Philippines Building Collapse, Traps Over 20 Workers

Rescue teams in the Philippines are racing to save more than 20 people trapped under the rubble of a collapsed building under construction. The accident happened on Sunday in Angeles City, north of Manila.

Officials confirmed that five people are trapped, including two who are in contact with rescuers. Another 18 workers are feared to be under the debris, bringing the total number of victims to 23. Maria Leah Sajili, information officer at the regional Bureau of Fire Protection, said the figure was based on the list of workers on duty at the site.

Rescuers were seen climbing over piles of concrete slabs and twisted steel covered in green netting, searching for survivors. Sajili said 24 people have been rescued so far, with no deaths reported. Among those rescued was a 51 year old Malaysian national who was staying at a nearby budget hotel. The hotel was damaged when the structure collapsed.

Jay Pelayo, the Angeles City information officer, told Reuters that earlier reports suggested 30 to 40 people might have been trapped, based on information from a site foreman who managed to escape.

Officials said the cause of the collapse is under investigation. Records show the building was approved as a nine storey condo hotel, but construction had begun on a 10th floor intended for a swimming pool.

Ambulances and fire trucks have been deployed to assist in the rescue operation. Pelayo explained that moving the heavy concrete debris remains a major challenge for rescuers.

Authorities are working to confirm the exact number of people trapped and to provide medical care to those rescued. The incident has raised questions about construction safety standards and whether the building was following approved permits.

Residents in the area expressed shock at the collapse, saying the building had been under construction for months. Many gathered near the site as emergency teams continued their search.

Officials say investigations will determine whether safety rules were ignored and if the extra floor contributed to the collapse. For now, the priority remains saving lives and ensuring survivors receive urgent medical attention.

The collapse highlights ongoing concerns about construction safety in the Philippines, where rapid urban development has sometimes led to violations of building codes. Authorities have promised a full inquiry and accountability for those responsible.

As rescue efforts continue, families of the trapped workers are waiting anxiously for news. Emergency teams say they will work around the clock until all victims are accounted for.