Filipino immigrants were initially drawn to Canada primarily for which reason?

The primary reason Filipino immigrants were drawn to Canada was indeed for employment in nursing. During the late 20th century, Canada faced a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. The Canadian government actively recruited international nurses to address this gap. The solid foundation of education and training in nursing among Filipinos made them attractive candidates for Canadian healthcare institutions. This drive for employment in a stable and well-respected profession significantly influenced the immigration trends from the Philippines to Canada.

While educational opportunities, political asylum, and family reunification are important factors in the broader context of immigration, the immediate and compelling reason for many Filipinos was the opportunity for stable employment in the nursing sector, which was particularly emphasized during the periods of heightened recruitment for healthcare workers.