BFP sends search and rescue teams to collapsed building in Pampanga
By Chito Chavez
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has sent rescue teams and equipment to assist in the operation to save as many trapped workers in the building that collapsed in Angeles City, Pampanga on Sunday morning, May 24 .
BFP officer-in-charge (OIC) Chief Supt. Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu personally went to the site and gave directions to ongoing search, rescue, and retrieval operations.
The BFP vowed to employ appropriate coordination with various agencies to ensure prompt, safe and orderly incident response.
“We also ask for everyone's prayers for the safety of responders and for the immediate rescue of those affected by the collapse,’’ Tiu continued.
While a severe thunderstorm hit the city the previous afternoon, officials have yet to confirm if the inclement weather was a factor in the collapse.
Further, the local government (LGU) has launched an inquiry into the building’s legal standing, structural history, and permits, and is verifying coordination with the project management.
Authorities noted that the cause of the structural failure remains under investigation, and no formal statements have been received from the building’s management or ownership.