Lethbridge Filipino Community Holds Solemn Prayer Vigil for Vancouver Festival Victims

By Gerry Saguin

Lethbridge, AB – In a poignant display of solidarity and sorrow, the Filipino community of Lethbridge, Alberta, gathered last night in front of City Hall for a prayer vigil to honor the victims of the recent tragic Lapulapu festival in Vancouver. The event, marked by its solemnity and heartfelt tributes, brought together community members, local dignitaries, and representatives from various Filipino organizations.

The vigil was spearheaded by the Filipino Fiesta Society of Lethbridge AB. Leading the initiative was President Gerry Saguin, alongside dedicated directors Vanessa Sotto, Paola Ocampo, and Rommel Austria. They were joined by former San Juan (Manila) councilor Vincent Pacheco, now a resident of Lethbridge, whose presence underscored the broad reach of the Filipino diaspora and its immediate response to crises affecting its members.

The solemn proceedings were officiated by the Rev. Father Paolo Cervantes, who guided attendees through prayers and moments of reflection, adding a profound spiritual dimension to the gathering.

Among the notable dignitaries in attendance was the Honourable Blaine Hyggen, Mayor of Lethbridge, who stood alongside members of the Lethbridge City Council. Their presence not only showed official support but also highlighted the strong ties between the Filipino community and the broader Lethbridge population.

Also participating in the vigil were members of the Filipino Community Association of Lethbridge and Vicinity (FCALA), headed by Vic Visitation, and the TAU Gamma Phi Lethbridge Council, led by Chairman Chucky Encarnacion. The collective presence of these organizations underscored the deep sense of community and mutual support that defines the Filipino identity.

The atmosphere throughout the vigil was deeply moving. Participants held candles, offered prayers, and shared moments of quiet reflection, demonstrating a profound sense of loss and empathy for those affected by the Vancouver tragedy. Speeches emphasized themes of resilience, unity, and hope, reinforcing the community’s determination to support one another in times of adversity.

“This vigil is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community,” remarked Gerry Saguin, President of the Filipino Fiesta Society. “We grieve with the victims and their families, and we stand together as one, offering our prayers and our unwavering support.”

Overall, the event was well-attended, reflecting the tight-knit nature of the Filipino community in Lethbridge and their capacity for collective action and emotional support. The prayer vigil served as a powerful reminder of the bonds that connect people across distances, especially in moments of shared grief, and a testament to the compassionate spirit of Lethbridge.