 |
Philippine Hotel Fire Death Toll Rises to 70
Two more bodies were recovered in a hotel in Metro Manila, bringing to 70 the number of killed in a fire that hit the hotel early Saturday morning, firefighters said.
Firefighters said more bodies could be found as they were still searching more rooms of the six-story Manor Hotel in Quezon City, Metro Manila.
Most of the victims died from smoke caused by the fire, which started shortly past 4 a.m. (2000 GMT Friday) at the hotel and was put off three hours later.
Twenty survivors of the fire were sent to a nearby hospital for injuries treatment. They reportedly said they were forced to jumped from fifth to the fourth floor of the hotel and from there scaled down the fire exit.
TV pictures showed that the windows of the hotel were sealed by iron barriers, preventing the occupants from escaping.
Interior Secretary Jose Lina said on television that he has given the Bureau of Fire Protection 48 hours to conduct a probe and file necessary charges against the owner of the hotel.
"It is apparent that violations were made," he said. "Charges will be filed as soon as all the reports are in and the violations are identified."
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo earlier said that "if necessary" the national government will extend assistance to fire victims.
Arroyo added the latest incident underscored the need of disaster preparedness and coordination in the country.
In This Section
|