Board of Directors
Meet the leaders and volunteers supporting OFCS through service, culture, and community connection.
Jordg Lemita
Jordg Lemita is the President of the Okanagan Filipino-Canadian Society (OFCS) and serves professionally as a Strategic Planner and Market People Lead with McDonald’s. Jordg has built a diverse career across the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Australia, and Canada, bringing a global perspective to leadership, workforce development, and community engagement. In their professional role, Jordg works closely with hiring, people development, and organizational strategy, providing firsthand insight into workforce readiness and employment pathways. This experience strongly informs Jordg’s vision for OFCS—to go beyond cultural celebration by supporting youth, newcomers, and young professionals through skills development, mentorship, and inclusive community programs. Outside of professional and volunteer commitments, Jordg enjoys swimming, hiking, singing, performing, and spending meaningful time with friends.
OFCS Officers
Minerva Balantac Muresu
Minerva Balantac Muresu is the Vice President of OFCS and an award-winning REALTOR® with Century 21 based in Kelowna, British Columbia. In her first full year, she represented over 20 buyers—many of them first-time homeowners—and earned a #1 (tied) ranking for Buyer Representation in Kelowna. A mother of two, cancer survivor, world traveler, and health advocate, she believes every move should be a meaningful one. Minerva is deeply engaged in community service and is passionate about helping families thrive while honoring their cultural roots.
Laarne Apalla-Bautista
Laarne Apalla-Bautista serves as the Secretary of OFCS and works with Interior Health as a Rehabilitation Assistant and Health Care Aide. She studied Physical Therapy at Liceo de Cagayan University and Biology at Xavier – Ateneo de Cagayan. Laarne completed her secondary education at Lourdes College High School in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. She has been an OFCS officer and volunteer for over a decade and a member since 2003. Laarne is passionate about sharing, preserving, and showcasing Filipino culture in the community.
Mel Abogadie
Mel Abogadie serves as the Treasurer of the Okanagan Filipino-Canadian Society. He brings strong organizational skills and financial responsibility to the role, supporting the Society’s programs and initiatives. Mel is committed to transparency and accountability in managing OFCS resources. His dedication helps ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization. Mel takes pride in contributing his skills in service of the Filipino-Canadian community.
Brendalyn Belbin
Brendalyn Belbin serves as the Auditor of OFCS and is committed to supporting the Society whenever needed. She is passionate about travel and works closely with clients to help plan meaningful vacations, including trips to the Philippines, all-inclusive packages, and cruises. Brendalyn strongly believes in the vision and mission of OFCS and actively supports its goals. She values teamwork and collaboration in achieving positive outcomes for the community. Brendalyn proudly serves with the spirit of service and unity.
Elna von Dach
Elna von Dach is the Public Relations Officer of OFCS and a long-standing advocate for the Filipino and multicultural community. She previously served as the Founding President of OFCS from 1994 to 1995 and held the role of President for many years thereafter. Elna also worked as an Immigrant Settlement Worker with Kelowna Community Resources, supporting newcomers from diverse backgrounds. She has volunteered extensively in Kelowna since 1994 and has served as Chair of the Kelowna Folkfest for over 27 years. Elna continues to inspire through her leadership, advocacy, and lifelong commitment to community service.
Mary Grace Bibat
Mary Grace Bibat serves as a Public Relations Officer of OFCS and brings a strong background in youth and community leadership. Her leadership journey began in the Philippines at the age of 16 through church and community volunteering. She is open-minded and adaptable, allowing her to grow as a leader within the Canadian cultural landscape. Mary Grace is passionate about strengthening leadership among fellow Kababayans in Canada. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and spending time with friends.
Entertainment Committee
Merlyn Guilderson
Merlyn Guilderson is a member of the OFCS Entertainment Committee and works as a Community Support Worker in the Okanagan. She provides care, guidance, and emotional support to vulnerable individuals in the community. Active with OFCS since 2016, Merlyn regularly represents the Society at events alongside her two sons. She is also a Kelowna-based photographer and a competitive karate athlete at both local and national levels. Merlyn enjoys dancing, singing, hiking, and spending quality time with family and friends.
TJ Mendoza
TJ Mendoza is a member of the OFCS Entertainment Committee with a diverse professional and creative background. She earned an Associate’s Degree in Drafting and Design in Houston, Texas, before relocating to Canada in 2011 and transitioning into the healthcare field as a Care Aide. TJ is deeply passionate about music and performs as a drummer with her band, K-Avenue, and as a DJ for events and gatherings. Creativity and connection are central to her work, whether through music, caregiving, or cooking for loved ones. In his free time, TJ enjoys traveling, exploring new cuisines, and continuous personal growth.
Rossana Buslon
Rossana Buslon brings extensive leadership experience in financial services, having overseen branch operations in Kelowna, British Columbia. With a background in education and international cultural exchange, she values strong customer service and meaningful community connections. Rossana is an active member of the OFC Choir and Dance Group, where she shares her love for music and performance. She enjoys traveling and visiting historic churches whenever possible. Rossana is passionate about contributing her skills and energy to the Filipino-Canadian community.
Honorary Advisors / Past Presidents
Bella Mockford
Bella Mockford served as President of the Okanagan Filipino-Canadian Society (OFCS) for the past 10 years, providing steady leadership, vision, and dedication to the Filipino community. Her strong relationships with community partners, cultural organizations, and stakeholders have helped OFCS grow and remain visible, inclusive, and impactful. Bella continues to support OFCS as a Board Advisor, offering valuable guidance, continuity, and institutional knowledge built over a decade of service.
Victoria Barredo Oppertshauser
Victoria Barredo Oppertshauser is a Past President and Honorary Advisor of OFCS with a strong commitment to social justice and inclusion. She has supported marginalized communities and immigrants through leadership roles in OFCS and Kelowna Community Resources. During her presidency, she initiated free FoodSafe training and community events for immigrants and temporary workers. Victoria currently serves as Service Chairperson on the Catholic Women’s League of Canada provincial board for BC and Yukon. She values most the fulfillment that comes from helping others succeed.
Ding Abogadie
Ding Abogadie is an Honorary Advisor of the Okanagan Filipino-Canadian Society. She has contributed years of leadership and guidance to the organization’s development. Ding is known for her steady support of OFCS initiatives and community programs. Her experience continues to provide valuable insight to the current leadership team. Ding remains committed to the unity and growth of the Filipino-Canadian community.