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Thai Airways Warns of Delays Due to Pakistan-India Airspace Closure File photo for reference only Thai Airways International (THAI) has advised passengers flying on South Asian and European routes to verify their flight details amidst ongoing airspace closures at the Pakistan-India border. This alert follows geopolitical tensions between the two nations, impacting some of THAI's flight paths. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360134-thai-airways-warns-of-delays-due-to-pakistan-india-airspace-closure/

File photo for reference only Thai Airways International (THAI) has advised passengers flying on South Asian and European routes to verify their flight details amidst ongoing airspace closures at the Pakistan-India border. This alert follows geopolitical tensions between the two nations, impacting some of THAI's flight paths. As of Wednesday night, THAI announced that while flights between Thailand and India remain unaffected, routes to Pakistan could face disruptions. Passengers travelling to European destinations should anticipate flights being extended by 30 to 40 minutes due to necessary adjustments to avoid restricted airspace. Notably, THAI operates routes to Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi in Pakistan. However, travel to these destinations is currently impacted by the closure, anticipated to persist until Saturday. For the most current updates, THAI urges travellers to consult updates via the airline's Facebook page or contact THAI's call centre at 02-356-1111 within Thailand. Additionally, international passengers can reach out to the global contact centre at (+1) 647 492 4490. This rerouting is part of broader measures adopted by THAI and other airlines in response to the rising conflict that began when India conducted airstrikes in Pakistan and subsequently, Pakistani forces downed some Indian aircraft. The situation underscores how geopolitical conflicts can substantially disrupt international flight schedules and operations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-08

Karaoke Bar in Mae Chan Raided for Hiring Underage Girls Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, police and administrative officials raided a karaoke bar in Mae Chan, situated along Phahon Yothin Road, due to suspicions of human trafficking involving a 15-year-old girl. This event has spotlighted serious concerns about the exploitation of minors in the entertainment industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360133-karaoke-bar-in-mae-chan-raided-for-hiring-underage-girls/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, police and administrative officials raided a karaoke bar in Mae Chan, situated along Phahon Yothin Road, due to suspicions of human trafficking involving a 15-year-old girl. This event has spotlighted serious concerns about the exploitation of minors in the entertainment industry. On 7th May, Police Colonel Kiattisak Jitprasarn, head of Mae Chan Police Station, reacted swiftly to a report from the 191 patrol police. This report was compiled with the aid of Mae Chan district investigators, Chiang Rai’s administrative division, and related agencies, leading to a swift raid at the Mei Mei Karaoke K.T.U. The operation took place late in the evening after reports surfaced indicating underage girls were attending to patrons. Upon entry, authorities discovered two young girls engaged in serving drinks and singing with customers. Subsequent investigations revealed that the karaoke bar owner admitted to employing minors, offering a meagre daily wage of 100 baht (around US$3), with an additional hourly rate of 150 baht (about US$4.5) for entertaining visitors. As a result, the police have filed several serious charges against the owner: operating a service establishment without due permission, promoting inappropriate conduct amongst minors, hiring individuals under the age of 18 without notifying law enforcement, and permitting underage employment during prohibited night hours. Looking ahead, a multidisciplinary team is tasked with interviewing the young victims to determine whether the infractions extend to human trafficking. Should evidence support these suspicions, further charges will be legally pursued. In the interim, the owner remains in custody, pending deeper legal scrutiny. This incident underscores the urgent need for vigilant enforcement of child protection laws and shines a light on the often-hidden abuses within certain sectors. It coincides with broader efforts to combat human trafficking across Thailand, aiming to uphold the rights and welfare of minors. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Phuket Airport Set for Major Expansion, Aiming for 18 Million Annual Passengers Phuket is gearing up for a transformative leap in air travel capacity, as Airports of Thailand (AOT) propels forward with Phase 2 of its ambitious Phuket Airport Development Project. This expansion is designed to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually, reinforcing Thailand's status as a central force in regional aviation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360132-phuket-airport-set-for-major-expansion-aiming-for-18-million-annual-passengers/

