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Picture courtesy of amarintv A scandal has erupted in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Ron Phibun district after photos surfaced allegedly showing a senior monk in a compromising position with a woman. The images appear to capture the monk, a subdistrict chief and senior ecclesiastical figure, naked in a bathroom with a woman bathing him, prompting demands from the local community for accountability. The photos were reportedly taken by local residents who had been monitoring the monk’s behaviour, concerned over potential misconduct. Fearing repercussions, they captured the images secretly within the temple's bathroom and shared them as evidence. The incident has stirred discussions about the integrity and discipline expected within monkhood, with many asserting that the issue lies with individuals exploiting religious positions without adhering to its principles. Upon discovering the photographs, the monk reportedly left the temple. Local residents, upset by the incident, have expressed their desire for him not to return as abbot, highlighting their disapproval of his actions. Phra Khru Siriwannaporn, the abbot of Thepnomchuead Temple and district monk chief of Ron Phibun, has confirmed the situation and stated that disciplinary procedures are underway. Reports have been submitted to the provincial ecclesiastical official in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Initial investigations are also addressing whether any temple property has gone missing, which could prompt further legal action. As the monk remains unreachable, the local community has decided to appoint a new monk to fill the role, ensuring that the disgraced monk will not return. This incident underscores the need for vigilance in maintaining the sanctity of religious institutions and holding individuals accountable for actions that betray the faith. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Wife Arrested After Confrontation Over Husband's Infidelity Turns Fatal Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a tragic incident in Bangkok's Min Buri district, a confrontation over infidelity led to the death of a woman. The altercation occurred on April 20 at a local resort, where a woman discovered her missing husband with his mistress. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358366-wife-arrested-after-confrontation-over-husbands-infidelity-turns-fatal/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a tragic incident in Bangkok's Min Buri district, a confrontation over infidelity led to the death of a woman. The altercation occurred on April 20 at a local resort, where a woman discovered her missing husband with his mistress. The incident unfolded when Worawan, the wife, tracked down her husband to the resort and found him with Phojchanat, his mistress. The ensuing confrontation turned violent, resulting in serious injuries to Phojchanat. A resort housekeeper reported that the husband had brought Phojchanat to the resort the previous night. The next morning, Worawan arrived, leading to the confrontation with tragic consequences. Pojchanat was dragged to the resort’s check-in area, where her condition deteriorated. A concerned citizen transported her to Nawamin Hospital 9, but she succumbed to her injuries. Police Lieutenant Colonel Banlu Phloetnok of Min Buri Police Station reported on the fatal incident, and Police Colonel Somphot Thongmun, superintendent of Min Buri Police Station, confirmed that initial investigations aligned with reports of the husband bringing his mistress to the resort. When the wife discovered them, the situation escalated to violence. Worawan, who surrendered to the authorities following the incident, now faces charges of causing bodily harm leading to death. As legal proceedings continue, the case underscores the devastating impact of domestic conflicts and infidelity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Tourists Use Water Guns to Extinguish Fire at Pattaya's Wan Lai Festival Photo via Channel 7 In a remarkable display of quick thinking, tourists attending the Wan Lai Festival in Pattaya used their water guns to extinguish a fire that broke out on a food cart. The incident, which was captured on video and shared by Channel 7, occurred on April 19 around 8pm on Pattaya Beach Road, the last day of the festival. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358365-tourists-use-water-guns-to-extinguish-fire-at-pattayas-wan-lai-festival/

Photo via Channel 7 In a remarkable display of quick thinking, tourists attending the Wan Lai Festival in Pattaya used their water guns to extinguish a fire that broke out on a food cart. The incident, which was captured on video and shared by Channel 7, occurred on April 19 around 8pm on Pattaya Beach Road, the last day of the festival. The video shows flames engulfing a snack vendor’s food cart, causing panic among nearby stallholders. However, festival-goers sprang into action, using their water guns—originally carried for the water-splashing festivities—to douse the flames. Thanks to their prompt response, the fire was quickly brought under control, much to the delight of the cheering crowd. Channel 7 journalists commented humorously on the situation, noting, "This is the first time I’ve seen the benefits of carrying a gun in public, but it should be a water gun like this.” The fire was first noticed by a fruit vendor nearby, who acted swiftly by removing a pot of boiling water and shutting off the gas valve on the food cart's stove. The food cart owner suggested that the fire might have resulted from heat accumulation due to continuous cooking to meet high customer demand that day. The Wan Lai Festival in Pattaya is an extension of the Songkran celebrations, known for its vibrant water-splashing activities, marking the Thai New Year. With the festival in Chon Buri now concluded, those eager to continue the festivities can head to the Wan Lai Phra Pradaeng in Samut Prakan province, running from April 25 to 27. This event will include merit-making, parades, beauty pageants, traditional Mon cultural activities, and more water splashing, hosted at Phlaeng Faifa Fort in the Phra Pradaeng district. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Substandard Rebar Found in Collapsed Bangkok Building's Construction File photo for reference only Recent tests by the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand have revealed that rebar samples collected from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building site are substandard. Spokesman for the Industry Ministry, Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen, confirmed today that the tested samples, which include 12mm, 20mm, and 32mm rebar, did not meet the required rigorous standards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358364-substandard-rebar-found-in-collapsed-bangkok-buildings-construction/

