Lt. Col. Joseph Nonato: The First Filipino-Canadian to Command the Royal Regiment of Canada

Many Filipinos move abroad in search of opportunities, but few rise to lead foreign institutions steeped in history. Lt. Col. Joseph Nonato just made history as the first Filipino-Canadian to command the Royal Regiment of Canada, one of the oldest infantry regiments in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Breaking Barriers in Uniform

From Immigrant Roots to Military Leadership

Born to Filipino parents, Nonato grew up in Canada carrying the values of both cultures. His journey in the military wasn’t just about climbing ranks—it was about representation. In 2024, he was formally appointed Commanding Officer, a role with over a century of tradition.

A Historic First

This isn’t just a personal achievement. Nonato became the first Filipino to lead a regiment within the Canadian Armed Forces. His promotion shines a light on Filipino excellence in international service—a milestone that makes Filipinos around the world proud.

More Filipinos Making Global Impact

Beyond Borders, Beyond Expectations

Nonato’s achievement joins a growing list of global Pinoys breaking barriers in their fields:

• Lea Salonga, the Broadway icon, became the first Asian to win a Tony Award—much like Joseph Nonato leading in the military’s ranks.
• Nurse May Parsons, a UK-based Filipina, administered the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine in 2020.
• Gregory Villar, a Filipino-American NASA engineer, helped land the Mars Perseverance rover in 2021.
• And now, Lt. Col. Nonato leads one of Canada’s elite military units—proof that Filipinos belong in the highest ranks, everywhere.

These success stories fuel national pride and inspire the next generation of Filipino trailblazers, including impressive figures like Joseph Nonato himself.

READ: Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso: The Only Filipino in Forbes’ Prestigious List

Why His Command Matters

Representation Builds Confidence

Nonato’s position signals more than just career excellence. It reflects changing times, when cultural diversity is welcomed in leadership roles. For young Filipino-Canadians and immigrants in uniform, his story shows that breaking the ceiling is possible.

Honor and Responsibility

As Commanding Officer, Nonato oversees operations, history, and legacy. It’s a role of trust, integrity, and national duty. To see a Filipino in that seat is powerful—and a reminder that hard work can open doors in even the most traditional institutions.

Leading with Pride

Lt. Col. Joseph Nonato’s journey proves that Filipinos can lead not just in local communities, but on global stages—even in uniform. His command of the Royal Regiment of Canada is more than a personal win. It’s a moment of shared pride for Filipinos everywhere, encapsulated by Joseph Nonato.