Death toll from Laguna fireworks factory blast now 5

MANILA, Philippines — The death toll from an explosion at a fireworks factory in Cabuyao City, Laguna on Thursday has increased to five.

Lt. Gen. Rhoderick Armamento, Area Police Command-Southern Luzon commander, said three of the victims died while being treated in hospitals yesterday.

They were identified as Ricardo Olic-Olic, 51; Bebot Reymundodia, 44, and Mylene Tarapidio.

Two persons, who were found dead at the scene, were identified as Marvin Ocom and John Ronald Deduro.

The injured were brought to the Ospital ng Cabuyao, St. James Hospital and Philippine General Hospital.

Armamento said the Cabuyao police and concerned local officials are coordinating with the hospitals to provide assistance to the victims.

The explosion occurred at the Diamond Fireworks Inc. in Purok 3, Barangay Bigaa at 3:30 p.m.

The blast caused a fire that gutted the factory. The fire was declared out after one hour.