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Photo via Facebook In a tragic incident early this morning, a Russian man lost his life in a severe motorcycle crash on Phuket's Chaloem Phrakiat Rama 9 Road. The accident, occurring in the Ratsada sub-district, resulted in the man's body being split in half due to the impact with an electricity pole. Mueang Phuket Police Station officers responded to the scene around 12:45am on April 1. Upon arrival, they found a red and black Honda Forza motorcycle, completely wrecked and lying overturned in the roadway. Approximately 200 metres away, on the traffic island, officers discovered the man's upper body beneath the damaged pole, with the lower half located 60 metres away. The victim, whose head remained protected by his helmet, was identified as a Russian national. Witnesses reported that he had been travelling at an exceedingly high speed when he lost control, collided with the pole, and suffered catastrophic injuries. His organs, including his heart, were found scattered near the scene, with his mobile phone nearby. The deceased's body has been transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for a formal autopsy, as officials prepare to notify his family through the Russian embassy. The motorcycle, suspected to be a rental, raises questions about potential liabilities for damages. A local witness recounted multiple accidents occurring on the same road during the same timeframe, underscoring concerns about road safety in the area. The accident has prompted a mix of condolences and criticism, with some netizens expressing sorrow for the victim's family while highlighting issues with high-speed and reckless driving by foreign motorcyclists in Phuket. Authorities continue their investigation, as the community grapples with the deadly consequences of the tragic incident, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Myanmar Quake's Shockwaves to Hit Thai Economy, Escalate US Trade Concerns File photo for reference only Last Friday’s earthquake in Myanmar not only shook Thailand physically but also posed substantial economic repercussions, with damage estimates around 20 billion baht, according to the Kasikorn Research Centre. As the tremors caused significant disruptions, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the centre predicts a potential drop in Thailand’s GDP forecast by 0.06%, bringing it below 2.4% for the year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356445-myanmar-quakes-shockwaves-to-hit-thai-economy-escalate-us-trade-concerns/

File photo for reference only Last Friday’s earthquake in Myanmar not only shook Thailand physically but also posed substantial economic repercussions, with damage estimates around 20 billion baht, according to the Kasikorn Research Centre. As the tremors caused significant disruptions, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the centre predicts a potential drop in Thailand’s GDP forecast by 0.06%, bringing it below 2.4% for the year. Adding a geopolitical layer, the Kasikorn Research Centre warns that upcoming US tariffs under the Trump administration could further slash the GDP by 0.3%. These tariffs, expected to be imposed this Wednesday, threaten Thai exports to one of its major markets. The earthquake's impact is especially felt in the service sector, with a slowdown in economic activities as inspections and repairs become immediate priorities for households. This redirection of household finances could suppress consumer spending. Nevertheless, the centre notes a possible uptick in horizontal housing markets as safety-conscious buyers may shy away from high-rise living, favouring traditional houses instead. Conversely, already sluggish condominium sales in Bangkok might see further decline as safety concerns mount. Tourism, a vital component of Thailand's economy, also looks set to take a hit, with foreign arrival forecasts likely needing a downward adjustment from the initial 37.5 million. Amid these concerns, the Kasikorn Research Centre anticipates monetary policy adjustments. The Bank of Thailand might expedite a policy interest rate cut by 25 basis points as early as April to mitigate economic stress, with further reductions possible later in the year. Looking ahead, non-performing loans (NPLs), especially in real estate and construction, might rise again. Following recovery signs post-COVID-19, these sectors could face challenges by year's end due to compounded pressures from natural disasters and international trade disputes, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-04-01

