MANILA, Philippines – In less than four weeks, the Philippines saw buildings crumble to the ground – first, in Pampanga where a nine-story building under construction collapsed, then in Mindanao where a powerful earthquake struck Sarangani.
These recent incidents have triggered questions on structural integrity of most buildings in the Philippines and the regulations that are supposed to ensure this and protect communities.
What are the lessons learned here?
Experts said there is a need to update the National Structural Code of the Philippines, close gaps between the issuance of building permits and actual construction, and ensure the strict implementation of existing regulations.
Still under probe
