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File photo for reference only MANILA, Philippines — On Monday, five major transport groups, collectively known as the "Enormous 5," will push the government to proceed with the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), amidst a planned transport strike by groups opposing the initiative. Launched in 2017, the PTMP aims to phase out non-roadworthy public utility vehicles (PUVs) and replace them with units boasting Euro 4-compliant engines, reducing pollution and improving public transport standards. The groups, including Pasang Masda, Altodap, Acto, Busina, and Curoda, support the PTMP and will gather outside the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) office in Quezon City. They urge the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to continue with the program for the benefit of compliant participants, emphasizing the need to address program issues without suspending its implementation. Pasang Masda President Obet Martin stressed that suspending the PTMP would disregard the efforts of those who already invested in modernized vehicles. He urged Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to resist pressure from groups using the issue for political gain, asserting that the program's intentions align with providing safe and organized public transport. Despite calls for dialogue, transport group Manibela plans a four-day strike to protest alleged inaccuracies regarding PTMP progress. In response, schools in Metro Manila, Cavite, and Bulacan have shifted to online learning for the strike's duration. The government plans to deploy additional buses and trains to alleviate commuter disruption, with free rides provided in affected areas by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. Manibela President Mar Valbuena criticized the government's reported consolidation figures, claiming significant discrepancies. The LTFRB reported 86% of PUVs joined the program, but Valbuena insists only 43% completed the necessary consolidation, with many applications still pending. While respecting Manibela's stance, Piston President Mody Floranda opted against joining the strike, urging dialogue and the suspension of the PTMP's route rationalization component. Floranda warned that unresolved issues might lead to future protests. Transportation Secretary Dizon is expected to decide on the PTMP's fate within two weeks. The decision will consider feedback from both pro- and anti-PTMP stakeholders, aiming to achieve a balanced resolution that prioritizes commuters' needs and operators' concerns. Martin emphasized the importance of dialogue to avoid further strikes and allow the new DOTr leadership to address all stakeholder issues, reported Inquirer. -- 2025-03-24

File photo for reference only MANILA, Philippines — Philippine authorities are investigating the mysterious disembarkation of eight Chinese crew members from the MV HUAGAN 98, which occurred just hours before an inspection by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) at the Manila Anchorage Area. During the March 20 inspection, no Chinese nationals were found on board the vessel, although evidence suggested their recent presence. The ship's calendar listed seven Chinese crew members as of March 19, while the logbook recorded their departure before the inspection. The vessel's master denied any Chinese presence, contradicting these records. In response, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has flagged the vessel for potential misrepresentation and plans to summon the shipping company for further inquiry. This incident was part of a broader inspection of three foreign-manned vessels, where several irregularities were uncovered. Authorities noted that Chinese crew members had been assigned official roles contrary to Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) regulations, which restrict foreign personnel to non-essential roles on a temporary basis. On MV AN DA KANG 3689, inspectors identified nine Chinese nationals employed improperly, breaching labor contract terms that only authorized work in Zambales. Similarly, MV SHINGPING 007 had twelve Chinese nationals designated as "technicians" without proper permits. Concerns were further raised regarding defective crew turnover procedures on MV AN DA KANG 3689 and safety issues due to a non-functional CCTV system on MV HUAGAN 98. Additionally, all three vessels lacked valid Domestic Shipping Operation Certificates. The PCG, supported by the Bureau of Immigration, MARINA, DOLE, and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, intends to take legal action against the responsible shipping companies for violations of maritime, labor, and immigration laws, reported Phil Star. -- 2025-03-24

