IN LIGHT of the collapse of a building under construction in Angeles City, it is important to emphasize that local government units carry the legal responsibility of closely supervising all construction activities within their jurisdiction.
This duty is primarily exercised through the Office of the Building Official (OBO), which is tasked with ensuring that every project strictly complies with the National Building Code of the Philippines, local zoning regulations, and established engineering and safety standards.
Reports say the project had a permit for only nine floors, but an additional 10th floor with a swimming pool was allegedly being built. If true, this may have placed extra weight on the structure beyond what it was originally designed to carry.
This situation highlights the importance of strict monitoring during all stages of construction:
The monitoring process of the LGU covers several critical stages:
1.Pre-Construction and Permitting – Before any construction may begin, the OBO must thoroughly evaluate and approve the project’s architectural, structural, electrical, and other technical plans prior to the issuance of a Building Permit. Any construction undertaken without the necessary permits is considered unlawful and may result in sanctions such as fines, suspension of work, or even demolition.
2.Ongoing Construction Monitoring – During construction, authorized building inspectors are expected to conduct regular site inspections to ensure that the structure is being built in accordance with approved plans, safety protocols, and sound engineering practices. These inspections are intended to detect violations or structural risks before they lead to accidents or tragedies.
3.Final Inspection and Occupancy Clearance – Once construction is completed, the LGU conducts a final assessment before issuing a Certificate of Occupancy. This certification signifies that the building has met the required safety standards and is considered fit for public use or habitation.
The Angeles City incident serves as a reminder that building inspections are not just paperwork. Strict enforcement of safety rules and honest monitoring are necessary to protect lives and prevent avoidable tragedies.