An aspiring navy cadet died after falling from the construction site of the New Senate building along Chino Roces Ave. Extension, Brgy. Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
"It is with deep sorrow and concern that we confirm the tragic incident that occurred last night," Senate Spokesperson Atty. Arnel Jose Bañas said in a statement.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased," he added.
Banas said that Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero has been apprised of the incident and has immediately ordered a thorough investigation of the incident and a review of the security protocols in the construction site.
Based on reports from the security team on-site and from the Southern Police District, Banas said that the victim (whose identity is still being withheld as the family has not yet been notified as of this writing) slipped into the construction area at around 9:00 p.m. on July 25, as workers who rendered overtime work were exiting through the main gate.
He was reportedly chased by a companion and the security guards but could not be found. The security team searched the area and reviewed the CCTV but were not able to locate the person.
According to the report, the victim fell off the north tower - it is yet unclear from which floor - at around 10:00 p.m.
"We have instructed security to recheck and tighten control of all entrance and exit points as well as the façade barriers to prevent unauthorized entry and loitering," Banas said.
"The Senate is taking this matter very seriously. We extend our full support to the on-going investigation to find out the actual circumstances surrounding this tragic incident," he added.