File photo for reference only The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a firm reminder to school officials and staff to avoid any political activities during the upcoming graduation and moving-up ceremonies for the 2024-2025 school year. This directive comes in light of the impending National and Local Elections in 2025, as stated in a memorandum signed by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara on March 21. The department reiterated its commitment to maintaining professionalism and political neutrality, underlining DepEd Order No. 048, s. 2018, which strictly prohibits any form of electioneering by education personnel during school events. Scheduled for April 14-15, the End-of-School-Year Rites will celebrate students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Alternative Learning System completers, carrying the theme: “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas” (Generation of Unity: Partners for the New Philippines), reflecting the drive for a united and progressive nation. DepEd has advised schools to conduct simple yet meaningful ceremonies, urging them not to overspend on extravagant venues or attire. Non-academic activities should not be required for graduation. Schools are directed to utilise their Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) funds according to existing guidelines, ensuring no costs are passed onto students and their families. To enhance attendee comfort, the department recommends hosting ceremonies in properly ventilated indoor venues or covered courts and avoiding the ceremonies during peak heat hours. This guidance aims to provide safe, inclusive celebrations focused on student achievements and unity, free from political influence, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-24

Collision on Chon Buri Road Leaves One Injured Photo via KhaoSod A serious collision occurred early this morning on the Phan Thong-Ban Kao Road in Chon Buri, involving an employee bus and a speeding pickup truck. The accident happened around 5.30am, as the bus was attempting a U-turn when the pickup truck, unable to halt in time, crashed into its rear. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355637-collision-on-chon-buri-road-leaves-one-injured/

Photo via KhaoSod A serious collision occurred early this morning on the Phan Thong-Ban Kao Road in Chon Buri, involving an employee bus and a speeding pickup truck. The accident happened around 5.30am, as the bus was attempting a U-turn when the pickup truck, unable to halt in time, crashed into its rear. Police and rescue teams arrived to find the shuttle bus parked by the roadside with significant damage to its rear. Nearby, the front of the Isuzu pickup truck, driven by 29-year-old Lamphun, was severely damaged and obstructing the road. Lamphun was trapped in his vehicle, with his legs and ankles pinned by the dashboard and a head injury. Rescue workers used hydraulic tools to free him, administered first aid, and transported him to Phan Thong Hospital for further treatment. In his statement, Lamphun admitted to driving at high speed amidst poor lighting conditions, claiming the bus made a sudden U-turn, preventing him from stopping in time. The bus driver, 24-year-old Kriangkrai, was on his way to pick up factory employees. He stated that he checked for traffic before starting the U-turn, only to hear a loud crash as the pickup truck collided with the bus, shaking it violently. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and will conduct detailed interviews with both drivers to ascertain the incident's full circumstances and determine any necessary legal actions. The investigation remains ongoing, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Devastating Fire Destroys Homes in Pattaya, Injures Two Residents A fierce fire devastated a residential area in Pattaya, flattening two homes and injuring two individuals as they attempted to save their belongings. The blaze ignited at 1pm on March 23 in Soi Thung Klom-Tanman 15, triggering a swift response from local authorities and emergency teams. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355636-devastating-fire-destroys-homes-in-pattaya-injures-two-residents/

A fierce fire devastated a residential area in Pattaya, flattening two homes and injuring two individuals as they attempted to save their belongings. The blaze ignited at 1pm on March 23 in Soi Thung Klom-Tanman 15, triggering a swift response from local authorities and emergency teams. Three fire engines were dispatched to the scene, where flames rapidly engulfed semi-concrete, semi-wooden homes with metal roofs. The thick smoke compelled over 20 residents to evacuate in panic. Firefighters bravely contained the inferno after 45 minutes, but not before two houses were entirely consumed, leaving the interiors in ruins. In their desperate bid to retrieve personal items, two residents sustained burn injuries. Uthai, a 44-year-old man and homeowner of the initial fire site, suffered burns to his right arm and face. Meanwhile, Srisuda, aged 40, incurred injuries to her hands in the chaos. Recalling the incident, Uthai shared, "I was working inside when I heard an explosion. I’m not sure what caused it as I had headphones on." Authorities, including police and emergency services, are actively investigating the fire's origins, leaving the community reeling from the destruction and the affected families in need of support, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Inheritance Dispute Leads to Murder in Chon Buri Cemetery Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรศรีราชา อ.ศรีราชา จ.ชลบุรี A 52-year-old Thai woman, Kantana-on Ditprasert, was tragically murdered amidst a family dispute over a substantial inheritance in Chon Buri. The incident occurred on March 22 at a cemetery in the Si Racha district, where Kantana-on worked as a caretaker. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355634-inheritance-dispute-leads-to-murder-in-chon-buri-cemetery/

Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรศรีราชา อ.ศรีราชา จ.ชลบุรี A 52-year-old Thai woman, Kantana-on Ditprasert, was tragically murdered amidst a family dispute over a substantial inheritance in Chon Buri. The incident occurred on March 22 at a cemetery in the Si Racha district, where Kantana-on worked as a caretaker. Kantana-on's body was discovered by a colleague at 6pm, after hearing gunshots. She had suffered five gunshot wounds to her chest, back, and left arm. The alleged shooter, her sister-in-law Dawika, turned herself into police on March 23, confessing to the crime. The conflict stemmed from an inheritance, specifically the 50 million baht proceeds from Kantana-on's father’s land sale. Dawika claimed the money was managed solely by Kantana-on, who allegedly refused to distribute it, even when Dawika's husband, Sujin, asked for a share. After the shooting, Dawika fled the scene in her white pickup, which authorities later found abandoned. Attempts to escape could not avert her eventual surrender, during which she handed over the .38 calibre pistol used in the murder. Charged with intentional murder under Section 288 of the Criminal Law, Dawika faces possible penalties ranging from 15 to 20 years imprisonment, life imprisonment, or the death penalty. She also faces charges under the Act on Firearms, though specifics remain undisclosed. The case highlights the severe consequences of familial disputes and the tragic outcomes of unresolved grievances, stirring public reflection on conflict and resolution within family dynamics, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Pattaya Bike Thief Crashes Student's Birthday Party with Daring Heist Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a disheartening incident early this morning, a thief made off with a motorbike, dampening a student's birthday celebrations in Pattaya. CCTV footage from March 23 captured the audacious theft on Soi Buakhao, at 4.15am, showing the culprit smoothly stealing a black Honda PCX with license plate 4 7973 Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355633-pattaya-bike-thief-crashes-students-birthday-party-with-daring-heist/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a disheartening incident early this morning, a thief made off with a motorbike, dampening a student's birthday celebrations in Pattaya. CCTV footage from March 23 captured the audacious theft on Soi Buakhao, at 4.15am, showing the culprit smoothly stealing a black Honda PCX with license plate 4 7973 Chon Buri. The bike's owner, Thanaphon, shared his plight on social media, offering a reward for help recovering the vehicle: "#LookingForLostBike Bike Stolen (Reward Offered for Information Leading to Recovery). Stolen near Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 21 (Buakhao-Pattaya Third Road). Last seen on camera near the Nong Yai railway area." The unfortunate saga unfolded when a friend borrowed Thanaphon’s bike for an errand but neglected to secure it adequately upon return. Thanaphon had asked the friend to conceal the remote key in the bike’s front storage compartment. This oversight played into the thief's hands, as CCTV footage showed the suspect eyeing the bike repeatedly before finding and using the hidden key to make a swift getaway. Thanaphon reported the theft to Pattaya City Police, desperately seeking assistance as the incident leaves him without essential transport for school. Relatives have taken to Facebook, rallying for public aid in tracking down the thief or recovering the cherished bike, underscoring the community's role in tackling such crimes, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Police Injured in Bangkok's Illegal Gun Crackdown, Suspects in Custody Photo via Channel 8 Two police officers were injured during a bold crackdown on an illegal gun-smuggling operation in Bangkok's Kannayao district over the weekend. The nighttime operation on Soi Sook Anan turned violent when the suspects realised they were being targeted in a sting operation, resulting in gunfire and a police chase. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355632-police-injured-in-bangkoks-illegal-gun-crackdown-suspects-in-custody/

