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Photo via Facebook/ Nawakorn Thongphan A Thai man, Nawakorn Thongpha, turned to social media for justice after police failed to arrest a suspect who damaged his car during a traffic altercation in Pattaya. The incident, which took place on Soi Jomtien 5 at around 1pm, was captured on video and shared by Nawakorn on his Facebook account on April 30. The confrontation began when Nawakorn, driving his white sedan on the one-way street, encountered a bronze-gold sedan going against traffic. Unable to reverse due to the vehicles behind him, Nawakorn refused to yield to the wrong-way driver. The situation escalated when the suspect exited his car, shouted at Nawakorn, and attacked his vehicle. He kicked and punched the side mirror until it broke and attempted to provoke a physical confrontation. Wisely, Nawakorn stayed inside his locked car, prioritising his safety. Throughout the attack, the suspect was heard claiming, “My father is a police officer. You must let me go this way!” A second man, wearing a brown T-shirt and belt bag, accompanied the suspect and later apologised to Nawakorn before the footage concluded. Witnesses provided Nawakorn with the video, and he learned from locals that the suspect and his companion had been involved in a prior argument with another driver nearby. Despite contacting local police and filing a report at Mueang Pattaya Police Station, law enforcement did not apprehend the suspect, prompting Nawakorn to publicise the incident. The case gained traction in Thai media, with Channel 7 and DailyNews covering the story. According to DailyNews, police subsequently confiscated the suspect's car, and reports suggest the suspect offered to amicably resolve the issue. However, Nawakorn has declined any settlement, seeking formal justice instead. The incident highlights ongoing concerns in Thailand over road safety, accountability, and fairness in the legal system, with many watching to see how authorities will address the growing public interest in the case. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Pattaya Launches Air-Con Mobile Toilets for Residents and Tourists Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya City has unveiled a new initiative to enhance public convenience by launching luxurious air-conditioned mobile toilets for residents and tourists, free of charge. The first unit is strategically placed outside Walking Street, near the South Pattaya Pumping Station, and promises comfort and hygiene from 8am to midnight daily. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359547-pattaya-launches-air-con-mobile-toilets-for-residents-and-tourists/

Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya City has unveiled a new initiative to enhance public convenience by launching luxurious air-conditioned mobile toilets for residents and tourists, free of charge. The first unit is strategically placed outside Walking Street, near the South Pattaya Pumping Station, and promises comfort and hygiene from 8am to midnight daily. The facility, designed for both men and women, includes two restrooms for each gender and is maintained by on-site staff to ensure cleanliness. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, alongside Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai and other officials, inspected the unit, underscoring Pattaya's aim to provide a world-class experience. Originally, the city intended to build three permanent public toilets along the beachfront. However, legal constraints and Marine Department regulations regarding coastal development led to a pivot towards mobile units. "These can be easily relocated and still offer comfort and cleanliness," Mayor Poramet explained, highlighting the flexibility and practicality of mobile toilets. This initiative is part of a larger campaign to upgrade Pattaya's infrastructure, following recent enhancements to the beachfront's walkways and landscaping. The air-conditioned toilets underscore the city's commitment to tourist-friendly innovation, with plans to introduce similar units at Central Pattaya Beach and South Pattaya Beach. Locals and tourists are encouraged to use the new facilities, particularly during the hot, busy evenings on Walking Street, where air-conditioning and clean restrooms are highly appreciated. As the tourism sector rebounds, Pattaya is not only catering to its visitors with welcoming beaches and attractions but is also taking steps to ensure their comfort with state-of-the-art amenities like these mobile toilets. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Bangkok's Future: Move Towards Autonomy and Modern Governance Picture courtesy of Daily News Bangkok is poised for significant administrative changes as politicians discuss running the city more independently, akin to a state rather than a traditional city. On May 1, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt met with Members of Parliament at Bangkok City Hall to explore dramatic reforms aimed at modernising the city's governance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359546-bangkoks-future-move-towards-autonomy-and-modern-governance/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Bangkok is poised for significant administrative changes as politicians discuss running the city more independently, akin to a state rather than a traditional city. On May 1, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt met with Members of Parliament at Bangkok City Hall to explore dramatic reforms aimed at modernising the city's governance. The meeting, held in the Nopparat Room near the Giant Swing, brought together key figures like Parit Wacharasindhu, the spokesperson of the People’s Party and head of the House Subcommittee on Upgrading Bangkok’s Administration. Parit highlighted the limitations faced by Bangkok's governor, who lacks authority over critical areas such as traffic and public transport, despite being elected by the city's residents. The proposed reforms focus on three main areas: Empowering the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA): The plan suggests granting the BMA autonomy to make independent decisions regarding budgets, staffing, and governance without central government interference, allowing for more responsive and efficient management. Restructuring Administration: A new two-tier system would establish elected councils and executives at the district or cluster level, bringing governance closer to the people and making it more responsive to local needs. Boosting Public Participation: Initiatives include enabling online petitions, referendums, and ensuring transparent access to city data. These measures aim to give residents more influence over budgets and policy. These reforms are the result of extensive research and public consultations that began in mid-2024. Now being finalised for submission to Parliament, there are two paths for legal reform: MP-backed legislation expected between July and August or a BMA-drafted bill requiring Cabinet approval, which could expedite the process. Governor Chadchart emphasised the urgency of updating Bangkok's governing laws, which have remained unchanged since 1985. Current structures are described as inefficient, with responsibilities like maintaining footpaths falling under the BMA, while police manage roads. "We need a more unified, effective system," he stated. Achieving these changes will require collaboration between city and national leaders. Both Governor Chadchart and Parit agree that cooperation is crucial for advancing the proposed reforms, which could significantly shape the future of Bangkok governance. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Rescuers Recover 13 More Bodies from Collapsed SAO Building in Bangkok File photo for reference only In a grim update, rescuers have retrieved 13 additional bodies from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok, raising the tragic death toll to 74. The collapse has also resulted in nine injuries, and around 20 individuals are still missing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359543-rescuers-recover-13-more-bodies-from-collapsed-sao-building-in-bangkok/

File photo for reference only In a grim update, rescuers have retrieved 13 additional bodies from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok, raising the tragic death toll to 74. The collapse has also resulted in nine injuries, and around 20 individuals are still missing. The bodies were discovered using heavy machinery in Zone D of the collapse site, with additional remains detected, including small body parts. In total, there are 41 cases identified in this area, according to Suriyachai Rawiwan, director of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office. Efforts to access Zone C have been challenging, slowed by a four-metre height of rubble and concerns over the stability of the remaining structure. It's believed that a walkway from the third floor may have fallen into a deeper area, potentially trapping more victims. To tackle these obstacles, the rescuers have expanded their use of machinery to reach the difficult-to-access areas beneath the debris. The search operations will continue unabated until the clearing of debris is finalised, expected by the end of the month. Amidst the ongoing rescue efforts, the focus has turned to investigating the building structure's integrity. The 30-storey SAO headquarters, a 2.1-billion-baht project, was the sole skyscraper in Bangkok to collapse following an earthquake centred in Myanmar on March 28. Preliminary investigations have highlighted that the elevator shafts' walls are notably thinner compared to other similar high-rise constructions. In response, the area has been secured to facilitate engineers from the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning in examining the elevator shafts and structural stability for potential evidence of the collapse's cause. As the city grapples with this tragedy, efforts to locate the missing and ensure the safety of the area continue with urgency. The situation remains dynamic as authorities seek answers and strive to bring closure to the affected families. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-02

