UPAAT and PhilCongen tackle challenges for newcomers and international students

UPAAT and PhilCongen tackle challenges for newcomers and international students

PhilCongen officers, UPAAT members, along with guests and participants, gather for a group photo after the conclusion of the forum.

Navigating Toronto’s Housing Landscape

By Leny Rose Simbre

TORONTO– In a collaborative effort to address the growing housing challenges faced by Filipino newcomers and international students, the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Toronto (UPAAT) partnered with the Philippine Consulate General to host the “Forum on Housing Options for Newcomers and International Students.” The event took place on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Philippine Consulate-Toronto, located at 160 Eglinton East, 7th floor, Toronto.

Recognizing the increasing number of Filipino newcomers, especially international students, in the city, UPAAT and the Philippine Consulate General collaborated to create a platform addressing the critical issue of finding affordable and safe housing in Toronto.

In her remarks at the event, Con Gen Escalona underscored the pressing nature of the housing concern, stating, “Housing has become a primary concern for newcomers and international students, many of whom are grappling with financial instability. Ensuring access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing is paramount for their overall well-being as they navigate the challenges of settling in Canada, and managing their studies, work, and family responsibilities. We are closely assessing the impact of these new measures on international students through coordination with Canadian officials, nonprofits, as well as the Filipino community and student groups.”

UPAAT president Agnes Manasan (second from left) with Congen Angelica
Escalona (third from left), Consul RJ Sumague and two members of UPAAT.

There have been serious discussions at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels about the housing crisis. Notably, the lack of housing was one of the major factors that led to Canada’s recent announcement of a two-year cap on international student admissions. Following this, the province of Ontario announced several measures to address international student concerns, including requiring all universities and colleges to guarantee housing options for incoming international students.

Mayor Olivia Chow, in a video message shared during the event, reiterated her commitment to prioritizing housing to maintain Toronto’s reputation as a welcoming and affordable city for all. “Having personally experienced the challenges of starting life anew in a foreign country, I understand the crucial role of accessible housing,” remarked Mayor Chow. “The City of Toronto has embarked on an ambitious plan to construct 65,000 rent-controlled rental homes, while also implementing measures to safeguard tenants’ rights and enhance housing accessibility.”

City Councilor Alejandra Bravo of Ward 9 further elaborated on the city’s initiatives towards affordable housing, transit, and community engagement in Toronto. She stressed the importance of accessible transit for essential workers and advocated for improved TTC services tfacilitate educational and employment opportunities.Other representatives from the city and community service associations also discusse current initiatives, policies, and tenants’ legal rights addressing the affordable housing crisis.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow

The forum aimed to achieve several objectives, including providing insights into navigating the rental market, educating attendees on tenant rights and responsibilities, and offering an overview of the city’s plans and policies addressing the affordable housing crisis.

The collaboration between UPAAT and the Philippine Consulate General highlighted the significance of community-driven initiatives in supporting the integration and well-being of newcomers. By focusing on practical solutions and fostering community engagement, the forum sought to alleviate the housing challenges faced by the Filipino population in Toronto.

This workshop marks the second of the four workshop series organized jointly by UPAAT and PhilConGen, with the Catholic Community Services of York Region also participating as a community partner.