The death toll from the collapse of a nine-story building under construction in Angeles City, Pampanga has increased to 28, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) confirmed as of 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing.
Rubble Clearance and Initial Response
The BFP earlier reported that 30 percent of the rubble from the fallen debris had been cleared. The building, located along Teodoro Street in Barangay Balibago, suddenly collapsed at 2:28 a.m. on May 24 while dozens of construction workers were sleeping inside. The structure was in its final stages of construction and was intended to operate as a condo-hotel or mixed-use commercial building.
Impact on Nearby Structures
The collapse also struck a nearby lodging house, killing a 65-year-old Malaysian tourist and injuring others. The incident has raised serious questions about construction safety and regulatory compliance.
Investigation into Possible Violations
One key issue under investigation is whether the project exceeded what was authorized under its building permit. Officials said records showed the structure had been approved as a nine-story condo-hotel, but workers were reportedly constructing a swimming pool on a planned 10th floor at the time of the collapse.
Investigators are examining whether the additional load or possible design modifications contributed to the structural failure. Authorities are also looking into construction practices, engineering compliance, and adherence to building safety standards.
Multiple Investigations Launched
The Department of Public Works and Highways, the Philippine National Police, and the Angeles City Government have launched separate investigations after the incident. The BFP continues to lead search and retrieval efforts, with hopes of finding more survivors or recovering additional victims.
