My Introduction
I am a long-term resident of Sydenham District with my wife, Maria, and our youngest child, Armando. I earned a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Queen’s University in 1991 and, as a student, I lived in the lower Princess Street area above what is now Camera Kingston. Kingston has been the place I’ve chosen to live, work, and raise a family — and I believe it is one of the best places to live.
Before settling in Kingston, I lived and worked in several cities, including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto, and Lennoxville (Eastern Townships, Quebec). In 2000 I returned to Queen’s University to accept an academic appointment as an Associate Professor in the School of Urban and Regional Planning. Returning to my alma mater was a source of great pride and an opportunity to contribute to one of Canada’s top post‑secondary institutions.
My varied residential and professional experience across U.S. and Canadian communities has given me practical insight into municipal policies and urban design — what works, what doesn’t, and how cities can plan for equitable growth, livability, and resilience. I bring that perspective, along with long‑standing local roots, to represent Sydenham thoughtfully and effectively.
My Family
Of course, I would not be able to run for city council if not for the dedication and support of my family: my wife, Maria, and my youngest son, Armando.
Maria and I have been married for 18 years and together we have raised three children. I was fortunate that Maria gave-up her job and career in Toronto to join me in Kingston. I have supported her as she over came many challenges to launch her own business providing support care and housekeeping services to seniors living in our community. She is an award-winning business owner, member of Kingston Chamber of Commerce and participates in many community events.
Maria is actively involved in several of our city’s Philippine Associations, specifically PIC-KO. I believe her work has enriched our city by show casing our diversity and community strength. My wife taught me that Kingston needs to do more to help provide economic and employment opportunities to many different people. She also showed me the power of community groups, community organizations and that one person is sometimes all it takes to make a difference.
Armando is my youngest child. He is 16-years old and completing Grade 11 at Sainte Marie Rivier French Catholic Secondary School. He is graduate of École Catholique Cathédrale. He is fluent in both French and English – something his father did not achieve. He is also passionate about his community, its growth and development as well as its governance. My son is also the founder of the Kingston Chapter of the Young Politicians of Canada, a non-partisan organization that seeks to promote political advocacy among young persons. Needless to say, Armando will be helping me throughout my campaign, and I look forward to it.
Together, Maria and Armando provide hands‑on support, local insight, and community connections that strengthen this campaign.
