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Picture courtesy of Vietnam News The 7th Vietnam Security Summit 2025 opened in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing together more than 800 cybersecurity leaders, experts, and innovators under the theme "Cybersecurity: Building Resilience & Trust in an Ever-Changing World." This annual event delved into pressing challenges and emerging trends in digital security. The summit featured conferences that addressed critical topics such as data protection, cloud security, AI-driven risks, and strategies for enhancing IT infrastructure resilience. It aimed to provide actionable insights to secure a more reliable digital future. Running alongside the summit, an exhibition showcased cutting-edge technologies and cybersecurity solutions from over 50 Vietnamese and international enterprises. The exhibition highlighted innovations spanning AI security, infrastructure security, data security, cloud security, identity & access management, and OT & IoT security. Vũ Ngọc Sơn, head of the Research, Consulting, Technology Development, and International Cooperation Department at the National Cybersecurity Association, underscored the heightened risk of cyberattacks in Vietnam. According to the association, over 659,000 cyberattacks were recorded in 2024, with nearly 46% of agencies and businesses experiencing at least one attack. A significant challenge facing Vietnam is the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. Currently, 56% of state agencies and businesses lack sufficient IT and information security staff. The country is expected to face a deficit of 700,000 cybersecurity professionals over the next three years. This shortage leads to increased frequency and severity of cyberattacks, slow incident response times, and operational challenges for businesses and state agencies. Vũ Ngọc Sơn emphasized that cybersecurity is crucial for digital transformation, stressing the need for a collaborative effort among the government, educational institutions, and enterprises to address the personnel gap. The summit highlighted the pressing need to bolster cybersecurity measures and build a robust workforce to tackle evolving digital threats, ensuring Vietnam's digital landscape remains secure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-23

File photo for reference only Vietnam's Telecommunications Authority (VNTA) has directed telecom and internet service providers to employ technical measures to block the messaging app Telegram due to its involvement in disseminating harmful and subversive content. This action follows an official request from the Department of Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention and Control, known as A05, under the Ministry of Public Security. According to A05, a significant portion—68%—of approximately 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam have been identified as containing harmful content. These groups are reportedly used by reactionary or anti-government entities to share subversive materials, conduct scams, sell illegal user data, distribute drugs, and potentially engage in terrorism. As per Decree No 147/2024/NĐ-CP, which governs the management and use of internet services, cross-border service providers like Telegram are required to adhere to Vietnamese laws while operating in the country. They must provide contact information to authorities and are obligated to monitor and remove illegal content upon request as per the Law on Cybersecurity. The decree underscores that foreign service providers violating Vietnamese regulations, and failing to cooperate with authorities, may face technical measures intended to prevent the misuse of the internet. This is particularly to protect national security, social order, morality, and safeguard children from negative online impacts. The document from A05 highlights that exploiting telecom services for acts threatening national security and social order is strictly prohibited under the Law on Telecommunications. Consequently, telecom providers must enforce service-blocking measures as required by law. Starting January 1, 2025, telecom companies are mandated to notify authorities prior to offering services. Telegram has reportedly not complied with this regulation, highlighting a breach of Article 9(4) of the telecommunications law—a prohibited act under current legislation. In response, telecom providers are tasked with implementing necessary technical measures to block unauthorized services, as detailed in Article 79(1)(c) of Decree No 163/2024/NĐ-CP. This move aligns with Vietnam's stringent approach to regulating internet services and ensuring content aligns with local laws and safety standards. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-23

