A LABOR group condemned what it described as a preventable construction tragedy after a nine-story building under construction collapsed in Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, leaving workers dead and injured.
The Association of Women’s Workers in Construction Industry (AWWCI) said the incident exposed alleged negligence and cost-cutting measures by construction firms.
AWCCI national coordinator Jane Vargas said construction workers rely solely on their labor as their only source of livelihood, making the tragedy even more devastating for the families left behind.
AWWCI called for an investigation into Golden Years Construction and Steelworks and concerned government agencies over the alleged failure to strictly enforce labor safety standards and conduct regular site inspections.
The group also questioned why construction continued despite a previous work stoppage order issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Central Luzon over reported workplace safety violations.
According to DOLE, inspectors earlier found deficiencies in safety belts, hard hats, and other protective equipment at the site, as well as the absence of a designated safety officer. DOLE said it is prepared to provide emergency employment and assistance to affected workers and their families.
However, AWWCI maintained that no form of aid could compensate for the lives lost and urged construction companies to strictly comply with occupational safety standards to prevent similar incidents
