Marcos extends sympathies to Filipinos affected by California wildfire

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday expressed his sympathies to Filipinos in the southern portion of California, who were affected by the massive wildfires that destroyed over 1,000 homes.

“On behalf of the Filipino people, I extend my deepest sympathies to all who have been affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California, USA — a place that many of our kababayans call home,” Marcos said in a social media post.

“May the community’s road to recovery begin with strength, compassion and solidarity. Please stay safe and vigilant,” he added.

Filipinos and Filipino Americans affected by the widespread wildfires have appealed for help as their homes were destroyed.

A Filipino attributed the spread of the wildfire to the strong winds.

Firefighters, including air support, also had difficulty reaching the fire site due to the intensity of the winds.  

The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles has offered assistance to Filipinos affected by the wildfire.

It said it is coordinating with local authorities and closely monitoring the situation of Filipino nationals in the affected areas.

Filipinos requiring assistance may contact the Consulate at (323) 528-1528.

The Consulate earlier said that it has yet to determine how many Filipinos were affected, adding that its Public Diplomacy & Information Section has also not yet received any requests for assistance.

At least 10 casualties were reported due to the wildfires. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News