The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), citing the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong, said that one overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is confined in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a local hospital, while another Filipino remains missing following the massive fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong.

“A total of 23 Filipino domestic workers required welfare assistance. The Consulate confirmed that one OFW is confined at the ICU of a local hospital,” the DFA said.

“The Consulate and MWO-HK will continue to coordinate with Hong Kong’s Police Force, Labour Department, and Home Affairs Department to determine the whereabouts of one missing Filipino,” it added.

Meanwhile, the DFA said there are still no confirmed Filipino fatalities from the incident.

The Philippine Consulate, together with the MWO-HK and OWWA-HK, conducted a joint visit to shelters administered by the Hong Kong government to extend assistance to Filipino nationals affected by the fire.

“The Department is monitoring the situation in Tai Po closely. The Department also wishes to thank Hong Kong authorities who are helping locate, identify, and assist affected Filipinos,” the DFA assured.

As of today, Reuters reported that the death toll from the fire that ripped through residential buildings in the city has risen to 40, with 45 people still in critical condition.

Nearly 300 individuals remain missing.