One of the victims was a security guard, while the three others were still being identified, he said.

A rescue team found at least 19 people trapped on the fifth floor, but emergency teams were still determining how to get them out safely, he added.

"They are alive and in constant communication with the rescue team," Uy said.

All other guests from the 350-room hotel were evacuated, he said.

Employees were seen gasping for air as they rushed out of the hotel, some covering their noses with towels or handkerchiefs. One woman was seen being carried by other workers to a nearby hospital.