Giant Monitor Lizard Statue Debuts in Bangkok’s Lumphini Park Picture courtesy of Daily News Bangkok’s iconic monitor lizards have received a supersized tribute with the installation of a massive foam statue in Lumphini Park, offering tourists and locals a chance to snap selfies with one of the city's most misunderstood residents. This temporary installation celebrates the urban scavenger that plays a crucial role in Bangkok’s ecosystem. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359542-giant-monitor-lizard-statue-debuts-in-bangkok’s-lumphini-park/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Bangkok’s iconic monitor lizards have received a supersized tribute with the installation of a massive foam statue in Lumphini Park, offering tourists and locals a chance to snap selfies with one of the city's most misunderstood residents. This temporary installation celebrates the urban scavenger that plays a crucial role in Bangkok’s ecosystem. Deputy Governor of Bangkok, Sanon Wangsangboon, spoke to Daily News, acknowledging the high public demand for such an attraction. "On average, 100 to 200 visitors, both Thai and foreign, ask staff daily where they can spot a monitor lizard or take a photo,” he stated. “Now we’ve got a landmark to make that easier.” Originally part of Seacon Bangkae’s Guardians of the Garden exhibition held from February 26 to March 9, the foam statue was donated by Seacon to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. It's been strategically placed at Suan Bueng Lake within Lumphini Park, opposite the palm plantation. The monitor lizard, or hia in Thai, does more than just attract selfies; it's a symbol of the city's often-overlooked urban environment. Sanon explained, "The monitor lizard isn’t just an animal; it’s part of the city’s environmental story." An informational board accompanies the statue, educating visitors about the species' ecological role and legal protection under Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. The law strictly prohibits hunting or harming these creatures, imposing penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a 1 million baht fine. Despite their fierce appearance, monitor lizards are vital scavengers, controlling populations of rats and clearing dead animals, contributing to a healthier urban ecosystem. Found throughout Southeast Asia, they excel at swimming and climbing and generally keep to themselves unless threatened. The installation is slated to remain in place until mid-May, coinciding with the BKK Expo on May 17. Permanent placement will depend on further discussions and possible private sector involvement. While the whimsical installation draws crowds, the city maintains control over live monitor lizard populations in parks and attends to sightings in residential zones. Visitors are advised not to feed wild animals to help sustain Bangkok’s delicate urban ecosystem. Lumphini Park is open to visitors daily from 4.30am to 10pm, providing ample opportunity to see the statue and understand the broader environmental narrative it represents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

French National Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Tour Guide Work Photo: The Phuket Express Phuket authorities arrested a French national named Mr. Gauthier for illegally working as a tour guide, with further investigations now focusing on the involved tour company. The operation took place at Yamu Pier in Pa Khlok, Thalang, following multiple complaints and video evidence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359540-french-national-arrested-in-phuket-for-illegal-tour-guide-work/

Photo: The Phuket Express Phuket authorities arrested a French national named Mr. Gauthier for illegally working as a tour guide, with further investigations now focusing on the involved tour company. The operation took place at Yamu Pier in Pa Khlok, Thalang, following multiple complaints and video evidence. For some time, the Phuket Tourist Police had been receiving complaints about a foreigner conducting tours without the necessary authorisation. Responding to these concerns, law enforcement conducted surveillance at Yamu Pier, a key departure point for tour boats heading to Naka Yai, Naka Noi, and Rang islands. There, they observed Mr. Gauthier, assisting tourists aboard a speedboat without a properly licensed Thai guide present. Upon identifying and apprehending Mr. Gauthier, it was confirmed that he was unlawfully employed by a tour company in Thailand. He was taken to the Phuket Tourist Police Station where he faced charges related to working without a valid permit and acting as a tour guide without proper licensing. Further investigations exposed significant discrepancies within the tour company employing Mr. Gauthier. Although officially registered as a motorbike service company, it not only failed to provide licensed tour guides but also neglected to offer insurance coverage for its tourists. These infractions put the company in violation of the Tourism Business and Guide Act, which could result in fines of up to 500,000 THB each for neglecting to assign a licensed guide and for failing to provide travel insurance. Authorities have confirmed that the Tourism Business and Guide Registration Office will enforce administrative penalties against the company. This is expected to include the suspension of the company’s operating license, underscoring the seriousness with which Thai authorities are addressing illegal tourism activities. The case serves as a reminder of the stringent regulations governing the tourism sector in Thailand, ensuring safety and compliance in the industry. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Phuket Express 2025-05-02

