Firecracker factory explodes in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Jan. 29, 2009) – At least six people were killed and dozens more wounded and missing after a firecracker factory exploded on Thursday in the Philippines, police said.

Police said the explosion at the Star Maker factory in the town of Trece Martires in Cavite City was so powerful that shock waves shook small building and shattered glass windows up to 5 kilometers away.

At least six people were confirmed dead, but television footages showed rescuers picking up pieces of human flesh and charred remains around the site. The factory was leveled to the ground.

The death toll may rise as 20 people were reported missing and that many are still unaccounted for, although police said more than 70 others were injured in the explosion which occurred at around 10.45 a.m.

Police said a spark could have triggered a chain of explosions inside the factory where workers were conducting an inventory. (Mindanao Examiner)

Reporters Sans Borders Urged RP Authorities To Investigate Murder Of Journalist

MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / 25 May) - International media group Reporters Without Borders on Friday urged Filipino provincial and national authorities to thoroughly investigate the murder of photojournalist Dodie Nunez, of the regional newspaper Katapat, which had criticised corruption.

It said the killing May 21 may have had political motives.

Nunez was returning home in Cavite province, south of Manila, when three motorcyclists stopped the bus he was on and shot him dead, wounding another person.

"Katapat editor Archie Gadang stood for provincial governor in elections earlier this month, since when the winner, Ireneo Maliksi, has sued him for libel. During the campaign, the paper had accused Maliksi of corruption," it said.

Several Filipino journalists have been killed in the wake of elections in revenge for often fierce criticism of local politicians. Roberto Ramos, also of Katapat, was killed by motorcycle gunmen on November 20, 2005.

The Philippines is one of the most dangerous country in Asia for journalists and dozens have been killed over the years in line of duty. (Mindanao Examiner)