Picture courtesy of VN Express In a tragic court case in Hanoi, two truck drivers have been sentenced to prison for causing an accident that claimed the lives of a mother and her three children. The Hanoi People's Court handed down a 12-year sentence to Dam Van Luong, 39, and a 5-year sentence to Le Van Nga, 59. Another individual, Le Van Tiep, 45, received a three-year jail term for operating a vehicle that did not meet safety standards. The incident occurred in July last year when Tiep, owner of Anh Dung Transport Construction and Trading Co., Ltd., leased six dump trucks for transporting construction materials. Among these was a truck with an expired inspection certificate, illegally modified for greater capacity. Despite knowing its condition, Tiep authorized its use. Luong, an employee of Anh Dung Company, was tasked with driving this truck, which carried over 34 tons of stone—nearly triple its legal capacity. As Luong barreled through an intersection in Hoai Duc District's Duong Lieu Commune without slowing down, he merely honked his horn to signal his approach. At the same intersection, Nga was driving another truck and failed to reduce speed. A 32-year-old woman named Hai, with her three children on a motorbike, tried to move out of Luong’s way upon hearing the horn. Nga, seeing Luong's truck, attempted to accelerate to avoid an impending collision. Both drivers' frantic maneuvers failed, resulting in a crash that sent their trucks careening towards the woman and her children. The impact crushed them against a bridge barrier, resulting in their instant deaths, while Nga sustained injuries. After fleeing the scene, Luong was apprehended the following day. The court identified the drivers' disregard for traffic laws as the primary cause of the accident. Luong, found to be under the influence of drugs during the crash, was deemed the main culprit. In court, the defendants expressed remorse, apologized to the victims' families, and pleaded for leniency. While civil compensation was settled privately with no further legal action pursued, the victims' families requested a commutation of sentences. Beyond their prison terms, Tiep has been banned from the transport business for five years, and both drivers are prohibited from driving for five years, reflecting the court's stance on the severity of their negligence and its tragic consequences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-23

File photo for reference only In an unexpected call for Cabinet resignations, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has chosen to retain Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and his core economic team. During a briefing at Malacañang Palace, Bersamin clarified rumors regarding his resignation, affirming the president's continued trust and support. Bersamin expressed gratitude for the president's vote of confidence, describing it as a gesture of full trust and confidence. "He communicated to me that I have his full backing for as long as I wish to work for him," Bersamin stated, marking the president's explicit support for his role amidst the broader Cabinet shake-up. Following the evaluation, Marcos decided to keep his economic team intact. This decision involves retaining: Cristina Roque as Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry Arsenio Balisacan as Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Ralph Recto as Secretary of the Department of Finance Amenah Pangandaman as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management Frederick Go as Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Bersamin noted that the economic team was prioritized in the recent evaluations, emphasizing the president's focus on economic stability and agenda. Additional announcements regarding other Cabinet positions are forthcoming. This reshuffle follows a disappointing midterm election outcome for Marcos, where only six of his preferred eleven Senate candidates secured seats. The decision to maintain a stable economic advisory team reflects an emphasis on continuity and expertise in managing the country's economic policies and challenges moving forward. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-23

File photo for reference only The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines, under the leadership of Secretary Sonny Angara, is moving full steam ahead with preparations for the upcoming school year, despite Angara’s pending courtesy resignation following a directive from President Marcos. Angara formally resigned on May 22 as part of a broader Cabinet reorganization aimed at recalibrating the administration post-elections. DepEd remains committed to ensuring a smooth opening for School Year (SY) 2025–2026, scheduled to begin on June 16, 2025, as outlined in DepEd Order No. 012, s. 2025. This marks a return to the pre-pandemic academic calendar, with the school year running through March 31, 2026, encompassing up to 197 class days. Adjustments may be made should unforeseen events necessitate changes to the schedule. Preparations involve classroom readiness, teacher deployment, and logistical coordination across regions. Private schools, Philippine Schools Overseas, and state and local universities offering basic education are encouraged to align with these guidelines, ensuring compliance with the requisite number of class days. Despite the leadership transition, all educational programs are set to continue uninterrupted. DepEd emphasizes that in-person classes will remain the main mode of instruction, although Distance Learning Delivery Modalities may be employed should emergencies arise. Early registration is encouraged, particularly for first-time learners in kindergarten, transferees, and students entering Grades 1, 7, and 11. Typically scheduled from the last Saturday of January to the last Friday of February, the registration period may be adjusted if necessary. Enrollment for returning students will occur one week before the start of classes. In preparation for the school year, "Brigada Eskwela," the National Schools Maintenance Week, will rally community support to ready public schools for reopening. In parallel, Angara is set to attend the opening of the 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte, underscoring DepEd's dedication to holistic education. This national sports event promotes both academic and athletic excellence, gathering young athletes from across the Philippines. Running from May 24 to 31, the event will feature a diverse lineup of sports, including traditional and para-athletics, reinforcing cultural and physical development. Angara’s participation in the Palarong Pambansa, alongside President Marcos, highlights an ongoing commitment to education and youth development, amid the interim uncertainty of leadership changes within the department. DepEd reassures the public that programs and initiatives will proceed unaffected as they await Malacañang's action on Angara's resignation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-23

