11 dead, 600 injured in Philippines New Year celebrations

At least 11 people were killed and nearly 600 injured as Filipinos welcomed 2005 with daredevil revelry – but there were fewer firecracker blasts and less celebratory gunfire than in the past.

More people converged last night to watch official firework displays organised in three areas of Manila’s tourist and financial districts to discourage rowdier celebrations. And there was less sparkle and smoke from exploding firecrackers in the capital’s sky.