Makati gov't suspends Mandarin Oriental demolition

MANILA, Philippines - Makati Mayor Romulo "Kid" Peña on Saturday ordered a suspension of the demolition of the Mandarin Oriental hotel as authorities continue to investigate Friday's accident which left an Australian woman injured after debris fell on her.

At the same time, Peña directed the Makati Public Safety Department (MAPSA) to cordon off the affected area on a 24/7 basis to prevent a repeat of the incident and ensure the protection and safety of motorists and pedestrians.

Based on the latest medical bulletin released by the Makati Medical Center, Suzanne Mellor, 50, Australian, suffered a broken leg and is due surgery on her right leg.

"We regret this accident happened. We have already dispatched our building official and safety engineers to dig into the root cause of the incident, so that precautionary measures can be made for other condemned buildings in the city,” Peña said.

“More importantly, we would like to assure the public that we are monitoring the progress of the victims of this unfortunate incident, and we will accede to the findings and recommendations of our city engineers and building official,” he added.

Meanwhile, a one-way scheme is being implemented along Paseo de Roxas Avenue, from Makati Avenue going to Buendia Avenue. This is to prevent motorists and pedestrians from being harmed.

The traffic scheme will remain until the city government lifts its suspension order.