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Bejie Aracena and his family celebrated their first Canada Day on Tuesday (Photo by Eric Hattum)
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Bejie Aracena and his family celebrated their first Canada Day on Tuesday (Photo by Eric Hattum)
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A family from the Southwest Newcomer Welcome Centre helped celebrate Canada Day in a special way on Tuesday. 

The Aracena Family immigrated to Canada from the Philippines and became Canadian citizens in February 2025. They were accompanied by representatives from the Southwest Newcomer Welcome Centre to participate in the ceremonial flag raising at the Canada Together event.  

Bejie Aracena, the father, said he's very appreciative of the support they've received locally.

“They’ve [Newcomer Welcome Centre] been so helpful with whatever we need, like documents and other things.” 

The City of Swift Current organized an event like this last year, and Partnerships and Events Coordinator, Brad Woods wanted to improve upon the positives of the previous event. 

“It brings the community together,” says Woods. “Everybody and anybody looking to celebrate being Canadian, we give them a central location to come and do that.” 

The event featured a barbecue, live entertainment from Austin Castle and the City Limits, and cupcakes donated by Tourism Swift Current. 

The City of Swift Current is eager to continue planning and hosting similar events throughout the summer.  

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