Vehicles float in the water after Hurricane Ian on September 29, 2022 in Bonita Springs, Florida. Hurricane Ian brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Getty Images via AFP)
MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos in Florida are safe despite the havoc brought by Hurricane Ian, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported on Friday.
No casualty was reported among the 168,000 Filipinos in Florida, most of whom are healthcare professionals, according to DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza.
The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. continues to monitor the hurricane’s impact.
“Fortunately, we have not received any reports of Filipino casualties so far,” Daza told reporters in a message.
She gave assurance to Filipinos that they will continue monitoring the situation as the hurricane heads for South Carolina where some 17,500 Filipinos reside.
“We will continue to monitor the situation as we stand ready to provide assistance,” Daza said.
Hurricane Ian, one of the strongest storms to hit the US mainland, resulted in massive flooding and power outages in parts of Florida.