Authorities probe QC warehouse after deadly wall collapse

Authorities are looking into possible violations in the construction of a warehouse in Quezon City, following the collapse of its wall that killed four people on Monday night.

According to a report on GMA News TV's "Balitanghali" on Wednesday, the demolition of the warehouse in Barangay Masambong has been postponed due to the ongoing investigation, despite the issuance of a notice from the city's Department of Building Official.

"'Pag dinemolish naman ito na kaya naman sana, wala na tayong basehan na sabihing in violation sila sa building code," said Ed Lara, head of the Sidewalk Clearing and Operations Group of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Initial findings show that the establishment had thin beams and columns, with its walls made higher by adding more cement without lateral support.

Engr. Agustin Torres of the Department of Building Official said increasing the structure's height "without retrofitting" affected its lower portion. "It's all scattered. It should stay as a frame with minimal damage if it's only the effect of collapse," he said.

"If the lower portion is soft, it means the upper portion is a new one, there is a tendency that it will suffer some distress," Torres added.

The building's walls are threatening further collapse, the "Balitanghali" report said, adding that its firewall could fall on neighboring houses.

Authorities said the warehouse had a building permit, but that they would revisit the plan submitted by its owner to check if it was followed during the construction.

Four people were killed in the incident, including a victim of Typhoon Yolanda from Samar who was bound for Saudi Arabia to work as a domestic helper. —Rose-An Jessica Dioquino/KBK, GMA News