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File photo for reference only HÀ NỘI — The National Hospital for Tropical Diseases has reported the first measles-related death in an adult this year, underscoring a growing health concern. The deceased patient suffered complications from measles alongside underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. Despite extensive treatment efforts, including blood filtration and ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), the patient succumbed after two weeks. Currently, the Hà Nội-based hospital is seeing a surge in adult measles cases, admitting 10 to 20 patients daily. Symptoms commonly include fever, rash, coughing, watery eyes, and runny nose. Many patients experience worsening symptoms that lead to complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and elevated liver enzymes. Alarming trends indicate that most affected individuals had either skipped vaccinations or had not received booster doses. The rising incidence is most notable in adults aged 30 to 50, who often underestimate the seriousness of the disease. This complacency results in delayed hospital visits, exacerbating their conditions. Health experts stress that measles poses a significant risk not only to children but also to adults, particularly those with pre-existing health issues or weakened immune systems. For adults, a booster vaccination is crucial, especially for those unsure of their vaccination status. The measles–mumps–rubella (MMR) booster is recommended to ensure sufficient immunity. The measles vaccine is known for its safety and effectiveness, and the Ministry of Health promotes full vaccination to protect individuals and help prevent community-wide outbreaks. Nationwide, more than 54,000 measles cases have been recorded since early April. Despite earlier predictions of a decline, the number of cases has not yet decreased. Continued vigilance is essential as more suspected cases with measles-like symptoms are anticipated across various provinces and cities. The Ministry of Health advises that all children be fully vaccinated and that boosters be administered to maintain a safeguarded population, emphasizing the role of vaccination in controlling and preventing further spread of the disease, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-11

File photo for reference only HÀ NỘI — Metro Hà Nội has reported a strong start to 2025, successfully operating over 39,000 trips and serving nearly five million passengers in the first quarter, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. The Cát Linh – Hà Đông metro line remains the leading choice for commuters, with over three million journeys, reflecting a 13% year-on-year increase. This surge in ridership resulted in ticket revenues exceeding VNĐ20 billion (US$777,900), a 9% growth compared to last year. In parallel, the Nhổn – Hà Nội station route also performed well, welcoming approximately 1.5 million passengers and generating over VNĐ9 billion in ticket sales. Metro Hà Nội is actively enhancing multimodal connectivity throughout the city, partnering with Hà Nội Transport Corporation (Transerco), Trí Nam bicycle services, VinBus electric buses, and ride-hailing companies like Xanh SM and Grab Việt Nam. These collaborations aim to provide seamless integration between urban rail and other transport modes. Looking ahead, Metro Hà Nội aims to conduct more than 161,000 trips and serve over 19 million passengers throughout the year—a projected rise of nearly 47% in trips and over 24% in revenue from 2024. Annual ticket sales are expected to exceed VNĐ111 billion ($4.3 million), with post-tax profits anticipated to grow by more than 34% year-on-year, surpassing VNĐ20 billion. To achieve these ambitious targets, Metro Hà Nội is focusing on comprehensive staff training and development to ensure the safe and efficient operation of metro services. The commitment to improving performance and connectivity highlights the company's dedication to enhancing public transportation in Hà Nội, meeting key performance indicators while offering an improved commuting experience for residents, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-11

Photo: VN Express A viral TikTok video revealing tourists posing for photos in the middle of Vietnam's National Highway 24 has sparked public outrage and sparked significant safety concerns. The footage, widely circulated on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, shows a group of 14 tourists, accompanied by a guide, positioning themselves for pictures on the highway near the entrance to the picturesque town of Mang Den. Their actions disrupted traffic, forcing around seven cars and motorbikes to stop or navigate dangerously around them. Witnesses noted that the group only dispersed when a large tour bus arrived, prompting them to move off the road. The incident has been met with widespread condemnation online. Social media users criticized the tourists' blatant disregard for traffic regulations and public safety, highlighting it as part of an alarming trend. Similar incidents have previously been reported in other popular scenic areas such as Gia Lai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, and Binh Dinh. Vietnamese authorities have reiterated that obstructing traffic by standing or sitting on roads is illegal, and such actions can result in fines of up to VND200,000 ($7.75). The incident underscores the importance of adhering to local laws and the need for heightened awareness among tourists about safety and public order when visiting scenic spots. The authorities are urging tourists and tour operators to respect traffic regulations to prevent similar disruptions in the future, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-11