Phuket Con Artist Arrested for Scamming Local Eateries Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In Phuket, a 29-year-old man known only by his nickname "Knot" has been arrested after weeks on the run for scamming local restaurant owners. Knot targeted small eateries by posing as a food delivery customer, leaving at least 10 victims financially out of pocket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359537-phuket-con-artist-arrested-for-scamming-local-eateries/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In Phuket, a 29-year-old man known only by his nickname "Knot" has been arrested after weeks on the run for scamming local restaurant owners. Knot targeted small eateries by posing as a food delivery customer, leaving at least 10 victims financially out of pocket. Knot's modus operandi involved riding around Phuket on a black M-Slash motorcycle. He would enter restaurants and order meals worth approximately 300 baht. After placing his order, he asked to charge his phone and then requested 700 baht in cash, promising that a friend would transfer 1,000 baht in return. Trusting this exchange, vendors handed over the cash, only to see him disappear without a trace. One notable incident occurred in mid-April at a somtam shop on Damrong Road in Talat Yai, Phuket Town. This scam was not an isolated incident, with multiple reports surfacing across the area. The Phuket City Police tracked Knot's movements over several weeks. He evaded capture by avoiding his usual residence and opting for daily room rentals. However, a breakthrough came on May 1, around 7.30pm, when an informant tipped off the police that Knot had checked into a love hotel on Komaraphat Road. Officers from Phuket City Police Station, alongside the Phuket Provincial Police Investigation Division, orchestrated a raid. The informant knocked on Room 20's door, enabling the police to arrest Knot with a court-issued warrant dating April 25. The operation concluded smoothly, with Knot taken into custody without resistance. During interrogation at Phuket City Police Station, Knot confessed to the scam and admitted using the illicitly obtained cash to purchase crystal meth. A urine test confirmed his drug use, resulting in an additional narcotics charge. Police Colonel Chatree Chueakaew, Superintendent of Phuket City Police, confirmed that Knot was denied bail, with investigators strongly opposing his release due to concerns of potential reoffending. The police are urging other victims of Knot's scheme to come forward, suggesting that his criminal activities might be more extensive than initially revealed. The investigation remains ongoing, as authorities work to uncover the full extent of Knot's deceptive cons. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Thai Engineer Scammed Out of 8 Million Baht in Elaborate Scheme Photo: Bangkok Post In a harrowing tale that has gripped the Thai public, a 32-year-old engineer with a PhD, referred to only as Siwat, was duped out of more than 8 million baht by an intricate phone scam. The incident came to light after Siwat sought help from social media activist Ekkapop Luangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Tong Rod Facebook page, where the story quickly went viral. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359536-thai-engineer-scammed-out-of-8-million-baht-in-elaborate-scheme/

Photo: Bangkok Post In a harrowing tale that has gripped the Thai public, a 32-year-old engineer with a PhD, referred to only as Siwat, was duped out of more than 8 million baht by an intricate phone scam. The incident came to light after Siwat sought help from social media activist Ekkapop Luangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Tong Rod Facebook page, where the story quickly went viral. The ordeal began on April 5 when Siwat received a phone call from an individual claiming to be an official from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The caller accused him of involvement in opening mule accounts linked to a notorious former politician, now under arrest. This unexpected accusation left Siwat in shock. The scammers' tactics were highly sophisticated. They managed to convince Siwat to add them as a friend on the Line chat app, escalating the scam with video calls and official-looking documents. These documents detailed the confiscation of mule accounts and instructed Siwat to transfer his funds for "examination of the money trail." The caller insisted that Siwat remain in a location where he would be undisturbed to ensure compliance. What ensued was a week-long ordeal characterised by relentless pressure and threats. Siwat described feeling trapped, as he was warned that failure to comply would result in the confiscation of his assets and those of his family. Additional calls from a supposed female DSI official added to the deception, escalating the sense of urgency and fear. Throughout the seven-day scam, Siwat was coerced into making 11 separate money transfers from five different bank accounts, totalling 8.46 million baht. Even more striking was the gang's demand for Siwat to visit Hat Yai in Songkhla province to convert savings certificates from a Government Savings Bank into further transfers. This elaborate ruse involved keeping the call active during the journey, barring moments when Siwat boarded a flight. Despite living abroad for nine years, Siwat had never encountered scams of this magnitude. Having returned to Thailand a year prior, he was initially confident in recognising scam attempts due to frequent calls from fraudsters. However, this new modus operandi, with its formal documentation and persistent threats, caught him off guard. The situation deteriorated further when the scammers attempted to have Siwat mortgage his 7 million baht condominium, intending to siphon those funds as well. Fortunately, the mortgage process failed just in time. Upon realising the fraud after confiding in his father, Siwat reached out to banks in a bid to recover his lost money, but his efforts have yet to bear fruit. Recognising the gravity of the situation, Ekkapop is working alongside cybercrime police to track down those responsible. He has called on the government to implement more stringent measures to combat the rising tide of scams. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing sophistication of scams and the urgent need for heightened public awareness and preventive measures. As the story continues to unfold, it highlights the challenges in protecting against sophisticated fraud in an increasingly digital world. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-02

