The death toll from the collapse of a nine-story building under construction in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, has risen to 27 after two more bodies were recovered on Wednesday evening, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Central Luzon.
The BFP reported that the 26th victim was recovered around 6:40 p.m., while the 27th was retrieved at approximately 7:10 p.m. Earlier, at around 3:45 p.m., the body of the 25th victim was also recovered despite heavy rainfall.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on May 24 when the building, which was planned to be a hotel, suddenly collapsed. Most of those trapped were construction workers. During the initial phase of rescue operations, 27 people were rescued from the rubble.
Investigation and Safety Violations
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is continuing its investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings indicate possible violations of occupational safety and health standards at the construction site. DOLE Central Luzon had previously issued a work stoppage order due to security deficiencies in the project. Search and retrieval operations are ongoing at the site.
