At Least 72 Dead in Manila Factory Fire

Officials said Thursday at least 72 people were killed after a fire swept through a footwear factory in the Philippines capital Manila, according to the AFP. "They were lying side by side, but all I could see were their bones," said senior superintendent Sergio Soriano. The fire broke out at the Kentex Manufacturing Corp. factory where about 200 to 300 people worked, according to factory owner Veato Ang. Mayor Rex Gatchalian of Valenzuela city north of Manila said the fire appeared to start by sparks from welding work being done near the factory's entrance door, which caused an explosion with chemicals used to make the rubber slippers.