File photo for reference only Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is intensifying its preparations to efficiently handle over 1.18 million passengers expected during Holy Week, from April 13 to April 20. This period marks a significant 14% increase in expected footfall compared to last year's 1.04 million passengers. Flight operations are also set to rise, with an anticipated 6,724 flights, slightly up from last year. NAIA's private operator, New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), predicts that Good Friday, April 18, will be the busiest day with 851 flights, while Tuesday, April 15, may see the lightest traffic with 818 flights, surpassing any single day's activity last year. As NNIC approaches its first Holy Week at the helm, they are implementing enhanced safety and operational measures to ensure a smooth experience. Close coordination with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), and airline partners is crucial in minimizing delays and maintaining seamless operations. NNIC General Manager Angelito Alvarez emphasized the team's dedication, stating, “Everyone is working hard to keep things running as smoothly as possible as we prepare for the Holy Week rush.” He urged public cooperation and patience during this busy period. Travelers can expect round-the-clock assistance desks staffed with airport personnel, medical teams, and uniformed officers across NAIA's terminals. Additional traffic aides will be deployed to manage curbside and parking logistics, while efforts to improve Wi-Fi connectivity aim to keep passengers connected. Passengers are advised to prepare for larger crowds, longer lines, and potential flight delays. It is recommended to arrive at least three hours prior to international flights and two hours before domestic flights. Travelers should verify flight details and terminal assignments, ensure their travel documents are complete, and avoid carrying prohibited items. These measures are part of the operational enhancements NNIC has implemented since taking over NAIA operations last September. Notable improvements include more passenger boarding bridges, upgraded security and baggage systems, and expanded transport and parking facilities. Collaborations with Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) have bolstered power supply, and new air-conditioning units have been installed to enhance passenger comfort. Additionally, CCTV coverage now comprehensively monitors the baggage handling process, further ensuring safety and transparency. As NAIA braces for the surge, these preparations aim to provide a smooth and efficient travel experience during one of the busiest times of the year, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-11

File photo for reference only In a significant decision, the Supreme Court (SC) has urged the Philippine government to enhance jail facilities to ensure they meet legal standards for cleanliness and sanitary conditions for detainees. The Court expressed its readiness to act if the government fails to uphold these standards, emphasizing the basic rights of those in custody. This declaration comes as the SC upheld the Office of the Ombudsman's (OMB) dismissal of a 2017 complaint by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) against police officers in Tondo, Manila. The complaint alleged that officers maintained a "secret detention cell" at the Raxabago Police Station, where cramped and unsanitary conditions were discovered. The police justified the use of a small, visible room for excess detainees due to the station's overcrowding. The OMB found no conclusive evidence of wrongdoing, emphasizing that overcrowding is a systemic issue, and the SC upheld this ruling. Nonetheless, Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho Jr., the decision's author, stressed the importance of providing inmates with decent living conditions. The SC acknowledged budget constraints in improving penal facilities but insisted that this should not deny detainees' basic rights. If government agencies fail to meet these legal standards, the Court stated it would intervene when necessary. The Court specifically called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure custodial facilities meet standards for cleanliness, adequate equipment, and sanitation, highlighting that even temporary detainees are entitled to human rights. The decision affirmed earlier orders from the OMB and called for copies to be distributed to key government bodies, including Congress and the PNP. This call to action highlights the SC's commitment to enforcing detainees' rights and improving the conditions in Philippine penal facilities, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-11

File photo for reference only The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the heat index reached dangerously high levels in 17 areas on Friday, April 11, with Cavite City in Cavite and Virac town in Catanduanes both recording a searing 45 degrees Celsius (°C). A heat index between 42°C and 51°C is classified as dangerous, significantly increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Extended exposure at these levels may also lead to severe conditions like heatstroke. Among the most affected locations, Sangley Point in Cavite City and Virac in Catanduanes reported the highest heat index of 45°C. Other areas experienced near-record highs, including Dagupan City in Pangasinan, Echague in Isabela, Baler in Aurora, Masbate City in Masbate, and Catarman in Northern Samar, each reaching 44°C. Meanwhile, cities such as Tuguegarao in Cagayan; Camiling in Tarlac; Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas; and Iloilo City in Iloilo recorded a heat index of 43°C. Additionally, a 42°C heat index was observed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City; Cubi Pt. in Subic Bay, Olongapo City; San Ildefonso in Bulacan; Infanta in Quezon; Pili in Camarines Sur; and Dipolog in Zamboanga del Norte. Residents in these regions are advised to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. This includes staying hydrated, wearing lightweight and light-coloured clothing, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and young children, should be especially mindful of these conditions to reduce health risks, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-11

