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File photo for reference only Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has mandated a comprehensive review of the Thai-Chinese high-speed train project, specifically scrutinising construction practices and materials to ensure they adhere to international standards. This directive comes amid rising concerns about the project's quality, rooted in recent construction issues with the State Audit Office building, handled by the same contractors. Focusing on the first 250.77 km phase from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, the inspection revolves around 14 civil engineering contracts already in progress since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha's administration commenced construction. The joint venture responsible includes Italian-Thai Development (ITD) and China Railway No 10 Engineering Group (Thailand). Minister Suriya has emphasised the importance of rigorous checks, instructing SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala to oversee the thorough examination. The inspection aims to cover all project stages, starting with specifications, ensuring the railway's safety and structural integrity before its eventual operation. These measures reflect the government's commitment to maintaining high standards in infrastructure development, reassuring public confidence in the significant transportation project. As the scrutiny unfolds, safety remains the primary goal, ensuring the high-speed rail meets all expectations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Bangkok Developers Reassure Residents Following Earthquake Impact File photo for reference only Following the recent Myanmar earthquake which impacted high-rise buildings in Bangkok, major real estate developers have taken prompt action to ensure the safety and confidence of residents and potential buyers. The Thansettakij newspaper reports that 15 leading developers have implemented various measures to inspect and reassure the structural integrity of their projects. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356562-bangkok-developers-reassure-residents-following-earthquake-impact/

File photo for reference only Following the recent Myanmar earthquake which impacted high-rise buildings in Bangkok, major real estate developers have taken prompt action to ensure the safety and confidence of residents and potential buyers. The Thansettakij newspaper reports that 15 leading developers have implemented various measures to inspect and reassure the structural integrity of their projects. L.P.N. Development Plc, in partnership with LPP Property, has conducted preliminary inspections and confirmed no structural damage. Similarly, Ananda Development Plc sent engineers and experts to ensure resident safety in all their buildings. AP Thailand Plc formed a specialized team, encompassing designers and expert professors, dedicated to condo inspections. Sansiri Plc actively assists residents across their projects and established an insurance claim center for any unit damage. Supalai Plc completed nationwide inspections of 90 projects, ensuring the safety of two Chiang Mai condominiums, as verified by authorities. Pruksa Real Estate Plc adopted proactive safety measures, with thorough engineer inspections underpinning their commitment to building integrity. SC Asset Corporation Plc expedited inspections and repairs, enlisting teams of management, engineers, and property staff for continuous oversight. Ornsirin Group deployed experts to examine projects in the northern region and Phuket. Sena Development Plc partnered with Hankyu Hanshin Properties from Japan to bolster resident support post-quake. Origin Property Plc focused on inspecting and maintaining the integrity of projects like Park Origin Thonglor despite bridge damage. Singha Estate Plc organized a dedicated team of engineers for meticulous inspections of buildings’ conditions, confirming no major structural issues. Raimon Land Plc verified the structural soundness of its properties post-impact. MQDC and Major Development Plc both carried out initial structural checks, declaring no significant damage, while detailed evaluations persist for added assurance. Siamese Asset Plc ensured thorough inspections, securing both completed and ongoing projects. Overall, these comprehensive measures reflect the developers’ commitment to resident safety and market confidence amid earthquake concerns in Bangkok, reported The Nation. -- 2025-04-02

Thailand Boosts Islamic School Teachers’ Pay to Foster Peace in Deep South Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a move towards enhancing peace-building in Thailand's Deep South, the Cabinet has approved a substantial 721 million baht to increase the salaries of Islamic school teachers. This effort targets educators in the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Satun, and certain districts in Songkhla. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356561-thailand-boosts-islamic-school-teachers’-pay-to-foster-peace-in-deep-south/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a move towards enhancing peace-building in Thailand's Deep South, the Cabinet has approved a substantial 721 million baht to increase the salaries of Islamic school teachers. This effort targets educators in the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Satun, and certain districts in Songkhla. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Prueksanusak announced the funding on April 1, highlighting that the salary boosts will affect teachers across various educational settings, including Tadika (kindergarten), pondok (boarding), and both public and private Islamic schools. Tadika teachers, who instruct young children in moral teachings, will see monthly salary increases of 3,000 to 3,500 baht. Pondok school educators will receive an uplift between 2,000 to 4,000 baht. Government school teachers' pay will now range from 30,000 to 35,000 baht, reflecting their qualifications and experience, while private school educators, responsible for national and Islamic curriculums, will benefit from a boost of 2,000 to 3,500 baht per month. Teachers at non-system Islamic private schools are set for raises of 1,000 to 3,000 baht. This initiative is a part of broader efforts to resolve ongoing peace and development challenges in the region. With better compensation, the government aims to enhance educational quality and reinforce the area's stability. The funding is set to be implemented in the upcoming fiscal year, starting in October, marking a pivotal stride in uplifting educational standards and fostering trust in the government's commitment to regional improvement. By prioritising educators’ welfare, Thailand signals its dedication to nurturing the future of its southern communities, supporting teachers in their vital role in shaping the next generation. This salary increase stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to the region's development and peace efforts, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Thailand Braces for Impact of Potential US Tariffs Amidst Tense Trade Talks File photo for reference only Thailand could face a significant economic setback, losing up to $8 billion if the US imposes reciprocal tariffs on Thai goods. Senior officials revealed this concern today, April 2, amidst looming trade tensions with the United States. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356560-thailand-braces-for-impact-of-potential-us-tariffs-amidst-tense-trade-talks/