Casino Complex Opponents Criticise Lack of Public Scrutiny and Feasibility Study Photo courtesy of The Nation Opposition is mounting against the Thai government's push to advance a casino-entertainment complex, amid accusations that the project is being hurried without thorough public examination or a proper feasibility study. The criticism follows remarks from Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun, who confirmed that the entertainment complex bill is slated for review by April 9, having already secured Cabinet approval on March 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356444-casino-complex-opponents-criticise-lack-of-public-scrutiny-and-feasibility-study/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Opposition is mounting against the Thai government's push to advance a casino-entertainment complex, amid accusations that the project is being hurried without thorough public examination or a proper feasibility study. The criticism follows remarks from Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun, who confirmed that the entertainment complex bill is slated for review by April 9, having already secured Cabinet approval on March 27. Senator Veerasak Vijitsaengsri expressed concerns on Facebook, noting that the proposal remains contentious, with public opinion divided—approximately 60% in favour and 40% against. He argued that public consultations were superficial, and their feedback largely ignored. Critics like Veerasak question the true benefits of the scheme. Proponents argue it will boost state revenue and curb illegal gambling, but Veerasak cautions that the primary beneficiaries will be investors focused on profits, potentially at the expense of social consequences. He also doubted the efficacy of proposed measures, such as the requirement for a 50 million baht bank account, which he believes will only attract wealthy gamblers already wagering abroad. Former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn pointed out irregularities in a survey conducted by the Fiscal Policy Office, which showed improbably uniform support for the project. He questioned the credibility of the results, implying government credulity in accepting them. People’s Party MP Parit Wacharasindhu has called for public scrutiny, urging citizens to monitor the government's efforts to prioritise the casino bill among competing urgent legislation, given the session's imminent conclusion. He also criticised the decision to conduct a feasibility study post-approval, questioning the rationale behind such timing and warning it may result in wasted resources if the study later suggests abandoning the project. The pushback reflects a broader demand for transparency and accountability as the government navigates the legislative process for the controversial complex, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

King Charles III Sends Condolences to Thailand After Myanmar Earthquake Photo courtesy of BBC News In the aftermath of the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that devastated Myanmar and shook the region, King Charles III of England has extended his condolences to the people of Thailand. The earthquake, which struck on March 28, has claimed over 1,600 lives at its epicentre in Myanmar and caused significant injury and distress across affected areas, including Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356443-king-charles-iii-sends-condolences-to-thailand-after-myanmar-earthquake/

Photo courtesy of BBC News In the aftermath of the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that devastated Myanmar and shook the region, King Charles III of England has extended his condolences to the people of Thailand. The earthquake, which struck on March 28, has claimed over 1,600 lives at its epicentre in Myanmar and caused significant injury and distress across affected areas, including Bangkok. The British Embassy in Thailand released a touching message from the monarch, in which King Charles expressed his “heartfelt sympathy” to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the Thai people. He acknowledged the profound suffering and loss experienced in the wake of the disaster and conveyed his solidarity during this challenging time. In his message, King Charles stated, “My wife and I were so deeply saddened to learn of the recent earthquake affecting Myanmar, Thailand, and other countries in the region. Our profound and most heartfelt sympathy goes out to Your Majesty and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand.” The tremors originating near Myanmar’s Mandalay region led to widespread destruction, impacting buildings, temples, and monasteries, and were felt as far away as China and India, prompting panic and emergency evacuations. Beyond expressing his condolences to Thailand, King Charles also conveyed a heartfelt message to Myanmar via social media, acknowledging the tragic circumstances and praising the resilience of the Burmese people. The UK has committed £10 million as humanitarian aid to assist recovery efforts in the most affected areas. Meanwhile, King Charles, who is 76 and undergoing cancer treatment, remains at his Highgrove estate after canceling a visit to Birmingham per medical advice. Despite his health challenges, he continues to monitor international developments and offer his support to those impacted by such crises, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Thailand Urged to Certify Hotel Safety Amid Post-Quake Tourism Concerns Photo courtesy of Thairath In the wake of recent earthquakes, private sector organisations are pressing the Thai government to issue safety certifications for hotels to boost tourist confidence. Tourism and Sports Minister Suwang Theinthong recently discussed these matters with various stakeholders, fearing a potential decline in tourist numbers due to the seismic events. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356442-thailand-urged-to-certify-hotel-safety-amid-post-quake-tourism-concerns/

