A nine-storey building under construction in Angeles, near Manila, collapsed early Sunday, killing at least one person and trapping many others.

Rescuers have so far retrieved 26 people from the site and a nearby hotel.

The cause of the collapse is being investigated.

Many of those trapped are believed to be construction workers who were unable to escape in time.

A 65-year-old Malaysian man was confirmed dead, having managed to communicate with rescuers before succumbing to his injuries.

Rescue efforts are being hindered by the need to lift large chunks of concrete from the rubble.