File photo for reference only In a landmark move to bolster its maritime capabilities, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has signed a P25.8-billion contract with French shipbuilding company OCEA for the acquisition of 40 units of 35-meter fast patrol craft. This deal marks the largest single purchase in the PCG’s modernization effort to date. The contract was formalized by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon, French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and OCEA CEO Roland Joassard. This significant transaction is facilitated through a government-to-government (G2G) financing agreement under the Agreement on Financial and Development Cooperation (AFDC) between the Philippines and France. Backed by a nine-year Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) plan, the acquisition aims to ensure sustained operational readiness and effective long-term maintenance of the patrol vessels. Admiral Gavan stated that these fast patrol craft would play a crucial role in monitoring activities in the West Philippine Sea amid ongoing tensions with China. Beyond geopolitical concerns, the patrol boats will also enhance the PCG’s capacity to tackle various maritime challenges. These include monitoring growing maritime traffic and curbing illegal activities such as fishing violations, smuggling, piracy, and maritime terrorism. "Acquiring these assets will modernize the PCG Fleet, capacitating us to deploy mission-capable and high-speed vessels to further enhance maritime domain awareness and expand Coast Guard presence," Gavan emphasized. These high-speed multi-role vessels are designed as rapid deployment platforms, crucial for executing rescue, relief, and emergency operations during natural disasters and maritime incidents. This capability aims to dramatically improve the PCG’s response time and operational efficiency. Under the agreement, 20 of these vessels will be built in France, while the remaining 20 will be constructed in the Philippines. This strategy supports the domestic maritime industry by creating jobs, fostering technology transfer, and enhancing the country’s self-reliance in naval shipbuilding. The acquisition signifies a substantial advancement for the PCG’s operational scope, ensuring that the Philippines continues to strengthen its maritime defense and safety capabilities in complex seas. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-23

Researchers Discover New Plant Species in Phu Kradueng National Park Pictures courtesy of Bangkok Post In an exciting development for botany, researchers from Chulalongkorn University have discovered three potentially new plant species during a comprehensive survey at Phu Kradueng National Park in Thailand's northeastern province of Loei. Supported by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), the research primarily focused on spore-bearing plants such as ferns, collecting 288 pteridophyte specimens along the park's trails. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361580-researchers-discover-new-plant-species-in-phu-kradueng-national-park/

Pictures courtesy of Bangkok Post In an exciting development for botany, researchers from Chulalongkorn University have discovered three potentially new plant species during a comprehensive survey at Phu Kradueng National Park in Thailand's northeastern province of Loei. Supported by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), the research primarily focused on spore-bearing plants such as ferns, collecting 288 pteridophyte specimens along the park's trails. The survey yielded three species—Selaginella sp., Asplenium sp., and Oleandra sp.—that have been identified as likely new to science. These species may soon be recorded in global botanical databases, underscoring the area's contribution to biodiversity. Additionally, the team documented three fern species in Loei for the first time: Cunningham’s lady-fern (Athyrium cumingianum), medicinal spikemoss (Selaginella involvens), and Tectaria simonsii, a distinctive halberd fern not yet assigned a common name. Notably, the researchers also identified three species endemic to the region: Siam spleenwort (Asplenium siamense), streamwood fern (Dryopteris rheophila), and Dumrong’s stag’s tongue fern (Elaphoglossum dumrongii). These discoveries highlight Phu Kradueng National Park's rich biodiversity and significant conservation value. The park, recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, features unique sandstone peaks that create an optimal environment for the proliferation of ferns and similar plants. Prapaporn Jadprajong, a member of the research team, emphasized the park's status as one of Thailand’s premier locations for the natural propagation of these delicate plants, which thrive in the cool and moist conditions typical of the park's ecosystem. Phu Kradueng's ecological richness and the potential introduction of new species to the scientific community underscore the importance of ongoing conservation efforts and further research to ensure the protection and preservation of this valuable natural habitat. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23

