Filipino Heritage Month opened in British Columbia with a profound sense of reflection and mourning, as communities gathered to honour the victims of the April attack at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Day Festival, which left 11 people dead and many others injured.
At a memorial held in Vancouver on Saturday, mourners lit candles, offered prayers, and shared tears in remembrance of the lives lost during what was meant to be a celebration of Filipino history and heroism. The emotional gathering marked a solemn beginning to what is usually a joyful month of cultural pride and unity for the Filipino-Canadian community.
Premier David Eby issued a statement acknowledging the heavy emotional weight carried into this year’s commemorations.
“This year’s Filipino Heritage Month begins alongside deep sorrow, under the backdrop of the tragic attack that shook the entire province. Yet, the strength shown by the Filipino community and the solidarity from British Columbians of all backgrounds remind us of the power of unity in times of hardship.”
Mable Elmore, the first MLA of Filipino descent in B.C., also reflected on the resilience of her community.
“We mark this month to honour the memories of those we lost. While we are still healing, our community will rise stronger, guided by compassion and unity.”
The suspect in the April tragedy, Adam Kai-Ji Lo, appeared in court via video on Friday as proceedings continue to assess his mental fitness to stand trial. His next appearance is scheduled for June 6.
Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor in Peel Region, Ontario, and a strong advocate for multicultural inclusion, shared her own message of solidarity from across the country:
“As we mark Filipino Heritage Month, we do so with heavy hearts and deep compassion for the families affected by the Lapu Lapu Day tragedy. This senseless act of violence cannot define us. Instead, it is our unity, resilience, and celebration of our heritage that will carry us forward. From Brampton to Vancouver, we stand with our Filipino brothers and sisters in mourning, in remembrance, and in hope.”
Across Canada, Filipino communities are proceeding with scaled-back but meaningful events to honour culture, history, and the lives tragically lost. Organizers have emphasized that remembrance, healing, and national solidarity will shape the tone of this year’s observances.