SIX INJURED IN CANDABA TRADE CENTER CEILING COLLAPSE

Photo Courtesy of Ing Malugud / Facebook

Six people were injured after a portion of the ceiling at the Anastacio Gallardo Trade Center collapsed on Monday morning, June 29, 2026, interrupting a local government community program.

Rainwater, Heat Blamed for Sudden Collapse

The incident occurred between 8:46 a.m. and 8:56 a.m. inside the municipal trade center. Around 250 participants were gathered for a project orientation organized by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for its Project LAWA and BINHI initiatives.

An initial investigation conducted by the General Services Office and the Municipal Engineering Office revealed that rainwater had accumulated inside the ceiling structure over time. Local engineers noted that the trapped moisture, combined with intense solar heat, rapidly deteriorated and weakened the plastic PVC ceiling material. The structural stress caused sections of the ceiling and attached lighting systems to suddenly give way, crashing down onto the crowd below.

Local authorities confirmed that no earthquakes or active thunderstorms were recorded in the area at the exact time of the collapse, pointing directly to the trapped rainwater as the primary catalyst.

Victims Stable; LGU Promises Full Support

First responders immediately arrived at the scene to assist the attendees. Six individuals sustained minor injuries, including various contusions, bruises, and abrasions. Medical personnel administered initial first aid on-site before transporting the victims to the Candaba Municipal Infirmary.

Candaba Mayor Rene E. Maglanque confirmed that all six victims are currently in stable condition. The local government unit (LGU) has committed to covering all medical expenses and providing full assistance to the injured individuals and their families.

Facility Ordered Closed Pending Integrity Review

Following the incident, Mayor Maglanque ordered the immediate closure of the Anastacio Gallardo Trade Center and suspended all upcoming events scheduled at the venue.

The Municipal Engineering Office is currently conducting a comprehensive safety and structural integrity assessment of the entire facility. Local officials emphasized that the trade center will remain closed to the public until engineers officially certify the building as entirely safe.