Philippines

Barred windows and lax safety standards are being blamed for the high death toll following a massive fire at a sandal factory near Manila. At least 72 people have been confirmed dead following the blaze. While investigators are still trying to determine the official cause of the fire, witnesses say that there was a man doing welding work near the entrance of the facility just minutes before the blaze ignited. It’s estimated that between 200 and 300 people were working in the factory when the blaze ignited. (GMA News) / (Government of the Philippines*)
*This links to a statement issued by the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in reaction to the fire.