DAY OF REMEMBRANCE & MOURNING FOR LAPU-LAPU DAY TRAGEDY DECLARED

May 2 marks the “official day of remembrance and mourning for the victims of the murderous attack at Lapu Lapu Day in Vancouver,” according to British Columbia Premier David Eby.

In a statement issued today, Mr. Eby said “people in British Columbia can come together to grieve those we have lost, to offer comfort to those recovering from injuries and to support witnesses whose lives will never be the same after seeing this shocking attack.”

On the night of April 26, members of the Filipino-Canadian community were celebrating their Lapu-Lapu Festival at East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street in Vancouver when an SUV plowed into the crowd, leaving 11 people dead and numerous others injured. 

“As premier, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost a loved one,” he said. 

“To those injured physically and mentally, I extend my sympathies and my wishes for a full and speedy recovery,” he added.

He thanked the police, the paramedics, hospitals workers and “members of the public who stepped up to help at a terrible, chaotic scene by offering first aid and comfort.”

He said it is now the turn of the province to offer care, solace, hugs and support to Filipino-Canadians who “have a well-earned reputation as a giving community.”

The premier added: “This attack will not stop the people of Vancouver and British Columbia from gathering. We will continue to celebrate our rich cultures, religions and heritages. These festivals are highlights of life in our multicultural province and a deep expression of who we are.”