2 dead, 2 hurt in construction mishap

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — Two workers were buried alive and two others were injured in an accident at a construction site in this city on Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Rodelon Betita, Legazpi City police chief, said Allan Andes, 47, and Rolin Bagacay were declared dead on arrival in a hospital.

Ariel Marcelo, 40, and Marvin Balmediano, who were injured, have been declared out of danger.

Betita said the victims were installing the steel frame foundation of a four-story hotel being constructed in Barangay Pinaric when excavated soil and debris fell on them.

Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal said he formed a task force headed by the city’s engineering office to investigate the incident and determine if there was violation of the Building Code.

City engineer Clemente Ibo said that they did not issue a building permit because the owner did not submit the requirements, including an environmental compliance certificate.