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Picture courtesy of Vietnam News Ho Chi Minh City has decided to forego borrowing from Germany’s KfW development bank for Metro Line No. 2, opting instead to utilise domestic funding. This decision, approved by Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, aims to bypass delays linked to procedural hurdles and disbursement issues. On 8th July, the Prime Minister issued a resolution allowing the termination of two financial agreements with KfW from 2011. These agreements included €155 million (about 6 billion Thai Baht) in concessional loans and €66.2 million (approximately 2.6 billion Thai Baht) in non-refundable aid. The city is now mandated to manage the residual non-refundable assistance and cover any costs incurred from cancelling the agreements, such as commitment fees. Metro Line No. 2, which will extend from Bến Thành Market in District 1 to Tham Lương in District 12, has faced significant delays. Initially approved in 2010 with a budget of 26 trillion Vietnamese Dong (around 82 billion Thai Baht), costs rose to nearly 47.9 trillion VND (about 151 billion Thai Baht) by 2019. Despite these financial adjustments, major work on the project has yet to begin. Negotiations with foreign partners have stalled contractor selection, threatening future progress. To move forward, city authorities will tap into local resources under the medium-term public investment plan. They will also leverage fast-track procedures allowed by the National Assembly’s Resolution No.188. The HCM City Management Authority for Urban Railways (MAUR) reports that all site clearance and technical relocations are finished, and they are expediting the hiring of design consultants and contractors to gear up for construction. If all goes as planned, construction may commence by the end of 2025, with operations starting in 2030. In addition to government funding, interest from private investors is growing. Companies like THACO and a joint venture involving Đại Dũng, Hòa Phát, and CC1 have submitted investment proposals. The city’s Department of Finance is currently evaluating these options to determine feasible investment strategies. The transition to domestic funding highlights the city’s strategic shift in policy, aiming to streamline urban railway development and cut red tape. Ho Chi Minh City, which currently operates a single metro line completed late in 2024 after numerous setbacks, views Metro Line No. 2 as crucial to its planned mass transit system. Once fully developed, the line will extend over 48km, forming a key component of the city’s transport infrastructure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-07-09

Picture courtesy of VN Express Ho Chi Minh City authorities have uncovered a disturbing operation involving the use of toxic chemicals to prepare banana blossoms for sale at local markets. This revelation shines a light on the dark underbelly of food processing that exploits banned substances for profit. In a decisive move, the Economic Police Department (PC03) has taken legal action against three facilities located in the Ben Luc residential area of Binh Dong Ward. These establishments were caught using chemicals such as borax and bleaching agents, banned in food processing, to enhance the appearance and longevity of banana blossoms. Officers raided the facilities, finding shredded banana blossoms soaking in 200-litre barrels filled with suspicious, unlabeled solutions. At one site with several employees, police discovered 60 kilograms of blossoms immersed in a concoction of sodium metabisulfite, alum, and borax. An owner admitted the business was unlicensed, lacking a food safety certificate. He purchased around 500 kilograms of banana blossoms daily at 8,000 VND (approximately 12 THB) each. After treating them with the chemicals, he managed to produce 200 kilograms of seemingly fresh product, later sold to wholesale markets at 20,000–30,000 VND (around 30–45 THB) per kilogram. The chemicals were sourced from shops in Cho Lon Ward. Authorities have seized over 115 kilograms of these contaminated blossoms along with several kilograms of various chemicals. This crackdown comes amidst growing concerns over food safety in a country where banana blossoms are a staple ingredient, cherished for their flavour and texture. The use of borax in food is strictly prohibited in Vietnam due to its detrimental health effects, including potential cognitive decline over long-term exposure. Sodium metabisulfite, although permitted in limited uses, can be hazardous in excess, leading to severe health risks such as allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even organ damage. This alarming discovery serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against illicit food practices. Despite the regulations, some producers continue to jeopardise public health in pursuit of profit, highlighting the importance of vigilance and enforcement in ensuring food safety for all. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-09

