By Christian Cunanan
VANCOUVER BC – The United Filipino-Canadian Associations in British Columbia (UFCABC) will host a 4/26 Memorial and Philippine Flag Raising Ceremony on Friday, May 31, 2025, at 10Am – 5PM at Filipino Plaza, located near the Nanaimo SkyTrain Station in Vancouver. The event will honour the eleven lives lost in the April 26 tragedy and recognize those deeply affected by it.
The annual Flag Raising Ceremony at Filipino Plaza in Vancouver marks the beginning of Canada’s Filipino Heritage Month and the celebration of Philippine Independence Day. This year’s gathering is especially meaningful — not only as a solemn tribute to those we have lost, but as a powerful reflection of the unity, strength, and enduring spirit of the Filipino Canadian community.
Filipino Plaza, long recognized as a gathering place for the Filipino community and the annual site of the Philippine Flag Raising — a celebration of heritage and pride — has taken on a deeper meaning in the wake of the April 26 tragedy. It now stands not only as a symbol of cultural joy, but as a place of solemn gathering — where we come together in remembrance, in healing, and in unity, rising as one community with strength, compassion, and resilience.
“What began as a joyful celebration at the Lapu Lapu Block Party ended in unimaginable loss,” said UFCABC President Christian Cunanan. “In our grief, we rediscovered what makes us strong: our compassion, our togetherness, and our unwavering hope.”
At the heart of the community’s response is the enduring spirit of Bayanihan—an age-old Filipino tradition of coming together in times of need. More than just helping hands, Bayanihan is the soul of our culture: neighbours lifting each other through hardship, strangers becoming family, and entire communities moving forward as one. In moments of tragedy, it is this spirit that reminds us: no one grieves alone, and no one is left behind.
This year’s memorial and flag-raising carries profound meaning. It honours those we have lost, uplifts those still healing, and reaffirms our shared commitment to the Filipino values of Family, Faith, and unity.
Premier David Eby, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim, MLA Mable Elmore, and Consul General Consul General Jamoralin of the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver are expected to attend and offer messages of solidarity and support.
All are invited to join the community for an afternoon of reflection, prayer, and remembrance.
Event Details:
- Philippine Flag Raising Ceremony,
- Community Fiesta and 4/26 Memorial
- Date: Saturday , May 31, 2025
- Venue: Filipino Plaza in Vancouver
UFCABC invites you to the Philippine Heritage Month Kickoff and Flag Raising Ceremony at Filipino Plaza.
The event will feature cultural performances, community sharing, and a celebration of Filipino heritage and resilience.
ReyFort Media 
Leave a comment