(UPDATE) The Pasay City local government has strongly refuted the spread of “fake news” messages and social media posts claiming that the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) is at risk of collapsing due to a damaged foundation. The local government, in a statement in Filipino, has urged the public not to believe and propagate such rumors.
Both the city government and the management of SM MOA have issued separate statements to debunk these false claims and discourage the spread of misinformation on social media. Shoppers are assured that there is no reason to be concerned about visiting the mall.
The rumors stemmed from a message that quoted an engineer alleging that the foundation of the mall had been damaged, causing water from Manila Bay to seep through the structure. The message further claimed that the pumping system was the only thing preventing the water from flooding the mall, and if the pumps were to malfunction, the mall buildings could collapse.
However, SM MOA has vehemently denied these allegations and reassured the public that the foundation of the SM Mall of Asia Complex is built on concrete piles that reach the bedrock, ensuring its stability even in extreme situations. The mall management also emphasized that rigorous annual checks are conducted to ensure the strength and durability of the mall and its surrounding buildings.
It is important to address these false claims and provide clarity to the public. The safety and security of visitors to SM MOA is of utmost importance, and the management takes all necessary measures to ensure the structural integrity of the complex.
Local laws and regulations require thorough inspections and adherence to strict building codes to ensure the safety of commercial establishments. The Philippines, like many countries, has regulations in place to govern the construction and maintenance of buildings. These regulations are designed to protect the public and ensure that structures are built to withstand various environmental factors.
SM MOA, being one of the largest malls in Asia, follows these regulations diligently. The construction of the mall complex involved extensive planning, engineering expertise, and adherence to industry standards. The concrete piles that form the foundation of the mall are designed to withstand the forces exerted by the surrounding environment, including the proximity to Manila Bay.
The annual checks conducted on the mall and its surrounding buildings serve as a proactive measure to identify any potential issues and address them promptly. These inspections involve a thorough examination of the structural elements, ensuring that any signs of wear and tear or damage are promptly addressed.
It is essential for the public to rely on credible sources of information and refrain from spreading unverified rumors. False claims can cause unnecessary panic and damage the reputation of establishments like SM MOA, which have invested significant resources in ensuring the safety and well-being of their visitors.
In conclusion, the allegations of a damaged foundation and the risk of collapse at the SM Mall of Asia are baseless and should be disregarded. The local government and the mall management have emphasized that the mall is structurally sound, built with concrete piles reaching the bedrock, and subject to regular inspections to guarantee its strength and durability. Visitors can continue to enjoy their shopping and leisure activities at SM MOA with confidence.
Source: The Manila Times
