On September 30, Canadians pause to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - a day to honour the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never returned home. Also known as Orange Shirt Day, this day stems from the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, whose orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at residential school. Today, wearing orange has become a symbol of remembrance and a collective commitment to ensuring that every child is valued and matters.

Our hearts are heavy as we process the heartbreaking events that unfolded at the Lapu-lapu Festival. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as to the entire Filipino community in Vancouver. This senseless tragedy has inflicted unimaginable sorrow, and we want you to know that we stand with you in this time of grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we are here to support you however we can.