Photo via Channel 8 Two police officers were injured during a bold crackdown on an illegal gun-smuggling operation in Bangkok's Kannayao district over the weekend. The nighttime operation on Soi Sook Anan turned violent when the suspects realised they were being targeted in a sting operation, resulting in gunfire and a police chase. The confrontation occurred as officers attempted to arrest a gang selling illegal firearms. Disguised as a customer, one officer arranged to buy a gun from the gang, leading to the dramatic encounter. When the suspects became aware of the police operation, they opened fire, injuring two officers—one in the shoulder and another in the stomach. Despite the gunfire, police managed to apprehend one suspect, 38-year-old Mechai "Tum" Khankham, on the scene. Another suspect, 47-year-old Theppitak, surrendered the following day at Bang Kluay Police Station, claiming he had to first ensure his girlfriend's safety. Theppitak admitted his involvement with Mechai, whom he met during a previous stint in Khlong Prem Prison. He confessed to possessing and attempting to sell illegal firearms, including the weapon used during the shootout. The apprehended suspects face multiple serious charges, including possession of unlicensed firearms, carrying firearms in public without permission, distributing illegal firearms, and attempted murder of officers. The latter charge potentially carries severe legal repercussions, given the gravity of assaulting government officials on duty. This operation underscores ongoing efforts by Thai police to dismantle illegal firearm trafficking networks, with the suspects now facing the full rigour of the law. Officers continue to investigate the network's reach, aiming to curb gun-related crimes and enhance public safety in Bangkok and beyond, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Motorbike Driver Duped by Counterfeit Banknote Scam in Bangkok Photo via Facebook/ ฅนข่าว ต้นปราการ In a distressing tale from Samut Prakan province near Bangkok, motorcycle taxi rider Saksan Phungphat fell victim to a cunning scam, losing nearly 30,000 baht to an artful con involving counterfeit US banknotes. Despite reporting the scam, local police have yet to apprehend the scammer, leaving Saksan, 43, in financial distress, compounded by the impending birth of his child. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355631-motorbike-driver-duped-by-counterfeit-banknote-scam-in-bangkok/

Photo via Facebook/ ฅนข่าว ต้นปราการ In a distressing tale from Samut Prakan province near Bangkok, motorcycle taxi rider Saksan Phungphat fell victim to a cunning scam, losing nearly 30,000 baht to an artful con involving counterfeit US banknotes. Despite reporting the scam, local police have yet to apprehend the scammer, leaving Saksan, 43, in financial distress, compounded by the impending birth of his child. It all began in January when Jindaporn, a 49-year-old woman, approached Saksan for help exchanging dollar bills for Thai baht. The ruse unfolded as she hired him to escort her to a bank, where she claimed to have forgotten her ID. In a gesture of goodwill, Saksan offered his own ID to facilitate the currency exchange. Upon completing the transaction, Jindaporn departed with the exchanged baht, totalling 27,000, leaving Saksan none the wiser—until the bank informed him that the notes were counterfeit. Facing the prospect of legal action, Saksan returned the money using his savings, originally meant for his baby's delivery, an amount later supplemented by borrowing. Determined to seek justice, Saksan's chance reunion with Jindaporn at a hospital led to her detention, but disappointingly, the police released her, citing the absence of the case officer. Frustrated by the lack of progress, Saksan reached out to Channel 3, hoping media attention would accelerate the investigation and hold Jindaporn accountable. While this scenario highlights the vulnerabilities individuals face against sophisticated scams, it also underscores the necessity for harsher regulations and vigilant law enforcement to prevent such incidents, ensuring victims like Saksan receive timely justice, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Mystery Surrounds Sudden Death of Thai Doctor in Bangkok Condo Photo via Matichon A Bangkok-based doctor, 37-year-old Prakit, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in his Thonglo condominium, raising questions and prompting a police investigation. His lifeless body was discovered by his boyfriend yesterday morning, leading to an alert to Thong Lo Police Station at 8.33am. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355630-mystery-surrounds-sudden-death-of-thai-doctor-in-bangkok-condo/

