Almost two decades ago, Barangay visionary and founder Bert David realized there was a niche for a children's Filipino dance group in the ever-growing number of performing groups in Edmonton. An architect by profession before he migrated to Canada, he wanted his children to get to know and appreciate the rich musical heritage of their native county. With the help of Maria (Nanette) Hicks nee Jimenez, who became the first teacher and choreographer of the precursor to the now known Philippine Barangay Performing Arts Society, a small group of six girls began training in hula dancing and Filipino folk dancing.

During that time, a political upheaval was going on in their native country. Thousands of miles away, the Philippines was grappling with the assassination of Ninoy Aquino, the key opposition figure expected to dislodge Ferdinand Marcos from his 20- year rule . The wave of nationalism enveloped the expatriate community in Canada, sowing the seeds of the Philippine Barangay Performing Arts Society. The Filipino parents visualized a group that would share with their youth not only the dance and music of the Philippines but instill in them a deep appreciation of the customs and values that the migrant parents grew up with. The parents envisioned their Canadian-born children growing up in an environment not much different from what their native country once provided them --- a network of extended family and friends that would provide these young Filipino-Canadians the security and affirmation they need to thrive amidst an increasingly challenging world.

On February 10,1986, the Philippine Barangay Children's Dance Troupe was formally incorporated. The group of seven girls who attended the original Sunday afternoon dance lessons back in 1984 quickly grew in 1987 to 18 boys and girls ranging in age from 5 to 9 years old. Ten years after, in 1997, with its varied repertoire and growing maturity as a performing group, its name and identity was appropriately changed to Philippine Barangay Performing Arts Society. Today, the society has evolved into a 50-strong group of performers ranging in age from 4 to 24 years old. Its level of professionalism and high-quality repertoire has led to several high-profile performances, invitations to various prestigious events and television appearances.

The group is never known to rest on its laurels. Its pursuit for excellence in the performing arts is strengthened by several dance workshops conducted by highly-respected choreographers. Then four years ago, the society began a new era by competing in prestigious dance competitions, garnering for the group several impressive awards. In 2001, all three Barangay entries were awarded Gold at the Dance Power Finals in Banff. This was followed by an even more successful trophy haul in Vancouver B.C. at the 5*6*7*8 Showtime Competitions, with all four Barangay entries winning top marks and the most coveted "Performance Group of the Year Award".

Whatever success the youthful members of Barangay has on stage is equaled, if not surpassed , by their success in their own personal, academic and professional lives. Members have remained committed to their studies, with most of the older members completing their university degrees or pursuing their own professional careers. Years of parental support and guidance, encouragement and involvement continue to bear fruit. The young performers of Barangay are developing self-respect, discipline, self-confidence, creativity and tenacity --- qualities that would certainly keep them in good stead beyond their Barangay years.

The Barangay has also fulfilled what it was initially envisioned to be --- a "family", first and foremost, working together for the common good. The success it has achieved so far is but a testimony to the commitment and camaraderie that the members have developed through the years. New and old members have developed a special kind of kinship. Members who have moved on to pursue their careers have never really left the Barangay family. They have continually supported the group, and when given a chance to visit, would give the younger members the guidance and encouragement they need.

The Barangay is truly a success in every sense of the word. Not only are these first generation Filipino-Canadians ambassadors of the rich Filipino cultural heritage in their country of birth, they have also evolved into commendable youth role models. This is what the Barangay was founded for and this is what the Barangay will strive to keep in years to come.