By Marlou Tirio, Balitang Canada and U.S. News Agency / Asian

Tobias Enverga Jr. could hardly conceal his excitement as he prepares to face what he says the journey to the most challenging part of his life.

Enverga said his appointment to the senate was unexpected.

“My first reaction was a big, big surprise. Actually, it was a pleasant surprise at the same time because I do not expect to be nominated as Senator for Canada, which is really the top position in the whole Canada,” Enverga said.

Enverga also sees his appointment to the Senate as a great recognition of the Filipino-Canadian community’s contribution to Canada.

“Its a great, great honor for me and my family and actually the whole Filipino-Canadian (community),” he said.

Enverga is well known in the Philippine community in Toronto. He has spearheaded several successful fundraising activities and is the founder of the Philippine Canadians Charitable Foundation that holds the Pinoy fiesta in Toronto.

In 2012, Enverga was recipient of the Queen’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Medal of Distinction.

“Jun”, as he is commonly known, admits he has a lot of plans for the Filipino community. Topping his list is to champion the rights of immigrants. Enverga also serves as a Toronto Catholic District School Board Trustee.

A graduate of Economics at the Letran University, the 57-year-old Enverga has been serving as project manager at the Bank of Montreal since he arrived in Canada back in 1981.

The Senate is the Upper House in Canada’s bicameral parliamentary democracy. He will be one of the 105 appointed members representing Canada’s 10 provinces and 3 territories.