File photo for reference only Recent tests by the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand have revealed that rebar samples collected from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building site are substandard. Spokesman for the Industry Ministry, Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen, confirmed today that the tested samples, which include 12mm, 20mm, and 32mm rebar, did not meet the required rigorous standards. Following this initial finding, additional samples were collected on April 11th. These 40 sections, consisting of eight different rebar sizes, were dispatched for testing to evaluate their compliance with the Thailand Industrial Standard Institute (TISI) criteria. Pongpol emphasized the clarity of the testing protocol, which aims to ensure all construction materials meet established safety standards. Should any rebar type or brand be deemed substandard, accountability will extend to the manufacturers, potentially resulting in the revocation of production licenses and the closure of their production facilities. The scrutiny of Xin Ke Yuan, a Chinese manufacturer operating in Thailand, has intensified. Some of their rebar used in the SAO building's construction were already identified as falling short of TISI standards. These developments highlight significant safety concerns, prompting calls for stricter regulation and oversight within the construction industry to prevent future structural failures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World -- 2025-04-21

Partial Remains Found in Bangkok Building Collapse; Identification Underway File photo for reference only Search teams have uncovered partial remains believed to belong to 18 individuals from the debris of a collapsed SAO building in Bangkok. The tragic discovery was confirmed by Suriyachai Rawiwan, director of the Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358363-partial-remains-found-in-bangkok-building-collapse-identification-underway/

File photo for reference only Search teams have uncovered partial remains believed to belong to 18 individuals from the debris of a collapsed SAO building in Bangkok. The tragic discovery was confirmed by Suriyachai Rawiwan, director of the Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). All recovered remains have been transferred to the Forensic Medicine Institute for identification. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej highlighted efforts to identify the victims, including assistance from the Thai Embassy in Myanmar. The embassy is collecting DNA samples from relatives of missing Myanmar nationals, contributing to the identification process. So far, 97 DNA samples have been gathered. In terms of infrastructure, police have reopened two lanes of Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, previously closed entirely since the building collapsed on March 28. This reopening aims to ease traffic, while the other two lanes continue to be blocked to support ongoing rubble clearance efforts at the site. As the city contends with the aftermath of the collapse, the identification process is crucial for bringing closure to affected families. The reopening of the road signifies progress in managing the disaster's impact, though challenges remain for authorities handling the recovery operations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World -- 2025-04-21

Rising Egg Prices in Thailand Strain Consumers and Businesses File photo for reference only Thailand is grappling with rising egg prices, particularly impacting provinces such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, and Phitsanulok. This price surge is straining both consumers and businesses as they struggle with increased costs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358361-rising-egg-prices-in-thailand-strain-consumers-and-businesses/

