HEU members are deeply shocked and upset at last Saturday’s devastating incident at the end of the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver.
The Lapu Lapu Block Party is an annual event organized by Filipino BC that celebrates Filipino culture and solidarity. What began as a day filled with joy – with Filipino and non-Filipino community members of all ages coming together to share music, food and art – ended in senseless violence and unimaginable grief.
The Filipino community is a vital part of HEU – in every sector, at every worksite, and in every corner of the province. Filipino compassion, leadership and strength are woven into every part of the union and B.C.’s health care system.
HEU shares our grief with our sisters, brothers and siblings in the Filipino community. We mourn for the 11 individuals who lost their lives and send our strength to those who are recovering. We stand in unwavering solidarity with all those who are rebuilding after the devastating event.
In the immediate aftermath of the incident, HEU members stepped up when their worksites were activated to respond to the dozens of injuries that resulted from the attack. In the face of unimaginable sorrow and confusion, HEU members provided care with bravery, compassion, and kindness.
“I am stunned with grief and pain at the casualties from the senseless act of violence following the Lapu Lapu festival,” said Betty Valenzuela, HEU’s Financial Secretary.
“The Filipino community will comfort each other, draw strength from each other and in solidarity heal together. To my HEU family and my Filipino kapamilya, I want to hug and wrap everyone with my thoughts, prayers and love. With deep sympathy and sincere condolences. Taos pusong pakikiramay.”
The coming days, weeks and months will be challenging for those who are impacted by the tragedy. Several support resources have been made available for anyone who is struggling to process the event:
- Victim services are available 24 hours a day: Please call or text 1-800-563-0808, or email 211-victimlinkbc@uwbc.ca
- 310 mental health line: 604-310-6789
- Crisis line: 1-800-784-2433
- Coverage for counselling services may be available through benefits plan for HEU members. Members are reminded to refer to the benefits booklet.
- Some employers may also have Employee Family Assistance Program, which offers counselling services. Members are encouraged to check with your employer or human resources department.
As we start to learn about those who lost their lives, and those who are still recovering in hospital, United Way British Columbia and Filipino BC have set up the Kapwa Strong Fund, to help support the families and community members who have been affected: https://uwbc.ca/lapu/
The Province of B.C. has declared May 2, 2025 as the official day of remembrance and mourning for the victims of the Lapu Lapu festival tragedy.
HEU members are known for their incredible resilience in the face of challenging times. As in other moments of crises, HEU members will continue to deliver care with compassion, strength and love.