Firecracker sparks Manila blaze

Some police pistols are taped up to stop them being fired into the air

At least 15 people have been killed in the Philippines after fire swept through a public market near Manila.

Initial reports said the fire was started by the accidental lighting of a firecracker, traditionally used to welcome the Philippines New Year and ward off malevolent spirits.

The fire spread to buildings near the market in Lucena City, south of Manila, and left at least 22 people injured.

The government has been trying to limit the use of high-powered firecrackers.

The fire was the most serious incident reported as the police and emergency services geared up for New Year's Eve celebrations and violence.

Manila police director Chief Superintendent Vidal Querol said 155 people had already been treated for firecracker related injuries.

Firing guns into the air is another popular New Year's Eve tradition, because of a belief that loud noises ward off bad luck and evil spirits for the year ahead.

Superintendent Querol said police officers had been told not to fire their guns, and others had the nozzles of their pistols taped up.

Last year, at least one person was killed by a stray bullet.