A sampling of messages of grief expressed following the car ramming attack at Vancouver’s Lapu Lapu street festival that killed 11 and injured dozens.

Consolation from Vancouver Archbishop Michael Miller:

“Dear brothers and sisters in Christ: 

I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic events that took place yesterday during the Lapu-Lapu Day celebration in Vancouver. What should have been a joyful gathering to honour Filipino heritage has been overshadowed by sorrow and shock.

The Filipino community is a vibrant and faith-filled part of our Archdiocese. In moments like this, your spirit of hope, resilience, and deep trust in God’s providence shines even amid darkness. I encourage all of us to come together in prayer, asking the Lord to pour out his mercy upon those affected and to grant strength to all who are carrying heavy hearts.

May our Blessed Mother intercede for us, bringing comfort and healing to Vancouver.”

Words from Canadian Prime Minister and Liberal Leader Mark Carney:

“Last night, families lost a sister, a brother, a mother, a father, a son or a daughter. Those families are living every family’s nightmare. And to them and to the many others who were injured, to the Filipino Canadian community and to everyone in the broader Lower Mainland Vancouver, I would like to offer my deepest condolences and my wishes for strength and compassion in this tragic time. I know that I join all Canadians in mourning with you. I know that Canadians are united with you.”

Transcript of condolences Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre delivered at a Filipino church in Mississauga on April 27, 2025.

“I wanted to be here today with you in solidarity after the terrible attacks that we witnessed in British Columbia. I know many of you are shocked, heartbroken and saddened by this senseless act of violence and by the innocent, treasured lives that have been lost. I just wanted you all to know that our hearts are with you today. All Canadians are united in solidarity with the Filipino community … in mourning the loss of these treasured lives and in binding our country together to support the surviving loved ones. I know that today will be a day of prayer and reflection for the Filipino community and for all Canadians. All of our country is with you today as you mourn this terrible loss and I thank you for welcoming us into your sanctuary today. I hope that we can we can pray for those who've been lost and for those who survive in mourning their loved ones: their brothers, sisters daughters, sons, mothers, fathers.  All of them will have a deep hole in their hearts today so we will try to fill it with the love of the entire country.”

A statement from King Charles on behalf of the British Royal Family:

Both my wife and I were profoundly saddened to learn of the dreadful attack and utterly tragic loss of life in Vancouver, which took place as the Filipino community came together to mark the celebration of one of their most special festivals. Our hearts and prayers go out to all those whose lives have been shattered by such a desperate tragedy and we send our deepest possible sympathy at a most agonizing time for so many in Canada.

Charles R

The response from Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.ap, a founding member of the Black Eyed Peas, who had just finished performing at the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver and just left the stage minutes before the tragedy occurred:

“It’s hard to describe the shock and the heaviness we feel…Our hearts are broken for the victims, their families, and everyone affected by the tragedy at the Lapu-Lapu Festival.”

The message from Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines:

On a day meant to honor the courage of Lapu-Lapu, our kababayans in Vancouver became victims of an unspeakable tragedy. As your President, and as a father, I share in your grief and your anguish.

The lives lost will not be forgotten. The Filipino people stand together in mourning, in prayer, and in unwavering support. We will do everything in our power to bring comfort, to bring help, and to honour their memory with action. We have given specific instructions to our diplomats and staff in Vancouver to extend assistance to the victims and coordinate with Canadian authorities properly. I encourage everyone concerned to keep calm but remain vigilant.