Picture courtesy of VN Express In a major crackdown on an international crime ring, Thai authorities have arrested Ngo Thi Theu, the wife of fugitive Le Khac Ngo, also known as "Mr. Hunter." The arrest, carried out in coordination with Hanoi police and Interpol, marks a significant development in an extensive fraud investigation that has rocked Vietnam. Major General Nguyen Thanh Tung, Director of Hanoi Police, revealed that Theu was apprehended just before an intended escape to Turkey. However, due to her responsibilities caring for a young child, immediate extradition is not possible. "We'll gather more information once she is back in Vietnam," Tung stated at a press conference on Monday. In addition to Theu’s arrest, authorities have detained Nguyen Thi Thuy, 43, who managed finances for Pho Duc Nam. Nam, recognised as TikToker "Mr. Pips", is a social media influencer implicated in orchestrating the largest foreign currency and stock fraud case to date in Vietnam. Nam, along with over 30 accomplices, was detained late last year. They face allegations including fraudulent appropriation of assets and money laundering. The intricate fraudulent scheme, initiated in 2021, involved collaboration with a Turkish national to establish a deceptive trading operation. The criminal network created a company with multiple offices across Vietnam, employing roughly 1,000 unlicensed staff. The group allegedly misled over 2,660 individuals through a sham stock trading platform, siphoning investors' funds into their own accounts. Police have uncovered assets worth VND5.3 trillion (approximately 7.67 billion Thai Baht) linked to this criminal enterprise. Nam, leveraging his financial acumen and tech skills, built trust among investors by flaunting a lavish lifestyle on social media, with images of opulent villas and luxury vehicles. "When people saw my luxurious lifestyle, they felt confident to invest," Nam confessed to police. Unfortunately, many who worked for Nam were young adults and students, fully aware of the illicit undertakings yet reluctant to report them. Major General Tung expressed concern over this troubling trend and assured that rigorous actions will follow. "We are classifying cases and will take severe action against involved individuals," he affirmed. The police have identified 571 victims so far, urging others to come forward for investigation. "Some think they've merely lost money in bad investments, but belongings have been seized, and compensation will be arranged," Tung advised. Furthermore, an international warrant has been issued for the Turkish suspect believed to be masterminding the operation, and Hanoi Police continue to encourage Ngo to surrender. As the investigation unfolds, the authorities remain committed to dismantling this criminal network and securing justice for the victims. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-07-09

Picture courtesy of Inquirer In a groundbreaking achievement, more than 10,000 inmates in the Philippines have completed their elementary and high school education whilst in detention, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Announced this Tuesday, the initiative highlights efforts to reform the penal system through education. The inmates, referred to as Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), have achieved their basic education via the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). This programme offers a flexible learning pathway outside conventional classroom settings, targeting those who lack access to formal schooling. It encompasses nonformal and informal education, reaching even those incarcerated. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) oversees this initiative, ensuring educational accessibility within prison walls. Under Republic Act No. 10592, inmates participating in education benefit from the Time Allowance for Studying, Teaching, and Mentoring. This law values their dedication to reform and self-improvement during imprisonment. ‘Meaningful Rehabilitation’ Additionally, 107 inmates have obtained college degrees through the Tertiary Education Behind Bars Program, a collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education. Currently, another 720 inmates are pursuing various degrees across the country. The BJMP is actively seeking to expand its higher education offerings by partnering with more universities and colleges. This aligns with efforts to equip inmates with skills necessary for employment post-release. Beyond traditional education, the government is committed to providing technical and livelihood training. In partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) and civil society groups, 112,707 inmates have completed courses in fields like carpentry, electronics, welding, arts and crafts, and small-scale entrepreneurship. “These accomplishments reflect the government’s dedication to comprehensive and meaningful rehabilitation, supporting President Marcos Jr.’s vision of a society where justice and compassion coexist,” the DILG remarked. The department further emphasised its ongoing investment in education and livelihood programmes to aid inmates in becoming “reformed and productive citizens” upon reentering society. This forward-looking initiative not only offers a second chance to many but also stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, illustrating a model of rehabilitation that other nations might well consider emulating. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-07-09

