Dozens of protestors gather as Vancouver community marks one year since Lapu Lapu tragedy

Dozens of protesters gathered outside the Italian Cultural Centre in East Vancouver as the Filipino community marked the one-year anniversary of the Lapu Lapu tragedy, where 11 people were killed in a vehicle ramming attack. The event, organized by Filipino BC, was intended as a day of reflection and remembrance but instead exposed divisions within the community. Protesters, many of whom were family members of the victims, criticized the timing and purpose of the event, arguing it was premature and primarily served the interests of the organizer rather than the victims’ families. Jenny De Guzman and Rodel Sico, parents of one of the victims, Jendhel May Sico, expressed frustration that Filipino BC did not consult the families before proceeding with the event. They also voiced disappointment over the limited financial support they received, with De Guzman stating that her requests for assistance were largely ignored. Other community members, including a former volunteer, described the event as hypocritical, accusing Filipino BC of using the anniversary to raise funds under the guise of healing and togetherness. In response, RJ Aquino, head of Filipino BC, defended the event as a necessary opportunity for communal support and reflection. He emphasized transparency in the handling of funds, which are managed in partnership with the United Way, and reiterated the organization’s commitment to engaging the community and providing access to healing resources. Aquino acknowledged the grief and frustration felt by those directly affected and encouraged open communication with Filipino BC to address concerns and ensure support is accessible. The anniversary event highlights ongoing tensions within the Filipino community in Vancouver as it grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy. The differing perspectives on how best to honor the victims and support their families underscore the complexities of communal healing following such a devastating incident. The situation also raises broader questions about the role of community organizations in managing trauma and resources after public tragedies.