Thai Health Ministry Issues Advice for "Earthquake Drunk" Symptoms Picture of people outside their buildings in Laksi district yesterday courtesy of Bangkok Post In response to the unusual phenomenon of "earthquake drunk" symptoms affecting residents, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health has introduced expert guidelines to help those feeling unsteady post-quake. Reports of dizziness and disorientation have become common as people's balance systems grapple with seismic after-effects. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356441-thai-health-ministry-issues-advice-for-earthquake-drunk-symptoms/

Photo courtesy of Thairath In the wake of recent earthquakes, private sector organisations are pressing the Thai government to issue safety certifications for hotels to boost tourist confidence. Tourism and Sports Minister Suwang Theinthong recently discussed these matters with various stakeholders, fearing a potential decline in tourist numbers due to the seismic events. Efforts are underway to clarify that Bangkok is primarily affected, and to reassure travellers, flight and hotel bookings will be closely monitored ahead of the upcoming Songkran festival. The tourism sector is advocating for safety certificates for structurally sound buildings, with the Bangkok governor deploying volunteer engineers for rapid inspections. These certifications, once issued, will be shared globally by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to affirm safety. In addition, the private sector is calling for the retraction of the emergency disaster declaration, as it influences tourism insurance interpretations in English, posing challenges to the industry. These proposals have reached the prime minister's desk for consideration. Kris Patanasarn of the Thai Airways Association highlighted that there have been over 1,000 hotel cancellations, although tourist hotspots like Pattaya remain unaffected. The primary concern, however, is the significant drop in flight bookings, particularly from China, which has seen nearly a 60% decrease. Bookings from other key markets like India, Vietnam, and Malaysia have also registered substantial declines. Despite these challenges, the industry remains hopeful. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, aims to circulate reassuring messages globally, striving to reassure travellers that Thailand remains a safe destination. There are plans to engage directly with the Chinese ambassador to address specific concerns from this critical market. While the drop in daily passenger bookings of 40-60% is troubling, the Songkran festival preparations proceed as planned, with the tourism sector hopeful that these efforts will restore confidence swiftly, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Picture of people outside their buildings in Laksi district yesterday courtesy of Bangkok Post In response to the unusual phenomenon of "earthquake drunk" symptoms affecting residents, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health has introduced expert guidelines to help those feeling unsteady post-quake. Reports of dizziness and disorientation have become common as people's balance systems grapple with seismic after-effects. Deputy Government Spokesperson Anukul Prueksanusak shared practical tips for alleviating these symptoms. Breathing slowly and deeply, staying hydrated with water or ginger tea, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine top the list of recommendations. Reducing screen time, focusing on distant objects, and lying down can also help regain equilibrium. While these symptoms are often short-lived, they can extend for individuals prone to anxiety or migraines. The ministry recommends steering clear of stress-inducing news and considering motion sickness medication for additional relief. Anukul emphasised the government’s dedication to public well-being, offering reassurances that support is available for those whose daily lives are significantly impacted by stress. Though earthquake drunk isn’t life-threatening on its own, it raises the risk for falls and injuries in unstable environments. Looking at past earthquakes, such as Japan's Tōhoku disaster in 2011 and the 1995 Kobe earthquake, disorientation delayed evacuations and contributed to poor decision-making, exacerbating risk. Thai residents are encouraged to seek mental health support through avenues like here2healproject.com for consultations. Persistent symptoms should prompt a call to the emergency helpline at 1669 or the mental health hotline at 1323, ensuring help is always within reach, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Thailand's 2025 Military Draft: Pride, Dreams, and Gender Identity Picture courtesy of NBC News On the first day of Thailand's 2025 military draft in Uthai Thani Province, diverse stories unfolded against a backdrop of anticipation and tradition. At the Nong Kha Yang District Office, two young men achieved their childhood dreams, volunteering eagerly to join the military ranks as professional soldiers. Their aspirations were lauded by Colonel Prapass Klanghon as they stepped confidently into a lifelong commitment to national service. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356440-thailands-2025-military-draft-pride-dreams-and-gender-identity/

