Two Malaysians Affected In Building Collapse Disaster In  Philippines – Foreign Ministry

PUTRAJAYA, May 24 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that two Malaysians were affected by the building collapse in the city of Angeles, north of the Philippines capital, Manila, on Sunday.

The ministry said in a statement that one victim has been confirmed safe, while the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila is actively gathering verified information to ascertain the status of the second Malaysian.

“The Embassy is in close communication with local authorities to monitor the well-being of the citizen who is safe and to verify the status and whereabouts of the remaining national.

“Concurrently, all necessary efforts are being made to locate and establish contact with the next of kin of both individuals,” it said.

According to the statement, rescue operations are currently underway for individuals feared trapped.

It said Malaysians requiring immediate consular assistance, or those wishing to provide information regarding other Malaysian nationals who may be in the area, are urged to contact the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila at the general telephone line number +63 286628200, or emergency number (after office hours)  +63 961 0778113 or by email at mwmanila@kln.gov.my.

“The Ministry extends its deepest thoughts and sympathies to all those affected by this incident,” it added.

Media reports said 26 people were rescued after a nine-storey building under construction collapsed early Sunday in Angeles City.

Twenty-four people were pulled from the collapsed structure, while two others were rescued from the nearby apartment hotel struck by the incident.

-- BERNAMA