Grenade Attack on Ayutthaya Buffalo Trader's Home Sparks Urgent Investigation Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a shocking early morning incident on April 9, a buffalo trader in Ayutthaya was targeted by unidentified assailants who threw grenades at his home, causing substantial damage but fortunately resulting in no injuries. The attack occurred in Phra Ya Ban Lue subdistrict, Lat Bua Luang district, and left the household in distress and their property severely damaged. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357528-grenade-attack-on-ayutthaya-buffalo-traders-home-sparks-urgent-investigation/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a shocking early morning incident on April 9, a buffalo trader in Ayutthaya was targeted by unidentified assailants who threw grenades at his home, causing substantial damage but fortunately resulting in no injuries. The attack occurred in Phra Ya Ban Lue subdistrict, Lat Bua Luang district, and left the household in distress and their property severely damaged. The victim, 32-year-old Bungmat, discovered the aftermath of the attack upon returning from delivering cattle to customers. At home during the attack were his wife, child, and elderly mother, who were unharmed but deeply frightened. CCTV footage revealed a man approaching the property and throwing two grenades toward the house, triggering loud explosions that shattered windows, punctured vehicle tyres, and perforated the carport roof. Bungmat, who has worked in the cattle trading industry for over 15 years without any known conflicts or rivals, expressed bewilderment over the possible motive for the attack. As his family lives in fear of further incidents, he is urging police to quickly apprehend the culprits to ensure their safety. Nadjwa, Bungmat's wife, recounted being awakened by the explosions, initially mistaking the noises for a malfunctioning pneumatic pump. As she ventured outside to assess the situation, she found a crater and grenade pins, indicating the deliberate nature of the attack. Despite notifying local authorities, the family remains on edge until those responsible are apprehended. In response, police from Lat Bua Luang Police Station, supported by investigative and forensic teams from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, have launched an investigation. They are carefully collecting evidence from the scene to identify and capture the perpetrators swiftly, in hopes of providing the family peace of mind and preventing any future incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

IMF Urges Thailand to Strengthen Support for Families Facing Debt Crisis Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a stark warning to Thailand to enhance support for struggling families to prevent millions from remaining trapped in a debilitating cycle of debt. Released on April 9, the IMF's Country Focus report emphasizes that over half of Thai workers lack formal employment, which deprives them of job security and essential social protections, leaving them vulnerable to economic disruptions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357527-imf-urges-thailand-to-strengthen-support-for-families-facing-debt-crisis/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a stark warning to Thailand to enhance support for struggling families to prevent millions from remaining trapped in a debilitating cycle of debt. Released on April 9, the IMF's Country Focus report emphasizes that over half of Thai workers lack formal employment, which deprives them of job security and essential social protections, leaving them vulnerable to economic disruptions. Many households are resorting to borrowing just to cover basic living expenses, creating a cycle of informal debt that poses a threat to Thailand's financial stability. Although the household debt-to-GDP ratio has slightly decreased to 89% from its pandemic peak, it remains worryingly high. An IMF spokesperson cautions that if this issue is addressed too aggressively without considering broader implications, it could harm consumer spending and business confidence by inadvertently tightening credit. To adequately address the issue, the IMF recommends that Thai policymakers intensify social protections, decrease dependence on informal lending, and foster long-term financial resilience. Thai officials have already initiated several measures, such as repayment assistance, debt restructuring, regulatory crackdowns, and financial literacy campaigns. A significant initiative includes the You Fight, We Help relief scheme introduced in December 2024, which offers borrowers reduced payments, waived interest, and flexible repayment terms. The Bank of Thailand's responsible lending guidelines, implemented in January 2024, have facilitated the restructuring of over 7 million accounts, with new borrowing caps based on asset levels aimed at curbing excessive debt. However, the IMF insists that further action is necessary, particularly concerning persistent, non-viable debt that permanently excludes borrowers from the formal credit system. The report suggests streamlining personal bankruptcy laws and establishing an efficient debt resolution system. It also urges the Thai government to collaborate with the private sector to lower the costs of household debt resolution. The IMF cites Brazil as a successful example, highlighting a program that allowed defaulters to settle loans at significant discounts through banks without requiring taxpayer funds. This initiative helped over 15 million people restructure debts totalling 52 billion reals, nearly 0.5% of Brazil's GDP between July 2023 and May 2024. The IMF's message is unequivocal: to prevent a household debt crisis from escalating into a national one, Thailand must invest in sustainable support mechanisms for its most vulnerable citizens or risk them falling further into financial distress, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Chinese Travel Agents Slash Prices to Attract Thai Tourists for Songkran Picture courtesy of China Daily As Songkran approaches, Chinese travel agents are offering heavily discounted tickets to lure Thai tourists, following a significant drop in Chinese visitors to Thailand. By slashing fares up to 50%, tour operators aim to fill planes and recover from a tough start to the year marked by an earthquake and safety concerns that deterred Chinese tourists. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357526-chinese-travel-agents-slash-prices-to-attract-thai-tourists-for-songkran/

