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Photo courtesy of VN Express Vietnam's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAV) has proposed several measures aimed at alleviating pressure on the aviation industry amid rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions. These proposals include exempting 100% of the environmental protection tax on aviation fuel until the end of May and reducing the value-added tax (VAT) on aviation fuel. Additionally, CAAV suggested allowing airlines to impose a fuel surcharge on domestic flights, with flexibility to adjust based on Jet A-1 fuel price changes. Get today's headlines by email The context for these proposals is the rising fuel prices complicating global aviation, along with geopolitical issues affecting supply chains. Vietnam's aviation industry has been striving to recover in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, facing challenges from high operational costs and limited fuel supplies. The suggested measures aim to provide airlines with financial relief and help stabilize fuel supply. Reactions to these proposals have included calls for collaborative discussions with countries like Thailand and China, which restrict fuel exports. This cooperation would support Vietnamese companies in fulfilling existing fuel contracts and securing new ones. The CAAV also recommended reviewing domestic airfare price caps and potentially cutting aviation service fees by 50%, akin to measures from the pandemic era. Looking forward, the CAAV's plans call for ongoing research into tax and fee support mechanisms by the Ministry of Finance. The State Bank of Vietnam is also urged to consider raising credit limits and providing guarantees for aviation fuel suppliers. Furthermore, the Ministry of Industry and Trade is encouraged to diversify fuel supply sources and enhance domestic refinery production capacities, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 11 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of VN Express Vietnam has raised gasoline prices, with RON95 fuel increasing by 7.69% to VND29,120 ($1.11) per liter due to rising global energy prices. Biofuel E5 RON92 also saw a 5.35% hike, while diesel went up by 1.59%. In response, the government has tapped into its stabilization fund, offering subsidies of VND4,000 per liter for RON95 and VND5,000 for diesel, marking the first fund usage in three years. Get today's headlines by email This price increase is attributed to geopolitical tensions impacting the global supply chain, particularly the conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, which has disrupted transportation in the Strait of Hormuz and led to reduced production by Gulf nations. Additionally, global stockpiling of fuel has put upward pressure on prices, with RON95 reaching $147.5 per barrel—up 27%, while diesel rose by 20%. Domestic pricing adjustments, usually done on Thursdays, occurred early this week due to the global price surge. Despite a brief decline in prices following a statement by U.S. President Donald Trump predicting an end to the Middle East conflict, domestic prices remain high pending the next adjustment. Vietnamese officials have sourced four million barrels of oil to secure a 30–45 day supply, aided by expected new supplies. Looking forward, Vietnam's government is implementing tax and fee reductions to help manage retail prices. Import tariffs on gasoline have been set to zero for certain imports. Additionally, the Ministry of Finance is advocating for the removal of the environmental protection tax on fuel by March 12, which is currently VND1,000-2,000 per liter, aiming to alleviate pricing pressures further, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 11 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of VN Express A South Korean scam ring accused of defrauding businesses of 1.2 billion won has been dismantled in Vietnam. Bac Ninh Province police announced the arrests of the group members on Tuesday, stating that investigations are currently continuing. The ring, led by Son Chan Hyun, had relocated to Vietnam to escape an intensified crackdown in Cambodia. Get today's headlines by email The group was initially recruited by a Chinese national named "Da Hu" while in Cambodia. As scrutiny on illegal operations increased, Son directed the move to Vietnam. Entering through Noi Bai International Airport in January, they quickly established their new base in Bac Ninh's Hap Linh Ward by February. Operating via Telegram, Son managed the seven team members, distributing tasks and bonuses, while penalizing underperformance. The scam targeted South Korean businesses with fake diplomatic agency orders, culminating in fraud through prepayment for nonexistent supplies. Payments were made in Tether cryptocurrency, with monthly salaries ranging from 2,000 to 7,000 USDT. Authorities estimate the syndicate's total fraud at 1.2 billion won, with 622.6 million won obtained in Vietnam alone. The sophisticated two-step scam involved convincing businesses to make urgent orders and then tricking them into making hefty deposits. Once payments were received, the criminals cut off all communication, reported VN Express. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 11 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Balita The Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced a possible fare increase on March 11, 2026. The final amount is under review as the agency reassesses the numbers. A petition for the fare hike is pending, and a recommendation from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is being recalculated to ensure accuracy. Get today's headlines by email This potential fare increase follows escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have significantly impacted global oil prices. Secretary Lopez noted that the LTFRB submitted a recommendation to the DOTr but was asked to "recompute" due to discrepancies. The revised recommendation is expected within the week. In response to the rising oil prices, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered immediate cash assistance for public utility vehicle drivers. Each driver will receive ₱5,000 to help mitigate the financial strain. Distribution of this aid is set to begin next week in Metro Manila. Experts express concerns about the fare hike's impact on commuters already facing economic challenges. The financial relief for drivers is a positive step but may not fully counterbalance the rise in oil prices and potential fare increases. Stakeholders are closely watching the situation as calculations are finalized. The DOTr is coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure a fair and justified outcome. Updates will be provided once the LTFRB submits its revised figures, and any final decision on the fare hike will consider both commuter and driver welfare, reported Balita. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Balita · 11 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Philstar Local shipping lines in the Philippines are reducing trips and raising fares due to increasing fuel costs, possibly impacting travel plans during Holy Week. OceanJet announced the suspension of eight daily routes until March 20 to manage expenses, affecting travel between Cebu, Dumaguete, Getafe, Palompon, Siquijor, and Tagbilaran. SeaCat by Grand Ferries has also canceled Cebu-Catbalogan and Cebu-Baybay trips, while increasing fares for other routes. Get today's headlines by email Montenegro Shipping Lines Inc. will implement a fare hike of up to 20% starting March 23, citing a 40% surge in fuel costs. Additionally, Jomalia Shipping Corp. and Super Shuttle Ferry have both imposed a 20% fuel surcharge, pledging to lower fares when fuel prices stabilize. The adjustments could influence whether Filipinos proceed with their traditional Lenten travels, a time when many visit their hometowns or vacation. The Philippine Ports Authority reported a 37% increase in passenger volume during Holy Week 2025, with many opting for sea travel over more expensive airfares. Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have contributed to the escalating fuel costs. As a result, both land and air travel prices are expected to climb, complicating travel plans for many. Airfares may also rise as the International Air Transport Association identified a 58% increase in jet fuel prices, driven by regional instability. Asia stands out with the steepest price hike, affecting travel costs significantly. The Civil Aeronautics Board might revise fuel surcharges, unchanged since August 2025, potentially raising air travel costs further. The topic of travel costs also surfaced in a recent Senate hearing discussing the abolition of the travel tax, a proposal supported by the Department of Finance as a way to ease financial burdens on travelers. The tax provides significant revenue for tourism and educational initiatives, and its removal presents funding challenges. However, proponents argue it has become a hindrance to travel freedom, reported Philstar. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 11 Mar 2026

