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Photo courtesy of VN Express Ho Chi Minh City introduced a public electric bicycle service on March 15, aiming to boost green urban mobility. The new initiative will deploy 500 e-bikes across various stations alongside an existing public bicycle network operational since 2021. From March 15 to 31, users can try the e-bikes for free for 15 minutes near the former Saigon Tax Trade Center on Nguyen Hue Street, by registering on the TNGo-HCM application. Get today's headlines by email The move is part of broader efforts by the Ho Chi Minh City Management Center of Public Transport, under the municipal Department of Construction, to reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution. The new e-bikes complement the city's ongoing public bicycle project launched with Tri Nam Group, which has been functional with 500 bicycles across 52 stations since late 2021. This development aligns with the city's strategy to improve public transport connectivity and manage private vehicle usage. Residents are encouraged to download the TNGo-HCM app to utilize the service, facilitating a shift from private transport to eco-friendly options. Post-trial, users will incur charges starting at VND10,000 (US$0.38) for 15 minutes. Feedback gathered during the trial will guide the expansion and efficacy of the service, ensuring it meets travel demands efficiently. In addition, the center will collaborate with relevant agencies to monitor the service's implementation. This will involve evaluating performance and scope for expansion citywide. As the city continues its environmental efforts, these initiatives play a vital role in its journey towards sustainable urban transport solutions, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 16 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of VN Express The southern province of Dong Nai, Vietnam, has issued warnings to organizations and individuals against hiring foreign workers who violate immigration and residency laws. Recent inspections by provincial police uncovered 88 cases of such violations, with 82 foreigners residing and working illegally and six overstaying their temporary permits. Authorities are intensifying efforts to address this issue, emphasizing compliance with Vietnam's regulations. Get today's headlines by email Since January, Dong Nai's provincial police have ramped up campaigns to combat illegal entry and residency. A notable inspection on February 19 in Bien Hoa Ward discovered foreigners using investor visas obtained through intermediaries without being genuine investors. Further investigations revealed these individuals were connected to two companies in Ho Chi Minh City. These inspections follow earlier surprise checks. On January 9, authorities discovered 50 illegal foreign workers at T.P Interior Co., Ltd. and D.B Production and Trading Co., Ltd. Expanded inspections on January 12 identified an additional 25 illegal workers in various communes. Subsequent raids uncovered more cases, including foreigners seeking jobs illegally at industrial parks. Authorities are preparing to initiate legal proceedings against violators. Some individuals have been expelled from Vietnam and face a three-year re-entry ban. Dong Nai's recent rise in violations is partly attributed to the extension of electronic visa validity, attracting international visitors who overstay or enter the country illegally. The Immigration Management Division urges organizations hiring foreign workers to verify documentation rigorously. Employers are advised to check passports, visas, and work permits carefully, and promptly report any suspected illegal activities to the police. This proactive approach aims to curb illegal employment and ensure lawful residency practices, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 16 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of VN Express Vietnam has emerged as a significant player in the global branded residences market, ranking fourth worldwide, with only the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and Mexico ahead. The Branded Residences 2025-2026 report by Savills highlights over 50 projects in Vietnam developed by 34 international brands. This trend reflects a growing demand for high-end, brand-affiliated properties offering luxurious services and amenities. Get today's headlines by email Historically, Vietnam's branded residences focused on coastal resorts, such as Four Seasons The Nam Hai and Hyatt Regency Danang. However, the concept has expanded to urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Hanoi, catering to both residential and long-term investment needs. With a 55% growth in branded residence projects in the Asia Pacific over five years, Vietnam now accounts for 41% of the market under development in the region. Notable developments in Vietnam include Grand Marina Saigon, featuring Marriott and JW Marriott, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences Hanoi. These projects illustrate the shift from resort-based products to city-centric ones. Major international hotel brands like Marriott, IHG, and Accor are key influencers, contributing to 40% of Vietnam’s branded residence pipeline. The demand for branded residences is driven by both foreign investors and an increasing number of local buyers, particularly in major cities. Knight Frank research indicates a significant increase in branded residence projects globally, from 169 in 2011 to over 600 today, with expectations of exceeding 1,000 by 2030. This growth parallels the rise of Vietnam’s upper-middle class, who are transitioning from "home ownership" to "lifestyle ownership." Experts like Uyen Nguyen of Savills emphasize the importance of brand trust, citing quality and operational standards as key factors. The Vietnamese market is expected to continue its rapid expansion, with approximately 30 new projects anticipated. Future developments are slated for major urban centers and coastal hotspots like Phu Quoc and Cam Ranh, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 16 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Philstar The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will reintroduce heat breaks for traffic enforcers and street sweepers starting Monday, March 16, as temperatures are expected to rise. A 30-minute heat stroke break will be implemented to safeguard personnel during the dry season. Specific break times are assigned based on shift schedules, with additional provision of drinking water for approximately 4,000 traffic enforcers. Get today's headlines by email The measure comes as the region transitions away from the northeast monsoon, which has brought cooler weather. Instead, the easterly winds are predicted to usher in warmer temperatures, according to the state weather bureau PAGASA. The MMDA's decision underscores its commitment to the health and safety of its workers during these seasonal changes. MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Nicolas Torre highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating they would ensure health and wellness while maintaining effective performance by personnel. The provision of water and strategic rest periods are aimed at preventing heat-related issues among field officers. Looking forward, personnel are expected to adhere to the scheduled breaks and enjoy the benefits of added safety measures. The approach underscores a proactive response to anticipated environmental conditions typical of the dry season in the Philippines, reported Philstar. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 16 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin The Philippine National Police (PNP) has heightened efforts against street-level crimes following a swift arrest in a robbery-slay case in Cagayan. Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. announced the capture of two suspects linked to the murder of three cellphone technicians, highlighting the PNP's improved intelligence operations to ensure community safety and rapid response to criminal activities. Get today's headlines by email Last week, two suspects were apprehended in Barangay San Juan, Buguey, Cagayan, after being connected to the deaths near Barangay Sta. Teresa, Lal-lo town. The victims, who had traveled from Tuguegarao City, were lured into a botched gold bar transaction. Authorities revealed they were killed in a robbery, with P1.1 million and a cellphone missing from the crime scene. Recovered from the suspects were an assortment of weapons and gear, including a 9mm pistol, an M16 rifle, improvised shotguns, and tactical equipment. The arrest emphasized the importance of community cooperation, as stressed by Nartatez. He highlighted how public trust in police operations can significantly expedite investigations and deliver justice efficiently. The PNP Chief also extended his sympathies to the victims' families, assuring them of diligent efforts to secure a robust case against the offenders. "Justice is being served and we will ensure the prosecution is airtight," remarked Nartatez, pledging accountability and support throughout the legal process, reported Manila Bulletin. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Manila Bulletin · 16 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin Fuel prices in the Philippines are set to rise significantly from March 17, following commitments from oil retailers to apply staggered price hikes to protect consumers. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced that diesel prices will increase by ₱20.4 to ₱23.9 per liter, affecting public transport costs, while gasoline will rise by ₱12.9 to ₱16 per liter. Kerosene prices are also expected to see a smaller increase. Get today's headlines by email The ongoing increase marks the second consecutive week of substantial price hikes, a situation aggravated by geopolitical tensions and logistical challenges affecting regional markets. The Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS), a critical benchmark, has been disrupted, primarily due to tensions near the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil supplies. Despite these challenges, the DOE is collaborating with companies like Shell Pilipinas and Petron Corp. to implement staggered pricing. The public has been reassured by Energy Secretary Garin that the Philippines has enough fuel supply, urging against panic buying. Moreover, the government is exploring credit facilities with the Department of Finance to help oil companies manage costs. The DOE is also considering the increased use of biofuels, with organizations like the Philippine Biodiesel Association advocating for a higher biodiesel blend to stabilize local markets and support the coconut industry. Looking forward, the potential for price rollbacks is tied to Middle Eastern stability. The DOE continues to seek additional suppliers to diversify sources and mitigate supply chain disruptions. They are also encouraging oil firms to voluntarily enhance biodiesel blend limits to strengthen the local energy mix, reported Manila Bulletin. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Manila Bulletin · 16 Mar 2026

