MANILA - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirms the death of a Filipino in Hawaii due to the wildfires in Lahaina in the county of Maui.
According to DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo De Vega, Filipino national Alfredo Galinato, 79, died due to the wildfires that wreaked havoc in Maui. Galinato hails from Ilocos and is a naturalized US citizen.
The Philippine Consulate in Honolulu is now coordinating with Galinato's family who are all based in Honolulu, for possible assistance.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Consulate in Honolulu started emergency consular services for Filipinos affected by the wildfires.
According to Consul General Emil Fernandez, starting August 15 they have assisted 66 people who applied for replacement of lost Philippine passports.
Con. Gen. Fernandez also met with three (3) Filipinos who arrived in Honolulu from Lahaina. They are part of a group of 30 Filipino teachers assigned in Maui.
The official confirms that all mentioned Filipino teachers are safe and accounted for.
Fernandez also met with community leaders and local officials in Maui, including the Office of the Maui County Mayor, for coordination and assistance that Filipinos may need during the crisis.
