of all people. By remembering the injustices of the past, there won’t be room for oppression to take root and grow.

(PRESS RELEASE)

From left: Luwalhati Upton, Nico Bryle Alfafara, Joanne Marie Amora-Dueck, Marichu Antonio, Reyna De Mesa, Jhoanne Villegas.