The Filipino community's wonderful contribution to life in Rhyl was celebrated at a special town hall event. Healthcare professionals, community leaders, and residents gathered for what guests described as a powerful display of culture, unity, and inclusion.
Annual Celebration Organised by Nurses
The annual Philippine Independence Day celebration was organised by the Philippine Nurses Association UK Wales Chapter, alongside the Equality Department at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. Among those attending the gathering on June 13 were Our Rhyl Chair Craig Sparrow and Board member Jonathan Pico.
Jonathan, a senior staff nurse at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, helped organise the special day. For him, the occasion went far beyond marking a historic milestone.
Jonathan said: “Kalayaan represents the enduring spirit of hope, unity and empowerment that continues to inspire Filipinos across the world today. For Filipinos living and working overseas, it also reflects the freedom to preserve our heritage, celebrate our identity with pride, build meaningful communities and create a sense of belonging wherever we may be. Through the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan - unity, compassion and collective community support - we continue to strengthen professional networks, support one another and make positive contributions to the communities we are proud to call home.”
He added that joining the Our Rhyl Board this year had reinforced his belief that Rhyl is more than just a place many people live. He said: “As members of this community, we all have a role to play in helping shape its future.”
Praise for Filipino Values
Addressing guests, Craig praised the values of dignity, determination, resilience, and community spirit that define Filipino culture. Craig said: “We have a £20m opportunity to invest in projects that will help bring new life to the town, regenerate key areas and reconnect people with all that Rhyl has to offer. But success depends on community cooperation, passion and shared responsibility, principles that mirror exactly why we are here tonight.”
Health board chair Dyfed Edwards described the NHS as an International Health Service. He thanked Filipino healthcare workers for everything they bring to communities across the country. A video message from MP Gill German also praised the care and commitment shown by members of the Filipino community. She described them as integral to life across the whole of North Wales.
Community Engagement
The celebration comes as the Our Rhyl Board increases its community engagement activity across the town this summer. Members are attending events, workshops, and meetings to gather ideas from residents as plans for the future take shape. For more information and to give your feedback, you can visit the Our Rhyl social media pages or email info@ourrhyl.wales.
