Who we are

Dominic Pelayo

Hailing from the picturesque island of Bantayan in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Rising from humble beginnings, he was driven by a deep commitment to support his family and make a positive impact through education and community service.

Dominic earned a Doctor of Education specializing in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Special Education (SPED), along with Master's degrees in ECE, SPED, and Public Administration. He also pursued a Bachelor of Laws. As an academic scholar at Cebu Normal University, he served as President of the Supreme Student Government and received numerous Leadership and Service Awards.

His passion for learning led him to establish 3H Redwood Academy, a successful K-12 school in Cebu that expanded to a second location. He contributed to education as a teacher and professor at institutions like the University of San Carlos and Saint Catherine's College. Dominic held leadership roles in organizations such as Kiwanis International, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and founded the OYALEP Foundation and was a founding member of Seed4Com.

After moving to Canada, Dominic continued his dedication to community service. In the Yukon, he serves as the President of the Canadian Filipino Association of the Yukon, applying his energy and vision to advocate for the Filipino community. He is also involved with the Knights of Columbus as Grand Knight of Council 6232 and leads educational initiatives like Three H Preschool as Founder and Director.

Dominic's multifaceted background in education, law, and community leadership showcases his unwavering commitment to uplifting others and making a positive impact in both the Philippines and Canada.

Romeo Gayangos

A man who needs no introduction–Romeo Gayangos, fondly known as Romy–a true pillar of the Yukon Filipino community and a seasoned veteran in community leadership and engagement. With 23 years of residence in the Yukon under his belt, Romy's commitment to the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon (CFAY) is as steadfast as it gets, with an impressive 20 years of active membership and board service.

Beyond his involvement with CFAY, Romy is a proud knight at the Knights of Columbus, where he continues to serve with dedication and passion. His love for sports shines through in his membership with the Filipino Canadian Basketball League Yukon, where he actively participates and contributes as the chair of the sports committee at CFAY.

While his community involvement speaks volumes, Romy's educational background and professional experience further add to his credentials. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce with a focus on Marketing, Romy brings a wealth of business acumen to the table. For 18 years, he served as the sole proprietor of Yukon Contractors, a business registered in the Yukon, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills.

But what truly sets Romy apart is his easygoing personality and genuine passion for volunteering. He is a firm believer in the potential of Filipinos to thrive in the Yukon, and he tirelessly works towards this vision, dedicating his time and efforts to uplift and empower his fellow community members.

With his extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and warm-hearted nature, Romy is more than just an applicant for the board member position at CFAY–he's a beacon of hope and inspiration for the Filipino community in the Yukon, and a true asset to any organization lucky enough to have him on board.

James Antopina

James Antopina brings a rich tapestry of experiences and expertise to his role as Assistant Manager at Walmart. Graduating from Don Bosco Technical College with a Bachelor of Science in Technical Education, Major in Mechanical Technology, James acquired a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. Complementing this technical prowess is his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, showcasing his dedication to critical thinking and intellectual exploration.

James's journey extends beyond academia, as he devoted twelve years to studying to become a Catholic Priest. During this time, he served as a Religious Formator, guiding and mentoring young seminarians on their spiritual and personal journeys. Additionally, James volunteered for two years at the Don Bosco Orphanage in Cebu, where he made a tangible impact on the lives of underprivileged youth.

Throughout his diverse experiences, James's unwavering passion lies in education, particularly for young individuals. Whether through formal instruction, mentorship, or volunteer work, he is committed to equipping the next generation with the tools they need to thrive. Now, as Assistant Manager at Walmart, James brings this dedication to education and service, fostering a supportive environment for both customers and colleagues alike.

Madeline De Leon

Madelyn De Leon, affectionately known as Madz, epitomizes resilience, adaptability, and community spirit. Originally hailing from Borongan City, Madz has called the Yukon home for the past two decades, now proudly holding Canadian citizenship. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Technology, she embarked on a journey that seamlessly blended her technical expertise with her innate entrepreneurial spirit.

Currently, Madz serves as a coordinator for the Yukon Government's Health & Social Services department, where she applies her organizational acumen and compassionate approach to address community needs effectively. Her tenure in this role underscores her commitment to public service and improving the well-being of Yukoners.

Beyond her government role, Madz has carved a niche for herself as a successful business entrepreneur since 2007. She has also honed her management prowess during a decade-long tenure with Northern Vision Development (NVD), where she adeptly managed three distinct properties and hotels. Her leadership and operational proficiency were instrumental in ensuring the success and reputation of these establishments.

