World Immigration News

From the Philippines to the Prairies: How Neepawa is thriving through immigration

Release Date: 2025-11-02
Media: Radio-Canada
Summary: A new Filipino restaurant in Neepawa, Manitoba reflects the town’s rapidly growing newcomer population and the strong presence of Filipino culture. The owner, Catherine Vego, moved from the Philippines in 2014 and opened Vego’s Home Pinoy Restaurant in October, aiming to offer a sense of home to fellow Filipinos.

Neepawa has experienced a major demographic shift: of its roughly 5,700 residents, about 2,600 are Filipino, nearly double the number from 2016. Many newcomers arrive through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program at HyLife Foods, a local pork-processing plant that recruits large numbers of Filipino workers each year. Over time, many workers apply for permanent residency and settle in the area, leading to new businesses — about half of the town’s 13 newcomer-owned storefronts are Filipino-run.

Local economic development officials describe immigration as a key factor in the town’s growth, though challenges such as housing shortages and limited daycare and school capacity remain. Despite these issues, newcomers say Neepawa’s safety, welcoming atmosphere, and strong Filipino community make it feel like home. Vego’s restaurant now serves 400–600 customers a day and has become a cultural gathering place in the community.
Tags: Canada

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