he Philippine Independence Day Council (”PIDC”), a volunteer based umbrella organization of almost 300 associations, is hard at work to produce the 7th annual Mabuhay Philippines Toronto Summer Festival scheduled on Saturday, August 18, 2007 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (255 Front Street W.).

Minda Neri, Festival Chair, has announced that this year’s Artistic Director is Deo Moreno of Mabuhay Radio (www.mabuhayradio.net).

In addition to the festival’s ongoing partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce - Toronto (”PCCT”), PIDC is also working with Gawad Kalinga -Ancop Canada (“GK“)in their work to eradicate poverty in the world. For every $15 festival ticket sold, $5 will go towards Gawad Kalinga’s project of building a village for the displaced victims residing in the Province of Bicol who were ravaged with several devastating typhoons late last year. GK, a non-profit organization, has made great strides in helping our “kababayans” elevate their lives from unimaginable conditions to that which brings hope for a better future. Groups or individuals interested in helping either by volunteering or donating can contact Project Chair, Bernie Synchangco (416 857-7551). Also, donations are issued tax receipts. The Bicol project is in keeping with PIDC`s mandate of uniting the community by calling on individuals and organizations to help. The festival will not only assist in the fruition of homes for Bicolanos but it will also gather some of the best Philippine performers to entertain and bring a sense of home to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Performers for 2007 include:

Joey Albert - She’s recorded several albums and has been awarded Best Female Performer. Her classic ballads include “Tell Me”, “A Million Miles Away”, “Yakapin Mo Ako”, “Ikaw Lamang ang Mamahalin” and many more.

Jean Young - Philippine cinema icon, golden girl of LVN Pictures, singer, actress, TV host, television and record producer,

Louie Reyes - A former member of the famous New Minstrels and multi award winner, Louie is known as the Philippine’s “Queen of Jazz”.

Lilac Cana - Lilac has several CD’s to her credit including her most recent one called “Encantada”. She also performed for Pope John Paul II at the World Youth Day 2002.

Emil Zarris - He has gotten rave reviews in his musical stage performances and is set to release his solo cd in April.
Josie de Leon - Josie has performed with several Filipino singing greats like Jun Polistico and Anthony Castelo. She is currently finishing an album with Jose Marie Chan and Vehnee Saturno.

Additional performers and special guests will be announced over the next several weeks. Interested vendors who would like to participate in the festival can still join.

For more detailed information or to purchase tickets to the festival, check out the PIDC website at www.pidctoronto.com. You may also contact Festival Chair, Minda Neri at (416) 621-4985.