Vancouver Philippines consulate warns of unauthorized messaging used in attack victim fundraisers

The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver is warning the public about fraudulent fundraising campaigns exploiting the recent Lapu Lapu Day street festival attack, which left eleven dead. The consulate clarified it has not authorized any fundraising efforts and advised vigilance against scams. GoFundMe has activated a crisis response team to monitor and verify fundraisers for the victims, with only two verified campaigns raising nearly $150,000 as of Monday morning. A 24-hour assistance center at Douglas Park Community Centre has also been established to support those affected. Resources for trauma and mental health support include a victim liaison officer and various crisis hotlines.

Local community members have created a Google Doc listing emergency assistance resources and a Filipino Emergency Response website for support requests. The situation highlights the need for awareness and caution in the wake of community tragedies. The consulate's efforts aim to protect the public from malicious actors seeking to exploit the incident.