Picture courtesy of NBC News On the first day of Thailand's 2025 military draft in Uthai Thani Province, diverse stories unfolded against a backdrop of anticipation and tradition. At the Nong Kha Yang District Office, two young men achieved their childhood dreams, volunteering eagerly to join the military ranks as professional soldiers. Their aspirations were lauded by Colonel Prapass Klanghon as they stepped confidently into a lifelong commitment to national service. Meanwhile, the draft process took a poignant turn with the participation of Arit Kannika, a transgender woman whose presence drew significant attention. Known as "Nong Mo," and a final-year Communication Arts student, Arit participated with grace and purpose, showcasing the diversity of modern Thailand. With her gender identity officially certified, she confidently anticipated exemption from service under Thai law, which allows transgender women to avoid conscription with proper medical documentation. Also present was 21-year-old Thanet Saenlop, "Nong Tor," navigating the process for the first time. Unsure about the proceedings, she expressed readiness to defer her participation until she obtains her medical certificate, highlighting the challenges faced by those lacking documentation in a system that doesn't yet acknowledge gender transitions legally. As the draft unfolded, emotions ran high, blending pride, dreams, and the quest for identity in a ceremonial lottery of chance and choice. The event was a microcosm of societal change, reflecting both the rigidity and flexibility of traditions in the face of evolving human narratives. For some, it was a day of accomplishment, and for others, a step toward affirming their true selves, illustrating the complexity and richness of human experience in contemporary Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Rescue Efforts Continue in Bangkok as Scanner Detects 70 Signs of Life Photo: Bangkok Post A US Military scanner has identified 70 potential signs of missing individuals within the rubble of the collapsed State Audit Office building in Bangkok. The collapsed sections between the 17th and 21st floors were the sites of intense focus as many of the missing were reportedly working there during Friday's earthquake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356438-rescue-efforts-continue-in-bangkok-as-scanner-detects-70-signs-of-life/

Photo: Bangkok Post A US Military scanner has identified 70 potential signs of missing individuals within the rubble of the collapsed State Audit Office building in Bangkok. The collapsed sections between the 17th and 21st floors were the sites of intense focus as many of the missing were reportedly working there during Friday's earthquake. Bangkok's deputy governor, Tavida Kamolvej, noted that of the 70 detected signs, only six have been confirmed as human bodies. The remainder are still unconfirmed amid the chaos of the collapsed multi-storey structure. With floors pancaked upon each other, identifying precise locations and navigating the debris pose significant challenges to rescue teams. Rescuers face a daunting task. The 30-storey building was still under construction, which means there's no comprehensive blueprint to guide the rescue efforts. Excavation is painstakingly slow due to metre-thick walls and the precarious state of the site. Heavy machinery cannot be used safely, forcing workers to clear debris manually from the top down. As the operation enters its fifth day, rescuers are continually adapting their strategies to maximise survival chances for those potentially trapped beneath the rubble. So far, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has confirmed 13 fatalities and 19 injuries, with many still unaccounted for. The situation remains urgent and dynamic, as the rescue mission strives to bring closure and aid to those affected by the disaster, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-01

Privacy Concerns Over Theme Park's Two-Way Mirror Picture courtesy of South China Morning Post A theme park in Thailand has sparked a social media storm over a two-way mirror installation in the men's toilets. Located at Dream World in Pathum Thani, the mirror allows men using urinals to view women and children on the other side, while those outside see only their reflections. Initially installed in 2019 as a "fun" feature, the mirror recently resurfaced in the spotlight as users expressed outrage at its insensitivity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356437-privacy-concerns-over-theme-parks-two-way-mirror/

