Hong kong: The Philippine government is extending full assistance to the 23 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the fire that struck Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, according to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) chief Patricia Yvonne Caunan. In a Bagong Pilipinas interview, Caunan highlighted that teams from the Philippine Consulate General, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), and OWWA were immediately dispatched to shelters set up by Hong Kong authorities, where the affected Filipinos have been relocated.

According to Philippines News Agency, Caunan reported that 22 OFWs were affected by the fire, and they have received initial assistance. The government plans to provide additional support. Additionally, one OFW, who gained attention online for seeking help, was stranded with her employer and the baby she was caring for. They were rescued and are currently hospitalized, in stable condition, but need a few days to recover from carbon monoxide inhalation.

Caunan mentioned that the OWWA has visited the OFW's family in Manila to provide updates. Meanwhile, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong confirmed that 58 Filipinos are safe, with one person reported missing. Efforts are underway to verify the status of 91 Filipinos registered at Wang Fuk Court, as some may have changed employers or returned to the Philippines before the incident.

Caunan also stated that OWWA and the Department of Migrant Workers have activated 24/7 emergency hotlines for families in the Philippines seeking updates on relatives in Hong Kong.