Disaster in the Philippines: Brand-new stage roof collapses, students injured days before big festival

Legazpi City, Philippines — Panic erupted Saturday night when the roof of a public stage in Peñaranda Park suddenly collapsed, injuring several students who had taken shelter from heavy rain.

The incident happened around 6 p.m. on August 30. Witnesses say the students were standing under the stage roof when it gave way, sending debris crashing down.

Emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals.

What has locals outraged is that the roof was only installed a few weeks ago. It had been built in preparation for the Albay District Fiesta Parade and Ola Day, a major celebration scheduled for Tuesday, September 2.

Instead of excitement, the community is now demanding answers. How could a newly built structure fail so quickly? Authorities have launched an investigation into possible construction lapses, raising fears of negligence or corruption.

The collapse has cast a shadow over the upcoming festivities and left residents questioning the safety of other newly built public structures.