Aether Rocero recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the alleged rampage at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival, resulting in the tragic loss of 11 lives and numerous injuries, as “terrifying.” Among the affected individuals were students from John Oliver Secondary School in Vancouver, situated at East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, where a vehicle plowed into attendees at the Filipino street celebration on April 26.
Despite the somber event, community members highlighted how students found solace through connectivity and artistic expression. In an effort to commemorate the neighborhood positively, students from the school will embark on creating a mural to adorn the walls of the basketball and tennis courts facing East 43rd Avenue. Rocero expressed, “It reminds us that it’s not just bad things that had happened on that street,” emphasizing the act as a form of reclamation.
Following his volunteering at the festival, Rocero revealed the emotional struggle of returning to school after the tragedy, describing the atmosphere as melancholic and sorrowful. However, he found a healing outlet through painting at school, expressing his emotions on canvas as a means of coping and honoring the community’s resilience post-tragedy.
Local artist Mar Cortez, already engaged with the students, opened her classroom for them to paint freely during the school week, offering a therapeutic space for artistic expression when words fail. Spearheading the school’s mural project, Cortez plans to incorporate vibrant elements symbolizing Filipino culture, unity, growth, and resilience, aiming to commemorate those affected while instilling a sense of hope and progress.
Reflecting on the students’ resilience and determination to move forward, various initiatives such as a run club, friendship speed dating, charity drives, dance, sports activities, leadership programs, and mental health support groups have been organized over the summer and into the new academic year. Community organizations and stakeholders have provided support through grants to facilitate these programs for the impacted youth.
Alison McKenzie, director of The Landing Youth Centre, praised the students’ strength and optimism amid adversity, emphasizing their eagerness to learn and grow. Rocero, involved in the mural project, expressed hope that it would serve as a beacon to celebrate the Fraser Street community and Filipino heritage, concluding with a message of perseverance and hope: “There is a light at the end of the tunnel. You just have to keep walking.”
