DFA, DMW extend condolences over Vancouver incident

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) have extended condolences and pledged assistance to victims of a fatal incident at a Filipino community street festival in Vancouver, Canada.

A vehicle plowed into the crowd at the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party on Saturday night, resulting in 11 deaths and 20 injuries, with victims ranging from 5 to 65 years old.

The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Vancouver resident Kai-Ji Adam Lo, has been charged by Canadian authorities with murder.

The DFA, in coordination with the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, is cooperating with Canadian authorities and is on top of the situation.

The DMW is ensuring the safety and wellness of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the tragedy.

The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is in close contact with Filipino organizations and has made rounds of hospitals to inform victims of the Philippine government's willingness to provide support.

The Canadian Embassy in Manila has also expressed sympathy to the families of the victims.

The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver clarified that it has not created any fundraising efforts nor sanctioned any entities to raise funds on behalf of the victims.