Picture courtesy of PhilStar In a stark response to growing bullying concerns, the Philippines' Education Secretary Sonny Angara has urged schools nationwide to establish or bolster their child protection committees. This comes amid reports labelling the country as the "bullying capital of the world." Angara highlighted the sharp increase in bullying incidents, attributing much of it to the rise of cyberbullying. “While cyberbullying worries us, the real alarm lies in physical violence,” he stated. This urgent call to action reflects the broader challenges linked to bullying in both physical and digital spaces. On 25 June, a troubling incident at Basilan National High School in Isabela City underscored the issue's severity. Two students were detained for allegedly assaulting a classmate who declined to smoke. The victim's father reported that the students repeatedly punched him, kicked him, and even slammed his head against a wall. Despite the Anti-Bullying Act of 2013, formally known as Republic Act 10627, schools have struggled to comply with its mandates. A recent congressional investigation revealed that many institutions have yet to form the required child protection committees to address bullying effectively. Angara took the opportunity to emphasise the vital role of parents, urging them to foster values and positive behaviour at home. “Parental involvement is key,” he noted, highlighting the importance of a supportive home environment in combatting bullying. The story resonates beyond the Philippines, reflecting a global struggle to address the pervasive problem of bullying in schools. With this directive, the hope is to not only curb these incidents but also to foster safer and more nurturing learning environments. In terms of tackling the issue, while local solutions like enhanced school committees are crucial, the responsibility extends to society at large. Collaborative efforts between educational institutions, parents, and law enforcement are essential in effectively addressing and reducing bullying cases. The Filipino education system's new commitment represents a crucial step in safeguarding students. Still, ongoing efforts and vigilance will be necessary to ensure long-term change. As these challenges persist worldwide, the focus remains on comprehensive strategies and community cooperation to create safer environments for all students. This initiative is a reminder that while laws provide a framework, the execution and community involvement are what truly drive meaningful progress. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-07-09

Picture courtesy of Manila Bulletin In a startling discovery, construction workers at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine in Ermita, Manila, unearthed three vintage explosives believed to date back to World War II. The incident, reported by the Manila Police District on Tuesday, occurred the day before on 8th July. The find comprised two aerial bombs and a hand grenade, likely remnants from the intense battles that raged through Manila in 1945 as Allied forces advanced to liberate the city from Japanese occupation. This historic backdrop paints a vivid picture of a time when the university, particularly the Philippine General Hospital established in 1907, operated at the heart of wartime Manila, enduring significant damage. Upon discovery, the Manila Police District's Explosive Ordnance Disposal and K9 Unit swiftly intervened, securing the site and safely retrieving the explosives. This prompt response ensured the safety of both workers and the surrounding community, as construction activities momentarily halted to accommodate the emergency procedures. Given the nature of the discovery, sections of the construction site were temporarily sealed off to allow police specialists to methodically search for other potential unexploded ordnance. Thankfully, no additional threats were identified during the sweep. Historical construction sites, particularly in regions with rich wartime histories, often reveal such dangerous souvenirs, underscoring the need for vigilance. Authorities have reiterated the importance of reporting any suspicious metallic objects encountered—especially within construction zones—to avert potential dangers. This incident serves as a striking reminder of Manila's wartime history and the lasting impact of conflict on urban environments. Safety protocols remain paramount, as authorities continue to urge the public to report any unusual finds immediately. Meanwhile, the construction project will resume with heightened awareness of its historically significant setting. For those curious about wartime relics or involved in construction activities, this event accentuates both the intrigue and the caution required when navigating areas woven with historical threads. It’s a unique intersection of Manila’s vibrant present and its tumultuous past, offering a poignant narrative that echoes beyond mere bricks and mortar. As the story unfolds, it remains a powerful illustration of how history, even buried for decades, continues to shape our modern landscape and collective memory. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-09

Netflix Eyes Doc on Late Thai Actress Tangmo’s Death Case Photo via Hone Krasae In a significant development that intertwines entertainment and justice, Panida Siriyudthayothin, the mother of the late Thai actress Nida “Tangmo” Patcharaveerapong, has given her nod to Netflix to explore a documentary about her daughter's controversial death. Tangmo’s passing, which remains shrouded in mystery, has stirred nationwide debate, with many still seeking answers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366259-netflix-eyes-doc-on-late-thai-actress-tangmo’s-death-case/