Photo courtesy of Philstar The government is arranging two chartered flights for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East wishing to return home due to regional tensions. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. announced the effort, facilitated by eased airspace restrictions, with some OFWs expected back in the Philippines by the end of the week. Three Emirates-operated commercial flights are already bringing workers from Dubai directly to Manila. Get today's headlines by email The situation stems from ongoing hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, leading to concerns for OFWs' safety. Despite these tensions, the reduction of airspace restrictions has allowed coordinated efforts for safe repatriation. Marcos highlighted confidence in the safety of flights, encouraging the use of chartered planes for those wishing to return. One chartered plane will depart from Riyadh, facilitating the return of Filipinos from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Another flight, from Fujairah in the UAE, will bring back OFWs from Dubai. The UAE-originated flight is scheduled to leave on March 13, with an expected arrival in Manila between the evening of March 13 and the morning of March 14. Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac is set to visit Dubai for on-ground assessments and to provide updates on displaced OFWs' situations to the Philippine government. Both the Department of National Defense and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines are supporting the repatriation initiative. Additional repatriations include 16 OFWs from Israel, who reached Manila on March 11 through a DMW-arranged flight via land border crossings into Egypt. Another group of 20 OFWs from Dubai, along with nine dependents, arrived on March 10 after traveling through Oman. More than 400 Filipinos have returned since U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran began on February 27, a conflict causing significant casualties and displacements. The turmoil has also affected oil supply, leading to increased local fuel prices, reported Philstar. Join the discussion? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 11 Mar 2026

