Authorities continue intensive search and rescue operations following the collapse of an under-construction building in Balibago, Angeles City, with at least 23 individuals believed to have been trapped beneath the rubble as of 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 24.
During a 2pm press briefing, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 3 Public Information Officer FSUPT Maria Lea Sajili, and Angeles City Information Officer Jay Pelayo said five trapped victims have already been confirmed by their families.
Another 18 individuals are still being validated based on the list of construction workers reported on duty at the time of the incident, although authorities have yet to receive confirmation from their relatives.
Despite the collapse, officials reported that 24 workers were able to safely escape the area, while 10 injured individuals were transported to Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC) for treatment. One additional patient remains unidentified.
As of the latest update, authorities said no fatalities have been recorded.
The operation is currently being carried out under a Unified Command System led by Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II as Responsible Official. The BFP is leading rescue operations, while the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office handles logistics, the Philippine National Police secures the area, and the Angeles City Information Office manages public information and updates.
Officials noted that coordination among responding agencies has remained smooth under the unified system, with strong support coming from the national government.
Among the officials present at the site were DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III, DOTr Assistant Secretary IC Calaguas, DILG Undersecretary Patrick Mabilog, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo ‘Jon’ Lazatin.
Authorities continue clearing operations and search efforts as rescue teams work around the clock to locate those still believed to be trapped inside the collapsed structure.