Phuket Plans Boat Taxi Service to Ease Traffic Congestion File photo for reference only PHUKET - Boat taxi services are set to connect key beaches and the airport by year's end, according to Surachai Burapanonthachai of the Marine Department. This pivotal new transport option aims to alleviate the island's notorious traffic congestion, particularly between the airport and the bustling downtown areas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359535-phuket-plans-boat-taxi-service-to-ease-traffic-congestion/

File photo for reference only PHUKET - Boat taxi services are set to connect key beaches and the airport by year's end, according to Surachai Burapanonthachai of the Marine Department. This pivotal new transport option aims to alleviate the island's notorious traffic congestion, particularly between the airport and the bustling downtown areas. The first service is expected to launch within four months, linking western beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon to the airport, with a journey time of approximately one hour. The initiative stems from January discussions led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with stakeholders aiming to improve island transit. Plans are also in the works for a second route from the eastern coast in the following fiscal year, as the western route faces challenges from monsoon winds and rough waters. Potential eastern routes include connections from Yamu cape, Kaew island, Hin cape, and Por bay to the airport. This innovative approach anticipates providing a swift and scenic alternative for residents and tourists alike, positioning Phuket as a leader in island connectivity while addressing urgent traffic concerns. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-02

Thailand Acts to Boost International Tourist Safety Amid Decline File photo for reference only In a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, Sorawong chaired discussions aimed at addressing safety concerns affecting international tourists in Thailand. The gathering brought together key players from the private tourism sector, including representatives from ATTA, THA, TCT, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359533-thailand-acts-to-boost-international-tourist-safety-amid-decline/

File photo for reference only In a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, Sorawong chaired discussions aimed at addressing safety concerns affecting international tourists in Thailand. The gathering brought together key players from the private tourism sector, including representatives from ATTA, THA, TCT, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. As the current foreign tourism market reaches a critical juncture, Sorawong underlined the urgency of taking swift preventative actions to manage the situation effectively. Acknowledging tourism as the main driver of Thailand's economy, he stressed the importance of leveraging every possible initiative to bolster the sector. Despite a notable decline in arrivals from major markets like China since the start of 2025, tourism revenue has increased compared to the previous year, suggesting that tourists are spending more on their visits. From January 1 to April 27, Thailand welcomed 11,841,911 foreign visitors, marking a slight increase of 0.12% year-on-year and generating 565.6 billion baht in revenue. China, Malaysia, Russia, India, and South Korea emerged as the top five sources of tourists, with each contributing significantly to the visitor numbers. As Thailand seeks to enhance safety, the aim is to maintain its appeal as a premier tourist destination while addressing the underlying issues affecting the sector. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-02

