COLLAPSED PAMPANGA BUILDING HAD PRIOR DOLE SAFETY VIOLATIONS

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) revealed that the nine-story building that collapsed in Angeles, Pampanga had already been issued a work stoppage order in September 2025 over multiple safety violations.

According to DOLE Region 3, inspectors found serious Occupational Safety and Health violations at the construction site, including the absence of safety belts, lifelines, hard hats, boots, safety officers, and proper worker accommodations. Authorities also cited problems involving scaffolding and electrical systems.

DOLE officials said inspectors were initially denied access to the site, prompting the agency to immediately suspend operations over concerns for worker safety. Although the construction company later complied with corrective measures, the tragedy has now raised questions about long-term enforcement and accountability.

The collapse has already claimed at least four lives, while several others remain missing beneath the rubble. Authorities continue rescue operations as investigations focus on whether proper safety standards and worker protections were truly implemented before the deadly incident.

The disaster has intensified public concern over construction safety, labor protection, and possible negligence behind one of the most devastating building collapses in Pampanga in recent years.