We would like to say thank you to Lele and Allan Chan, who hosted the Filipino BC team at Tahanan Studio. Amidst the heartbreak and around-the-clock crisis response, it’s easy to forget to take care of your mind and body. They reminded us of the importance of gathering to rest, have dinner and share laughs with friends.

The Resilience Centre welcomed over 70 individuals, families and groups of friends looking for a place to gather, reflect, and reconnect. It offered a calm space where community members could share a meal, check in with one another, and find small moments of comfort in being together.

We honour the lives lost in the recent tragedy and hold their families close in our thoughts. May their memory live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.

We have always shown up for one another, whether that be for our families, our friends or our neighbours across communities.  In times of hardship, when systems have failed us, it’s been our shared experiences, resilience and care that have carried us through.

We strongly encourage groups to apply for up to $25,000 in grants for the KAPWA STRONG Fund. Eligible initiatives include:

• Immediate to mid-term recovery provision, and strategic ongoing support for those impacted by this emergency

• Healing supports as well as basic needs

• Mental health and counselling support

• Opportunities for community members to grieve

• Community-led events

In Tagalog, we say, magpahinga, which means to rest. And the Resilience Centre is made for people to do just that. When it reopens tomorrow, Tuesday, May 6, from 5 to 8 PM, anyone who has been affected by the tragedy can gather for a meal, connect with other community members, learn about resources and rest.

Filipino BC is now covering the costs of hotel accommodations for the family of one victim who was affected by the tragic events that occurred on April 26, 2025.

Update 1: Lapu Lapu Day Volunteer Mental Health Debrief Session

We are committed to supporting the Filipino community and our team of volunteers in the wake of the unprecedented tragedy at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival.