Members of the Filipino community in Vancouver, Canada have been shaken by the car-plowing incident that killed 11 persons and injured over 20 others during a "Lapu-Lapu Day" festival. 

One of those who was in the venue during the tragedy is 27-year-old Kenneth John Benedicto Leo from Pototan town, Province of Iloilo.

Prior to the incident, Kenneth was with nine Filipino friends who attended a concert.

He said that they proceeded to the festival area to eat after the concert.

“Bigla na lang nag-bogsh-bogsh-bogsh! Nagulat ako akala ko nga, fireworks or gunshots. Nang nakita ko, tumilapon na ang mga tao, pati mga plastic na nabangga ng sasakyan,” Kenneth narrated.

He also said he is thankful that they were able to scamper for safety.  

“If na-delay lang kami two or three seconds, hindi kami nakapunta sa safe space, nadamay kami siguro, patay rin kami ngayon,” Kenneth said.

As Kenneth is a former firefighter in the Philippines, he assisted in administering first aid to wounded persons.

A prayer vigil to express sympathy over the loss was carried out, along with candle lighting and offering of flowers and prayers.

Kenneth admits that the incident has a huge psychological and emotional impact on him. However, he tries to keep going with the support of the Filipino community in the said Canadian city.