File photo for reference only Thailand could face a significant economic setback, losing up to $8 billion if the US imposes reciprocal tariffs on Thai goods. Senior officials revealed this concern today, April 2, amidst looming trade tensions with the United States. Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, a high-ranking commerce ministry official, indicated that Thai semiconductor exports could be subjected to a steep 25 percent tariff under new trade barriers expected from US President Donald Trump. Currently, Thailand imposes tariffs around 11 percent higher than the US on agricultural and industrial goods, and aligning these could result in substantial financial losses between $7 billion to $8 billion. To offset potential US tariffs, Thailand is strategising to increase imports of commodities like corn, soybeans, crude oil, and ethane, aiming to decrease its trade surplus. Notably, exports are vital to Thailand's economy, the second-largest in Southeast Asia. Commerce ministry statistics reveal Thailand's $35.4 billion trade surplus with the US last year. However, the US reports a larger deficit, pegging it at $45.6 billion. Amid these developments, Sirilak Niyom from the foreign ministry affirmed Thailand's readiness for trade negotiations. Highlighting the country's significant investment in the US, Sirilak pointed out that Thai companies have infused $17 billion across various sectors, including food, real estate, and auto parts, generating employment for 11,000 Americans. As the situation evolves, Thailand's focus remains on diplomatic strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of upcoming US trade measures, emphasising its economic contributions and cooperative spirit in international trade relations, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-04-02

American Man Arrested for Robbing Donation Box Outside Pattaya Police Station In a surprising turn of events early this morning, a 62-year-old American man's alleged desperation led him to an audacious robbery in Pattaya. The man, identified as John, was caught stealing from a donation box outside the local police station. His motive: hunger, after reportedly losing his ATM card. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356559-american-man-arrested-for-robbing-donation-box-outside-pattaya-police-station/

In a surprising turn of events early this morning, a 62-year-old American man's alleged desperation led him to an audacious robbery in Pattaya. The man, identified as John, was caught stealing from a donation box outside the local police station. His motive: hunger, after reportedly losing his ATM card. The incident unfolded at approximately 2.30 am on April 2, when Pattaya police were alerted to a foreign man breaking into the Father Ray Foundation's donation box. Rapid response by officers saw them arriving in time to witness a dishevelled John using a stone to force open the stainless-steel box. He was found cramming various denominations of currency—including coins, 100-baht, and 20-baht bills, along with foreign money—into his wallet. John's explanation revealed a troubled evening at a Beach Road beer bar, where he alleged the loss of his ATM card left him cashless and desperate for food. This justification, however, didn't deter the police from arresting him and initiating legal proceedings. Though John's circumstances may evoke sympathy, stealing from a charitable outlet is deemed a grave crime, one warranting serious repercussions. The incident left both locals and tourists shocked, pondering the extreme measures he took to alleviate his hunger. Despite his plea of desperation, John now faces the full weight of the law for his actions, a stark reminder of the severe consequences of such offences. The Pattaya community remains in disbelief over this unexpected breach of trust in a place designed to help those in need, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Police Dismiss Viral Motorcycle Stunt Video Claims in Pattaya Photo via Facebook/ BiGone Yoou A viral video circulating on Thai social media has sparked controversy, depicting a couple engaging in a dangerous motorcycle stunt. However, police have clarified that the incident did not occur in Pattaya, as rumours initially suggested. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356558-police-dismiss-viral-motorcycle-stunt-video-claims-in-pattaya/

