House leaders mourn Vancouver attack victims

House Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the Filipino community in Vancouver following a deadly car-ramming attack during a Lapu-Lapu Day celebration.

Romualdez assured Filipinos in Canada that the Philippine government is grieving with them and ready to provide assistance, stating, "Today, our hearts grieve with our Filipino community in Vancouver."

He emphasized that the Filipino community in Canada are not alone in their grief, adding, "As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I want our kababayan (compatriots) in Canada to know: Hindi kayo nag-iisa (You are not alone). We are one with you in mourning, and we stand ready to help in any way we can."

A 30-year-old Vancouver resident, Kai-Ji Adam Lo, drove a sports utility vehicle into the crowd, killing 11 as of posting time.

Romualdez asked Philippine consular officers in Canada to act swiftly to ensure affected Filipinos receive the support, protection, and justice they deserve.

He also urged Canadian authorities to strengthen safety measures for all, especially the Filipino community.

House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V condemned the "senseless act of violence" and joined in mourning with the Filipino-Canadian community.