Photo via Matichon A Bangkok-based doctor, 37-year-old Prakit, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in his Thonglo condominium, raising questions and prompting a police investigation. His lifeless body was discovered by his boyfriend yesterday morning, leading to an alert to Thong Lo Police Station at 8.33am. Prakit, who worked at a Sukhumvit-area hospital, had not been heard from since the previous evening. Concerned over his absence from work, his boyfriend checked Prakit’s condo using a spare key card, only to find him unresponsive in bed with blood stains on his shorts. The lack of contact since 9pm the previous night had already raised alarm bells, prompting the swift visit. Police findings indicate that Prakit likely died a day before being found. There were no signs of a struggle or theft, leading investigators to transfer his body to King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital for an autopsy, aiming to uncover the cause of death. This case adds to a troubling series of unexplained deaths in recent weeks, including an incident in Pathum Thani's Rangsit area, where a shopkeeper was found dead, clutching a power bank near spilled water, and another mysterious death in the same province in February. Authorities are working diligently to understand these perplexing events, focusing on potential connections and causes to address community concerns, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Ex-Cop Shoots Family Over Property Dispute, Faces Criminal Charges Photo via KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Bangkok's Bang Mod area yesterday, when a heated argument over property rights led a retired officer from Samrae Police Station to fatally shoot his sister-in-law and critically injure his sister. The confrontation occurred at 1.04pm in a townhouse home within Chom Thong district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355624-ex-cop-shoots-family-over-property-dispute-faces-criminal-charges/

Photo via KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Bangkok's Bang Mod area yesterday, when a heated argument over property rights led a retired officer from Samrae Police Station to fatally shoot his sister-in-law and critically injure his sister. The confrontation occurred at 1.04pm in a townhouse home within Chom Thong district. Police Lieutenant Thanathat Ratsameepupa from Tha Kham Police Station responded to the distress call and discovered 69-year-old Sonchai at the scene. Armed with a .38 calibre revolver, Sonchai confessed to shooting both family members. The confrontation ended with the death of his sister-in-law, Sirinat, from a head wound, and his sister, 75-year-old Sieamnai, enduring critical injuries after being shot in the eye. The former officer admitted his actions stemmed from a family feud regarding rights to their shared home. After his retirement, Sonchai's sister Sieamnai, who had completed the home's payments and thereby owned the property, allowed him to stay. However, tension over the home’s control led to frequent disputes. Despite not contributing to the mortgage, Sonchai chipped in for utilities occasionally, which failed to secure him any legal claim over the home. Conflict reached a boiling point when, acting on a court ruling favouring Sieamnai's ownership, she initially offered to pay Sonchai to leave. The delay escalated tensions, culminating in the tragic incident. After Sonchai’s confession, authorities detained him, and he now faces criminal prosecution. Police investigations continue as they process the severe family altercation, resonating concerns about domestic disputes and their potential for violence, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Thailand Cracks Down on Vapes with Severe Penalties and Public Reporting Photo by mauro_grigollo via Canva Thailand has intensified its stance on e-cigarettes, with individuals caught with these illegal items facing up to five years in prison and substantial fines. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who initially favoured legalisation during her campaign, the government has reversed course, emphasising public health concerns, particularly among teens and children. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355621-thailand-cracks-down-on-vapes-with-severe-penalties-and-public-reporting/

Photo by mauro_grigollo via Canva Thailand has intensified its stance on e-cigarettes, with individuals caught with these illegal items facing up to five years in prison and substantial fines. Under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who initially favoured legalisation during her campaign, the government has reversed course, emphasising public health concerns, particularly among teens and children. This crackdown includes significant actions from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, which has blocked over 9,500 URLs related to vape sales. Using advanced social listening tools, the ministry removed numerous online ads, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy. Facing substantial penalties, those involved in selling, buying, importing, or using e-cigarettes risk severe repercussions. The legal framework includes imprisonment and fines under the Consumer Protection Act and Customs Act. Public vaping incurs fines under the Tobacco Product Control Act. To bolster enforcement, residents are encouraged to report offenders via the Tang Rath mobile application, where users can submit details and track report statuses, fostering a community-driven approach against e-cigarette use. The government's stringent measures reflect a broader aim to curb vaping prevalence, especially given recent high-profile incidents, like an MP vaping in Parliament. These developments signal a robust national effort to reduce vaping, aligning legal, technological, and community resources in enforcing anti-vape regulations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

