Filipinos affected by the car plow incident at a Filipino cultural event in Vancouver have been assured of assistance from the Philippine government through its embassy in Canada.
“The Philippine Embassy in Canada expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party on 26 April 2025 in Vancouver, Canada,” the Embassy said.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to all the victims and the Filipino-Canadian community during this difficult time. The Embassy stands ready to assist affected Filipinos and their families,” it added.
The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver also said it is awaiting further information about the incident, and called on the Filipino community to remain strong and resilient, “upholding the spirit of bayanihan during these trying times.”
According to reports, nine people were killed after a vehicle drove into a crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day celebration on Saturday in Vancouver. Authorities confirmed several fatalities and injuries, and said the driver is already in custody.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim confirmed the incident on X, formerly known as Twitter, expressing its deepest sympathy to the Filipino community in the area.
“We will work to provide more information as soon as we can, but at this time @VancouverPD have confirmed that there are a number of fatalities and multiple injuries,” Sim said.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time,” he added.
The Philippine Embassy keeps its doors open for Filipinos in need of assistance. It may be reached through its Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) hotline at +1 (613) 614-2846.
Filipinos in Vancouver and nearby areas may also contact the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver at +1 (604) 653-5858.