SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has expressed profound grief and strong condemnation following the violent attack against Filipinos during a street festival in Vancouver, Canada.

In his official statement, Escudero extended his condolences, saying: “I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones of the victims of this dastardly attack on Filipinos holding a peaceful street festival in Vancouver, Canada to celebrate Lapu-lapu Day.”

Escudero emphasized the need for swift justice, declaring: “My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this shocking and horrific incident, whose perpetrator and possible accomplices should be brought to justice and punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

Escudero also urged Canadian authorities to leave no avenue unexplored in their investigation.

“There is no place in this world for such horrible acts of violence and I trust that the Canadian law enforcement agencies will leave no stone unturned to ensure that justice is served,” he said.

Meanwhile, Escudero called on Philippine diplomats in Canada to assist the victims and their families.

“I urge our Philippine Consulate and other Embassy officials in Vancouver and Canada to extend all assistance possible to Filipino victims and their families and ensure that they are well taken cared of and for steps to be undertaken to prevent this from happening again in the future,” he said.

DML Ortega mourns victims of Vancouver festival tragedy, condemns senseless violence, stands in solidarity with Filipino-Canadian community

House Deputy Majority Leader Paolo Ortega V of La Union also expressed deep sorrow and strong condemnation over the tragic car-ramming incident.

Ortega said the senseless act of violence has not only taken innocent lives but also wounded the spirit of a community that gathered to celebrate Filipino heritage and pride.

“We mourn with our Filipino-Canadian brothers and sisters. We stand united in grief and in prayer for the victims of this senseless act of violence,” Ortega said.

“No celebration of our identity, our heroes, and our heritage should ever be marred by such violence. The Lapu-Lapu Day festival is a symbol of Filipino courage and resilience, and that spirit will never be broken,” Ortega added.

The House leader also extended his sympathies to the families of the victims, assuring them that the Filipino people share their pain and loss.

“I offer our deepest condolences. We pray for healing for the injured and strength for all those left behind,” Ortega said. With Ryan Ponce Pacpaco

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Camille P. Balagtas