EDMONTON, ALBERTA — Marking a monumental step forward for media representation in the country, the Filipino Canadian Journalist Network (FCJN) officially launched its Western Canada chapter in a vibrant ceremony held in Edmonton, Alberta.
The momentous event was led by FCJN West President Lito Velasco and FCJN Vice Chairman Atty. Bernard Gregorio, bringing together media professionals, community leaders, and advocates to celebrate a shared vision for the future of journalism.
Established in April 2026, FCJN is the largest and premier non-profit organization dedicated to journalists of Filipino descent across Canada. Despite Canada being home to nearly one million Filipino Canadians, the network emerged from a clear and pressing need to address the historical underrepresentation of Filipino voices in major newsrooms and editorial leadership roles.
"FCJN is not just an organization but a movement to amplify voices of the community and contribute to the success of Canada." said multi-award veteran journalist Ron Gagalac, the founder of the organization and currently Chairman of the national network.
During the ceremony, Gagalac officiated the formal oathtaking of the newly minted Board of Directors, Executive Officers, and Founding Members for the West region.
The organization boasts an impressive roster of members hailing from prominent national and international news organizations, including CBC, CTV, CP24, CityNews, OMNI News, Reuters News, TSN, Maclean's Magazine, and the Canadian Journalism Foundation. FCJN unites reporters, anchors, photojournalists, news producers, digital content creators, as well as journalism students and faculty from coast to coast.
"FCJN is dedicated to upholding responsible journalism, help navigate the challenges of disinformation, and elevate the community's contributions to Canadian society," Gagalac said.
The network’s core mission focuses on bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. It strives to ensure that the unique perspectives, contributions, and insights of the Filipino diaspora are deeply integrated into the broader Canadian narrative.
FCJN is also committed to empowering its members, future members, and associates to excel while maintaining a profound connection to their cultural roots through advocacy, mentorship, and community-building. The network also stands firmly dedicated to upholding the highest standards of journalism, defending press freedom, and actively combating disinformation alongside the emerging ill effects of artificial intelligence.
Following the successful rollout in Western Canada, momentum is already building for the organization's eastern counterpart. The FCJN East Chapter—led by East Region President Jim Libiran—is gearing up to host its own official regional assembly this coming October.