Photo: VN Express Nguyen Thi Ut Em, the owner of the American International School Vietnam (AISVN), has been arrested in Ho Chi Minh City on charges of disrupting public order and inciting vandalism at the school's entrance. Police are also investigating two other individuals, Do Linh Phuong and Nguyen Thanh Trieu, in connection with the incident. The allegations stem from late March, when Em and several others reportedly gathered at the AISVN campus gate amid a management dispute, causing a disturbance that impacted local security and social order. The incident has prompted the Ho Chi Minh City Inspectorate to look into potential illegal capital mobilization by the school's managing body, the AISVN American International Education Joint Stock Company. This inquiry focuses on loan and education investment contracts signed with parents. AISVN, established in 2006, follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Tuition fees range from VND280–350 million (US$11,000–13,750) for kindergarten, VND450–500 million for primary education, and VND600–725 million for middle and high school. The school employs approximately 130 foreign teachers, 26 Vietnamese teachers, and over 100 additional staff. In late 2023, AISVN attracted controversy when parents demanded repayment of substantial debts. They claimed that the school had engaged in borrowing tens of billions of dong without interest or collateral via loan and investment contracts, offering free tuition to their children under the promise of repayment once the students graduated or transferred. However, parents reported that the promised repayments never materialized. The ongoing investigation seeks to clarify the extent of financial misconduct and ensure accountability for any violations related to these schemes. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only In the "World Economic League Table 2022," the Center for Economic and Business Research (CEBR) has projected significant economic growth for Vietnam. By 2036, Vietnam is expected to emerge as the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia, and rank as the 20th-largest economy globally. The report highlights Vietnam's remarkable economic transformation, attributing much of its success to the Doi Moi reforms initiated in the mid-1980s, which aligned with favorable global trends. These factors have driven Vietnam's transition from a low-income country to a lower-middle-class one, with a purchasing power parity adjusted GDP per capita of approximately $11,608 as of 2021. Vietnam's ambition to reach high-income status by 2045 hinges on maintaining an average annual growth rate of about 5% per capita. However, it faces considerable challenges, including an ageing population and diminishing global trade. To navigate these hurdles, Vietnam must enhance policy implementation, particularly in sectors vulnerable to automation and climate change. CEBR's forecast suggests that Vietnam's economic ranking will significantly improve, leaping from 41st in 2021 to 20th in 2036. This growth underscores the nation's potential in the global economic landscape, provided it strategically addresses the forthcoming challenges. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

