Former PAL office building collapses

People working near an abandoned building in Makati City’s central business district panicked after part of it collapsed yesterday morning.

The Philippine Airlines used to own and occupy the 10-story building, located on Gallardo street in Legaspi Village, until PAL moved out last year.

Makati City police chief Superintendent Gilbert Cruz said part of the building’s second floor collapsed shortly before noon. Ash fell in areas outside the building, which had been scheduled for demolition.

He said the sound of the collapse and the sight of the debris led some people to believe another explosion hit Makati.

Makati City’s department of engineering and public works has ordered a temporary halt in the demolition following the collapse.

City Engineer Nelson Morales said the order stays until city inspectors have completed their investigation into the collapse of the building’s second floor. He said the city engineering office will review the methodology used by the contractor, RDR General Merchandise, in tearing down the building.

No casualties were reported but falling debris damaged two parked cars and a glass panel of a nearby restaurant.

The Makati City Hall said the building is being demolished to give way to the Eaton residential building project. – Michael Punongbayan