Vancouver Attack: Filipino Community Rallies, Warns of Scams

Vancouver’s Filipino community is reeling and responding with resilience after a devastating car-ramming attack at Saturday’s Lapu-Lapu Festival left at least eleven dead and dozens injured. The annual celebration of Filipino heritage quickly turned tragic, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from across Canada and the Philippines. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre both extended their condolences, as did Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

The suspect is in custody and facing murder charges, though police have yet to determine a motive. British Columbia Premier David Eby highlighted the community’s generosity and loving nature, emphasizing the widespread grief and solidarity felt nationally and internationally. Provincial lawmaker Mable Elmore echoed this sentiment, predicting the community’s resilience and the importance of broad support.

In the wake of the attack, the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver has been working to assist those affected, but also issued a critical warning about fraudulent fundraising efforts. Several unverified GoFundMe campaigns have emerged, falsely claiming to support victims and even using official consulate imagery. The consulate has stressed it has not authorized any such campaigns and urged the public to be vigilant against exploitation.

Witnesses described the scene as traumatic. Joel Castro, who attended the festival, spoke of his shock and the emerging display of solidarity from various leaders and nations. Community leaders on the ground report a rapid mobilization of resources to support members, while requesting patience from those wishing to help from afar.

Erie Maestro, a founding member of Migrante BC, warned of individuals attempting to profit from the tragedy, emphasizing the need to verify any fundraising efforts. Sammie Jo Rumbaua, a board officer of Mabuhay House Society, highlighted the immediate focus on providing emotional and practical support, including meal trains and mental health services. Mabuhay House has compiled a list of resources to connect those offering and needing assistance, specifically avoiding monetary requests.

Filipino BC, the festival organizer, has shared crisis line contact details and discouraged the circulation of graphic videos from the scene. The organization is prioritizing community support while grappling with the trauma of the event.

This tragedy underscores the vulnerability of communities to senseless violence, but also the remarkable strength and unity that can emerge in response. The outpouring of support for Vancouver’s Filipino community is a testament to its enduring spirit and the importance of collective action in times of crisis. It’s crucial that aid is channeled through verified organizations and directly to those in need, ensuring that support reaches the victims and families who are most affected. The focus must remain on healing, remembrance, and preventing future tragedies.