Madz's dedication to community service extends beyond her professional endeavors. She has been an active volunteer for the Canadian Filipino Association of the Yukon (CFAY), where she previously served as a board member, leveraging her skills and experiences to advocate for the Filipino community and foster cultural exchange.

Madelyn De Leon, or Madz, epitomizes the essence of a multifaceted individual - a professional, an entrepreneur, and a dedicated community member. Her journey from Borongan City to becoming an integral part of the Yukon community is a testament to her resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact wherever she goes

Kim Inandan

As a newcomer to the Yukon, Kim Inandan is eager and enthusiastic about immersing himself in the local community and contributing his skills and passion to the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon. While he may be new to the territory, Kim's excitement to engage with fellow Yukoners and make a positive impact is palpable.

His fresh perspective and diverse background bring a unique flavor to the association, promising innovative ideas and fresh approaches to sports programming and community engagement. Kim's arrival injects new energy into the community, igniting a sense of anticipation for the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Kim's genuine enthusiasm for working with youth and children makes him an ideal candidate for leading the sports committee. His commitment to fostering positive experiences and imparting valuable life lessons through sports resonates deeply with his desire to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Whether organizing sports tournaments, coaching youth teams, or spearheading recreational activities, Kim's passion and dedication shine through, creating an environment where camaraderie, teamwork, and personal growth thrive.

As a potential Sports Committee Head for the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon, Kim Inandan embodies the spirit of sportsmanship, mentorship, and community building, poised to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes and leaders.

Ailene Gayangos

A stalwart of the Canadian Filipino community in Yukon, bringing 35 years of residency and a diverse range of experiences to the table. From starting as a nanny to juggling four jobs simultaneously, including roles as a waitress, kitchen helper, and housekeeper, her journey is a testament to her unmatched work ethic and adaptability.

In 1993, Ailene transitioned into a pivotal role in Health & Social Services, serving as the Environmental Service Coordinator for an impressive 28 years. Alongside her professional pursuits, she has been a successful entrepreneur since 1993, contributing to the economic fabric of the community.

Her commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work with the Heritage Association of Yukon and her 33-year involvement with the Canadian Filipino Association of Yukon (CFAY), where she is a founding partner. Ailene's deep-rooted connections, coupled with her leadership acumen, make her an ideal candidate for the CFAY board.

Ailene Gayangos epitomizes resilience and service, and she is poised to champion the interests of the Canadian Filipino community with compassion, diligence, and vision.

Aldous Fernandez

Aldous Fernandez, or simply Al, a remarkable individual with a journey that spans continents and professions. Arriving in Canada in 2010, Al dove headfirst into the assimilation program in Montreal, Quebec, immersing himself in the study of French for 1.5 years to adapt to his new environment.

Driven by a determination to forge a better future, Al took on various roles, from cleaner to dishwasher to caregiver. However, his aspirations led him to pursue a career in nursing, a decision supported wholeheartedly by his wife. With her financial backing, Al embarked on his nursing journey in Montreal, where he not only completed his diploma but also fulfilled his adult high school requirements as a prerequisite for the nursing program.

Al's educational background is as diverse as it is impressive. Armed with a Doctor of Medicine degree from Manila, Philippines, and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology, his foundation in healthcare is solid. His residency training in Psychiatry at Veterans Memorial Medical Centre further enhances his expertise in mental health care.

Despite transitioning to nursing, Al remains an active licensed doctor in the Philippines, showcasing his commitment to healthcare and his ability to manage dual professions seamlessly.

Now settled in Yukon since 2017 working at the Whitehorse Corrections Centre, Al is eager to continue his journey of service and contribution to the community. His diverse educational background, coupled with his rich professional experience, makes him a valuable asset to any organization. With his passion for healthcare and community engagement, Al is poised to bring his unique perspective and expertise to the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon.

Marjomar Aying

Better known as Jo, a vibrant candidate with a knack for bringing people together. Jo's journey is a colorful tapestry of experiences that make him a perfect fit for the board of Canadian Filipino Association of the Yukon.

Jo's education is a mixed bag of tricks, with degrees in Business Management, a flirtation with Information Technology, and a dabbling in Electrical and Electronic Communication Engineering. He's a lifelong learner, always hungry for more.

But Jo's not just about hitting the books. He's a social butterfly, buzzing around in various groups and activities. You can catch him hanging out with the Knights of Columbus or busy as a bee on the board of the Canadian Filipino Sports Association of the Yukon (CFSAY).