A foreign man in Chiang Mai sparked a police chase after stealing a police motorcycle and jumping into the Ping River to evade arrest. On March 16, Chiang Mai police and rescue teams initiated a search for the unidentified man, but as yet, he remains missing, and his nationality is unknown. The dramatic escape began after the man took the motorcycle from Suan Dok Temple and led police towards the 5th Army Area Bridge. Get today's headlines by email The chase ended at the Mahidol Road bridge in the Pa Daet subdistrict, where the suspect abandoned the bike and leaped into the river. Despite an intensive hour-long search by officers and rescue teams, he was not found, raising suspicions that he is still hiding nearby. No motive has been revealed, and authorities have not succeeded in identifying the individual involved in the incident. Channel 7's report on the situation highlighted the lengths to which the police have gone to track down the suspect, emphasizing their persistence in continuing the search in the vicinity. Presently, the authorities are focused on efforts to locate the foreign man, ensuring public safety, and determining the motive behind the theft. The event has sparked concern about security around police equipment and potential risks posed by unidentified individuals. Future developments in the case hinge on the discovery of the man and any potential leads that may arise. Police are likely to step up security measures and continue investigations, with a focus on identifying the suspect swiftly. The incident underscores the unpredictability of such crimes and the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking down elusive offenders, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 16 Mar 2026 View full article

