A deadly building collapse in the Philippines has intensified scrutiny over construction safety standards after a partially completed nine-story structure gave way in Angeles City, leaving at least four people dead and about 17 others missing.
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The incident occurred on Sunday in Barangay Balibago, where the building under construction suddenly collapsed, trapping workers and nearby individuals under tons of concrete and steel. Rescue officials reported that at least 24 individuals had been pulled from the rubble, while search efforts continued for those still unaccounted for.
Emergency responders deployed thermal scanners, heartbeat detection devices, rescue dogs, and manual excavation techniques to locate possible survivors beneath the debris. Maria Leah Sajili, information officer of the Bureau of Fire Protection, explained that rescue operations remained highly sensitive due to the risk of secondary collapse, noting that even minor movements in the unstable structure could endanger both trapped individuals and responders.
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One of the fatalities was identified as a Malaysian national who was staying at a nearby budget inn affected by falling debris from the collapse. The Embassy of Malaysia in Manila confirmed that one Malaysian national involved in the incident had been verified safe, while authorities continued to determine the status of another.
Investigators have not yet established the cause of the collapse, though officials confirmed the structure had been approved as a nine-story condo-hotel. Reports also indicated that additional construction work, including a possible swimming pool on an upper level, is being examined as part of the inquiry into potential safety or permit violations.
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The disaster has prompted renewed calls for stronger building regulation. Representative Romeo Momo Sr. urged the passage of the proposed Philippine Building Act, saying the incident highlights the risks posed by outdated construction standards. Meanwhile, Senator Joel Villanueva called for the reopening of a labor safety investigation, and Representative Percival Cendaña pushed for an independent inquiry and accountability for those responsible.
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