Our Founding Team
The Interlake Filipino Community of Manitoba Inc. was formed through the shared efforts of dedicated community members who believed in the importance of unity, cultural pride, and representation.
Our founding team came together with a shared purpose: to establish a welcoming, community-led organization that supports Filipino families, celebrates cultural heritage, and fosters meaningful connections across the Interlake Region. Guided by collaboration and the Filipino value of bayanihan, the team laid a strong foundation for an inclusive non-profit dedicated to community engagement and collective well-being.
Michelle Valenzuela
President
Michelle Valenzuela serves as the founding President of the Interlake Filipino Community of Manitoba Inc. With a strong commitment to thoughtful planning, transparency, and inclusivity, she has played a key role in guiding the organization from its early discussions to formal registration.
Michelle is passionate about creating spaces where Filipino culture is celebrated, voices are heard, and community members feel a sense of belonging. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, careful documentation, and long-term vision — ensuring that the organization grows with integrity and purpose while remaining grounded in the needs of the community it serves.
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The Committee
Supporting the leadership of the organization is a dedicated committee of seven community members who generously contribute their time, skills, and ideas.
Together, they help guide planning, events, and initiatives that reflect the values and goals of the organization.
CHERRY CLEYLOW
SECRETARY
Cherry is Filipino-Japanese and has proudly called Canada home for 10 years. With a decade of service in healthcare, she brings compassion and dedication to her role as Secretary of the Interlake Filipino Community Inc., guided by the Filipino value of Pakikipagkapwa—shared identity and care for others.
RAIN BAUTISTA
TREASURER
Rain has a strong foundation of faith and brings valuable experience in administration and team collaboration. Currently working in the accounting field, she is committed to using her skills to help ensure the organization’s financial health and support the achievement of its goals.
ROGER ABALLE
AUDITOR
Roger has a strong passion for finance and compliance and brings a careful, detail-oriented approach to his role as Auditor. A dedicated father, he is committed to ensuring accountability and responsible financial practices that support the organization’s integrity and long-term goals.
BLESSILDA AGPALLO
COMMITTEE MEMBER
Blessida is well loved by the community for her and her family’s active involvement in volunteer work and community activities. Known for her generosity and willingness to help, she now serves on the committee, continuing her commitment to service and community connection.
JOHN RAY RAMOS
COMMITTEE MEMBER
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RIZALYN NAZAR
COMMITTEE MEMBER
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ERWIN VERGARA
COMMITTEE MEMBER
Erwin brings strong customer service experience and a passion for excellence to the committee. An animal welfare advocate, he is committed to positive community impact and supporting well-organized events.
JOSELITO
COMPETENTE
COMMITTEE MEMBER
Joselito is a dedicated and passionate member of our committee, known for his reliability and willingness to help. A long-time mechanic, he brings strong teamwork and problem-solving skills, along with a deep love for music that reflects his creative and community-focused spirit.
Accountability
Our leadership team is committed to transparency, ethical decision-making, and responsible stewardship. All activities and financial matters are guided by shared oversight, clear roles, and respect for community trust.
We work collaboratively to ensure decisions reflect our mission, uphold integrity, and serve the best interests of the community.