Philippines authorities called off search and rescue operations on Monday evening after rescuers, using life locator equipment, determined there were no longer signs of life beneath the rubble.
In the aftermath, operations have shifted on Tuesday from rescue efforts to the recovery of victims’ remains, as families continue to wait for updates on those still missing after the building collapse in Angeles City, north of Manila.
Investigation launched
At least four people have been confirmed dead, including a Malaysian national whose body was recovered on Sunday from a neighbouring hotel building that had also been hit by the collapse. Another 16, mostly construction workers, remain missing.
Authorities have launched an investigation into why the building collapsed, and whether or not it violated the terms of its construction permit: though only nine storeys were approved, a swimming pool was under construction on the 10th floor.
The Philippine labour agency stopped work at the site in September 2025 over safety violations, but lifted the order a month later after the company complied with regulations.
Families Grapple With Loss and Uncertainty
Among those waiting for news is Lea Casilao, whose husband Joselito is believed to be among the victims. The couple had been exchanging routine “good morning” messages until Saturday evening, but no reply came on Sunday, the day the building collapsed. Sitting near the site in a makeshift tent, Casilao said her hopes of finding him alive had faded as rescue efforts ended.
Beside her were other families waiting anxiously for news of their loved ones.
One of those who died was the father of 19-year-old Evelyn Alicaway. She said she learned of the accident from her uncle, and after seeing a video on social media she knew it was her father that rescuers were attempting to pull from the rubble.
“Even with his face blurred, I knew right away it was him. It hurt me so much to see my father like that,” Alicaway said in tears at her father’s funeral.
(With inputs from Reuters)
