FridayOL

Quezon City, Philippines – The Quezon City local government unit (LGU) has issued a firm statement vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible for the recent billboard collapse along C5 Katipunan-Ateneo Southbound. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, caused significant disruption and raised serious safety concerns among commuters.

The billboard collapse, a jarring sight for motorists, highlights potential lapses in safety regulations and oversight. Initial reports indicate the structure gave way, impacting traffic flow and prompting immediate responses from emergency services and local authorities. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but several vehicles sustained damage, and thankfully, injuries were minimal.

“We are taking this incident very seriously,” stated Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte in a press conference held shortly after the event. “A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the collapse and to identify all parties involved – from the billboard owners and maintenance teams to the permitting agencies. We will ensure that those found to be negligent or in violation of safety standards will be held fully accountable under the law.”

The LGU has already formed a multi-agency task force comprising representatives from the Quezon City Engineering Department, the Business Permit and Licensing Office, and the local police. Their mandate is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the incident, interview witnesses, and review all relevant permits and inspection records. The task force will also be tasked with reviewing the city’s existing ordinances and regulations governing billboards to identify areas for improvement and strengthen enforcement.

This incident has sparked renewed debate regarding the safety and structural integrity of billboards across Metro Manila. Critics have long pointed to inadequate inspections and lax enforcement as contributing factors to potential hazards. The Quezon City LGU's commitment to a rigorous investigation and subsequent action is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these concerns and preventing similar incidents in the future.

“Our priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens,” Mayor Belmonte emphasized. “We will not tolerate any compromise on safety standards. We will work tirelessly to ensure that all billboards in Quezon City are structurally sound and comply with all applicable regulations.”

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to the collapse to come forward. Updates on the investigation and any subsequent legal actions will be released to the public as they become available. This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of diligent oversight and adherence to safety protocols in urban infrastructure.

The city is also coordinating with relevant national agencies to review national standards and best practices for billboard safety, potentially leading to further revisions in local regulations. The goal is to create a safer environment for all residents and commuters in Quezon City.