MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was “completely shattered” by the tragic event that occurred during the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, over the weekend.
In a statement, the Chief Executive conveyed his heartfelt condolences for the victims of the incident, in which a vehicle struck a gathering of participants, resulting in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries.
“I am completely shattered to hear about the terrible incident,” President Marcos said in a statement.
“On behalf of the Philippine Government and the Filipino people, Liza and I would like to express our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and to the strong and thriving Filipino community in Canada,” he added.
President Marcos also assured that the Philippine government, through the consulate in Vancouver, is coordinating with Canadian authorities.
“The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is working with Canadian authorities to ensure that the incident will be thoroughly investigated, and that the victims and their families are supported and consoled,” Marcos said.
“We are one with the families of the victims and the Filipino community in Vancouver during this difficult time,” he added.
Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, for her part, offered her condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured in the incident while she also condemned “this deliberate assault in the strongest possible terms.”
“My thoughts are with every kababayan affected by an act of violence that has no place in our shared humanity,” Duterte-Carpio said. “There is no justification for targeting peaceful festivalgoers, and those responsible must be held fully accountable under Canadian law.”
“I thank the Canadian Government and deeply appreciate the efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver for their coordination with Canadian authorities to ensure every Filipino in need receives assistance, comfort, and clear guidance. Their commitment to our kababayan’s well-being offers immense reassurance during these challenging times,” she added.
At approximately 8:14 p.m. on April 26, a man drove into a large crowd of people attending the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival near East 43rd Avenue and Fraser Street, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD).
Organizer Filipino BC said the festival “was meant to celebrate resistance and resilience.” It reported “racist verbal attacks targeting Black performers” prior to the event./PN
