The death toll from the collapse of a building under construction in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, has climbed to four, while 17 individuals remain trapped or missing as rescue operations continue, according to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Central Luzon.

In its latest situational update released at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 25, the BFP reported that a total of 47 individuals were affected by the incident. Of the number, 26 have been rescued while search and retrieval operations remain ongoing for those still unaccounted for.

The nine-story structure reportedly collapsed before dawn on Sunday, triggering a massive rescue response involving firefighters, special rescue units, police, and disaster personnel. Authorities said victims were given immediate medical assistance while a unified command system remains in place to coordinate operations.

Authorities also earlier confirmed that one of the fatalities was a Malaysian national who had been staying in a nearby hotel damaged by the collapse. Reports said the victim was trapped inside the establishment after debris from the collapsed structure struck the building.

Authorities are also investigating possible violations linked to the project. According to the Angeles City government, the building owner and contractor are set to face summons over alleged unpermitted expansion and revisions to the approved construction plan.

Initial findings indicated that an additional floor and rooftop modifications may have been constructed without approval from the Office of the Building Official.

Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II said the original permit approved only a nine-story structure, adding that the local government is now determining the liabilities of those involved in the construction project.