Photo via Facebook/ BiGone Yoou A viral video circulating on Thai social media has sparked controversy, depicting a couple engaging in a dangerous motorcycle stunt. However, police have clarified that the incident did not occur in Pattaya, as rumours initially suggested. The video shows a Thai man recklessly riding a motorcycle at high speed, performing wheelies, while his girlfriend leans back precariously, touching the road with her hands. The captions dramatically labeled them as "The annoying couple of Pattaya," provoking a backlash online. Many netizens criticised the pair for their hazardous antics, with some harshly speculating about potential injuries or fatal accidents. They also questioned the response from Mueang Pattaya Police Station, demanding accountability. In response, Superintendent Anake Sathongyu addressed the public on April 1, confirming that the stunt did not occur in Pattaya. While he identified the incident as having taken place abroad, he withheld details of the specific location. Authorities have pinpointed the source of the misinformation and plan to summon the responsible individual for legal action. Anake reassured Pattaya's residents, emphasising that the city's reputation would not be tarnished by such false claims. This episode bears similarities to a previous incident from May 2024, when a controversial video misattributed to Thailand was eventually confirmed to have been filmed in Indonesia. Through both incidents, Thai police have maintained a stance of integrity in preserving the nation's image, promptly addressing and dispelling misleading information, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Bangkok Building Collapse: Rescue Teams Hunt for 72 Missing Workers In the heart of Bangkok's Chatuchak district, a tragic scene unfolds as rescue teams relentlessly search for 72 construction workers still missing after the catastrophic collapse of an under-construction 30-story building. The State Audit Office structure crumbled last Friday, March 28, following a severe 8.2-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar. The tremors were felt widely, including in Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356557-bangkok-building-collapse-rescue-teams-hunt-for-72-missing-workers/

In the heart of Bangkok's Chatuchak district, a tragic scene unfolds as rescue teams relentlessly search for 72 construction workers still missing after the catastrophic collapse of an under-construction 30-story building. The State Audit Office structure crumbled last Friday, March 28, following a severe 8.2-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar. The tremors were felt widely, including in Thailand’s Mae Hong Son province. As of this morning, April 2, the death toll stands at 15, with eight men and seven women confirmed dead, alongside nine others suffering injuries. Despite the challenging conditions, officials remain committed to finding survivors, working tirelessly amidst the debris. The grim discovery today involved the recovery of a female worker from the building's Zone D, her body transported to the Police General Hospital’s Institute of Forensic Medicine. The disaster has ignited serious concerns regarding building safety protocols in the wake of such seismic events. As efforts to locate the missing workers continue, families await word on their loved ones, with the weight of uncertainty pressing heavily. This incident reverberates across the construction sector and wider community, emphasising the dire need for stringent safety measures in earthquake-prone areas. Authorities vow to persist in their search and rescue operations, although the harsh reality of the situation dampens hopes. As Bangkok and the surrounding region absorb the scale of the disaster, mourning intertwines with a resolve to ensure such a tragedy does not recur. In the days ahead, the focus remains on recovery and understanding the full impact of this harrowing event, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-02

Thailand at Risk of More Unpredictable Earthquakes, Experts Warn File photo for reference only At a recent seminar, academics highlighted Thailand's ongoing vulnerability to earthquakes, emphasising the unpredictability of when and where they might occur. This discussion took place during the 32nd "Chula the Impact" seminar at Chulalongkorn University. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356556-thailand-at-risk-of-more-unpredictable-earthquakes-experts-warn/

File photo for reference only At a recent seminar, academics highlighted Thailand's ongoing vulnerability to earthquakes, emphasising the unpredictability of when and where they might occur. This discussion took place during the 32nd "Chula the Impact" seminar at Chulalongkorn University. Santi Pailoplee, a noted geology professor, explained that while scientists can identify areas at risk, predicting exact times and places remains impossible, dismissing any premature warnings as fake news. Aftershocks typically decrease in strength, but their occurrence is directly linked to the magnitude of the initial quake, he noted. An example cited was Indonesia's devastating earthquake, which resulted in approximately 500 aftershocks. Notably, aftershocks from last Friday's quake no longer threaten Thailand, Santi reassured. However, Panya Jarusiri, another geology expert, pointed to the active Sagaing Fault and Thailand's 16 active fault lines as ongoing concerns. Risks from undetected faults like those in Phitsanulok and Kanchanaburi warrant caution, he added. On building safety, civil engineering lecturer Chatpan Chintanapakdee recognised improvements in construction standards post-2007 but called for stringent inspections to ensure new buildings are designed to be earthquake-resistant. Furthermore, Angkanawadee Pinkaeo, a law academic, stressed reviewing insurance policies to ensure comprehensive coverage and address liability issues, particularly in light of the new State Audit Office building collapse. With these discussions, experts aim to better prepare Thailand for future seismic events, combining research insights with construction safety measures, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-02

