My 19th blog:

Unity Amid Tragedy: Reflections on Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu Festival


The news first reached me through a message from my nephew in our family group chat. Relief washed over me, knowing that none of our family members were at the Lapu Lapu Festival during the tragic incident. But that relief was swiftly overshadowed by shock and disbelief. Filipinos are a peace-loving people who treasure community and harmony. How could anyone commit such a terrible act during a celebration of heritage and unity?


The Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver is a vibrant tribute to Filipino heritage and Datu Lapu-Lapu, the hero who stood against Spanish colonization in 1521. It symbolizes courage, freedom, and the enduring spirit of unity through Filipino traditions, food, music, and dances. The festival also showcases the Filipino community’s contributions to British Columbia's cultural richness.


Tragically, this beautiful celebration turned into a nightmare. A driver in an SUV plowed into a crowd of Filipinos celebrating the event, claiming nine lives and leaving many injured. My heart goes out to those affected by this devastating incident.


To everyone reading this, I invite you to join me in showing solidarity. Whether through prayer, messages of support, or contributions to those impacted; let’s affirm the shared values that unite us. While this tragedy is heartbreaking, let it not deter us from preserving Filipino heritage and standing together in adversity.


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