Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
Photo: Policy Exchange via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
World leaders mourn the victims of the Vancouver Lapu-Lapu Day festival tragedy, where a deadly vehicle crash claimed 11 lives. Canadian PM Carney and Philippine President Marcos offer condolences and support.
VANCOUVER, BC — Following the tragic incident that struck Vancouver’s Lapu-Lapu Day festival, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) issued statements expressing condolences, solidarity, and a commitment to support the victims and their families.
At least eleven people were confirmed dead and more than 20 others injured after a black SUV rammed into a crowd gathered near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street on the evening of April 26, shortly after the festival’s conclusion.
Authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive and are investigating the mental health history of the 30-year-old Vancouver resident taken into custody at the scene.
Prime Minister Carney: “We are mourning with you.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney described the event as “horrific” and extended his condolences to the Filipino Canadian community and the city of Vancouver.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed and injured, to the Filipino Canadian community, and to everyone in Vancouver. We are all mourning with you,” Carney said.
He praised first responders for their swift action and suspended his campaign activities for the weekend as a mark of respect.
Photo courtesy of Malacañang Palace
President Marcos: “Completely shattered.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed being “completely shattered” upon learning about the tragedy. He assured that the Philippine government is actively coordinating with Canadian authorities through the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver.
“The Consulate is working closely with Canadian authorities to ensure that the victims and their families are fully supported. We are committed to assisting those affected and ensuring that the investigation is thorough,” Marcos said.
The President extended sympathies to the Filipino community in Canada, emphasizing that the Philippine government stands with them in this time of grief.
DFA: Continued Assistance to Victims
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) also issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and reaffirmed its commitment to assist the victims and their families.
“The DFA assures the public that the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is working closely with Canadian authorities to extend all necessary support to the victims and their loved ones,” the agency said.
The DFA urged Filipinos impacted by the tragedy to reach out to the Consulate for assistance.
Festival Background and Organizers’ Response
Now in its second year, the Lapu-Lapu Day festival, organized by Filipino BC, celebrates the heroism of Datu Lapu-Lapu, who led the resistance against Spanish colonization in the 16th century. The event has quickly become a major cultural gathering, showcasing Filipino food, performances, and community pride.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Filipino BC expressed their devastation:
“We are still finding the words to express the deep heartbreak brought on by this senseless tragedy. We are devastated for the families and victims,” the organizers said in a statement.
A Community in Mourning
The Filipino-Canadian community is rallying to support the victims. Counseling services have been made available for survivors, witnesses, and their families. Community leaders are organizing a memorial vigil in honor of those who lost their lives.
As investigations continue, leaders from both Canada and the Philippines have emphasized unity, compassion, and justice — reflecting the enduring ties between the two nations and the shared grief of a community determined to heal.
