The Province of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver are proclaiming April 27, 2024 as Lapu-Lapu Day.
In addition, the City of Vancouver is illuminating city hall on Cambie Street and the Burrard Street Bridge with Philippine colours in honour of Lapu-Lapu, the first national hero of the Philippines.
The provincial and city declarations and lighting events coincide with the first multi-block party in Vancouver to honour the legacy of Lapu-Lapu.
The Lapu-Lapu Block Party on April 27 will be held in the spaces west of Fraser Street from East 43rd Avenue to East 48th Avenue.
The party includes a basketball tournament and shows inside and on the grounds of the John Oliver Secondary School on East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street.
The proclamations of Lapu-Lapu Day hold special significance as 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of
diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Canada, highlighting the enduring friendship and
collaboration between the two nations.
In 2023, the Province of B.C. declared April 27 of that year as Lapu-Lapu Day in B.C.
The proclamations underscore the growing recognition and celebration of Lapu-Lapu’s legacy
and its relevance in the cultural tapestry of Vancouver and B.C. and beyond.
“The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is pleased and excited to join the Filipino community in
BC in celebrating Lapu-Lapu Day on April 27, exactly one year after the proclamation of Lapu-Lapu Day by
the province of British Columbia, thanks in large part to the hard work of Filipino-Canadian MLA Mable
Elmore,” stated Arlene T. Magno, Philippine Consul General in Vancouver.
“The occasion, which hopes to bring together Filipinos and Canadians from all walks of life is also a fitting way to mark 75 years of Philippines-Canada relations, as our history and interaction with one another is anchored on the strength and the essence of our people-to-people ties,” Magno said.
Magno added: “I would like to congratulate the organizers of the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party for making this happen and thank the City of Vancouver for supporting and honoring the occasion through the lighting up of City Hall and the Burrard Bridge in Vancouver.”
Lapu-Lapu, a revered figure in Filipino history, symbolizes bravery, resilience and the spirit of
independence. His legacy resonates not only within the Filipino community but also serves as a beacon
of inspiration for multicultural harmony and understanding.
Filipino BC and the Sunset on Fraser Business Association is collaborating to present the April 27 Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver.
The block party happens as Filipino BC is marking its one-year anniversary.
Over the past year, Filipino BC has thrived with the unwavering support of its dedicated community, and as it celebrates this achievement, it reflects on its accomplishments and looks ahead to an even brighter future.
In its inaugural year, Filipino BC launched several impactful initiatives aimed at supporting and
empowering the Filipino community in British Columbia. Notable among these initiatives is Kusina, a
community kitchen providing essential support to live-in caregivers and temporary foreign workers.
Filipino BC also initiated the Bayani Oral History Project, capturing the invaluable experiences of
healthcare and hospital workers amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking ahead to 2024 and 2025, Filipino BC is excited to embark on new endeavors to further enrich
and empower the Filipino community. Among the upcoming initiatives are: Filipino language classes,
legal advocacy and outreach, peer support programs, youth mental health programming, senior support
services, Kusina expansion, networking events and STEM classes.
However, such ambitious plans require the support of the community. Filipino BC invites individuals to
contribute to its mission through generous donations. A gift of $100 will not only ensure the success of
the 2025 Lapu-Lapu Day celebration but will also sustain ongoing initiatives aimed at nurturing youth,
preserving Filipino-Canadian heritage and prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable community members.
Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated and will contribute to creating inclusive and enriching
programs, services and spaces that celebrate the Filipino community and its heritage. Together, Filipino
BC and its community can build a brighter future for generations to come. Join us on this exciting journey
of growth and empowerment.
For more information or to make a donation, visit https://filipinobc.com/.
