Authorities have recovered another body from the collapsed building in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, bringing the total number of fatalities to 11.
“The 11th casualty has been extricated from the collapsed structure in Brgy. Balibago, Angeles City,” the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Central Luzon said.
The casualty was initially located at 1448H. Following the discovery, responders conducted debris removal and access operations utilizing heavy equipment to establish a safe entry route into the affected area. Once access was gained, rescue personnel were able to reach and successfully extricate the casualty at 2233H.
“Responders remain fully engaged at the collapse site as search, rescue, and retrieval efforts continue,” the BFP said.
The agency added that operations remain ongoing as responders continue to clear debris and search the affected area. This marks the fifth casualty reported by the BFP on Sunday alone.
The building collapse occurred on May 24, with authorities estimating that at least 20 individuals were trapped inside at the time of the incident, most of whom were reportedly construction workers. Among the fatalities were a father and son who were earlier confirmed dead.
The city government of Angeles said it continues to monitor affected families and residents to ensure their needs are being addressed while operations remain ongoing.
On the directive of Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, regular disinfection, misting, and spraying activities are also being conducted in surrounding areas to prevent possible health risks.
Authorities are set to summon the owner and contractor of the collapsed building over alleged unpermitted expansion and deviations from the approved construction plan.
Initial findings indicate that structural modifications—including the addition of a floor and rooftop alterations—were carried out without the necessary permits or approved revisions from the Office of the Building Official. The structure was originally approved as a nine-storey building under a 2023 permit.
Former senator and newly appointed Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino earlier vowed a full investigation into the incident, raising concerns over occupational safety violations at the site, including reports that workers’ barracks were illegally placed inside the building under construction.
He also revealed that the site had previously been issued a work stoppage order by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 3, which was later lifted before the collapse occurred.