File photo for reference only Thailand is grappling with rising egg prices, particularly impacting provinces such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Buri Ram, and Phitsanulok. This price surge is straining both consumers and businesses as they struggle with increased costs. The Director-general of the Department of Internal Trade, Wittayakorn Maneenetr, attributes the increase to extreme heat, which has reduced egg production. Hens are laying fewer and smaller eggs, while farms are incurring higher costs due to extra cooling measures needed to combat the heat. To mitigate the impact, the department has introduced its "Mobile Blue Flag" programme, distributing eggs at lower prices in selected areas. Wittayakorn assures that there is no risk of an egg shortage, citing daily production of 44.52 million eggs against an average consumption of 43.3 million. However, prices have already risen. On April 17, the network of poultry farmer cooperatives increased egg prices by 20 satang, or about six baht per tray of 30 eggs. In Buri Ram's fresh markets, tray prices have risen by 9–15 baht, putting pressure on retailers like Thonglor Kacheumram, who faces a 20% increase in costs. The restaurant industry is similarly affected. Khemchat Suwanjak, a restaurant owner in Nakhon Ratchasima, expressed concern about maintaining prices to support his customer base amid an economic downturn. "Although my costs have gone up, I have to keep my prices level to maintain my customer base," he explained. In Phitsanulok, egg prices vary between 3.6–4.8 baht per egg, depending on size. Preecha Aimim, an egg shop owner, is attempting to hold steady prices but might have to adjust as new stock rolls in at higher prices. The rising costs are leading market vendors and traders to call for government intervention. Boonlert Polsawang, a food merchant, highlighted the challenge of balancing the costs of raw eggs with processing and fuel expenses, noting that energy price fluctuations greatly affect retail pricing. Amid these pressures, there is increasing demand for government action to alleviate financial burdens on both consumers and businesses as they navigate this challenging price landscape. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Seventeen Injured in Dual Attacks in Narathiwat Site of attack at Waeng district | Photo via Bangkok Post Seventeen people were injured in two violent incidents in Thailand's southern province of Narathiwat on April 20. The attacks, occurring within half an hour of each other, involved a motorcycle bomb explosion and a gun and grenade assault, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358360-seventeen-injured-in-dual-attacks-in-narathiwat/

Site of attack at Waeng district | Photo via Bangkok Post Seventeen people were injured in two violent incidents in Thailand's southern province of Narathiwat on April 20. The attacks, occurring within half an hour of each other, involved a motorcycle bomb explosion and a gun and grenade assault, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region. The first attack occurred at approximately 6.45 pm when a loud explosion was reported near the police quarters at Koke Kian Police Station. The explosion, originating from a motorcycle with a sidecar believed to have contained the explosive, caused significant damage to the police flat's wall and shattered windows. Emergency services swiftly transported the nine injured victims to Narathiwat Rajanagarindra Hospital. Among the injured was a police officer's child, who sustained injuries from shrapnel while playing nearby. Witnesses reported that a group of children, on their way to Quran classes, were passing the site at the time, leading to their injuries from debris. Shortly after, a second assault occurred in Waeng district, where armed assailants launched a grenade and fired upon a group of Thai Buddhists dining outside in Ban Khor Ler Thu Wor village. Seven individuals were hurt in this attack and were rushed to Sungai Kolok Hospital. These attacks underscore the volatile situation in the region, taking place just ahead of Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai's scheduled visit to Narathiwat and neighbouring provinces on April 26 and 27. The visit aims to facilitate discussions leading to a formal peace strategy to be finalised alongside Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The Defence Minister has underscored the importance of the upcoming talks, suggesting they might be the last steps before announcing a comprehensive peace plan. These discussions come at a critical time, underscoring the urgency for solutions to address ongoing conflict and improve safety and stability in southern Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

City Hall Under Fire for Inadequate Earthquake Compensation Photo via Bangkok Post Bangkok City Hall is facing criticism over its compensation for home repairs following the March 28 earthquake. Concerns arose after People’s Party MP for Bangkok, Supanat Meenchainan, highlighted the inadequacy of the compensation on social media. During a press conference led by Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej, it was revealed that in certain instances additional funds may be available for exceptional cases. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358357-city-hall-under-fire-for-inadequate-earthquake-compensation/

Photo via Bangkok Post Bangkok City Hall is facing criticism over its compensation for home repairs following the March 28 earthquake. Concerns arose after People’s Party MP for Bangkok, Supanat Meenchainan, highlighted the inadequacy of the compensation on social media. During a press conference led by Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej, it was revealed that in certain instances additional funds may be available for exceptional cases. Supanat noted that many condominiums suffered significant damage, with repair costs for condo owners likely to reach tens of thousands of baht. However, the proposed compensation was between 300 to 700 baht per unit, with a mere 75 baht allocated for wall cracks. In one instance, compensation offered was as low as 41 baht and 90 satang. Supanat criticised these amounts, arguing they fall far short of what is necessary and reflect poor consideration for the citizens' needs. The MP also criticised the disparity between compensation rates and government spending on construction projects, suggesting taxpayers deserve better treatment. He has raised these concerns with a House standing committee, which is scheduled to question the involved officials on April 24. At the press conference, Tavida defended the compensation policy, citing adherence to existing disaster mitigation regulations. She explained that compensation is allocated for materials and repairs when damage is limited to specific areas. The deputy governor mentioned that initial estimates might change, as further assessments by city engineers are planned to precede a request for additional budget from the Finance Ministry. Moreover, an amendment proposing higher compensation amounts is to be tabled in Parliament. However, Tavida acknowledged the need for patience, as the approval process might take more time. This development comes amidst growing public impatience and a critical eye on how disaster relief funds are distributed and managed. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Thailand Bans Corporal Punishment in Landmark Child Rights Move File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a pivotal step towards safeguarding children's rights by amending its Civil and Commercial Code to ban all forms of corporal punishment. This legal reform, published in the Royal Gazette on March 24, has been lauded by child rights advocates as a crucial shift towards changing societal attitudes on parenting. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358356-thailand-bans-corporal-punishment-in-landmark-child-rights-move/