Four Thai nationals attempted to steal a gold necklace worth nearly 100,000 baht from Indian tourist Sadesh Sangte in Pattaya. The incident occurred outside a hotel on Pattaya Sai Song Road around 9:20 pm on March 10. Thanks to the quick intervention of a hotel security guard and witnesses, the suspects were restrained before fleeing. Get today's headlines by email Police were called to the scene and found the 54-year-old victim in shock. Sadesh reported that his necklace, valued between 70,000 and 80,000 baht, was damaged during the robbery attempt. He explained that the total worth of the necklace and an attached amulet was nearly 100,000 baht. The suspects included two women, a transwoman, and a male food delivery rider. They were identified as Rattanaphon Jamroen, 35, Nipaporn Talab-ngern, 31, Atcharawut Manokhan, 21, and Chaimongkhon Khaophon, 31. The robbery unfolded after Sadesh accepted an offer for massage services from the suspects and eventually led to a party and argument over payment. During the altercation, Nipaporn allegedly seized the necklace and passed it to Atcharawut, who attempted to flee. However, Sadesh managed to intercept Atcharawut with the help of bystanders and detained the group. Despite claiming innocence, police found the necklace in the delivery rider's motorcycle compartment. Authorities believe the group may have colluded in the attempted theft. A detailed investigation will be conducted, and charges may be filed based on the evidence collected, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

Sararat “Aem Cyanide” Rangsiwuthaporn was acquitted by the Criminal Court on Wednesday in a case involving the alleged cyanide poisoning of a woman in Nakhon Pathom in August 2020. The court's decision was based on the prosecution's failure to demonstrate that Sararat possessed cyanide or had a financial motive behind the alleged crime. The case was dismissed due to insufficient evidence linking her to the possession or use of the toxin. Get today's headlines by email The indictment claimed that Sararat poisoned engineer Nittaya Kaewbuppha by mixing cyanide into her drink between August 22 and 23, 2020, with the intention of financial gain. However, the court concluded that the prosecution did not adequately establish how Sararat obtained or maintained cyanide, nor did they convincingly prove any financial motive. These gaps led to the case's dismissal, adopting a benefit of the doubt approach. Despite being acquitted, Sararat remains in custody, as the charge is severe enough to warrant a possible death sentence. Defense lawyer Thannicha Eksuwannawat highlighted that the court recognized the lack of evidence regarding when, if ever, Sararat possessed cyanide. Although cleared in this case, Sararat's other legal troubles continue, with potential appeals forthcoming. Sararat's legal challenges are further compounded by her conviction and death sentence in another cyanide poisoning case concluded in November 2024. Moreover, she received a life sentence last month for murdering a policeman, a sentence initially decided as execution but reduced due to her confession. Sararat, 39, faces accusations of administering cyanide to 14 individuals between 2015 and 2023. Looking ahead, her lawyer plans to use the court's current reasoning to address 10 additional ongoing cases against Sararat. These cases are divided into those occurring before and after she was found to have purchased cyanide on August 9, 2022. The continued legal proceedings will explore the detailed circumstances and evidence behind each accusation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

In a bizarre twist on Koh Chang in Trat province, foreign tourists reported a monkey for allegedly stealing their motorcycle key, only to later discover the key at their accommodation after an extensive four-hour search. The incident was shared on Facebook by a Thai police officer, drawing significant attention and humor online. Get today's headlines by email The officer's post quickly went viral, amassing over 18,000 reactions and nearly 900 comments and shares. According to his caption, the tourists, who had been using cannabis, mistakenly believed the monkey had stolen their key. The amusing turn of events led social media users to joke about "investigator-turned-monkey-catcher" officers and the idea of monkeys seeking legal assistance for defamation. Humorous comments filled the thread, with users suggesting the monkeys needed a lawyer or that the tourists should face consequences for recreational cannabis use. While the scenario entertained many, some acknowledged it was fortunate the key was merely misplaced, which saved both the police and the motorcycle rental owner from further complications. Looking forward, similar incidents might prompt heightened awareness among visitors regarding personal belongings and responsible behavior when using substances. The event underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in distinguishing genuine cases from misunderstandings caused by substance use, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

The Thai government is considering closing petrol stations at 10 pm, but only if the Middle East conflict critically impacts fuel reserves. Currently, the situation remains manageable, according to Sarawut Kaewtathip, the Department of Energy Business director-general. Measures are being taken to assess and manage fuel demand throughout the country. Get today's headlines by email The Ministry of Interior has directed provincial governors and energy chiefs to survey fuel needs to formulate an effective response, preventing significant economic damage. Reports have emerged of fuel shortages at some stations, prompting local officials to monitor supplies closely to mitigate hoarding. Sarawut emphasized that there is no need for panic, as swift fuel deliveries are organized where stocks are low. Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon revealed that the state-run oil fund, which subsidizes diesel, is currently losing over 1 billion baht daily. He noted that the government is evaluating its approach, considering the fund's condition and global market prices, although subsidies remain in place for now. The country's reliance on Middle Eastern oil imports makes it vulnerable, particularly if the conflict continues. Minister Suphajee Suthumpun reassured citizens that if the situation worsens, further measures will be implemented. She urged the public to refrain from panic buying, highlighting that supplies are still sufficient. The government has prioritized domestic oil needs, suspended most exports, increased biofuel blends, and encouraged remote working for state and military personnel. Officials are considering potential actions, such as gradually increasing diesel prices, to address expanding oil fund losses. In a related development, authorities seized 26,800 litres of diesel and biodiesel from a truck near the Myanmar border, demonstrating the continued enforcement of fuel regulations, reported Bangkok Post. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