Now, let's talk basketball. Jo's got game. He's spent years bouncing from one college court to another, racking up points and making plays. He's even taken his talents international, repping the Philippines in hoop tournaments in Vietnam, China, and all across the globe.

And when he's not shooting hoops, Jo's rolling up his sleeves as a construction worker. From Brunei to Canada, he's laid bricks and hammered nails, showing off his versatility wherever he goes.

With his friendly demeanor, diverse experiences, and a heart for the community, Jo is ready to slam dunk his way onto the Canadian Filipino Association of the Yukon board and make some magic happen.

James Punongbayan

A man with a blend of academic prowess and professional experience that makes him a perfect fit for the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon board.

James is currently a student at CPA Western School of Business, honing his skills in finance and accounting. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Yukon University, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Outside of his academic pursuits, James is an active member of the Knights of Columbus, demonstrating his dedication to community involvement and service.

Professionally, James is a force to be reckoned with. He currently serves as the Manager of Financial Operations at YG Health & Social Services, where he brings his expertise in financial management to the table. Additionally, James is a Tax Professional at H&R Block, where he assists individuals and businesses with their tax planning and preparation needs. On top of all this, he also works as a Financial Analyst at Northwestel, gaining valuable experience in financial analysis and reporting.

With his diverse skill set, educational background, and commitment to community service, James is well-equipped to contribute positively to the Canadian Filipino Association Yukon board. His passion for financial management and his dedication to serving others make him an invaluable asset to any organization he is a part of.

Jenalyn Trinidad

Fondly known as Jhena, a vibrant candidate ready to bring her energy and dedication to the Canadian-Filipino Association of Yukon (CFAY) Board. Jhena wears many hats—she's a devoted mom of four, and an administrative assistant at Yukon Government Highways and Public Works.

With a Diploma of Office Administration from Yukon University and an associate’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Services, Jhena brings an interesting wealth of skills

Beyond her professional life, Jhena finds fulfillment in giving back. You'll often find her volunteering at Whitehorse General Hospital, where her compassionate spirit shines through.

Her heart beats for the Filipino community, and she eagerly dedicates her free time to supporting her fellow Filipinos. Through her connections with family, friends, and colleagues–Jhena’s vibrant nature brings an air of collaboration and inclusivity.

With her warm personality, organizational skills, and genuine passion for community service, Jhena is ready to make a difference on the CFAY Board. She's committed to fostering unity and enhancing the well-being of Yukon's Filipino community. Join us in welcoming Jhena as a valuable addition to our team

Irineo "Noy" Samson

Was born in the Philippines and earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Holy Angel University. In 2007,he made the move to Canada, where he spent three years working in Alberta before finding a permanent home in Yukon in 2010. A dedicated family man, Noy is a proud father of two daughters and a loving grandfather to four grandchildren. He is known for his kind heart, hands-on, proactive approach to challenges, and his eagerness to help others in any way he can. Outside of his work and family, Noy enjoys staying active by playing basketball and is highly regarded for his exceptional cooking skills, which have become a favorite among friends and family.

Ana Marie Portea

Earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Technology, majoring in Accounting, from Rizal Technological University in 1985. In the same year, she passed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) board exam, marking the beginning of a distinguished career in accounting. Ana Marie's professional practice focused on cooperatives and non-profit organizations, reflecting her commitment to community development and service.

In the corporate world, she spent 23 years in the airline industry, where she gained extensive experience and contributed significantly to the sector's growth. In May 2005, Ana Marie migrated to Canada, initially settling in Vancouver. After five years, in 2010, she moved to the Yukon, where she continues to apply her expertise and passion within the community.

A devoted mother of three, Ana Marie values education and has instilled this importance in her family. Her children have followed in her footsteps of academic excellence: Rean graduated from Dalhousie University with a degree in Microbiology and Immunology, Mary earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration majoring in Accounting, and her youngest, Miguel, is currently pursuing a Nursing degree at the University of Alberta.

Ana Marie's journey from the Philippines to Canada exemplifies resilience, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to professional excellence and family. Her extensive experience in accounting, coupled with her contributions to both non-profit organizations and the corporate sector, highlights her versatility and unwavering dedication. As a valued member of the Yukon community, she embodies the spirit of service, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

Aurora Viernes

Aurora was born and raised in La Union and is the youngest of eight siblings. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree, with a major in Management, from Saint Louis College.