File photo for reference only Thailand has taken a pivotal step towards safeguarding children's rights by amending its Civil and Commercial Code to ban all forms of corporal punishment. This legal reform, published in the Royal Gazette on March 24, has been lauded by child rights advocates as a crucial shift towards changing societal attitudes on parenting. The amendment specifically modifies Section 1567 (2) of the Civil Code, which now clearly states that "disciplining or behaviour correction of a child must not involve violence, physical or psychological harm, or any inappropriate actions." This replaces previous vague language that permitted punishment "in an appropriate manner for education," which many experts argued left room for abuse. This legislative change aligns Thailand with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, ensuring protection against all forms of cruel or degrading punishment, which the country ratified in 1992. Wassana Kaonopparat, Director of the Centre for the Protection of Children's Rights Foundation, views this amendment as a result of over a decade of advocacy. "This change removes ambiguity and reinforces the message that violence against children is never acceptable," she stated, highlighting the shift from the legal justifications that persisted even after the Child Protection Act 2003. Though the Civil Code itself does not impose criminal penalties, violators can face prosecution under the Child Protection Act. Ms. Wassana stressed the importance of complementary government policies promoting "positive parenting" to foster cultural shifts within households, beyond just punitive measures. "This is not about defining how hard a child can be hit -- it's about prohibiting all forms of violence, including spanking," she affirmed. "We need all sectors to help end this." The call for a broader cultural change was echoed by Varoth Chotpitayasunondh, spokesman for the Department of Mental Health, who advocated for reward-based approaches to parenting. He indicated that research connects violence in childhood with internalised aggression later in life. "Children raised in violent households often internalise aggression," he explained. In support of these changes, the Department of Mental Health plans to roll out "Mind Month" in May—a campaign aimed at promoting compassionate relationships within families and communities. The United Nations Children's Fund has hailed the legal amendment as a significant milestone in protecting children's rights and promoting non-violent child-rearing practices. This change comes as figures suggest a 20% decline in cases of violence against children since 2015. The amendment thus represents not just a legal triumph but a call for societal awakening to the importance of nurturing and compassionate child-rearing practices. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-21

Kerry Katona Reveals Bold Move to Thailand for Personal and Business Rebirth Kerry Katona, the former Atomic Kitten singer and well-known British personality, has announced a transformative new chapter of her life, planning to relocate from England to the idyllic surroundings of Thailand. Having recently visited the country, Katona, now 44, shared an emotional narrative of her journey, underlining her affection for Thailand, which she affectionately refers to as her "happy place." Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358353-kerry-katona-reveals-bold-move-to-thailand-for-personal-and-business-rebirth/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Kerry Katona, the former Atomic Kitten singer and well-known British personality, has announced a transformative new chapter of her life, planning to relocate from England to the idyllic surroundings of Thailand. Having recently visited the country, Katona, now 44, shared an emotional narrative of her journey, underlining her affection for Thailand, which she affectionately refers to as her "happy place." During her time on the island of Koh Samui, Katona experienced a profound shift in perspective, attributing her newfound clarity and joy to the island's tranquil atmosphere. On Instagram, she conveyed her plans to move her family, including her five children, to this tropical paradise. Her intention is not just a fresh environment, but an immersive lifestyle change, trading England’s grey skies for the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Thailand. Central to Katona’s new chapter is a prospective business venture. Teaming up with her business associate and friend Bryan Lunt, Katona plans to open a jungle retreat. The venture is inspired by her experiences at a site near The Beach Samui, noted as Asia's first licensed hotel providing cannabis-integrated therapies. Her aspirations in the hospitality sector are fueled by the location's unique offerings and the serene energy she experienced there. "It’s just stunning. This is where we’re going to be building a new resort," an emotional Katona shared in her video, articulating her excitement and commitment to this ambitious endeavor. Her relationship with Thailand deepened as she navigated personal transitions, notably her separation from Ryan Mahoney, her partner of six years. Following the split, Katona embarked on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual reset. This personal transformation is underscored by her decision to undergo a breast uplift, aiming for a more natural appearance. Addressing her physical changes, she commented, “I just want my own boobs back. I don’t want massive boobs or anything really fake, just my boobs again." Katona humorously noted the correlation between her single status and weight changes; she feels she naturally slims down when single and tends to gain weight while in relationships. This light-hearted reflection reveals her dedication to embracing a healthier, more authentic self as she embarks on this new life abroad. Katona’s decision to relocate underscores her desire for renewal and a more enriching lifestyle for herself and her children. Her planned shift to Thailand is emblematic of a broader search for happiness and purpose, transitioning from the UK's winter to the endless summer of Thailand. It's a bold move fueled by both personal healing and professional ambition, marking not just a geographical change but a wholesale life transformation. Through this new journey, she aims to blend personal wellness with entrepreneurial spirit amid the beauty of Thailand's landscapes. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger -- 2025-04-21

