1 dead, 4 hurt after Skyway steel girder collapses

MANILA, Philippines (Update 2, 4:15 p.m.) — A steel girder of the Skyway extension project which is under construction collapsed Saturday, crushing vehicles beneath the structure on the East Service Road in Muntinlupa City, killing at least one and injuring four others, contractor EEI Corp. confirmed.

EEI said in a statement that a crane was being positioned for its next task when it tilted and fell on a steel girder spanning two posts of the northbound Skyway extension project which caused the girder to collapse.

“Our hearts and prayers go with the affected families. This is an unfortunate and heart-breaking accident that must not happen again. We will review immediately our safety and operating protocols as we build a strategic infrastructure for the public’s convenience,” the Skyway contractor said.

EEI said it is monitoring those hurt and are trying to get in touch with their next of kin for proper coordination and to extend any assistance they may need.

It added that it is now clearing the affected area to restore traffic flow.

San Miguel Corp., among the companies which has a hand in the construction of the expressway, said that after "initial assessment," the mishap pushes back the completion of the project from December 2020 to February 2021.

Investigation called

"We deeply regret this unfortunate accident and assure a full and thorough investigation," San Miguel said. "Our thoughts and concern are with the victims and we will make sure they will get all the help they need. Their welfare is our priority." 

Rep. Ruffy Biazon (Muntinlupa) said the incident requires an urgent, in-depth investigation into what he calls a "preventable" accident.

"With the construction of the Skyway extension in the Muntinlupa area still ongoing, Muntinlupeños should be assured and guaranteed that this will never happen again. We do not want to live under threat of being killed by falling debris and equipment," Biazon said.

He added, "Let not the Skyway become a highway to heaven." — Xave Gregorio with reports from Prinz Magtulis and Ian Cigaral