Philippines races to rescue people trapped in a building collapse; a Malaysian among the dead

A rescue worker passes the Jaws of Life tool to cut scaffolding pipes as they search for the remains of the victims amid the debris of the nine-storey building under construction that collapsed in Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines, May 26, 2026. -- Photo: REUTERS/Noel Celis

MANILA (Bloomberg): Around 30-40 people are feared trapped after a nine-story building under construction in the Philippines collapsed, a local government official said.

Initial reports from the foreman showed those caught under the debris were workers at the construction site located in Angeles City, north of the capital Manila, Jay Pelayo, head of the city’s information office, told local radio DZBB on Sunday. Rescue efforts are underway.

The cause of the collapse is still being investigated, he said. 

At least 24 individuals have been rescued from the site, according to a Facebook post from Angeles City’s information office.

"Search and rescue operations are continuing to ensure the safety of others affected by the incident,” the post said.

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