Swiss Man Faces Arrest in Phuket Over Alleged Assault on Thai Doctor Photo: Thai News Room An arrest warrant has been issued for Urs Fehr, a 46-year-old Swiss national, following his failure to attend a scheduled court hearing in Phuket. The hearing concerns an alleged assault case involving Dr. Thandao Chandam, who claims Fehr kicked her in February of last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358350-swiss-man-faces-arrest-in-phuket-over-alleged-assault-on-thai-doctor/

Photo: Thai News Room An arrest warrant has been issued for Urs Fehr, a 46-year-old Swiss national, following his failure to attend a scheduled court hearing in Phuket. The hearing concerns an alleged assault case involving Dr. Thandao Chandam, who claims Fehr kicked her in February of last year. The incident reportedly occurred on the night of February 24, while Dr. Thandao, affiliated with Dibuk Hospital, was seated on the stairs leading from Fehr's villa to Cape Yamu beach. She alleges that Fehr, also known as David, assaulted her as she was peacefully watching the moon. Initially, the Court of First Instance dismissed the case against Fehr. However, Mr. Nipit Intarasombat, representing the prosecution, along with public prosecutors, have sought to challenge this decision by filing an appeal. The Phuket Provincial Court was due to deliver the Region 8 Appeals Court's verdict. Yet, due to Fehr's absence, the court has issued an arrest warrant with the hearing deferred until May 23, 2025. Dr. Thandao has maintained a reserved approach, opting not to discuss the incident further when contacted by media. Details of the altercation remain sparse, with Dr. Thandao having provided minimal public commentary on the matter. The case highlights tensions within the expatriate community in Phuket and raises questions about the legal proceedings for foreigners in Thailand. The ongoing appeal demonstrates the determination of local authorities to pursue the case more vigorously, seeking to address the alleged assault. As the hearing is postponed, Fehr's absence leaves a shadow over the proceedings, with steps now in motion to secure his presence in court. The situation continues to draw media attention, focusing on both the legal implications and the personal impact on those involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai News Room -- 2025-04-21