European tourists are increasingly favoring eastern Thailand's attractions over the traditionally popular southern areas, as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This shift is linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has notably decreased southern Thailand's appeal. Key eastern destinations like Koh Chang and Koh Kut in Trat province are now on the radar of European tour groups. Get today's headlines by email According to Kanokkittika Kritwuttikorn, TAT director for the East, these eastern destinations have been less affected by the conflict, and many travelers are now planning extended stays in Pattaya. This trend persists despite the escalating situation in the Middle East. To capitalize on this interest, TAT will promote these eastern islands during the Thailand Travel Mart fair in Pattaya this June, expecting attendance from over 400 foreign tour agencies and media groups. European tourists can directly fly to eastern Thailand, bypassing the costly fares and transit flights often required for other regions. Pichaya Thachai-adisap, president of the Trat Tourism and Hotel Association, observed a significant drop in European visitors to the southern regions, primarily due to their need to transit through the Middle East. This has driven tourists to consider places like Pattaya and Trat as viable alternatives. Experts note that while demand for eastern destinations remains strong, a prolonged conflict and rising fuel prices could push Europeans to opt for holidays within their own continent instead. However, for now, European agencies are focusing on the eastern province of Trat as a promising destination, reported Bangkok Post. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 16 Mar 2026 View full article

Police intervened to stop an armed brawl involving approximately 20 migrant workers on Walking Street, late Sunday night. Around 11:46 p.m., authorities were alerted to a potential gang fight near the Siam Bayshore Resort. The rival gangs scattered when police arrived, attempting to evade capture. Get today's headlines by email Nine individuals, including two from Myanmar and three from the Karen community, were apprehended by police before they managed to flee. In addition to the arrests, two knives were confiscated from those detained. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, as authorities work to uncover more details about the confrontation and its participants. The late-night confrontation has raised concerns about public safety in the area. Experts suggest this incident could be indicative of underlying tensions among migrant communities. Police presence might be increased as a preventive measure against future incidents. Looking forward, police aim to establish a clearer understanding of the drivers behind these conflicts. Efforts to engage community leaders and facilitate dialogue among migrant workers could be part of a broader strategy to prevent similar occurrences. This incident may prompt authorities to review current policies and improve community relations, reported Bangkok Post. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 16 Mar 2026 View full article

A motorcycle ride-hailing driver in Udon Thani faced backlash after a video showed him berating a passenger for their weight. The video, which rapidly spread on social media, depicts the driver telling the passenger that overweight individuals should not use his service, sparking a heated exchange. Get today's headlines by email The controversy began when a Facebook user posted the clip with the caption, “There are still people like this.” The rider can be heard insisting that overweight passengers are generally not accepted and that cancelling such rides is common practice. The passenger retorted that the policy should be clearly posted and criticized the driver for being judgmental. The passenger, who booked the ride via an app, explained that the driver initially rode very slowly, which prompted a request to speed up due to concerns about catching a connecting bus. The driver reportedly replied that the weight made balancing difficult, leading the passenger to start filming the interaction. The incident has ignited significant discussion online. Many users condemned the driver for improper conduct, emphasizing the importance of respectful customer service. Others pointed out that the situation could have been managed more professionally by both parties. The debate highlights broader issues of discrimination and service standards in the transportation industry. Experts suggest that clear guidelines and training for ride-hailing drivers could help prevent similar incidents. Moving forward, it remains to be seen if the ride-hailing company will address the incident or implement measures to ensure better service etiquette and communication between drivers and passengers, reported Khaosod. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 16 Mar 2026 View full article

Wat Mahathat temple in Nakhon Phanom province has temporarily suspended its cremation services due to a fuel shortage, impacting local residents who depend on the temple for funeral rites. On March 15, 2026, reports confirmed that the temple in Mueang district had stopped accepting bodies and closed its crematorium due to this issue. The fuel scarcity arose as petrol stations refused to sell fuel in containers, making it difficult for the temple to maintain necessary reserves. Get today's headlines by email Phra Khru Samu Kittichai Sukhawattano, the temple’s deputy abbot, explained that the temple had announced the suspension on its Facebook page. The temple’s cremation furnace, requiring approximately 90 litres of oil costing 3,000 baht per service, cannot function without sufficient fuel reserves. Previously, the temple kept fuel reserves up to 100 litres, but recent petrol station policies now limit purchases to 500 baht and refuse to fill containers. The deputy abbot mentioned that families could provide their own fuel for cremations, though they might encounter similar purchasing challenges. Wat Mahathat is vital to the local community, offering cremation services for unclaimed bodies and averaging at least 10 such services monthly. If the suspension persists, it could severely impact residents, particularly poor families relying on the temple for affordable services. The temple urges provincial authorities to intervene with petrol station operators to allow the purchase of fuel in necessary amounts for cremations. It seeks to reduce the impact on the community by requesting special permissions. The situation highlights the temple's dependency on external cooperation to continue its important social and cultural role. reported The Nation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 16 Mar 2026 View full article