As the Lapu-Lapu tragedy anniversary nears, Jendhel Sico’s family honours her life through tattoos, memories, and lasting love.
A Life Remembered, A Love That Lasts
As the anniversary of the devastating Lapu-Lapu Day tragedy approaches, one family in Vancouver holds tightly to memories that refuse to fade.
Twenty-seven-year-old Jendhel Sico lost her life in the tragic attack that claimed 11 people. Yet, even now, her presence continues to shape the lives of those who loved her most.
A Father’s Tribute, Inked Forever
For her father, Rodel Sico, remembering his daughter is not just emotional—it’s visible.
He chose to honour Jendhel through tattoos that capture moments they once shared. As a result, every design tells a story. One shows her proudly holding a salmon she caught. Another reflects a hike they completed together, smiling at the summit.
Moreover, a deeply personal piece features a birthday note she once gave him. It reads like a promise of forever. Close to his heart, he also carries her handprint—a symbol of connection that never fades.
“I want to see her all the time,” he shared. And so, through ink, she stays with him wherever he goes.
A Family Changed Forever
Meanwhile, at home, the silence feels heavier than ever. Jendhel’s mother, Jonna De Guzman, says life has shifted in ways words can hardly explain.
Family gatherings still happen. However, something is always missing.
“It feels empty,” she said. “Even when we’re together.”
In addition, De Guzman marked her grief with her first tattoo—a simple yet powerful message: “Love you, Ate.”
Weekends now bring visits to Jendhel’s resting place. Although painful, these moments help keep her close.
Carrying On Her Passions
At the same time, Jendhel’s younger sister, Maydhel Sico, honours her in her own way.
She picked up crocheting, a hobby Jendhel loved. Recently, she created a hat inspired by a colourful sweater her sister once made.
Still, she admits the responsibility feels overwhelming.
“There are huge shoes to fill,” she said.
Even so, she holds onto Jendhel’s outlook on life—live fully and waste nothing.
A Love Story Interrupted
For Blaine Redlac, the loss cuts especially deep. Their relationship began in high school and lasted more than a decade. Together, they built a life filled with simple joys like gardening and outdoor adventures.
Then, everything changed in an instant.
During the attack, Redlac suffered serious injuries that left him unable to walk for months. Yet, the emotional wounds run even deeper.
In fact, he avoids even saying the name tied to that day, because it brings back painful memories.
Healing Through Music and Memory
Despite the grief, Redlac continues to search for ways to cope. Music, in particular, has become his refuge.
He plays piano and guitar. He sings often. Most importantly, he writes songs for Jendhel—the woman he planned to propose to.
“The comfort I had in life was her,” he said quietly.
As the anniversary nears, one thing is certain. He will spend that day at her gravesite, alongside her family.
Love That Never Leaves
Although time moves forward, the love for Jendhel remains steady. Through tattoos, traditions, and creative passions, her spirit lives on.
And while the loss still feels fresh, her family continues to honour her in ways that keep her close—every single day.
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