The Department of Highways has proposed a ministerial regulation to waive motorway tolls for seven days during the Songkran festival in 2026, from 12.01am on April 10 to midnight on April 16. This decision targets easing travel and reducing congestion for the traditional period when many people travel to their hometowns, causing heavy traffic on routes around Bangkok. Get today's headlines by email Previously, the Department of Highways submitted a draft to the Ministry of Transport, seeking approval to lift toll charges on Motorway No. 7, Motorway No. 9, and Motorway No. 81. The waiver is expected to support faster and more convenient travel, improve traffic flow, and decrease travel expenses for the public during this major holiday. Additionally, it aims to lower national energy consumption and reduce air pollution during the festival period. The regulation is based on Section 3 of a 1954 law dictating fees for motor vehicle use on highways, with an amendment in 1991. Under the draft plan, toll fees will be lifted on various sections including Motorway No. 7 (Bangkok–Ban Chang), Motorway No. 9 (the Bangkok Outer Ring Road), and Motorway No. 81 (Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi). The move is aligned with past ministerial regulations prescribing toll fees for these routes. Expert opinions suggest that waiving tolls could significantly alleviate congestion and provide relief to travelers in terms of cost and time savings. It also serves as an environmental benefit by potentially reducing emissions from extended idle times in traffic jams. These considerations make the proposed holiday toll waiver an effective measure that could be positively received by the public. Looking ahead, the draft will undergo evaluation by the Ministry of Transport. If approved, the toll waiver could set a precedent for future holiday periods to ensure smoother traffic conditions. Continued assessments will determine its effectiveness in achieving the intended benefits, reported The Nation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

Thailand's Commerce Minister, Suphajee Suthumpun, has addressed the public, urging calm as the government closely tracks energy prices amid the ongoing conflict in Iran. An operations center has been established to coordinate across ministries, aiming to implement protective measures when necessary. The government reassures that contingency plans are in place should the situation continue. Get today's headlines by email The backdrop to this situation involves rising tensions due to the Iran war, which have potential impacts on global energy prices, affecting consumer goods costs. Minister Suphajee emphasized the importance of official updates and briefings to keep the public informed and prepared. The government is assessing the situation daily to adapt strategies accordingly and minimize negative impacts. Suphajee also addressed concerns about the work-from-home measure, initially implemented for civil servants. She noted that it serves as a progressive move for agencies to optimize technology and remote work processes. However, she acknowledged that it should be balanced with practical considerations, as not all employees can work from home. Fears regarding stockpiling and increasing prices of oil and fertilizer have been met with assurances from the government. Minister Suphajee highlighted that Thailand has sufficient oil reserves for over 90 days and is actively seeking additional sources of supply. The Energy Minister has communicated ongoing efforts to provide alternative energy sources and to keep the public informed through daily briefings. Looking ahead, Thailand aims to mitigate impacts by adjusting fuel formulas, such as biodiesel, and increasing ethanol blending in petrol. These measures reflect the government's proactive stance in managing energy resource challenges while maintaining stability for consumers, reported The Nation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

A Thai billionaire, Worawat Narknawdee, is being sought by police following complaints from over 30 Thai investors. They claim to have been deceived into cryptocurrency investments, resulting in losses estimated at around Bt1.3 billion. Authorities suspect the investor, who reportedly holds 11,000 Bitcoins and has investments in the UAE, has fled the country. Get today's headlines by email Worawat, once the lead singer of the rock band “DoubleDeep,” has been under investigation before. In March 2023, the Securities and Exchange Commission accused him of running “1000X Limited” without proper authorization, breaching the Digital Assets Business Act. Known as "Acme Traderist," Worawat established “Traderist” to educate the public on crypto investments. Despite his celebrity status and success in digital assets, recent investigations have revealed financial troubles. The Department of Business Development indicated that his fintech company, Bitnance, is 99.97% owned by him but has suffered losses of approximately Bt30 billion. Similarly, his media company, Great Begins, holds about Bt5.8 billion in debt. Experts say Worawat leveraged his public image to build trust but may have concealed financial difficulties. The case raises concerns about transparency and regulation in the cryptocurrency market. Authorities believe he is currently in the UAE, where he has substantial fintech and real estate investments. Investors and regulators are now focused on potential recovery of lost funds and future regulatory measures. The case underscores the importance of due diligence and regulation in the volatile world of cryptocurrency investments, reported Thai PBS. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Thai PBS · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