UN Calls for Unified Effort in Thailand's Sustainable Development Drive Kanni Wignaraja, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Development Programme | Photo via UNDP Kanni Wignaraja, the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Asia-Pacific Regional Director, has urged the Thai government, private sector, and communities to join forces for a sustainable future. During her visit to the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development 2025 in Bangkok, she emphasised inclusivity in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355620-un-calls-for-unified-effort-in-thailands-sustainable-development-drive/

Kanni Wignaraja, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Development Programme | Photo via UNDP Kanni Wignaraja, the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Asia-Pacific Regional Director, has urged the Thai government, private sector, and communities to join forces for a sustainable future. During her visit to the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development 2025 in Bangkok, she emphasised inclusivity in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Wignaraja spoke with Thai ministers, businesses, and communities about challenges in climate action, nature conservation, and gender equality, identifying that environmental issues disproportionately affect women and girls. "Environmental degradation, waste management issues, and pollution often hit women and girls hardest," she noted, impacting their education, employment, and pay equity. She underscored the importance of sustainability-focused financing strategies, urging the use of Thailand's rich biodiversity in economic planning to benefit both the planet and its people. Large companies bear significant responsibility in reducing their environmental footprint and regenerating natural resources, she added, urging banks and micro-entrepreneurs to participate in these sustainability efforts. Highlighting Phetchaburi province as a model for public-private biodiversity investments, Wignaraja observed successful collaborations like the UNDP's Biodiversity Finance Initiative, which promote economic growth while preserving the environment. Bioeconomy investments there align with Thailand's Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy designation and Kaeng Krachan National Park's status as a World Heritage site. Thailand's pioneering initiatives, such as the Thailand Policy Lab, engage citizens in policy development, addressing transition challenges to an upper-middle-income economy. "I see a renewed commitment from Thailand to advance the sustainable development agenda," Wignaraja stated, stressing that policies must centre on people’s evolving needs and experiences. By localising SDGs and fostering partnerships across sectors, Wignaraja envisions a collaborative path forward, ensuring sustainable growth and inclusive development for all of Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Thaksin's Debt Solution Sparks Debate Amidst Thailand's Financial Woes Picture courtesy of Soha Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is stirring discussion over Thailand's debt crisis, proposing a government intervention to purchase non-performing loans (NPLs) from banks and remove debtors from the credit blacklist. While Thaksin's idea aims to relieve struggling households, it faces scepticism. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355618-thaksins-debt-solution-sparks-debate-amidst-thailands-financial-woes/

Picture courtesy of Soha Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is stirring discussion over Thailand's debt crisis, proposing a government intervention to purchase non-performing loans (NPLs) from banks and remove debtors from the credit blacklist. While Thaksin's idea aims to relieve struggling households, it faces scepticism. Thailand's household debt has reached 16.3 trillion baht, nearly 89% of its GDP, with personal NPLs comprising 1.2 trillion baht. The country lacks a "bad bank" to manage toxic debt, hampering effective crisis management. Key obstacles include poor decision-making, dated financial systems, lack of transparency, and uncoordinated debt relief efforts. Although Thai banks are robust, the crisis persists due to absent centralised authority. Establishing a 'bad bank' could centralise debt management, but integrity and transparency are crucial to prevent misuse. Previous strategies, like asset management firms, and schemes such as "You Fight, We Help," which offers relief to overdue debtors, have seen limited success. The initiative has drawn less participation than anticipated, prompting an extension of deadlines. A recent legal amendment allows small businesses debt restructuring, similar to large corporations, potentially decreasing bankruptcies. The government's response to Thaksin's proposal could greatly influence future financial policies. Whether it becomes a viable solution or remains political rhetoric, the need for effective debt management is critical as Thailand faces mounting economic pressure, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24