Taking a Bite at the Taste of Manila 2015 in Toronto

By Aloha Aquitana
Emailed for posting by Judith Gonzales
Toronto-Canada
August 26, 2015



When I got off the bus on Wilson Avenue on August 23, a sudden rush of nostalgia greeted me. The scents, sights, sounds, and the tastes in the air brought so much memories and emotions. It was as if I was transported to some happy place embedded within me. I even thought I heard jeepney honks and takatak boys (cigarette vendors on the streets). I’ve never been to a place in Canada with this much Filipinos in once place.


After Pinoy Dreams’ broadcast, the hosts and friends strolled along the street to try out some of the foodstuff. I didn’t bump into anyone I knew but every face looked as if familiar. It was bittersweet; experiencing the feel of home half way around the globe in a different country. Too bad I didn’t attend the first day where various groups parade on the streets featuring cultural dances, costumes, and arts and crafts. I heard it was a blast and the photos proved it.

It was around 4 in the afternoon when the big crowd gathered near the stage to see Jericho Rosales perform. He is a celebrity actor from the Philippines who made a lot of fans through a soap opera in which he is a part of. Everyone went crazy when he went up the stage and sang a number of popular songs.

All throughout the day, the combination of the music, flavors, noise, aroma, and scenes mingled harmoniously.  The weather was fine, which made it more ideal. The only predicament most people had? Parking. All the surrounding side streets were literally filled with parked vehicles since early morning. Anyone coming in after lunch or later would need to find vacant spaces farther away from the main event area. It’s worth it anyway, so all and sundry didn’t show any dismay about this matter.
This event made me miss home so much. On the positive side, this made me realize I also have a home here.
Author Aloha Aquitana is writer, broadcaster- (Pinoy Dreams – Pinoy Radio)