12-Year-Old Student Dies Weeks After Falling Debris Incident in QC

The 12-year-old student named CJ Baldonado passed away weeks after being struck by falling plaster from a building in Quezon City.

The accident happened on August 12, 2025, along Don A. Roces Avenue, near the corner of Tomas Morato. CJ and two other students had just stepped out of a convenience store when a chunk of plaster from between the seventh and eighth floors of a condominium building suddenly fell, hitting them on the head.

The children were rushed to the hospital, and CJ later underwent surgery. For a short time, his family hoped he would recover, but on Tuesday night, he succumbed to his injuries. His death has left his family heartbroken, describing him as a brave boy who fought hard despite his pain.

The family reiterated that his death could have been prevented with proper safety measures.

“Tapos na din ang pag hihirap mo kuya CJ, binigyan mo kami ng magandang laban, pinagbigyan kami ng panginoon ng 2nd chance na makasama ka para makapagpaalam,” his father said.

The Quezon City government earlier promised to extend help to the victims and their families. Assistance will be provided through the Social Services and Development Department, including medical support and financial aid to help them cope with hospital expenses.

City officials also stressed that accountability must be established. An investigation has already been launched to determine why debris fell and who should be held responsible. Authorities emphasized that the safety of residents and pedestrians must always be prioritized, especially in areas with high-rise buildings.

The incident has elicited concern among the public, with many calling for stricter building inspections and maintenance checks to prevent similar accidents. For now, CJ’s death serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in shared spaces.