Photo credit: Los Angeles Fire Department

The raging wildfires in Southern California have left a heartbreaking toll on nearly 200 Filipino families in Los Angeles, who have now lost their homes. As the fires continue to devastate the area, Philippine Consul General in LA, Adelio Angelito Cruz, shared the alarming news that the number of Filipinos affected has reached 191, and that figure is likely to rise in the coming days.

In an interview, Cruz explained, "Currently, our latest tally has reached 191 as 12 more families asked for help. We expect this number to increase in the coming days."

Despite the growing number of evacuees, Cruz assured the public that safety remains a priority. Most of the affected Filipinos are now being sheltered in various evacuation centers throughout LA County. Cruz emphasized that these families are being well taken care of, with an outpouring of food and essential supplies arriving to support them.

"Most of our countrymen are in different evacuation centers all over LA County. They are being taken care of, as food and other essential needs are pouring in. They are safe and well taken care of," Cruz added.

The consul general also highlighted the ongoing effort to confirm if the homes destroyed in the fire were covered by insurance, a critical step for many families now facing the loss of their properties.

Unfortunately, the devastating wildfires have claimed at least 24 lives so far, though the LA County coroner’s office has yet to release an official list of fatalities. Cruz noted that many of the bodies were burned beyond recognition, and DNA tests will be necessary, with results expected to take weeks.

As the Filipino community in California grapples with this tragedy, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his condolences and support for those affected by the destructive fires.

For Filipinos in need of assistance, the Consulate is available at (323) 528-1528. Let's all continue to send our thoughts and prayers to those impacted by this calamity.