‘Illegally constructed’ QC building collapses

MANILA, Philippines–A four-story apartment in a shanty community on NIA road in Quezon City collapsed on Friday afternoon although no one was reported injured.

Radio reports said residents near the old residential building were asked to evacuate their houses to avoid falling debris. NIA Road was also closed to traffic to pave way for the clearing operations of the Bureau of Fire and Protection.

In an interview with Radio DZMM, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista said that the building was made of light materials.

“Hindi na habitable ito, hindi na pwedeng tirahan,” Bautista said.

“(The structure) was illegally constructed (and houses) informal settlers,” he added.

Authorities said that the building had 36 units housing at least 40 families.

The dwellers of the building have been given a week to stay in the area until they could find a place where they can transfer.

Bautista said he is still awaiting the result of the BFP and the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office’s investigation as to how the building was constructed despite lacking the necessary permits.
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