Black Eyed Peas star Apl.De.Ap has expressed his profound shock and heartbreak following a tragic incident at the Lapu-Lapu Festival in Vancouver, Canada, where a vehicle rammed into the crowd just minutes after his performance. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, April 26th, 2025 (Sunday, April 27th, Philippine Time), has left at least 11 people dead and many others injured.
Apl.De.Ap, who performed at the festival with J-Rey Soul, shared his reaction on Instagram, stating that he and J-Rey had left the stage "minutes before it happened." He described the feeling as "hard to describe the shock and the heaviness we feel." The Filipino-American rapper extended his condolences to the victims, their families, and everyone affected by the tragedy. He also expressed gratitude to those who had reached out and asked for prayers for the victims, their families, and the organizers.
The Lapu-Lapu Festival, also known as the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party, is a celebration of Filipino-Canadian culture. This year's festivities were particularly significant, as 2023 marked the official declaration of April 27th as Lapu Lapu Day in British Columbia, acknowledging the contributions of Filipino Canadians to the province. The festival honors Datu Lapu-Lapu, an Indigenous Visayan Chieftain from Mactan, Philippines. The event drew a crowd of approximately 100,000 people.
According to reports, a sport utility vehicle drove into the crowd near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street at approximately 8 p.m. local time. Authorities have identified the suspect as Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, a Vancouver resident, who has been charged with eight counts of second-degree murder. Vancouver Police have indicated that further charges are anticipated.
Interim Vancouver Police Chief Steve Rai described the incident as "one of the darkest days in the city's history," stating that "the actions of a single person shattered our collective sense of safety." Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that authorities are closely monitoring the situation, while also stating they are “confident” that it was “not an act of terrorism”.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has also offered condolences to the families of the victims and has pledged to provide necessary assistance and support. The Philippine Consul General of Vancouver, Gina Jamoralin, stated that the suspect has a history of mental health issues.
In his Instagram post, Apl.De.Ap also highlighted the sense of community that emerged in the wake of the tragedy. He noted the outpouring of love and support from the audience and those who sent messages. He also shared support hotlines and tips for those experiencing trauma, including a suggestion that playing Tetris may reduce the risk of intrusive memories after a traumatic event.
J-Rey Soul also shared her heartbreak and shock on Instagram Stories, posting photos of her and Apl.De.Ap performing at the event. She wrote, "To hear about the tragedy that happened shortly after we performed has left us heartbroken, devastated, and still in shock. My heart aches for the families who lost their loved ones. Sending all my love, prayers, and strength to everyone affected."
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and support from celebrities and community members alike. Filipino comedian Jo Koy expressed his heartbreak on Instagram, stating, "I am heartbroken to hear what took place at the Vancouver Filipino Festival. This is supposed to be an event that honors and celebrates our beautiful culture, and now we're mourning the loss of 11 lives that were taken too soon." OPM icon Martin Nievera also offered prayers to the victims and their families.
