14 hurt in Makati building elevator malfunction

MANILA, Philippines — Fourteen persons were slightly injured after a service elevator malfunctioned in an office building along Ayala Avenue, in Makati City Thursday evening. 

According to Makati City Police chief Senior Superintendent Rogelio Simon, the victims sustained minor injuries after the elevator plummeted from the 52nd floor at around 10:20 or 10:30 p.m.

“Kagabi po nangyari. Siguro mga around 10:20, 10:30,” Simon said in an interview with Radyo Inquirer on Friday.

“Ang dinala po sa ospital, ang official talaan po ay 14. Hindi naman po yung seryosong sugat. Yung iba nahilo, yung iba nagkauntugan, yung iba sumuka,” he added.

Simon said 28 passengers rode the service elevator.

“Ang mali po talaga dito ay 28 po silang sumakay, ang ginamit nilang elevator ay yung service elevator. Kaya nagmalfunction po yung pagbaba niya.”

According to a DZMM report, the elevator carrying 28 passengers slowed down at the building’s 38th floor after its emergency brake system was activated.

The report added that elevator’s door refused to open when it reached the 12th floor. It then continued its descent to the ground floor.

No major injuries

Most of the passengers of the service elevator in a Makati building that was involved in a mishap on Thursday evening have been released from the hospital immediately after receiving treatment for the minor injuries caused by the incident.

According to the building manager, FDP Asia Property Inc., their team immediately responded to assist the passengers and ensure that they are well taken care of.  They also emphasized that they swiftly coordinated with the local authorities to ensure the safety of everyone in the building.

Local authorities are now investigating the incident.  The building manager said they are thankful that despite the incident, no one was seriously injured.

The building manager, together with elevator provider Otis and an independent elevator consultant, are conducting additional inspections on all elevators on top of its regular maintenance./ muf