Picture courtesy of South China Morning Post A theme park in Thailand has sparked a social media storm over a two-way mirror installation in the men's toilets. Located at Dream World in Pathum Thani, the mirror allows men using urinals to view women and children on the other side, while those outside see only their reflections. Initially installed in 2019 as a "fun" feature, the mirror recently resurfaced in the spotlight as users expressed outrage at its insensitivity. The viral post by Internet Hall of Fame on X/Twitter garnered over 11 million views, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for removal. Critics labelled the mirror as "misogynistic" and "degrading," with many voicing concern over privacy violations. Comments poured in, likening the situation to a digital privacy invasion and questioning the ethical standards of those responsible for its installation. Despite clear backlash, Operations Director Thawat Yamkasem defended the novelty feature in 2019, claiming it offers guests a new amusement experience. However, the social media uproar suggests customers are not amused, raising serious privacy concerns. Two-way mirrors, known for reflecting light from the brighter side while allowing transparency from the darker side, create the unsettling effect observed at Dream World. The fate of the controversial mirror is uncertain, yet the public's vehement response may push for its removal. The discussion highlights broader implications regarding design choices and respect for privacy in public spaces, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-01

Speedboat Explosion Near Phuket Leaves Six Injured, Sparks Panic Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News This morning, the picturesque waters off Phuket turned perilous when a speedboat, carrying tourists on a snorkelling and sightseeing adventure, erupted in flames near Koh Mai Thon. The incident left six people injured, including foreign tourists and crew members, transforming what was meant to be a relaxing day into one of chaos and fear. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356435-speedboat-explosion-near-phuket-leaves-six-injured-sparks-panic/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News This morning, the picturesque waters off Phuket turned perilous when a speedboat, carrying tourists on a snorkelling and sightseeing adventure, erupted in flames near Koh Mai Thon. The incident left six people injured, including foreign tourists and crew members, transforming what was meant to be a relaxing day into one of chaos and fear. The Thana Marine 555 departed Tha Chalong Pier with 33 tourists aboard, only to encounter engine trouble around 9am, shortly after arriving at the destination. Witnesses described watching in horror as the vessel caught fire and exploded, leaving only the captain and two crew members onboard at the time, with many tourists already in the sea. Director Nachaphong Pranit from the Phuket Marine Office confirmed that the captain and a crew member suffered burns, while the others sustained injuries from flying debris. The swift response saw maritime officials and the Thai Navy rush to the scene, although the boat was completely engulfed before assistance could intervene. The explosion sent shockwaves through social media, igniting concerns over boat safety standards in Thailand. Although the cause remains under investigation, officials promise a rigorous review of the incident and emphasise the importance of stringent safety protocols for tour operators. This fiery tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved emergency preparedness in Phuket as it continues to attract scores of tourists eager for its maritime delights, reported The Thaiger. Pictures courtesy of Naewna -- 2025-04-01

File photo for reference only "1001 Kế Move On", an initiative aimed at encouraging young people in Ho Chi Minh City to quit smoking, was launched late last week. Spearheaded by multimedia communications students from FPT University HCM City, the campaign targets young adults aged 18-24, with a particular focus on university students. With the catchy slogan "A thousand clever ways to chase the smoke away!", the campaign seeks to highlight the challenges young people face in quitting smoking and offers valuable information and motivation for adopting healthier smoking cessation strategies. It aims to create an engaging environment for experimenting with effective quitting methods. The campaign includes a music video titled "Sao Chưa Move On?", which is a reimagined version of the song Khế Ước (The Flob), arranged by renowned musician Dương Khắc Linh, adding a creative dimension to the initiative. In a related move, the National Assembly announced in November 2024 a forthcoming ban on e-cigarettes, effective in 2025, targeting their production, sale, import, and use. This decision responds to the concerning rise in smoking rates amongst the 15-24 age group, which reached 7.3 percent in 2024. However, with this ban, there is apprehension about young individuals shifting back to traditional cigarettes rather than quitting smoking entirely. The "1001 Kế Move On" campaign draws a parallel between smokers and cigarettes or e-cigarettes as a toxic relationship. Despite acknowledging the health risks and nicotine dependency ("red flags"), many struggle to quit. For successful cessation, the campaign emphasizes the necessity of understanding effective methods and having a strong personal motivation. By providing scientifically-backed and practical strategies for quitting smoking, the campaign aims to support Generation Z in creating a healthier lifestyle free from nicotine addiction, ultimately helping to alleviate a significant public health concern, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-31

