After child fell to death: Dad wants condos’ permits checked

CEBU, Philippines — A Cebu City legislator wants the Office of the Building Official (OBO) to investigate the compliance of permits of the high-rise condominium in Brgy. Lahug where a four-year-old boy fell from and died last monday, April 8.

In a proposed resolution, City Councilor Rey Gealon said the  occupancy permit of the building should be checked, following the death of the four-year-old boy who allededly fell from the building.

He also wants  the OBO to examine whether or not a design flaw of  the building led to the death the child.

This, he said,  is to to avoid any untoward incident and ensure the safety and security of all residents of the condominium

As reported, the child fell from their unit at tthe 27th floor and hit a canopy before landing on the concrete ground near the building's swimming pool.

“We anticipate the swift action of the OBO chief and we'd commend him for that,” Gealon said.

“It is the interest of the Sanggunian that public safety must be prioritized across all areas of construction endeavor, especially in the city's soaring high rise developments," he said on his resolution.

He said “no stone must be left unturned on such investigation” to give justice to the boy.

Gealon also said that OBO’s detailed report and recommendation would aid legislation for a "strengthened policy and protocol for better safety in all of the condominium buildings mushrooming all over the city".

Meanwhile, the management of Citrineland Corporation said in a release statement that it, too, qas shocked upon learning of the incident.

“The management is deeply shocked and saddened by this recent incident as our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the child,” it said.

The management said the safety and well-being of their residents, visitors, and staff have always been of “greater importance” to them and that they are cooperating with the authorities on the investigation.

“Our priority as of this time is to provide support and assistance to the family, as well as ensure the continued safety and security of all occupants of the condominium,” it said.

In light of the incident, the management have implemented enhanced security measures and increased personnel presence in the area to provide reassurance to residents and visitors.

The City Council will tackle Gealon's resolution in its regular session next week. — (FREEMAN)