Vancouver city council delays vote on B.C.s first Filipino cultural centre

Vancouver City Council postponed a vote on establishing B. C. ’s first Filipino cultural centre, deferring the decision for further review. Mayor Ken Sim introduced the motion during an extensive eight-hour council meeting, where nearly 200 community members voiced overwhelming support for the initiative. However, concerns were raised about the proposed developer, PortLiving, currently facing foreclosure on the properties slated for the centre.

PortLiving's CEO, Tobi Reyes, acknowledged the company's financial challenges but asserted that they have resolved over $400 million in debts. The Filipino Seniors Club of BC retracted its support, calling the timeline unrealistic and advocating for a standalone cultural centre. The Mabuhay House Society and Filipino BC also rejected the motion, citing transparency issues regarding PortLiving's finances. Sim stated he was unaware of the foreclosure and emphasized the need for a rigorous review process. The council will consider community feedback and revisit the motion during the Standing Committee on City Finance and Services meeting on December 10.