MANILA, Philippines – Philippine senators shared in the grief and shock of the Filipino-Canadian community following the tragedy that took lives in the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver on Saturday, April 26.
At least 11 people were killed and two dozen others were injured at the festival after a car rammed through the crowd on Saturday evening. The event, which took place mainly on the grounds of a school located at 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, was described as joyous until the incident happened.
“When we are linked by blood, not even a vast ocean that separates us now deadens the pain, and that is why the homeland also weeps,” said Senate President Chiz Escudero in a statement on Monday, April 28.
Escudero said that what should have been a celebration of heroism and freedom by Filipinos in their new country turned into a moment of despair. (READ: What is Lapu-Lapu Day? Filipinos shocked by festival tragedy in Vancouver)
Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros condemned “this act of senseless and cruel violence committed against people who were peacefully celebrating Filipino culture and heritage.”
Senator Grace Poe, meanwhile, said the incident must be investigated at once, and shared the same sentiment as Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel that justice must be served.
Community support
In a vigil that took place on Sunday evening in Vancouver, April 27, the local community gathered near the scene of the incident to grieve the victims and support each other.
“We are consoled by the fact that it is in times of darkness that we see the abundant kindness shine through by those who care: the first responders who rushed to aid, a nation expressing solidarity, and a global outpouring of affection,” said Escudero.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada called on Filipinos to support their compatriots during this time.
“Sa mga ganitong pagkakataon, ipamalas natin ang ating pagbabayanihan upang ipakita ang suporta, pagkakaisa, at bigyan ng lakas ang pamilya ng mga biktima na malampasan ang masakit na yugto na kanilang pinagdaraanan,” said Estrada.
(In times like these, let us demonstrate our solidarity to show support, unity, and give strength to the families of the victims so that they may overcome this painful period they are going through.)
The senators shared thoughts and prayers with the victims, their families, and the entire Filipino community in Canada. There are around a million Filipinos there, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also earlier expressed his grief following the incident.
‘Darkest day’
The incident sent shockwaves across the community, with Vancouver Interim Chief Constable Steve Rai describing it as the “darkest day” in the city’s history.
Thirty-year-old Kai-Ji Adam Lo, the driver of the vehicle, has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder, according to the Vancouver Police Department.
Local media on the scene of the aftermath, while not permitted access to the crime scene, saw children’s clothing on the street. The victims’ ages ranged from 5 to 65, according to Rai. Their identities have not been released.
In a statement on Sunday, migrants’ group Bayan BC said it was “shocked and devastated” by the tragedy and also seeking answers as to why it happened.
“We mourn the lives taken too soon. We are grateful to the families, workers, community members, and first responders who showed courage and care in face of this tragic incident. We recognize that many in our community, including young people, elderly, and families, are now carrying the emotional weight and trauma of this tragedy,” it said.
Bayan BC described the tragedy as a significant loss for the Filipino community, on a day intended to be festive.
The group also urged the community members who witnessed or were impacted by the incident to reach out to support services.
While a motive has yet to be determined, Canadian authorities said the suspect had a significant history of interactions with police in connection with mental health issues. Rai also ruled out terrorism.
The Philippine consulate in Vancouver posted the following hotlines for community members who might need them:
- Assistance-to-Nationals Hotline: +1 604 653 5858
- Migrant Workers’ Office Hotline: +1 604 767 3354
- Vancouver Police Department Victim Support: +1 800 563 0808
– Rappler.com