DOLE stops demolition of Baguio hotel

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has stopped the demolition of the old Burnham Hotel in Baguio City.

Henry John Jalbuena, DOLE Cordillera Autonomous Region director, yesterday said he issued a work stoppage order following the death of a construction worker when a wall of the hotel collapsed.

Jalbuena said the city building and architects office issued a demolition permit without a DOLE-approved construction safety and health program.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said a team of DOLE inspectors found out that the worksite endangers the life of workers.

 Baldoz gave assurance the DOLE would provide the necessary assistance to the affected workers, adding those responsible for the incident would be held liable.