Contractor Face P11 Million Fine After Deadly Collapse in Angeles City
A building and contractor of a nine-story building that collapsed in Angeles City, Pampanga is facing a P11 million fine.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that the contractor has been ordered to pay more than P11 million in fines following the results of an investigation.
DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino made the announcement in connection with the tragic incident that took place in May and claimed the lives of 30 people. The building was still under construction when it suddenly collapsed, leading to one of the deadliest construction-related accidents in recent years.
According to the findings of DOLE, the building owner and the contractor, Golden Years Construction and Steel Works Corporation, were found responsible for several violations involving labor laws and workplace safety regulations.
The total penalty reached P11.4 million, with more than P1 million linked to labor standards violations and over P10 million imposed for serious breaches of occupational safety and health rules.
Investigators discovered that workers reportedly continued their duties even after a work stoppage order had already been issued. Authorities also found that some employees were not given the correct compensation for rest days and holidays.
The investigation further revealed several safety deficiencies at the construction site. Among these were the lack of proper personal protective equipment, missing permits for certain mechanical equipment, the absence of a qualified first aider, and inadequate temporary accommodations for workers.
Officials also uncovered allegations involving the submission of fake or invalid certificates related to the project’s first aider and safety officer. These findings raised additional concerns about the overall safety management of the construction project.
The agency said the case will also be referred to the National Bureau of Investigation and the Angeles City local government for further action.
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