Responders retrieved another body from a collapsed building in Angeles City, Pampanga early Monday morning, bringing the death toll to 12 as search and retrieval efforts continue.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Central Luzon reported that the latest victim was pulled from the debris in Barangay Balibago at around 4:12 a.m. on June 1. While the victim’s location was first spotted at 10:46 p.m. on Sunday, it took rescue teams several hours to clear a safe path to the body.
“The operation required extensive debris removal and access creation using pry bars, sledge hammers, jack hammers, and acetylene cutting equipment. These tools enabled responders to break through concrete, cut steel obstructions, and safely reach the casualty’s location within the collapse site,” the BFP Central Luzon said in a social media post.
Ongoing Operations and Safety Measures
The delicate retrieval process required specialized tools to cut through steel and break concrete while protecting the rescue teams from secondary collapses.
To further ensure the safety of the responders, the Angeles City Health Office conducted continuous disinfection procedures at the site to mitigate health risks.
Despite the grueling conditions, local authorities emphasized that the mission is far from over.
“Search and retrieval efforts continue at the collapse site as responders press on with the ongoing operation,” the BFP Central Luzon added.
The Casualty Toll
According to the latest official data, a total of 47 individuals were affected by the tragedy, which occurred on May 24. Of that number, 27 have been successfully rescued, while eight people remain missing.
The retrieval of the latest victim follows a grim Sunday where five bodies were recovered, continuously driving up the fatality count as the disaster response enters its second week.