Three people killed and 17 reported missing after building collapses

Rescue Efforts Underway After Building Collapse in Philippines

Two people have been rescued from the rubble of a collapsed building under construction in Angeles City, north of Manila, officials announced on Monday. The two victims were pulled from the debris, bringing the confirmed death toll to three.

According to Maria Leah Sajili, an information officer at the Bureau of Fire Protection, one of the rescued individuals had a pulse when retrieved but later succumbed to their injuries. The other victim suffered cardiac arrest while still trapped in the rubble.

Rescuers are continuing their search and rescue operations at the site, where thermal scans have detected signs of breathing and heartbeats beneath the debris. This has raised concerns that there could be more victims trapped beneath the rubble.

Seventeen people are currently listed as missing, with most identified as construction workers who were on duty at the site when it collapsed. The building was home to up to 70 employees, although most had left for the weekend.

Alfredo Albis, a 55-year-old worker who was sleeping nearby, reported that he has two cousins still trapped in the rubble. He expressed concern for their safety and well-being.

Rescue operations are challenging due to the risk of sudden movements triggering further collapses or crushing responders. As such, most rescue efforts are being conducted manually until no more survivors are found.

Once all survivors have been accounted for, mechanical diggers and other heavy equipment will be brought in to clear debris and recover bodies. However, officials have not provided a timeline for this phase of the operation.

The cause of the building collapse is currently unknown, and authorities are working to locate the building owner to gather more information.

Source: Al Jazeera