Photo: Vietnam News In Quảng Ninh, police have launched an extensive manhunt for Bùi Đình Khánh, a suspected drug trafficker accused of fatally shooting Senior Lieutenant Nguyễn Đăng Khải during a crackdown on a local drug trafficking ring. The incident occurred during an attempted arrest near a toll station in Đại Yên Ward, late Thursday night. Khánh, 31, from Hạ Long City, reportedly opened fire on officers, resulting in Lt. Khải's death. Following the shooting, Khánh was last seen hitching a ride on a container truck near the Phú Thái gas station on National Highway 5B in Kim Thành District, Hải Dương Province around 12:30 am on April 18. Quảng Ninh authorities have issued an urgent appeal for information regarding Khánh's whereabouts or details about the truck driver who unwittingly assisted his escape. Information can be reported to Nguyễn Trọng Hùng, Head of Criminal Police Division of Quảng Ninh Police, at 0902234668 or officer Nguyễn Hữu Quang at 0978145863. The incident is part of a broader investigation into a major drug trafficking operation allegedly led by Nguyễn Hữu Đằng, who was apprehended with 16 bricks of heroin near Dragon Castle apartment complex in Hạ Long on Thursday. Multiple raids were launched subsequently to capture other suspects, including Khánh and a group from Phú Thọ Province engaged in a drug deal in Quảng Ninh. During these operations, authorities detained Hà Thương Hải, 31, from Phú Thọ. However, other suspects in possession of AK-style assault rifles resisted violently, and in the ensuing gunfire, Lt. Khải was fatally wounded. Interrogations have revealed confessions from both Đằng and Hải regarding their drug trafficking activities. Police seized significant evidence, including 16 heroin bricks, military-grade firearms, a grenade, three vehicles, and other trafficking-related materials. By early Friday morning, police successfully apprehended two additional suspects, Hà Quang Sơn and Hoàng Văn Đông, who attempted to flee from Phú Thọ. Authorities have intensified efforts to apprehend Khánh, sealing off potential escape routes and border crossings to prevent his flight. Khánh, who also has a standing warrant from Đông Triều Police for an unrelated armed robbery, remains at large as law enforcement mobilizes to secure his capture, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-18

Photo: VN Express Authorities in Da Nang conducted a thorough search-and-rescue operation on Thursday, which tragically concluded with the discovery of a foreign tourist's body at the base of a cliff on the Son Tra Peninsula. The operation was initiated after an abandoned motorbike was found near a luxury resort during a routine patrol, raising immediate concerns. The motorbike contained documents identifying a foreign national, leading to fears of a possible accidental fall from the nearby steep cliffs. Da Nang's police, military personnel, and rescue teams were promptly mobilized to search the challenging terrain characterized by its steep slopes and thick vegetation. Despite the difficulties posed by the landscape, a specialized rescue team used a pulley system to access the area beneath the cliffs. By evening, they located the decomposing body of the tourist at the base of the cliff. Authorities cordoned off the area, and the body was retrieved for further investigation. The identity of the deceased has not been disclosed, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-18

File photo for reference only A rare waterspout formed over the sea near An Thoi Town in Phu Quoc City, Vietnam, on Friday morning, capturing the attention of residents and tourists alike. The event occurred around 8:20 a.m., with a visible funnel appearing just a few kilometers from the shoreline, offering a striking natural spectacle. Local resident Lien, who witnessed the waterspout from An Thoi Port, described the swirling column creating a substantial maelstrom without threatening nearby vessels. "It lasted about five minutes. The sky had been dark and overcast since morning, like rain was coming," she observed, noting that such phenomena are occasionally observed in the Phu Quoc area due to its tropical climate. Phu Quoc, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, sometimes experiences waterspouts and tornadoes as a result of its geographical and climatic conditions. A waterspout is akin to a tornado, forming as a rotating column of air over water, and while typically brief and less severe, it can pose risks to boats and low-flying aircraft. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were reported following this particular incident, leaving those who witnessed it with an unforgettable memory of nature's power and beauty, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-18

File photo for reference only In Davao City, the local health office has confirmed the death of one of two mpox patients due to complications from the disease, as announced on April 18. The cases were initially detected by the Department of Health’s Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit on April 16. The late patient, alongside another affected individual, was admitted to the isolation facility at the Southern Philippines Medical Center. Mpox, a viral disease known for spreading through close physical contact, remains a significant public health concern. In response, the local health office assured that they are actively monitoring all identified close contacts of the patients and are working intensively to establish protocols to curb further transmission of the virus. Health officials emphasize the importance of recognising mpox symptoms, which typically include fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and distinctive rashes appearing on areas such as the face, hands, genitals, and soles of the feet. To protect against mpox, the public is advised to avoid close skin-to-skin interactions with individuals suspected or confirmed to be infected. Preventative measures include avoiding sexual contact, hugging, kissing, and cuddling. Adherence to frequent handwashing and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers is strongly recommended. Moreover, residents should steer clear of animals, particularly those appearing sick or diseased, as they may pose a risk of virus transmission in affected regions. For those caring for infected individuals, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial when physical contact is inevitable. People experiencing mpox symptoms should promptly contact the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit at 0949 5011 457 or consult their nearest healthcare provider for guidance. As health officials work to manage the situation, public cooperation with preventive measures and awareness of symptoms are key to controlling the spread of mpox in Davao City, reported PhilStar. -- 2025-04-18