The Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers (British Columbia) Society (FACL BC) expresses its warmest congratulations to Judge Mylene de Guzman on her appointment to the British Columbia Provincial Court. Judge de Guzman is the first Filipino-Canadian appointed to the British Columbia Provincial Court, marking a historic appointment.

Born in the Philippines, Judge de Guzman immigrated to Ontario where she later earned her law degree from the University of Windsor in 1995. She has spent most of her legal career as a family lawyer in British Columbia and in 2015 became accredited as a family law mediator and arbitrator. In her commitment to access to justice, she has been involved in various initiatives including serving as a roster lawyer for Access Pro Bono and as a lecturer for legal clinics through Amici Curiae Friendship Society. Her dedication to the legal community is further reflected in her leadership roles including serving as the president of the New West Bar Association. Judge de Guzman’s ascension to the Canadian Bar Association, British Columbia Branch (“CBABC”) Board of Directors first began as its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Representative and most recently, first Vice President. Prior to her appointment to the Bench, Judge de Guzman would have been the first CBABC President of Filipino descent, and fifth CBABC President of Asian heritage. 

Days before her appointment, FACL BC had the pleasure of celebrating the Filipino Canadian legal community alongside Judge de Guzman at the inaugural Filipino Canadian Lawyers Network awards night. Over the years, Judge de Guzman has supported FACL BC as an active member, including by attending our Hometown Eats series representing the CBABC as well as our annual Gala. Judge de Guzman has also previously served as a mentor in FACL BC’s mentorship program, where FACL BC matches over 150 law students and lawyers as part of Western Canada’s largest mentorship initiative for Asian Canadian law students.

FACL BC commends the appointment of Judge de Guzman to the bench. A judiciary reflective of the province's diversity and committed to advancing access to justice is essential in addressing the needs of our community. This aligns with FACL BC's mandate of promoting equity, justice and opportunity for Asian Canadian legal professionals and the wider community. We look forward to Judge de Guzman's continued contributions to the legal profession.