A tragic incident occurred at the Lapu Lapu Festival in Vancouver on April 26, 2025. A man with mental health issues drove a black Audi SUV and rammed into several people. According to Vancouver Police, this was not an act of terrorism. In the accident, 11 people died and many more were injured.
Kris Pangilinan's story is that he saw the vehicle slowly enter the festival area, then suddenly accelerate. Many bodies were thrown into the air, and the people who were hit looked like bowling pins. There was a lot of crying and screaming around.
The suspect, a 30-year-old Vancouver man, was quickly apprehended by bystanders before police arrived. In the video, he can be seen apologizing while holding his head. The incident prompted Prime Minister Mark Carney to cancel his campaign events out of respect for the victims.
The Filipino community in Vancouver gathered to celebrate Lapu Lapu Day, to honor Datu Lapu-Lapu, a hero who fought against the invaders. So it is painful for everyone that the tragedy occurred during such a celebration. Vancouver Mayor Kenneth Sim, BC Premier David Eby, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. offered condolences.
According to the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, they are continuing to help ensure that the victims and their families receive justice and support. The Department of Foreign Affairs also said that the entire Filipino community in Canada is praying for strength and stability.