File photo for reference only Ho Chi Minh City has started constructing a 720-meter-long pedestrian footbridge designed to resemble a nipa palm leaf. This architectural marvel will connect District 1 with the Thu Thiem Peninsula across the Saigon River and is expected to be completed within a year of its recent groundbreaking. Strategically positioned between the Ba Son Bridge and the Saigon River Tunnel, the bridge’s District 1 abutment will be located in Bach Dang Wharf Park, while on the Thu Thiem side, it will sit near Nguyen Thien Thanh and N14 streets. Ranging from 6 to 11 meters in width, the bridge's main span will reach 187 meters high, ensuring unimpeded river traffic. Funded by Nutifood Nutrition Food JSC, the project carries a hefty price tag of nearly VND1 trillion (approximately US$39.14 million). The footbridge, embodying the iconic southern Vietnamese nipa palm leaf, merges traditional cultural elements with modern design. It includes features such as open spaces for scenic pedestrian views, dedicated lanes for cyclists and individuals with disabilities, and access routes for emergency vehicles like ambulances. According to Tran Quang Lam, Director of Ho Chi Minh City's Department of Transport, this innovative spatial steel arch bridge is a first for Vietnam and represents one of the most distinctive pedestrian bridge projects globally. Safety and beauty were prioritized by the design consultancy, Chodai & Takashi Niwa Architects, in collaboration with Chodai Kisojiban Vietnam, accounting for wind, earthquake impacts, and shipping traffic. Nutifood Chairman Tran Thanh Hai expressed that funding this project is a tribute to the city’s residents for their role in the company’s growth. He envisions the bridge as a new symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, enhancing its allure to both locals and tourists. At the groundbreaking ceremony, HCMC Vice Chairman Bui Xuan Cuong highlighted the bridge's central role in synchronizing the city’s landscape with upcoming projects, and praised Nutifood for their sponsorship. This footbridge is part of broader connectivity plans for Thu Thiem, which include the existing Saigon River Tunnel, Thu Thiem Bridge (Thu Thiem 1), and Ba Son Bridge (Thu Thiem 2), with future development of Thu Thiem 3 and 4 bridges connecting to District 4 and 7 pending investment, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-31

File photo for reference only In response to Myanmar's call for international assistance following a devastating earthquake, Vietnam has pledged an emergency aid package valued at $300,000 to aid recovery efforts. A 106-member rescue team from Vietnam's Ministry of National Defense and Ministry of Public Security arrived in Yangon on Saturday afternoon to support relief operations. The Vietnamese contingent includes military personnel led by Major General Pham Van Ty from the Defense Ministry's Search and Rescue Department, and a team from the public security sector led by Colonel Nguyen Minh Khuong, Deputy Director of the Police Department of Fire Fighting, Fire Prevention and Rescue. Upon their arrival, the Vietnamese delegation was warmly received by Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, Vietnamese Ambassador to Myanmar Ly Quoc Tuan, Defense Attaché Colonel Dao Van Duy, and other embassy staff. Commencing from March 31, the Vietnamese forces will engage in search and rescue missions in the areas most affected by the earthquake, alongside distributing essential relief supplies to communities in dire need. Sympathy and solidarity from Vietnam have been expressed through Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and the Vietnam-Myanmar Friendship Association, extending heartfelt condolences to the people of Myanmar. According to Myanmar's State Administration Council, the earthquake, which struck on March 28, has resulted in approximately 1,700 fatalities, with 3,400 individuals injured and 300 more reported missing. Vietnam's assistance highlights regional solidarity and the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing natural disasters, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-31

