The local government of Angeles City is set to summon the owner and contractor of a collapsed building in Barangay Balibago over alleged unpermitted expansion and revisions to the approved construction plan.

According to a report by RH Val Gonzales, authorities said initial findings indicate that structural changes—including an added floor and rooftop modifications—were carried out without the necessary permits or approved revisions from the Office of the Building Official.

Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II said the city government is currently investigating the possible liabilities of those involved in the construction of the building, which was originally approved as a nine-storey structure under a 2023 permit.

“Wala pong approval sa local government nito. Nakastipulate naman po doon ang 9-storey building. Kahit po makikita niyo ang building permit niya, it is a 9-storey building,” Lazatin said.

Public Information Officer of the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Jay Pelayo IV, also confirmed that no extension permit or revision of plans had been filed or approved for the reported expansion.

Based on information received by the Bureau of Fire Protection, investigators said the owner and contractor allegedly proceeded with adding an additional floor and converting the rooftop into a swimming pool.

The building owner has been identified as Ernesto Jackson Lim, while the contractor is Golden Years Construction and Steelworks Corporation, which reportedly engaged subcontractors during the project.

City officials said the investigation remains ongoing as they determine possible violations and lapses in permitting and construction oversight that may have contributed to the collapse of the structure.

As of Monday morning, the death toll from the incident has risen to three, while search and rescue operations are still ongoing to locate the remaining missing persons, most of whom are believed to be construction workers.