Vancouver: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday joined the Filipino community in mourning the loss of lives in a car-ramming incident at a Lapu-Lapu Day celebration in Vancouver, Canada over the weekend. 'I just wanted to say how we deeply grieve with those affected, the victims of that really horrific act,' DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo told reporters on the sidelines of the High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries in Makati City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA and the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Vancouver are closely monitoring the situation. Consul General Gina Jamoralin, in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas, stated that the consulate is in close contact with Filipino organizations to gather information about any Filipino needing assistance. The Philippine government has expressed its willingness to support the Filipino victims, and local hospitals have been informed.
The tragic incident resulted in the death of 11 people and left 20 others injured, with victims ranging from 5 to 65 years old. Secretary Manalo mentioned that the Philippine ambassador in Canada is either in Vancouver or on the way to provide support to those affected.
In light of the tragedy, the PCG-Vancouver has issued a warning about unauthorized fundraising campaigns claiming to raise funds for the victims. The PCG clarified that it has not initiated or sanctioned any fundraising efforts. The consulate has cautioned the public to be vigilant against fraudulent activities exploiting the tragedy, as certain individuals have set up GoFundMe pages misusing the Consulate's official message as part of their material.
