PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has directed authorities to conduct a "thorough" investigation into the collapse of a Sogo hotel branch in Malate, Manila that was under demolition, Malacañang announced on Tuesday, September 24.

"President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has already ordered a thorough investigation and we ask concerned authorities to coordinate with the City Government of Manila, particularly the Manila City Engineering Office, for the conduct of the probe," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

Two construction workers, Melo Ison and Herome Fabellon, died after they were trapped in the rubble.

Demolition of the building, which had been vacant for about a year, started in August 2019. It collapsed on Monday, September 23, 2019.

Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso has ordered an investigation into the deadly incident.

Panelo said that while the Palace was "shocked and saddened" by the tragedy, it lauded Moreno for his prompt action.

"We are shocked and saddened by the collapse of a portion of Sogo Hotel in Malate, Manila which left two workers dead," he said.

"We commend Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso who was among the first to rush and inspect the crash site," the Palace official added. (SunStar Philippines)