Car ramming kills 11, injures over 20 at Lapu-Lapu Day in Vancouver

On Sunday, April 27, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed condolences to victims and families affected by a tragic incident at the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party in Vancouver, Canada.

The DFA stated its readiness to provide assistance to bereaved families and work with Canadian authorities to ensure support for the Filipino community, as confirmed by Secretary Enrique Manalo on Monday.

About nine people were initially reported dead, but the death toll has risen to 11, with over 20 others injured when a car rammed into the crowd during the festival's conclusion on Saturday night.

A 30-year-old man is in custody and authorities believe the incident was not an act of terrorism; he attempted to flee but was held by festival-goers until police arrived.

The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Vancouver has been actively involved, making rounds at hospitals and informing them of the government's willingness to provide support for Filipino victims.

Social media posts showed distressing scenes including bodies, debris, and blood scattered across the road, along with a damaged black car; meanwhile, the PCG warned about potential fundraising scams exploiting the tragedy.