9 now found dead in Angeles City building collapse

MANILA, Philippines — The death toll from the building collapse in Angeles City, Pampanga, on May 24 has climbed to nine, the Bureau of Fire Protection said.

"The total number of confirmed fatalities now stands at nine," the fire protection bureau's Central Luzon arm said in a statement Sunday, May 31.

The building collapsed in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, early on May 24.

Authorities have rescued 26 individuals from the collapsed building. Earlier estimates from authorities placed the number of trapped individuals at 30 to 40.

At least 14 individuals remain missing, according to reports.

Clearing, probe ongoing. Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin II said the clearing operation is currently at 5%. He has also ordered a fact-finding investigation into the incident.

The Philippine National Police earlier said it would assist in the investigation of possible building safety violations.

At a press conference on Saturday, lawyers for the building owner and contractor said two of the victims had received financial assistance from the owner, while others refused to accept aid.