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73 People Dead, 500 Injured in Stampede in Philippines

At least 30,000 people were present waiting to enter the Philsports Arena in Pasig, a suburb of Manila. The show `Wowowee` was going to be held in the arena with many there to participate in a raffle that had a jackpot equal to $384. At least 73 people were killed and 500 more injured when the crowd of people in line stampeded towards the gates, mistakenly believing they were open.

The show was organized by ABS-CBN TV and is popular in the region because of the big ticket prizes, such as cash and cars. Charo Santos-Concio, ABS-CBN executive vice president for entertainment, said that the station `...will ensure that we will give all needed help and support to the wounded.`

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the most serious injuries included contusions, deep cuts, fractures and `mental shock`. Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said that an investigation into the incident will be conducted and with results submitted to her within 72 hours.