Bangkok Teams Up with Airbnb.org for Earthquake Relief Accommodation Photo courtesy of NPR Bangkok has joined forces with Airbnb.org to offer free temporary accommodation to those displaced by a recent earthquake, along with rescue workers and volunteers assisting in the relief efforts. Announced by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) on March 31, this initiative aims to support individuals who cannot return to their homes due to damage caused by the earthquake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356467-bangkok-teams-up-with-airbnborg-for-earthquake-relief-accommodation/

Photo courtesy of NPR Bangkok has joined forces with Airbnb.org to offer free temporary accommodation to those displaced by a recent earthquake, along with rescue workers and volunteers assisting in the relief efforts. Announced by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) on March 31, this initiative aims to support individuals who cannot return to their homes due to damage caused by the earthquake. This collaboration provides essential temporary housing at no cost to affected residents and emergency responders in Bangkok. Airbnb.org, a non-profit entity established by Airbnb, has committed to supplying up to 2,000 nights of complimentary stays in partnership with the BMA. So far, over 200 affected individuals have received assistance through the program. Eligible parties can apply by completing a form, after which they will be contacted by Bangkok officials to determine their suitability for assistance. Airbnb.org uses Airbnb’s platform to connect people with temporary housing during crises, while waiving all associated fees for stays booked through its service. Since its inception in 2020, Airbnb.org has facilitated over 1.6 million nights of free accommodation for more than 250,000 individuals globally affected by natural disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes. This initiative is part of a larger effort to support communities worldwide facing the aftermath of such events, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only HÀ NỘI – Facing recent changes in European Union (EU) regulations, Vietnam's seafood industry is quickly adapting to comply with new limits on inorganic arsenic in seafood. The EU's draft amendment to Regulation (EU) No 2023/915 sets specific maximum residue levels (MRLs) for inorganic arsenic in fish and other marine products, which will be implemented starting July 2023. The Vietnam SPS Office, responsible for overseeing sanitary and phytosanitary matters, has proactively communicated with relevant authorities, including the Directorate of Fisheries and the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), to ensure an immediate response to the EU's heightened border inspections. Despite no recent detections of inorganic arsenic in Vietnamese seafood over the past five years, Deputy Director Ngô Xuân Nam emphasised the importance of vigilance. The focus has shifted to ensuring that all aquaculture water and sediment are thoroughly monitored, as arsenic is often present in farming environments rather than in the processing stage. On the ground, Vietnamese seafood producers and processors are intensifying their quality controls and investing in technology to meet the new EU standards. Meanwhile, the industry is keeping a close eye on water quality in aquaculture areas to prevent any contamination. The EU regulation stipulates that MRLs for inorganic arsenic in seafood will range from 0.05 to 1.5 ppm, affecting not just fish but also crustaceans and bivalve molluscs. This new move aims to protect consumer health within the EU and aligns with the SPS Agreement requirements. Vietnamese exporters, eager to maintain their position in the EU market, are taking these regulatory changes seriously. With Vietnamese seafood accounting for 3.7% of the EU's total imports, maintaining compliance is crucial for sustaining this vital export relationship. Last year, the Vietnamese seafood industry recorded a notable $10 billion in exports, with $1 billion directed towards the EU. The EU-Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) is anticipated to further enhance these trade figures, potentially boosting Vietnamese seafood exports by about 2% annually up until 2030. This proactive adaptation not only aims to secure market access but also reinforces the reputable brand of Vietnamese seafood on the international stage, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only Ongoing efforts to renovate sidewalks along 54 streets in Ho Chi Minh City's central area have inadvertently harmed more than 2,000 trees, as reported by the city's Infrastructure Management Center. These projects span several districts, including Districts 1, 5, 6, 11, Tan Binh, Phu Nhuan, Binh Thanh, Go Vap, and Cu Chi. The damage mainly stems from heavy machinery used for sidewalk excavation, which has bruised tree trunks and severed roots, causing severe stress to the city's greenery. Disturbingly, in many areas, deep digging has led to roots protruding above ground, increasing the risk of further harm. District 6 accounted for the majority of the damage, particularly on streets like Nguyen Van Luong and Kinh Duong Vuong. Significant impacts were also noted in Binh Thanh District on Dinh Bo Linh and Phan Dang Luu streets, and in District 1 on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Le Thanh Ton streets. To mitigate the damage, the Infrastructure Management Center, along with other agencies, undertook maintenance efforts. Despite these efforts, 90 trees had to be cut down for safety, and several others required pruning. To prevent future damage, the center suggested that transportation and construction departments conduct rigorous inspections during construction to ensure that tree protection measures are followed. Local authorities have also been urged to penalize any violators responsible for damaging urban greenery. These sidewalk improvements, part of a broader initiative to enhance Ho Chi Minh City's aesthetics, have been underway since late last year. However, the unintended impact on the city's tree population highlights the need for careful balance between urban development and environmental preservation, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only A recent comprehensive mineral survey conducted by the Vietnam Geological and Mineral Department uncovered 40 new gold mines in northern Vietnam, boasting estimated reserves of nearly 30 tons. The newly discovered mines are distributed across several provinces, notably Bac Kan and Tuyen Quang, each home to eight mines, and others found in locations including Lai Chau, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An. Dubbed the Northwest Project, this extensive survey spanned an area of 109,250 square kilometres and included exploration across 12 northern provinces as well as 21 districts in the north-central regions of Thanh Hoa and Nghe An. Besides gold, the project