Phuket is gearing up for a transformative leap in air travel capacity, as Airports of Thailand (AOT) propels forward with Phase 2 of its ambitious Phuket Airport Development Project. This expansion is designed to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually, reinforcing Thailand's status as a central force in regional aviation. On 7th May, AOT facilitated the first public seminar at Splash Beach Resort in Phuket, drawing over 150 participants from government bodies, private sector entities, and local organisations. This gathering was crucial for discussing the project's key aims and anticipated benefits. Presiding over the seminar, Police Colonel Adul Chuthong, Deputy Governor of Phuket, emphasized the importance of collective input and cooperation for the project's triumph. He acknowledged Phuket’s global distinction as a sought-after marine tourism hub, supported by an integral international airport. "The progress of the Phuket Airport Development Project, Phase 2, will help accommodate the growing number of tourists and boost the local economy, improving the quality of life for residents," stated Pol. Col. Adul. Phuket Airport, currently handling 12.5 million passengers annually—including 5 million international and 7.5 million domestic—has been overstretched since 2019. The ongoing expansion is indispensable to address surging demands, stated Monchai Tanode, Director of Phuket Airport. "The new development will increase our capacity to 18 million passengers per year, with a particular focus on expanding the international terminal to handle 10.5 million passengers annually," Monchai elaborated. Planned advancements include the construction of seven additional aircraft parking bays adjacent to the terminal, alongside vast enhancements to the airport's traffic flow and utilities. These infrastructural improvements are anticipated to bolster travel ease, safety, and convenience, aligning with international quality benchmarks. Managed by AOT, the development project is under the consultancy of the P.K.A.C. group, which is responsible for extensive airside survey, terminal design refinement, and supportive systems implementation. Upon its completion, the newly expanded airport is poised to invigorate Thailand’s tourism, trade, and investment sectors, fortifying its image as a formidable regional aviation hub. This strategic development is expected to not only meet the growing traveler influx but also stimulate economic advancement, presenting new opportunities for local and international stakeholders alike. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Phuket's Weekend Booze Ban: Elections and Visakha Bucha Day Prompt Crackdown Photo courtesy of The Nation Phuket's residents face a dry weekend, as dual alcohol bans take centre stage due to upcoming municipal elections and Visakha Bucha Day. These restrictions will mean localities across the island will see a significant reduction in alcohol availability. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360131-phukets-weekend-booze-ban-elections-and-visakha-bucha-day-prompt-crackdown/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Phuket's residents face a dry weekend, as dual alcohol bans take centre stage due to upcoming municipal elections and Visakha Bucha Day. These restrictions will mean localities across the island will see a significant reduction in alcohol availability. The ban kicks off from Saturday evening, 10th May, stretching through to Sunday evening, 11th May, running concurrently over 30 hours for election-related restrictions, and 24 hours in observance of Visakha Bucha Day, a revered Buddhist holiday. The areas most impacted by the prohibition include key hotspots like Phuket Town, Ratsada, Wichit, Rawai, and Patong, with further regions such as Chalong, Karon, Pa Khlok, and Kathu also subject to the ban. Notably, Srisoonthorn, Cherng Talay, and Thepkrasattri will also experience a cessation of alcohol sales within municipally controlled areas, though places like Kamala, Koh Kaew, and Mai Khao, under subdistrict jurisdiction, will circumvent these restrictions. The reason for aligning these bans during the same window is multifaceted. Primarily, it ensures the integrity and orderliness of the municipal elections, where selecting mayors and council members is pivotal. Election day, from 8 am to 5 pm on Sunday, is particularly sensitive to practices like "Kun Ma Horn" or "Night of the Howling Dogs," where vote-buying can flourish in the absence of strict measures. Historically, alcohol has played a role in such activities, prompting an enforced blackout on its sale to eliminate any undue influence. "The alcohol ban is a measure to ensure a fair election process," asserted ECT Phuket, underlining its role in sustaining a balanced election landscape. Meanwhile, Visakha Bucha Day commands its alcohol restriction nationwide, marking Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and passing. Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, head of the Phuket Provincial Police, reiterated the decision: "No alcohol sales will be permitted in observance of the religious holiday." Violating either ban is a serious offence. Sellers ignore these rules at their peril, facing penalties of up to six months' incarceration, fines reaching 10,000 baht, or a combination of both. For those indulging in Phuket’s vibrant nightlife, it’s a weekend requiring a pause and reflection over the usual revelry. The ban's effects ripple beyond Sunday, with government offices shutting their doors on Monday, 12th May, marking a national substitution day holiday for Visakha Bucha Day, offering residents a contemplative end to an unusually sober weekend. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Thai Teenager Missing for a Week: Family Appeals for Public's Help Photo via Facebook/ ปภัสสร ฯ. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 17-year-old Naphatsorn “Namtan” Plerphukiao from Chachoengsao province has captured national attention, as today marks a week since she went missing. The young girl was last seen taking a taxi from her dormitory in Pathum Thani to Bangkok, before vanishing without a trace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360129-thai-teenager-missing-for-a-week-family-appeals-for-publics-help/

