Philippines condoles with Canada amid van incident

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines expressed its condolences to Canada after an incident in which a rented van plowed into pedestrians, killing 10 and leaving 15 others injured.

There have been no reports yet of Filipinos among the casualties or injured, according to the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa.

The Philippine Consulate General in Toronto, meanwhile, is checking with authorities to ensure the safety of the 270,000 Filipinos in the area.

READ: Van plows into Toronto sidewalk, killing 10 and injuring 15

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Canada. We mourn with the families of those who lost their lives in this tragedy," Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said in a statement.

Toronto police identified the suspect as Alek Minassian, a 25-year-old from the Toronto suburb of Richmond Hill.

Deputy Police Chief Peter Yuen says the driver of the van is in custody but Yuen has not provided any possible cause or motive in Monday's incident. He says the investigation is continuing.

Police Chief Mark Saunders said the incident "definitely looked deliberate."

Tonight, the hearts & thoughts of an entire country are with the families and friends of those killed in Toronto today. We also wish all those injured a fast and full recovery. Full statement: https://t.co/TbgMTDXhJB

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 24, 2018

The @TorontoPolice and first responders faced danger without hesitation today, and I want to thank them for their courage and professionalism. We’ll continue working with our law enforcement partners as the investigation continues.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 24, 2018

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the government will work with law enforcement partners while the investigation continues.

"It was with great sadness that I heard about the tragic and senseless attack that took place in Toronto this afternoon. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of those who were killed, and my thoughts for a fast and full recovery to those injured," Trudeau said in a statement. — Patricia Lourdes Viray with Associated Press