Organizers of a Filipino festival in Ottawa have decided to cancel the event in light of the horrific Lapu Lapu Day attack in Vancouver.The first annual Fun Philippines Ottawa Food and Music Street Festival was originally slated to take place in front of Parliament Hill on the weekend of May 17, but has now been "postponed until further notice."In a statement, Fun Philippines Ottawa said the "difficult decision" was made due to "unforeseen developments related to logistics and safety factors that are beyond our control.""After careful consideration, and with the well-being of our vendors, performers, community, and attendees as our top priority, we have determined that moving forward at this time would not meet the standards of safety and preparedness we expect of ourselves," the group explained." "We also acknowledge the broader emotional climate following the recent tragedy in Vancouver and understand that this is a time of mourning and reflection for many in our community.".Fun Philippines Ottawa added that while the festival may be cancelled, they "remain committed to delivering a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture in the future, one that is safe, meaningful, and peacefully enjoyable."The event was announced on March 1, with organizers and partners touting it as a milestone for the Filipino community."This festival is more than just food and music; it's about community, unity, and honouring our culture within a country that proudly embraces its diversity and vibrant cultural mosaic," Musika ng Pilipino sa Canada Kultura Chairman Eddie Villarta said at the time. "Hosting it along Wellington Street, with the grandeur of Parliament Hill as our backdrop, makes this celebration even more meaningful.".The attack in question occurred at the tail end of the Lapu Lapu Day festival near East 43rd Ave. and Fraser St. in Vancouver on the evening of April 26. Eleven people were killed and dozens more were injured..REVEALED: Suspect in horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack was 'on extended leave' from hospital.The suspect, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has since been charged with eight counts of murder, though more charges are expected to be filed as the investigation continues..Victims of horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack identified, fundraisers launched.Fundraisers have been launched to help the families of the victims. You can find them HERE.
Organizers of a Filipino festival in Ottawa have decided to cancel the event in light of the horrific Lapu Lapu Day attack in Vancouver.The first annual Fun Philippines Ottawa Food and Music Street Festival was originally slated to take place in front of Parliament Hill on the weekend of May 17, but has now been "postponed until further notice."In a statement, Fun Philippines Ottawa said the "difficult decision" was made due to "unforeseen developments related to logistics and safety factors that are beyond our control.""After careful consideration, and with the well-being of our vendors, performers, community, and attendees as our top priority, we have determined that moving forward at this time would not meet the standards of safety and preparedness we expect of ourselves," the group explained." "We also acknowledge the broader emotional climate following the recent tragedy in Vancouver and understand that this is a time of mourning and reflection for many in our community.".Fun Philippines Ottawa added that while the festival may be cancelled, they "remain committed to delivering a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture in the future, one that is safe, meaningful, and peacefully enjoyable."The event was announced on March 1, with organizers and partners touting it as a milestone for the Filipino community."This festival is more than just food and music; it's about community, unity, and honouring our culture within a country that proudly embraces its diversity and vibrant cultural mosaic," Musika ng Pilipino sa Canada Kultura Chairman Eddie Villarta said at the time. "Hosting it along Wellington Street, with the grandeur of Parliament Hill as our backdrop, makes this celebration even more meaningful.".The attack in question occurred at the tail end of the Lapu Lapu Day festival near East 43rd Ave. and Fraser St. in Vancouver on the evening of April 26. Eleven people were killed and dozens more were injured..REVEALED: Suspect in horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack was 'on extended leave' from hospital.The suspect, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has since been charged with eight counts of murder, though more charges are expected to be filed as the investigation continues..Victims of horrific Vancouver Filipino festival attack identified, fundraisers launched.Fundraisers have been launched to help the families of the victims. You can find them HERE.