Thai Authorities Probe Chemical Contamination Crisis in Kok River Picture courtesy of TNA An urgent investigation is underway as fish in the Kok River, Thailand, exhibit severe skin abnormalities, marking a critical point in a chemical and arsenic contamination crisis linked to mining activities in Myanmar. The pollutants, stemming from Myanmar's Shan State, have reportedly spread to the Sai and Mekong rivers, posing significant risks to public health, local livelihoods, and regional environmental security. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361579-thai-authorities-probe-chemical-contamination-crisis-in-kok-river/

Picture courtesy of TNA An urgent investigation is underway as fish in the Kok River, Thailand, exhibit severe skin abnormalities, marking a critical point in a chemical and arsenic contamination crisis linked to mining activities in Myanmar. The pollutants, stemming from Myanmar's Shan State, have reportedly spread to the Sai and Mekong rivers, posing significant risks to public health, local livelihoods, and regional environmental security. The Thai Department of Fisheries is currently monitoring the situation closely after tests indicated alarmingly high levels of arsenic and other hazardous chemicals exceeding safety limits. These contaminants are believed to originate from mining operations reportedly controlled by ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. As a preventive measure, experts are testing fish from the rivers to avoid human consumption of contaminated seafood. The environmental and economic repercussions are acute in northern Thai communities. Local fishermen face plummeting sales due to safety concerns, catalyzing a broader economic downturn. In response, authorities in Mae Yao municipality, Chiang Rai, have erected warnings against water contact and fish consumption from the Kok River, attributing this advisory to arsenic prevalence. Tourism, a vital sector in the region, is severely impacted. The Ban Ruam Mit Elephant Camp, a major attraction, reports an 80% decrease in visitors. Key activities like elephant trekking and river rafting have been suspended, with elephants now dependent on expensive piped mountain water for bathing due to the river's contamination. Additionally, veterinarians have reported skin infections among mahouts and elephants exposed to the polluted water, raising alarm over potential arsenic intrusion into local water wells. Calls for decisive action are echoing across political spheres. MP Rangsiman Rome has underscored the necessity of international cooperation to tackle this transboundary issue at its source in Myanmar. He criticized the Thai government’s inadequate and ambiguous response, advocating for possible legal measures to secure compensation if conditions fail to improve. Recent satellite imagery, provided by the Shan Human Rights Foundation, has pinpointed possible rare earth mining operations in Shan State, just 25 kilometres from the Thai border. These images show circular ponds used for mineral extraction, suggesting a probable source of the pervasive chemical pollution. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged these findings, tasking the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment with further investigation and action. This situation underscores the urgent need for cross-border environmental governance and swift measures to protect public health and regional ecosystems. Adapted by ASEAN Now from TNA 2025-05-23

12-Year-Old Boy in Udon Thani Finds Shelter in Abandoned School Amid Family Struggles Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV A poignant story has emerged from Udon Thani, where a 12-year-old boy named Ata took refuge in an abandoned school, carrying only a photograph of his deceased mother. His decision to leave home was driven by claims of physical harm by his father and feelings of unequal treatment by his grandparents. Ata is now with the Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office, residing temporarily at a local children's home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361578-12-year-old-boy-in-udon-thani-finds-shelter-in-abandoned-school-amid-family-struggles/

Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV A poignant story has emerged from Udon Thani, where a 12-year-old boy named Ata took refuge in an abandoned school, carrying only a photograph of his deceased mother. His decision to leave home was driven by claims of physical harm by his father and feelings of unequal treatment by his grandparents. Ata is now with the Provincial Social Development and Human Security Office, residing temporarily at a local children's home. Ata's grandmother, 66-year-old Samrong, has responded to the situation, asserting that she loves all her grandchildren equally and denies ever forcing Ata out. She expressed frustration over being criticized, explaining her attempts to bring Ata home each time he ran away. Samrong believes Ata often ran away to avoid chores, seeking instead the freedom to play games on his phone. She addressed local gossip accusing her of neglect, clarifying that Ata’s Cambodian mother passed away years ago, leaving him with a sense of loss. Ata's father, Joey, struggles with end-stage kidney failure and tuberculosis, which complicates his ability to care for Ata. Joey explained that he asked Ata to help him with massages, which Ata saw as an intrusion on his gaming time. Joey admits to physically disciplining Ata in the past, viewing it as a misguided teaching method, but asserts his love for Ata and desire for his well-being. Joey tearfully shared his concerns about Ata’s social interactions and expressed a longing to visit him. His severe health issues cast uncertainty over his future, making his relationship with Ata even more pressing. Local resident, 58-year-old Sitthichai Ditcharoen, who had noticed Ata sleeping at the school since early May, expressed his sympathy for the boy. Sitthichai mentioned he would have taken Ata in if circumstances allowed and was relieved that authorities stepped in to offer support. Ata's situation highlights the complex challenges faced by families struggling with health and social issues. It underscores the importance of community support and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children. The local authorities' involvement offers a hopeful path forward for Ata, providing him with the care and stability he needs during this difficult time. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23

Compassionate Monk Offers Lifeline to Chon Buri Grandmother and Granddaughter Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartwarming tale of resilience and community support from Chon Buri, a 70-year-old grandmother and her 15-year-old granddaughter have found hope after enduring severe poverty that forced them to survive on boiled rice water. Their plight caught the attention of the public thanks to a compassionate monk and a viral video. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361577-compassionate-monk-offers-lifeline-to-chon-buri-grandmother-and-granddaughter/

Burmese Roti Vendor Arrested for Sexual Assaults in Pattaya, Attempts to Bribe Police Photo via Facebook/ เอ.อี.ซี นิวส์ พัทยา A Burmese roti vendor, Thant Ngwe, was apprehended by Pattaya police in connection with a series of sexual assault cases after allegedly attempting to bribe officers with 15,000 baht to evade legal consequences. The arrest occurred on May 22 following complaints by two teenage women who reported incidents on Pattaya Beach. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361576-burmese-roti-vendor-arrested-for-sexual-assaults-in-pattaya-attempts-to-bribe-police/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartwarming tale of resilience and community support from Chon Buri, a 70-year-old grandmother and her 15-year-old granddaughter have found hope after enduring severe poverty that forced them to survive on boiled rice water. Their plight caught the attention of the public thanks to a compassionate monk and a viral video. On May 22, Phra Khru Thawornsatthakhun, the abbot of Wat Woraprot Sangkhawat, along with volunteers from the Vihok Weha group, visited the duo, Jidapa Thiraphanan and her granddaughter Pavinee, known as Ploy. Living in a small rented room in Mueang district, they were deeply grateful to receive donations of rice, dry food, daily necessities, and cash to support Ploy's education. The family’s difficulties began when Ploy’s father, 49-year-old Phisit, was diagnosed with severe tuberculosis, leaving him unable to continue his work as a songthaew driver. Jidapa was forced to sell her noodle business equipment to pay for his medical expenses and Ploy’s schooling fees. "I appeal to kind-hearted individuals for help with my granddaughter’s education and tools to restart my noodle business," Jidapa implored. Their survival relied on boiled rice water, which a neighbour captured on video to solicit help, resulting in the outpouring of support they received. Despite her father’s illness and missing school days, Ploy has maintained an impressive GPA of 3.5 at Bansuan Udom School and dreams of pursuing further education to support her family. Their condition came to public awareness when a local ice cream vendor noticed them eating plain rice and decided to share their story online. This act of kindness prompted Phra Khru Thawornsatthakhun to organise immediate assistance and encouraged the broader community to contribute. For those inspired to help, donations can be made directly to Jidapa Thiraphanan through her Krung Thai Bank account, number 202-0481-367, Bang Pakong branch. This story not only highlights the power of community and compassion but also offers a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those in poverty and the life-changing impact of altruism. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23