Search, rescue, and retrieval operations continue at the collapsed building in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, as authorities confirmed that the death toll has risen to 12 following the recovery of another victim.

The BFP Central Luzon said the 12th fatality was found in Quadrant 1 at around 10:46 PM (2246H) on Suday, May 31. They noted that the area was immediately secured as teams continued retrieval work under difficult conditions.

Search personnel remain focused on the affected quadrant, while heavy equipment is being used in Quadrant 4 to speed up debris removal and create safer access for rescuers working deeper inside the collapse zone.

The latest recovery came hours after the reported fifth fatality on Sunday.

The building collapsed on May 24, with authorities estimating that at least 20 people were trapped inside at the time, most of them construction workers. Among the fatalities were a father and son who were earlier confirmed dead.

The Angeles City government said it continues to monitor affected families and residents to ensure their needs are addressed while operations are ongoing.

On the directive of Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, disinfection, misting, and spraying operations are being conducted in nearby areas to prevent possible health risks.

Authorities are set to summon the building owner and contractor over alleged unpermitted expansion and deviations from the approved construction plan. Initial findings showed that structural changes, including the addition of a floor and rooftop modifications, were carried out without the required 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 has ordered a full investigation into the incident, citing possible occupational safety violations at the site, including reports that workers’ barracks were allegedly placed inside the construction area.

He also said 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.