The Powell Street Festival Society is heartbroken by the tragic events and loss of life that unfolded at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party.

Our collective hearts are with the Filipino community who suffered terrible loss and are hurting from this senseless act of violence. It is unimaginable that such violence can occur at an inclusive celebration of community, culture, and resilience. We grieve deeply with those who have been affected by this tragic event.

As a community festival, we stand in solidarity with the Filipino community and the festival organizers in this time. We commit to holding space for mourning, for healing, for remembrance. We encourage our community and supporters to connect survivors with needed support, donate blood, and offer relief to those grieving from this senseless tragedy.

To the Filipino community: We are with you. We see you. We grieve with you. We honour your resilience and the profound contributions you make to the cultural fabric of our city. We commit to listen, to support, and to act in solidarity — both now and in the long road ahead. Together, we will navigate this grief with empathy, kindness, and the unwavering spirit of resilience.

In solidarity and compassion,

The Powell Street Festival Society