[a][1] Kentex is a small manufacturer of flip flops and other rubber shoes located in Valenzuela City, within Metro Manila, Philippines.

[3] On May 13, 2015, a fire broke out when welding sparks ignited chemicals stored near the entrance of the Kentex factory.

[3] On May 14, Valenzuela City fire chief Mel Jose Lagan and senior inspector Ed-Groover Oculam were placed on administrative leave as authorities investigated possible wrongdoing.

[3] Survivors of the blaze claimed that the factory had sweatshop-like conditions and blamed the large loss of life on barred windows.

The workers worked for "well below minimum wage" and endured foul smells, according to families of the victims and the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines.

[3] Interior Secretary Mar Roxas promised justice for the victims, and said that he was angered by the apparent cause (welding near flammable materials) and insufficient exits in the factory.

[3] On 17 May, the welder whose activity caused the fire sought police protection, claiming that he was receiving death threats.

[5] The Ombudsman said that Gatchalian, Padayao, Carreon, and Avendan were liable for issuing business permits to Kentex in 2015 despite its delinquent status.

He also said that the order would have a chilling effect on mayors from highly urbanized cities who issue provisional business permits to establishments.