More than a week after the collapse of a nine-story building in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, the confirmed death toll has risen to 12, according to the latest report from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP3). Rescue and retrieval operations are ongoing, with authorities still searching for approximately eight missing persons.
Nationwide Attention and Official Response
The tragedy has become a major topic of discussion across the country. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla personally inspected ground zero. The Senate has also stepped in, calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. Multiple government agencies are demanding a full inquiry to determine accountability.
Preventive Suspension of City Officials
In connection with the ongoing investigation, two officials from the Angeles City Building Office have been placed under preventive suspension. This was confirmed by Atty. Darwin Reyes, Special Legal Adviser to the Angeles City Government and a member of the fact-finding task force. The suspension is effective from June 1 to July 31, 2026.
The fact-finding task force continues its probe to uncover the root cause of the collapse and to identify which officials should be held responsible. The public awaits whether any government officials will face charges for the incident. Many are calling for accountability, emphasizing that those responsible must be prosecuted.