Repeated use of donated blood for emergency cases linked to heavy drinking has raised social media concerns over blood shortages. The doctor behind the Facebook page “เรียนหมอ by หมอแกว หมอแนต” criticized the frequent need for blood transfusions in patients who consume alcohol heavily and often return to hospitals with the same complications, straining limited resources. Get today's headlines by email These cases often involve liver cirrhosis and gastrointestinal issues, requiring 10 to 20 bags of blood per admission. The doctor noted that despite treatment, 99.99% of these patients continue drinking post-discharge, with a rising number of migrant patients exhibiting similar patterns. As hospitals face ongoing blood shortages, non-emergency patients, including those with thalassaemia and kidney disease, sometimes experience delays reaching critical stages like severe anaemia. Donated blood is also vital for accident victims, major surgeries, severe childbirth bleeding, cancer patients, and those with blood disorders. While hospitals treat all patients equally, alcohol-related emergencies frequently receive prioritized attention, prompting the doctor's call for policy changes. She suggested introducing co-payments for repeat cases related to alcohol or drug use, potentially encouraging patients to reconsider their lifestyle choices. In subsequent posts, the doctor anticipated criticism, emphasizing her focus on addressing healthcare burdens rather than professional ethics shortcomings. Staff often face challenges from aggressive relatives, while continuing to provide necessary care. She advocated ending free treatment for repeat cases, citing the unsustainable strain on resources. Separately, the Phuket Red Cross and the Blood Bank at Vachira Phuket Hospital are urging community blood donations, particularly Rh-negative types, as tourism increases emergency demand. Meanwhile, blood donation communities online express gratitude and commitment toward maintaining healthy donation levels, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

A Thai delivery rider is accused of secretly filming under a female vendor's skirt while waiting for an order in Bangkok. The vendor shared video evidence of the March 7 incident on social media, highlighting the actions of a rider in a green jacket who allegedly took inappropriate photos. The incident has sparked online outrage, with calls for the vendor to report the behavior to authorities. Get today's headlines by email The vendor, focused on her work at the time, did not immediately confront the suspect but later identified him as Taewan, operating in the Khlong Samwa area. The online community's response has been intense, urging action to prevent future incidents and emphasizing safety precautions for female vendors. Taewan’s actions could result in up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to 20,000 baht, pending legal proceedings under Thailand’s sexual harassment laws. Similar incidents have occurred, like one in Nonthaburi last September, involving a man jumping from a mall to evade arrest after filming under a skirt. Another arrest was made in February last year at a concert in Bangkok's Rajamangala National Stadium for similar acts. These cases highlight a worrying trend and underline the call for stricter safety measures. As the public awaits further developments, it remains unknown if the vendor will formally press charges against Taewan. The outcome could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in Thailand, potentially influencing public policy and awareness campaigns, reported The Thaiger. AQO3i0vViehscb38yzLIBZLjW8SSxh8lWXb1iia8BNIN6uBjO7hZ4wD7Bir187Yue3bEBhqcFxXFuQj3Q-RIr9H7H_H2jjXoRYbwKG01DA.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026 View full article

A viral controversy erupted as images purportedly showing money discarded during the Triam Udom Suksa School entrance exam were debunked on March 10. The photos, supposedly from Impact Mueang Thong Thani where Grade 10 exams took place, triggered allegations that students were forced to leave cash outside due to a no-money policy. Get today's headlines by email Clarification soon followed, revealing that the photos were not from the exam site. A popular Facebook page, “ทำไมถึงเจ๊ง,” clarified the misunderstanding, explaining that a parent mistakenly shared images from another school in a different province, thinking they were from the exam. Although the post was deleted, the images spread rapidly, causing widespread media coverage and discussions. Despite the retraction, some media outlets did not sufficiently correct their stories, leaving lingering false beliefs about the event. The individual who originally posted the misleading images apologized, acknowledging the reputational damage to the school and its organizers. The incident highlighted how quickly misinformation can spread on social media and its potentially damaging effects. The person who shared the images expressed regret, explaining that the photo misrepresented the location and situation. He intended to spotlight potential challenges faced by students, without realizing the posting would escalate into a significant controversy. Looking forward, it remains crucial for media and individuals to verify information before sharing, to prevent similar issues from arising. The school and those involved continue to manage the aftermath of the reputational damage, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 11 Mar 2026 View full article