Updated:November 16, 2021, 7:50 A.M.
Updated: November 15, 2021, 11:55 A.M.
Toronto, Ontario
“…kindred spirits whose fervour evaporated the rain…”
by Ricardo Salise Caluen
A threatening downpour notwithstanding, the “Leni-Kiko Caravan of Hope” successfully wound down in uptown Toronto’s popular Earl Bales Park at noon on November 14th. It was one of other caravans that took place simultaneously in eight cities in Canada.
Livvi Camacho, 1Sambayan Canada member and active Leni for President supporter captured the spirit of the moment thus: “It was exhilarating to be with kindred spirits whose fervor evaporated the rain away! The gathering was joyful, hopeful, positive, united, and full of pagmamahal. These are what a Leni leadership inspires.”
Kabayan Canada—an aggrupation of cause-oriented groups, 1Sambayan Canada, and Leni-Kiko Campaign Movement—estimates 250 vehicles and around 700 supporters participated in the caravan.
Leni-Kiko supporters came from as far as Windsor and Waterloo in the northwest and Whitby and Pickering in the northeast.
The choice of Earl Bales is not only practical but also symbolic. A bust of Jose Rizal, the first artistic representation of its kind in Canada, is located there. It is also the popular choice for holding Philippine Independence Day programs and even gatherings political in nature.
The success of yesterday’s caravan has encouraged Kabayan Canada to organize another one to originate in Mississauga City, Ontario.
Even the organizers were surprised at the number of Leni supporters who showed up. (photo from Kabayan)
The caravan snaking down towards Earl Bales Park. (from Kabayan)
In my more than 50 years observing Philippine politics, I’ve never seen such spontaniety and eagerness on the part of Filipino expats to show their support for a presidential candidate as was displayed in the Toronto caravan and other Canadian cities. The OFW support for Duterte in 2016 pales in comparison to the hope-inspired multi-city caravans and gatherings that have so far been held by Pinoys from all walks of life for Leni Robredo.