Today is the provincial day of remembrance and mourning for the victims of the tragedy at the Lapu Lapu Day Festival. The tragedy took place less than a week ago, and many are still mourning the loss of life, the impact on families, and the sense of threat to communities.

For many of us who didn’t learn about the attack until the following morning, we awoke to world news coverage and messages from family and friends overseas. There was global shock that something like this could happen here in BC. But the reality is that mental health challenges are something we collectively grapple with—across communities, cultures, and borders.

As we remember those we’ve lost and hold space for those affected, we are reminded of the critical need for stronger, more accessible mental health supports. In the employment services sector, we see this every day: job seekers dealing with trauma, newcomers managing transition stress, and frontline staff carrying heavy emotional loads.

At ASPECT, we continue to advocate for trauma-informed practices, mental health training, and policies that support both clients and those who serve them. Today’s remembrance is a solemn reminder that this work is not only necessary—it’s urgent.

Let us take this time to reflect, support one another, and recommit to building safe, compassionate communities for all.

The provincial government has released a list of resources. You can also sign the digital condolence book.

The Federation of Community Social Services of BC is offering a free webinar: Get Well Canada Toolkit for Social Services Community Organizations in BC on May 15, 2025. 

Janet Morris-Reade, CEO
ASPECT BC