identified deposits of other valuable minerals such as silver, copper, and antimony. Historically, Vietnam had pinpointed around 500 gold sites, explored 30, and estimated reserves at about 300 tons. Most of these are situated in northern mountainous areas, with a smaller proportion in the central regions. The project culminated in the development of a comprehensive and digitalized geological database, encompassing maps, analytical results, and detailed mine information. This centralized system facilitates rapid data retrieval, seamless sharing, and online accessibility, marking a significant step towards the digital transformation of Vietnam's geological sector. An official from the Vietnam Geological and Mineral Department stated, "This initiative lays a crucial foundation for managing natural resources effectively and invites investment into sustainable mining practices." Initiated in 2017, the Northwest Project not only reveals the country's rich mineral wealth but also supports national efforts toward a sustainable and technologically advanced resource management strategy, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only MANILA, Philippines — In a bid to curb vote-buying during elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has taken a proactive step by partnering with major e-wallets like GCash and Maya to impose transaction limits ahead of the 2025 midterm polls. This initiative, announced on April 1, is part of efforts to combat the evolving tactics of vote manipulation observed during recent elections. Comelec Commissioner Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda revealed that GCash has already implemented daily transaction caps, set to remain in place until May 12, 2025, with normal operations resuming the day after the elections. While it's unclear if other online financial services will follow suit, Maceda suggests that such measures might be introduced as Election Day approaches, given the spike in vote-buying activities closer to that period. The decision follows investigations by Comelec, which identified a worrying trend where online transactions are leveraged for vote-buying. Evidence gathered through focus group discussions indicates organized efforts where a single phone number transfers identical amounts to multiple recipients, raising red flags with e-wallet providers. Maceda noted that prior to the official start of the local election campaigns, Comelec had already logged 34 complaints related to electoral fraud, primarily involving vote-buying and selling, along with the misuse of state resources. Although these figures are lower than those of the 2022 national elections and the 2023 Sangguniang Kabataan elections, the threat remains significant. Historically, the most reports of vote-related corruption have emanated from the National Capital Region (NCR) and Calabarzon. This data may either indicate a higher incidence of such activities in these areas or a greater awareness and willingness among residents to report these violations. To institutionalize the fight against electoral malpractices, Comelec has reinforced the 'Kontra Bigay' Committee, originally established as a task force in 2019. By giving it a permanent status, Comelec aims to fortify its long-term efforts to ensure fair and clean elections, adapting to the changing landscape of digital vote-buying, reported PhilStar. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only Telecommunications leader PLDT Inc. is on track to expand its data traffic capacity across the Asia-Pacific region with the Apricot submarine cable system set for activation in 2027. This international venture, spanning 12,000 km, promises to enhance connectivity between several key locations, including the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, and Guam, eventually linking with the United States. The Apricot system, comprising 12 fiber pairs each capable of handling around 17.6 terabits per second, boasts a total capacity exceeding 211 Tbps. This advanced infrastructure aims to significantly boost PLDT's international capacity by up to 33%, equating to an increase of more than 140 Tbps. Cable laying has already been completed in Baler, Aurora, and Digos City, Davao del Sur, with further branches extending to other regional destinations. The project, managed by a consortium including giants like NTT Corp., Chunghwa Telecom, Google, and Meta, faced scheduling delays due to permitting issues in Indonesia, pushing its operational date back from 2026 to 2027. Benedict Patrick Alcoseba, PLDT’s head of enterprise product management and marketing, affirmed the project remains on track within Philippine waters. Once Apricot is active, PLDT anticipates improved resilience and enhanced connectivity, crucial at a time when internet demand is surging globally. Looking ahead, PLDT is considering installing up to three additional submarine cable systems post-Apricot as part of its strategy to meet escalating data service needs. While still under exploratory discussions, the company aims to make informed decisions based on projected demand and strategic routing, with clearer plans anticipated by next year, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only Today marks the 80th anniversary of the WWII victory over Japanese forces for the Filipino-Chinese community. This remembrance event highlighted the collaborative spirit of Chinese, American, and Filipino soldiers during the Japanese occupation. The commemoration took place at the Manila Chinese Cemetery, a culturally significant site, with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xillian leading the tribute. During an impromptu interview, Ambassador Xillian expressed hope that global communities learn from history to prevent conflicts like world wars and emphasized the traditionally peaceful ties between the Philippines and China. Although tensions between the countries recently rose concerning the West Philippine Sea, Xillian stressed the need for calm and accurate dialogue over the issue. The cemetery, established in 1878, became a centre of reflection as families began Qingming Festival preparations. Known as Tomb Sweeping Day, this event allows families to honour their ancestors by maintaining gravesites and participating in age-old rituals such as burning incense and offering food. This year's festival also served as a poignant reminder of the intertwined histories and sacrifices of Filipino-Chinese patriots. Among the cemetery's notable structures are memorials like the Liat See Tong Martyrs' Hall, where annual ceremonies led by representatives from the Chinese Embassy and other associations pay homage to WWII heroes. By commemorating these shared histories, the annual observance strengthens cultural ties and highlights the enduring connection between the Filipino-Chinese community and the wider Filipino society, fostering unity amidst the challenges they face, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-01

