The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has reported that the number of Filipinos affected by the devastating wildfires in the region has now reached 191, with expectations that this figure will continue to grow as the fires persist. Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz shared during a press briefing that the consulate is keeping a close watch on the situation, particularly concerning the over 400,000 Filipinos living in Los Angeles County, with a significant portion residing in the hardest-hit zones.
Cruz highlighted that the consulate is actively documenting the affected individuals, including numerous caregivers who have lost their employment due to the destruction of their employers’ homes. He reassured that the government is committed to providing necessary support, including a financial aid of USD200 to those impacted.
Currently, no Filipinos have been confirmed among the 24 fatalities or the 24 missing persons. However, Cruz mentioned that the identification process has become challenging due to the severe condition of the victims’ remains, necessitating DNA testing which could take several weeks.
The consulate has also issued a red flag warning for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, indicating that the dry and windy conditions could exacerbate the spread of the wildfires. The Palisades Fire, the larger of the two ongoing fires, has completely destroyed the Palisades area and is only 14% contained. The Eaton Fire, affecting the Altadena area where many Filipinos live, is 33% contained and has devastated over 5,700 hectares.
In response to the crisis, two Filipino-led churches in California, Incarnation Church in Glendale and Assumption Parish in Claremont, have opened their doors to wildfire victims. Father Rodel Balagtas of Incarnation Church and Father Michael Montoya of Assumption Parish have stated their readiness to provide shelter and support. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is also facilitating donations to aid the victims, with information available on their website. Both churches are prepared for potential evacuations should the fires threaten their facilities.