Amnesty International Canada is profoundly saddened by the tragic attack during a celebration of Lapu Lapu Day in Vancouver on 26 April 2025.
In solidarity with the Filipino community, we mourn the loss of 11 lives inexplicably cut short and we extend our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and our support to those coping with the physical and emotional injuries of this event.
Lapu Lapu, whose name this day commemorates, was no ordinary figure; he was a beacon of resistance and a powerful symbol of anti-colonial courage. In 1521, on the shores of Mactan, he defiantly stood against the invading forces of Ferdinand Magellan, resisting colonial violence and asserting the dignity of his people. In doing so, Lapu Lapu etched into history a truth we must continually recall: that resistance to oppression, in any form and in any age, is not merely heroic; it is essential to human dignity and freedom.
To the Filipino-Canadian community, we say: may the spirit of Lapu Lapu inspire us, in this dark hour, to reaffirm the principles for which he bravely stood.
In mourning, dignity, and solidarity.
Amnesty International Canada
