Building Collapse in Angeles: Tragedy and Investigation

The city of Angeles in the Philippines faced a tragic event on a Sunday morning when a building under construction collapsed at dawn. Lea Casilao, whose husband Joselito was likely among those trapped, experienced the heartbreaking silence when her usual morning text exchanges with him went unanswered.

The construction site’s collapse led to the authorities halting search and rescue efforts on Monday evening after life locator equipment found no signs of life under the rubble. Efforts switched from rescue to recovery on the following Tuesday, trying to retrieve the remains of those who were lost.

Lea Casilao, 47, had their planned meeting at the construction site disrupted by the tragedy. As she arrived at the site and saw the scene of destruction, hope faded with each call to her husband’s phone that went unanswered. She sat with other families, waiting for tragic updates about their loved ones.

Maria Leah Sajili, representing the regional Bureau of Fire Protection, addressed the press, expressing empathy for the affected families. She assured them that all possible efforts were made to save lives, emphasizing the importance of moving forward.

The collapse resulted in at least four confirmed deaths, including a Malaysian national. Sixteen others, mostly construction workers, remain unaccounted for. Among the victims was the father of 19-year-old Evelyn Alicaway, who recognized her father on social media from the scene and faced the anguish of seeing him after his death.

An investigation is underway to uncover the reasons behind the collapse. Authorities are probing whether the construction violated permit terms, as the building had approval for only nine stories, but a swimming pool was in progress on the tenth floor. The Philippine labor agency had stopped work at the site in September 2025 due to safety issues but allowed it to resume once the company met regulations.

Alicaway’s mother, Rosenda, emphasized the need for the building’s owner to take responsibility for the workers and their families who are enduring this suffering. The families demand accountability and support during this difficult time.