File photo for reference only A report from the U.S. Department of Justice has exposed incidents involving FBI agents in Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, engaging in sexual activities with prostitutes funded by local law enforcement. The investigative summary, released on March 27, covered misconduct occurring between 2009 and 2018, as highlighted by the New York Times. In 2018, a specific incident in Manila reportedly involved FBI agents accepting sexual services paid for by an undisclosed local law enforcement agency. While the report identifies Manila as one location, it also notes similar activities by FBI personnel in other Southeast Asian countries without specifying further details. The allegations encompass a range of questionable behaviours, including five FBI employees soliciting sex overseas. In one case, an FBI employee allegedly provided a colleague with a suspicious package containing approximately 100 white pills intended for a foreign law enforcement officer. Another incident involved questionable conduct at a karaoke bar, where employees were given room keys or numbered papers linked to hotels, with a supervisor reportedly present. This event included two employees sharing a room and engaging in sexual acts with prostitutes. Philstar.com has sought comments from the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Department of Justice, and the U.S. Embassy, but no responses have been received. In the Philippines, prostitution is illegal but remains prevalent. Under Article 202 of the Revised Penal Code, engaging in regular sexual activities for money is punishable. The Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act further classifies such acts as trafficking, imposing sentences of six to 12 years of imprisonment. As the report emerges, it highlights the challenges of addressing such misconduct in regions with legal and cultural complexities surrounding prostitution. The implications for international law enforcement cooperation remain to be seen, pending further comments from involved parties, reported Philstar. -- 2025-03-31

File photo for reference only The recent devastation wrought by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand underscores the critical need for the Philippine Building Act (PBA), according to Surigao del Sur 1st district Rep. Romeo Momo. With the proposed law advancing through the House and awaiting Senate approval, Momo emphasized its importance in ensuring infrastructure resilience against natural disasters. The PBA aims to amend the 48-year-old National Building Code of the Philippines, setting new standards for building design, safety measures, and materials to withstand multiple hazards. Momo, as Chairman of the House Committee on Public Works and Highways, highlighted the potential impact of a major earthquake—referred to as "the Big One"—on Metro Manila, advocating for preventive action now. "Do we wait for it to happen or do we act now while we still can? The Philippine Building Act will set the wheels in motion, ensuring that our buildings, private and public, can withstand the power of a 7.2-magnitude earthquake,” Momo stressed. The PBA would mandate structural reviews for buildings every 15 years, ensuring long-term safety. This includes mandatory inspections by recognized certifiers for structural stability and fire safety, particularly for special structures. In addition to structural reviews, the PBA proposes a classification system for buildings based on fire resistance, occupancy, and permitting processes. It also outlines general requirements for location, design, materials, and maintenance to standardize the building process across the nation. With around 20 active volcanoes in the Philippines, scientists warn of an impending 7.2-magnitude earthquake. Momo insists that public servants must use their legislative powers to protect citizens from natural and man-made dangers. By enacting the Philippine Building Act, lawmakers aim to safeguard the nation's infrastructure and enhance disaster preparedness, reflecting lessons learned from recent regional tremors, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-31

File photo for reference only Two major progressive groups have condemned the Marcos administration for what they describe as a worsening hunger crisis and a failing local food production system. Their statements follow a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey indicating that 27.2 percent of Filipinos, or about 7.5 million people, experienced hunger in March. The Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) highlighted the prevalence of hunger in farming and fishing communities, labelling it a 'huge insult' for an agricultural nation. Ronnel Arambulo, Vice Chairperson of Pamalakaya, blamed high production costs, market manipulation, and the lack of government support for local producers as contributing factors. Separately, the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) and Amihan National Federation of Peasant Women (AMIHAN) criticized the Department of Agriculture's (DA) decision to lower the suggested retail price of imported rice from P49 to P45 per kilo. AMIHAN Secretary-General Cathy Estavillo argued that the government is focusing on superficial solutions without addressing underlying issues like import dependency and the decline of local production. KMP Chairperson Danilo Ramos emphasized the need to strengthen local production and advocated for repealing the Rice Liberalization Law. In San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, farmers are reportedly forced to sell newly harvested palay for as little as P13 per kilo, which is unsustainable. Ramos also denounced the influence of traders and importers over rice prices and supply, accusing the government of failing to combat hoarding, smuggling, and price manipulation. The groups claim that since the law's enactment in 2019, farmers have faced steep price drops while profits favor traders. Both groups urge for a repeal of the Rice Liberalization Law, reduced reliance on imports, and support for local rice production through guaranteed pricing mechanisms. They argue that true food security means prioritizing local production over importation, seeking an agricultural system focused on the rights and welfare of people rather than corporate profits, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-31