Photo via Hone Krasae In a significant development that intertwines entertainment and justice, Panida Siriyudthayothin, the mother of the late Thai actress Nida “Tangmo” Patcharaveerapong, has given her nod to Netflix to explore a documentary about her daughter's controversial death. Tangmo’s passing, which remains shrouded in mystery, has stirred nationwide debate, with many still seeking answers. The tragic incident occurred during a boat trip with friends, leading to legal actions against several individuals present at the time. The group included Idsarin "Gatick" Juthasuksawat, Tangmo’s manager; Wisapat "Sand" Manomairat, another manager; Tanupat "Por" Lerttaweewit, the boat owner; Phaiboon "Robert" Trikanjananun, the unlicensed driver; and Nitas "Job" Kiratisoonthisathorn, a mutual friend. Charged with recklessness causing Tangmo’s death, Robert and Por admitted their faults. Por received a suspended sentence of two years and nine months with a 64,000 baht (approximately 1,800 USD) fine, alongside mandatory public service. Robert also got a suspended sentence of two years and two months with a 54,000 baht (around 1,500 USD) fine. Gatick, Sand, and Job maintained their innocence, and last month, the Nonthaburi Provincial Court dismissed the charges against them due to insufficient evidence. Yet, Tangmo's mother refuses to accept the situation passively. She remains resolute in her pursuit of justice, evident from her recent visit to the court to secure the latest verdict for an appeal. Amidst this legal labyrinth, Panida expressed the challenges she's faced, managing extensive documentation and seeking a new lawyer capable of navigating the complexities and public scrutiny the case has attracted. The potential Netflix documentary is a beacon of hope both for preserving Tangmo’s legacy and perhaps obtaining justice. Panida had initially been approached by Netflix but could not engage due to her commitments to the legal battle. However, she is now ready to proceed with talks, underscoring the need for proper management of copyright and costs. This collaboration, if realised, could bring global attention to Tangmo's story and possibly shed light on unresolved aspects of the case. Panida’s decision to move forward with Netflix could be an important step in both her personal journey for closure and public understanding of the tragedy. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-09

Thailand's Tourist Traffic Sees Mixed Trends: Airlines Eye Stimulus Photo courtesy of The Mango Road Thailand's tourism sector is experiencing divergent trends between short-haul and long-haul markets, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launching initiatives to boost arrivals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366258-thailands-tourist-traffic-sees-mixed-trends-airlines-eye-stimulus/

Photo courtesy of The Mango Road Thailand's tourism sector is experiencing divergent trends between short-haul and long-haul markets, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launching initiatives to boost arrivals. Despite efforts to rejuvenate the tourism industry, short-haul bookings from June to December have dropped significantly. According to Forwardkeys, these bookings have decreased by 22% year-on-year in Asia and the South Pacific, and by 16% in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Oceania. Most notably, bookings from East Asia have plummeted by 25%, with Chinese routes suffering a steep 40% decline. In the first half of the year, Thailand welcomed 16.6 million foreign tourists, of which 11.1 million were short-haul visitors, falling short of their 2025 target of 28.2 million. Conversely, long-haul markets show promising momentum, with 5.5 million tourists arriving in the first half alone. Chiravadee Khunsub from TAT highlighted that Thailand is on track to meet its annual target of 10.7 million long-haul tourists. Forward bookings for the third quarter show growth, rising to 713,491 seats from last year's 677,211, with expected increases from Europe, the Americas, and Africa. However, Middle East bookings may drop by 9% due to geopolitical tensions. To combat these challenges, TAT plans a 750-million-baht subsidy scheme, "Summer Blast China & Overseas Market," aiming to draw over 790,000 visitors within a year. Thai Lion Air, showing interest in this initiative, is keen to boost passenger numbers, particularly from Indonesia, India, and China, despite seeing only a 60-70% load factor on Chinese routes. Lufthansa Group is also considering the TAT proposal. Anlee Do, General Manager for the region, stated that they’ll evaluate the offer before committing. Currently, Lufthansa, Swiss, and Austrian Airlines maintain daily operations in Thailand and plan to increase flights during the European high season to meet demand. TAT’s proactive measures and collaborations with airlines could be pivotal in reviving Thailand’s tourism sector, balancing the decline in short-haul markets with the growth seen in long-haul arrivals. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-09

Teenager Stabs 12-Year-Old in Pattaya Amid Social Media Row Picture courtesy of Matichon In a shocking turn of events in Pattaya, a 16-year-old boy stabbed a 12-year-old student following an altercation reportedly sparked by a social media post involving a girl. The incident, which unfolded at 5 PM on July 5 in an old market parking lot in Chon Buri, has left the local community on edge. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366256-teenager-stabs-12-year-old-in-pattaya-amid-social-media-row/

