Building collapse in Philippines leaves 3 dead, 17 missing

CNA, Angeles City, Philippines, May 25. Philippine officials said today that a building under construction north of Manila in Angeles City collapsed. Two people died after being pulled from the rubble, bringing the death toll to 3, with 17 others missing. Rescue operations are ongoing. Reuters reported that Maria Leah Sajili, a spokesperson for the Bureau of Fire Protection, said in a phone interview that one of the two victims had a pulse when rescued but later died, while the other was in cardiac arrest. Another victim, a 65-year-old Malaysian man, was found yesterday in an adjacent hotel building affected by the collapse. Sajili noted that rescuers are working to recover another body. Thermal imaging has detected signs of life, suggesting more people may be trapped. The 17 missing are mostly construction workers. Officials are investigating the cause of the collapse. Records show the building was approved as a 9-story apartment hotel, but a 10th floor with a swimming pool was being added. The mayor of Angeles City said authorities are trying to contact the owner to clarify the situation.