Photo: VN Express Over 30 years ago, as Vietnam began opening its doors to the world, Mark Bowyer played a key role in introducing Australian tourists to this enchanting country. Despite initial skepticism from his family—concerned about Vietnam's war-torn past and potential unwelcoming attitudes—Bowyer found a thriving spirit of hospitality in the Vietnamese people. Hailing from Sydney, Bowyer developed an affinity for Vietnam after flying on the first Qantas flight to Ho Chi Minh City in 1990. This visit was part of a book project documenting Vietnam's economic opening. At the time, tourism required a "tourist permit" for specific areas, reflecting the restrictive travel landscape. Inspired, Bowyer embarked on a mission to promote Vietnam as a tourism destination, using the slogan "Vietnam – after the rain, it shines," coupled with a 1990 photo of Hue's picturesque Huong River. Bowyer sought to highlight Vietnam's warmth and recovery, moving beyond mere remnants of conflict. Undeterred by opposition, Bowyer co-founded Travel Indochina in 1993, focusing on tours through Vietnam. The company's signature tour, "The New Vietnam," offered a 16-day journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City via the Thong Nhat (Reunification) train, illustrating the country's transformative era. The inaugural tour in March 1993 faced challenges like poor roads and basic accommodations. Yet, travelers found these minor compared to the privilege of experiencing Vietnam's vibrant recovery and its people. The Thong Nhat train, emblematic of the era, was basic yet enlivened by local passengers, impromptu musical gatherings, and the spirit of newfound openness. Guests discovered not just Vietnam's historical depth but also a surprising passion for music and karaoke. After leaving Travel Indochina in 2006, Bowyer launched Rusty Compass, offering tours that capture Asia's evolving landscapes. Reflecting on these 30 years, Bowyer remains dedicated to showcasing Vietnam's charm and complexity. Fluent in Vietnamese, Bowyer emphasizes that tourism's future lies in honoring Vietnam's people and their stories. He advocates for a focus on culture and history, engaging travelers' curiosity and fostering deeper appreciation of this richly storied nation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only A devastating multi-vehicle collision on the northbound lane of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals and left 27 others injured on Labour Day, May 1. The catastrophic event occurred around 12:30 pm at the Tarlac SCTEX Exit Toll Plaza, as confirmed by Central Luzon police chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo. Initial reports from the Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO 3) indicate that the accident involved three SUVs, a container truck, and a passenger bus. The incident was triggered when the passenger bus collided with an SUV stopped at Lane 2 of the toll plaza. The severe impact created a chain reaction, causing the SUV to crash into multiple vehicles ahead of it. As investigation efforts continue, authorities are working to understand the full scope of the incident and the precise series of events that led to this tragic outcome. The police are looking into all possibilities to determine the cause and prevent such accidents in the future. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only Despite ongoing urban development efforts, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has declared Manila Bay to remain "alive." The bay is undergoing numerous reclamation projects, raising concerns about potential ecological damage. In its cumulative impact assessment presented on April 30, the DENR acknowledged the bay's vibrance but also highlighted the risks of reclamation on marine ecosystems and fisherfolk livelihoods. Groups like PAMALAKAYA and Kalikasan People’s Network have called for a halt to all reclamation activities to protect these vulnerable elements. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the importance of considering social, ecological, and cultural impacts in local government development plans, asserting that these must be acknowledged in Manila Bay's ongoing and future projects. The assessment revealed significant biodiversity within Manila Bay, with 51 coral genera and 167 fish species potentially threatened by reclamation. Concerns articulated by Charina Lyna Repollo from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute include disrupted waterflows, pollutants trapping, and harmful impacts on fisheries and coastal communities. Further, the loss of mangroves and increased sedimentation from these projects could cause more frequent flooding and expose communities to heightened risks during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, increased nutrients in the water may lead to algal blooms, posing threats to marine life and human health. Yulo-Loyzaga urged local governments to incorporate impact assessments into their planning, addressing issues like water quality, mobility, waste management, flood control, and climate change risk. The DENR plans to review environmental compliance certificates and engage with stakeholders to ensure responsible project management. Currently, more than 20 reclamation projects are proposed or in progress, but most were paused following President Marcos Jr.'s call for a comprehensive review. High-profile suspensions include Manila Waterfront City and the New Manila Bay Reclamation and Development Project, though Pasay Harbor City reclamation continues with proper authorization. Moving forward, the next phase of assessments will focus on improving environmental monitoring and flood modeling, ensuring Manila Bay’s development aligns with sustainable practices and health and safety priorities for its communities and ecosystems. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is urging citizens to actively participate in the fight against illegal drugs through its "Operation: Private Eye" (OPE) initiative. This programme incentivises civilians to report drug activities by offering financial rewards for valuable information. PDEA Director General Isagani R. Nerez highlights that OPE aims to overcome public fear and apathy by maintaining informant anonymity and information confidentiality. During the first quarter of 2025, the programme awarded over P7 million to 16 civilian informants whose reports aided in 22 successful anti-drug operations nationwide. The Operation Private Eye Reward Committee, consisting of PDEA officers and reputable members of the business, academic, and religious communities, evaluates and approves rewards for qualifying informants. Informants use codenames and masks during award ceremonies to protect their identities. Despite personal risks, citizens have demonstrated trust in the PDEA's efforts, furthering community engagement in drug eradication. Under the "Bagong Pilipinas" programme, participatory governance is promoted, seeking broader public involvement in tackling the drug problem. Recent PDEA operations, spanning April 18 to 25, led to the confiscation of illegal drugs valued at approximately P24.95 million and the arrest of 52 suspects. These operations uncovered over 3,000 grams of shabu, among other drugs, and occurred in key areas such as Metro Manila, Dipolog City, and Central and Eastern Visayas, targeting both street-level dealers and high-value syndicate members. Strategic buy-busts, routine checkpoints, and intelligence-led interdictions effectively dismantled trafficking networks across provinces, including significant seizures in Dipolog City and Benguet. Nerez acknowledges the dedication of operating teams, emphasizing continued aggressive measures against drug syndicates and a holistic approach combining enforcement with preventive education. PDEA encourages the public to report suspicious activities through OPE's hotline and social media, affirming the necessity of a united national approach to achieve safer, drug-free communities across the Philippines. Continued successes underscore the importance of coordinated operations and community collaboration in this ongoing battle. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-01