The Philippine Artists Group of Canada started as a loose and nameless group of Filipino visual artists invited to participate in an art exhibition organized as a special feature of the 1986 Gala Night celebration for the annual Independence Day festivities in Toronto.

Encouraged by the warm reception of the Filipino community, the artists thought that being together, they can continue to do their art, do more exhibitions, and other activities. Romi MananQuil suggested that they form a more solid group with common activities and higher aspirations.Thus, the Philippine Artists Group was born, elected officers with MananQuil as President and adopted June 12, 1988, the 90th anniversary of the Philippine Independence, as their official foundation day. Since then, the PAG art exhibition became a regular feature of the Philippine Independence Day celebration in Toronto. Presently, the PAG not only hold Philippine art exhibitions, but has participated in worthwhile community projects.

The group membership boasted of some of the most important names in Philippine Art in Ontario. Today, presently consisting of Teody Asuncion, Joyce Bondoc, Frank Cruzet, Jhun Ciolo Diamante, Marissa Corpuz, Tony Hizon, Catalina Jeffers, Gene Lopos, Romi C. Mananquil. Maridi Nievera, Michelle C. Ramos, Mark E. Salinas, Marissa Sweet, Frank and Nelia Tonido (President), and joined by their Guests Exhibitors: Bueno Silva and Canadian Senator Tobias Enverga in this art show.

The PAG, now known as the Philippine Artists Group of Canada continue to grow, not only in membership but also in stature and idealism. To the Filipinos in Canada, amidst the task of rebuilding their lives again in this adopted country, the PAG is slowly impressing and reawakening the Filipinos dormant psyche on the values and richness of Philippine culture, particularly on the visual arts.

They are holding their 28th annual art exhibition at the Neilson Park Creative Center in Etobicoke on June 06-26, 2016. Tel: 416-622-5294.