Picture courtesy of Matichon In a shocking turn of events in Pattaya, a 16-year-old boy stabbed a 12-year-old student following an altercation reportedly sparked by a social media post involving a girl. The incident, which unfolded at 5 PM on July 5 in an old market parking lot in Chon Buri, has left the local community on edge. The victim, Chef, a Mathayom 1 student, suffered severe injuries when the knife pierced the left side of his torso, damaging his internal organs. Despite a police report being lodged, the investigation seems slow to progress. According to a friend, the conflict began over a playful social media post about a girl, escalating into a challenge between the teen, Mon, and another 12-year-old student, Toon. Toon, unable to fight due to his smaller stature, had Chef step in for him. After Mon lost the fight, tensions appeared to ease as the two boys reconciled. However, the peace was short-lived. Mon departed briefly and returned on a motorbike, catching Chef off guard. In a swift, calculated move, Mon stabbed him before escaping the scene. Friends rushed Chef to a nearby clinic. Due to the severity of his injuries, a doctor recommended immediate hospital treatment. Chef was initially admitted to Pattaya Padma Khun Hospital, before being transferred to Chon Buri Hospital. His condition is critical, with injuries impacting his stomach, lungs, and major blood vessels. Chef’s aunt expressed grave concerns about achieving justice. She fears the influence of Mon’s family may hinder the legal process. So far, the family has not reached out, nor acknowledged the incident, despite the deliberate attack. The local police are in the process of gathering evidence and pursuing the case according to legal protocol. However, the absence of swift progress has raised doubts about the efficacy of the investigation. This unsettling incident underscores the potentially dangerous repercussions of online interactions spilling over into real life. As the situation develops, the community remains hopeful for a just resolution, while anxiously awaiting updates on Chef’s recovery. With emotions running high, it is clear that both families and local authorities will need to address this incident with sensitivity and diligence to prevent further escalation and ensure that justice is served. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-09

Drunken Brawl Leaves Chaos and Bruised Police in Pattaya Photo courtesy of Channel 7 News In the early hours of yesterday, a wild altercation between two intoxicated women shattered the peace in Pattaya's Bang Lamung district. The incident unfolded in an apartment on Soi Kopai 4, attracting police and rescue workers to the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366255-drunken-brawl-leaves-chaos-and-bruised-police-in-pattaya/

Photo courtesy of Channel 7 News In the early hours of yesterday, a wild altercation between two intoxicated women shattered the peace in Pattaya's Bang Lamung district. The incident unfolded in an apartment on Soi Kopai 4, attracting police and rescue workers to the scene. At 1.39am, Pattaya City Police received an urgent call reporting a violent commotion. Upon arrival at the third-floor apartment, officers encountered 32-year-old Wanphen and 36-year-old Lalita, embroiled in a heated argument. The floor was stained with blood from shattered glass bottles thrown in anger. Eyewitnesses described the lovers as visibly drunk, having inflicted deep cuts upon themselves, with blood trailing from the stairs to the apartment door. Rescue workers' attempts to administer first aid were met with hostility, as the couple resisted help, shouting and pushing rescuers aside. The police intervened, only to face further chaos when one woman struck an officer in the chest. Despite the assault, understanding the situation's intoxicated nature, no charges were pressed. Police eventually managed to separate the couple temporarily, issuing a strong warning and advising the building's owner to evict them to prevent future disturbances. As they were being escorted out, the pair continued exchanging insults loudly. A staff member revealed that this was not the first instance of trouble since the couple moved in. A similar incident erupted on June 24, also requiring police intervention. This time, the building owner decided to blacklist the couple permanently. Police documented the scene as evidence and arranged for the women to receive medical treatment for their injuries at a local hospital. Their eviction marks a decisive response to repeated disturbances, as authorities urge community members to avoid allowing such situations to escalate. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in managing domestic disputes, particularly where alcohol is involved, and serves as a reminder of the need for suitable conflict resolution strategies to maintain community peace. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-09

Pattaya's Tourism Skyrockets with New Domestic Flight Routes Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya is poised for a tourism boom as a wave of new domestic flights connects the city more comprehensively than ever. This ambitious expansion is part of Thailand’s "New Route – New Airline" initiative, designed to transform the kingdom into a regional aviation powerhouse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366254-pattayas-tourism-skyrockets-with-new-domestic-flight-routes/