Hero Cyclist Navigates Gridlock to Aid Ambulance in Thailand Quake - video Photo courtesy of Channel 3 Plus Amid the chaos of gridlocked streets triggered by the recent earthquake in Myanmar, an unnamed cyclist emerged as an unexpected hero in Thailand. On March 28th, a day marked by tremors that swept through the region, this cyclist selflessly guided a private ambulance through the congested roads, possibly saving the life of a gravely ill patient. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356458-hero-cyclist-navigates-gridlock-to-aid-ambulance-in-thailand-quake-video/

Photo courtesy of Channel 3 Plus Amid the chaos of gridlocked streets triggered by the recent earthquake in Myanmar, an unnamed cyclist emerged as an unexpected hero in Thailand. On March 28th, a day marked by tremors that swept through the region, this cyclist selflessly guided a private ambulance through the congested roads, possibly saving the life of a gravely ill patient. The story surfaced online when 23-year-old ambulance driver, Phasawit Karated, shared his experience on Facebook. Accompanying his heartfelt message was a photograph of the mystery cyclist, although his identity remains unknown. According to Phasawit, who works for Thitikarn Ambulance Service, the incident took place as he was transporting a critical patient reliant on a ventilator from Krungthai Pakkret Hospital to Krungthai Pathumthani Hospital. Describing the moment they left the hospital, Phasawit shared, "As soon as we encountered heavy traffic, a cyclist approached, promising to clear our path." True to his word, the cyclist navigated perilous traffic, waving down vehicles and forming an impromptu passage for the ambulance over a stretch of more than five kilometres. Thanks to the cyclist’s efforts, the ambulance reached its destination 10 to 15 minutes faster, crucial time that might have been lost in gridlock, potentially making a life-or-death difference for the patient in critical condition requiring constant care. Phasawit expressed his gratitude and awe for the cyclist's courage, noting, "He rode without fear, risking his life for a stranger. Such kindness is rare." Hoping to personally thank the cyclist, Phasawit shared the story online, urging others to always make way for emergency vehicles. The post quickly gained traction, with many commending the cyclist's selfless bravery. Despite remaining nameless, he is hailed as a guardian angel by those who witnessed his heroic act that day, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01