It is with profound sadness that we at the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival acknowledge the devastating act of violence that occurred after the Lapu Lapu Day Festival in Vancouver on April 26th, 2025.
Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and the entire Filipino-Canadian community as they mourn this devastating loss. The tragedy has left our entire community grieving and has deeply affected us all.
As fellow event organizers in the Greater Vancouver area, we stand in solidarity with the Filipino community and all those impacted by this tragedy. While our organization was not involved with this event, we recognize our responsibility as members of the event organizing community to support relief efforts and help our community heal together.
The Filipino community has shown us the power of KAPWA—a term that describes the Filipino experience of community, interconnectedness, and shared humanity. In this spirit of solidarity, we’ve seen overwhelming support from our broader communities, and we are committed to doing our part.
How to Help: Direct Relief Efforts
United Way BC & Canadian Red Cross Appeal
United Way BC has partnered with the Canadian Red Cross to launch an appeal specifically for communities affected by this tragedy. As event organizers, we strongly encourage our community to contribute to these established relief efforts:
- 100% of donations go directly to those affected – United Way BC covers all administrative fees
- Funds support immediate needs including counseling and funeral costs for victims
- Additional support will be distributed through United Way’s grant process as needs are identified
- Every contribution, no matter the size, embodies the spirit of KAPWA
The Kapwa Centre for Community Resilience
A dedicated space has been established for healing and support. While this tragedy deeply impacted the Filipino community, everyone affected is welcome:
- Location: Visit filipinobc.com for current location details
- Open to all: Families, individuals, vendors, volunteers, staff from nearby businesses, and anyone affected
- No pressure: Come as you are—no need to speak or explain why you’re there
Services Available:
- Welcoming environment for reflection, rest, and community connection
- Emotional and spiritual support from trusted professionals
- Wellness resources and referrals tailored to individual needs
- Opportunities to share what support might help you moving forward
Learn More About the Kapwa Centre →
Additional Support Resources
Immediate Crisis Support
Victim Services – Available 24/7 for those who witnessed or experienced trauma
- Call or text: 1-800-563-0808
- Email: [email protected]
Mental Health Crisis Line – Vancouver/Fraser Health
- Call: 604-872-3311 (Greater Vancouver)
- Toll-free: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
Moving Forward as One Community
In the days and weeks to come, we as event organizers commit to continuing our support for the Filipino-Canadian community through respectful acknowledgment of their loss and active participation in relief efforts.
We encourage our entire community to contribute to the official support channels established by United Way BC and the Canadian Red Cross, and to embrace the spirit of KAPWA—recognizing our shared humanity and interconnectedness during this time of healing.
Together, we are KAPWA STRONG.
