Under the capable leadership of popular Ottawa FilCan balladeer Ernesto “Jhune” Leonardo, the Save Yolanda’s Victims FundRaising Concert at the Dominican University College on November 24, 2013 successfully entertained the 200 plus strong audience who came with their donations to the fund raiser. The youthful performers received thunderous applause from the delighted audience.
Television celebrity, Adrian Harewood of CBC News, was equally entertaining with his timely and witty quips as he masterfully emceed the show. The proceedings was covered by various mainstream media outlets such as CBC Radio & TV, CTV, CBC French, BBS and The Ottawa Citizen.
Not lost in the beautiful musical concert was the generous donations from the attendees. A total of $7,751.50 CDN was raised during the event which included an ecumenical prayer service with at least 4 religious groups in the Ottawa Valley.
Philippine Centre Canada Chairperson Sonia del Rosario was profuse in her thanks and appreciation of the performers and the other volunteers to the event. Father Maxine Allard, Director of the Dominican University College, who stayed during the whole proceedings was likewise very appreciative of the event’s turnout and the presentations.
All proceeds from the event were forwarded to the Canadian Red Cross. The government of Canada, in turn, matched the donations dollar for dollar.