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Filipinos believed among affected by Hawaii wildfire

August 15, 2023

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Police tape surrounds the site of a home destroyed by the Maui wildfires in Kula, Hawaii on August 13, 2023. – The death toll in Hawaii from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century was expected to cross the 100-mark Sunday August 13, fueling criticism that government inaction contributed to the heavy loss of life. Officials say 93 people are known to have died, but warned the figure was likely to rise as recovery crews with cadaver dogs continued the grim task of searching burned out homes and vehicles in Lahaina. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP)

By Gabriela Baron

Filipinos are believed to be among those affected by the wildfire in Maui, Hawaii, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

The death toll in Hawaii’s wildfire rose to 99 as of Aug. 14 and could double over the next 10 days, according to authorities.

Citing the Hawaii State Emergency Management Agency, DFA Assistant Secretary Paul Cortes said search and rescue operations are currently being conducted to determine the identity and nationality of the 99 casualties.

He added there are no official reports on how many Filipinos have been affected by the wildfire.

Cortes said there are currently 50 J1 visa holders and Philippine passport holders in Hawaii who are temporarily staying there because of the exchange visitor program in the U.S.

He assured the DFA will provide assistance to wildfire-affected Filipinos.

“Bibigyan ng ayuda, bibigyan ng konting financial assistance ng Philippine government through our Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu,” Cortes said.

Hawaii’s wildfire is the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century. With reports from Rod Lagusad and Agence France-Presse

–cf

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