Picture courtesy of China Daily As Songkran approaches, Chinese travel agents are offering heavily discounted tickets to lure Thai tourists, following a significant drop in Chinese visitors to Thailand. By slashing fares up to 50%, tour operators aim to fill planes and recover from a tough start to the year marked by an earthquake and safety concerns that deterred Chinese tourists. Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn, an advisor to the Thai Travel Agents Association, noted, “Thais now see China as a safe destination with great transport links,” making it a popular choice for outbound travel during Songkran. Initially, travel agencies had purchased large blocks of tickets for China-bound flights, anticipating a surge in tourism due to a new visa-free agreement between Thailand and China. However, this expected boom was undermined by a wave of cancellations linked to concerns over scams, following a high-profile incident involving a Chinese actor. The discounted tickets have become attractive to Thai travellers, who are helping fill the void left by the absent Chinese tourists. While agents are facing losses of 3,000 to 5,000 baht per seat, this is preferable to leaving seats empty, which could cost up to 10,000 baht per ticket. As a result, China is poised to surpass Japan as the preferred overseas destination for Thai tourists during Songkran. Tour packages to China start at a competitive 15,000 baht—half the price of a typical trip to Japan. Thanapol anticipates that Thai visits to China could exceed a million this year, potentially outshining last year's million Thai tourists to Japan. In contrast, South Korea is losing appeal due to tighter immigration rules and the complex process of obtaining a Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation. With these deals, China offers a compelling, affordable option for Thai travellers looking for their spring holiday, reshaping travel dynamics in the region this year, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-11

Thailand Seeks Private Sector Involvement to Boost MotoGP Event File photo for reference only The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is in talks to extend the contract for hosting MotoGP races in the country. As these discussions progress, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is advocating for greater involvement from the private sector to enhance the event's success and reduce government expenses, as reported by Amarin TV on April 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357525-thailand-seeks-private-sector-involvement-to-boost-motogp-event/

File photo for reference only The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is in talks to extend the contract for hosting MotoGP races in the country. As these discussions progress, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is advocating for greater involvement from the private sector to enhance the event's success and reduce government expenses, as reported by Amarin TV on April 11. Held at the Chang International Circuit near Buriram, the Thailand MotoGP launched in 2018. While the races were paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, they are scheduled to continue until at least 2026. Minister Sorawong highlighted the potential financial and popularity benefits that private sector participation could bring, emphasizing that this move is strictly about bolstering the sport and not linked to political agendas. Newin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club, supports this viewpoint, noting the significant income MotoGP generates for Thailand. Sorawong confirmed ongoing negotiations to extend the MotoGP licence and address a proposed 5% fee increase. He also mentioned that recent considerations to involve the private sector are unrelated to postponed government legislation on opening casinos in entertainment complexes, which faced opposition. Meanwhile, on the topic of hosting Formula 1 racing in Thailand, Sorawong revealed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is being drafted, with studies focusing on the feasibility of a street circuit. The government is targeting 2028 to host the event. These steps underscore Thailand's commitment to enhancing its global sporting profile through strategic private partnerships, aiming to leverage the economic and spectator appeal of world-class motorsport events like MotoGP and potentially Formula 1, reported Thai News Room. -- 2025-04-11

Bangkok Offers Waste Collection Discounts for Sorting Food Scraps File photo for reference only In a bid to encourage better waste management, households in six Bangkok districts can soon enjoy a discount on their rubbish collection fees by sorting their food scraps separately from general waste. This initiative, announced by Pornphrom Vikitsreth, an adviser to the Bangkok governor, aims to incentivise residents to adopt cleaner waste disposal habits, especially with the upcoming increase in rubbish collection fees set for October. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357524-bangkok-offers-waste-collection-discounts-for-sorting-food-scraps/