Photo via Facebook/ ปภัสสร ฯ. The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 17-year-old Naphatsorn “Namtan” Plerphukiao from Chachoengsao province has captured national attention, as today marks a week since she went missing. The young girl was last seen taking a taxi from her dormitory in Pathum Thani to Bangkok, before vanishing without a trace. Namtan had been residing in Pathum Thani for an internship, leaving her dormitory at 12:06 am on 1st May. CCTV footage captured her entering an orange taxi, which she booked via a mobile app. The taxi reportedly took her to the Rama 3 area of Bangkok, yet the reason for the trip remains unclear. Crucially, Namtan did not take any personal belongings with her, apart from her mobile phone, indicating an unexpected departure. Her father, Boonlert Plerphukiao, has since travelled from Udon Thani to Bangkok in search of answers. He sought assistance from Channel 7, a Thai television network, in the hope of reaching a broader audience to aid the search. Meanwhile, the family has turned to social media to appeal for any information about Namtan's whereabouts, urging anyone with knowledge to come forward. The ride-hailing app revealed that after reaching Rama 3, Namtan arranged another taxi to Pattaya Walking Street. However, the driver cancelled the journey midway, suggesting her disappearance might have occurred in Chachoengsao province. In response, the family filed a missing person's report at Chulalongkorn Pratunam Police Station in Pathum Thani. Namtan left her accommodation on the orange taxi. | Photo via Facebook/ หนองวัวซอ อัปเดต ธีระแก๊ส Boonlert has frequently attempted to contact his daughter by phone, but all calls have gone unanswered. The family is desperately seeking information from the ride-hailing company about her last known trip in a bid to trace her steps. The police, along with Namtan's family, are hoping the public can provide crucial insights that might lead to her safe return. Namtan's family has invited anyone with information to contact them directly. Her father can be reached at 098-359-5216, and further contacts include her grandmother at 062-375-9349, or through her sister's Facebook account, ปภัสสร ฯ. Concerns over Namtan's safety are acute, with netizens speculating about potential conflicts that might have led her to cut contact. Nonetheless, the family has not disclosed any issues that could have prompted her disappearance. The focus remains squarely on finding Namtan and ensuring her wellbeing. As the days progress, the hope is that increased public attention will expedite her discovery and reunite her with her family. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

Covid-19 Resurgence in Thailand: Over 8,000 Cases Reported in a Week File photo for reference only Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. This uptick in cases has been brought to attention by Assoc Prof Dr Thira Woratanarat, a respected public health expert from Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok has emerged as the epicentre of this latest wave, logging the highest number of new infections at 2,377, according to Dr Thira's recent analysis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360125-covid-19-resurgence-in-thailand-over-8000-cases-reported-in-a-week/

File photo for reference only Thailand is witnessing a worrying resurgence of Covid-19 cases, with over 8,446 hospital visits recorded between 27th April and 3rd May. This uptick in cases has been brought to attention by Assoc Prof Dr Thira Woratanarat, a respected public health expert from Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok has emerged as the epicentre of this latest wave, logging the highest number of new infections at 2,377, according to Dr Thira's recent analysis. Following Bangkok, other areas with significant numbers include Chonburi with 680 cases, Nonthaburi reporting 490, Rayong with 380, and Samut Prakan recording 327 cases. This resurgence underscores a pivotal challenge as the country hoped to maintain control over the Covid-19 situation. One of the notable trends in this recent surge is the age distribution of those affected. The highest infection rates are among individuals aged 30 to 39 years, accounting for 1,794 cases. Close behind are those aged 20 to 29, with 1,540 cases. Crucially, older adults over 60 also figure prominently, recording 1,536 infections. However, it is the spike in cases among very young children, aged 0 to 4, that is raising special concern, with 682 cases identified. Dr Thira has highlighted these dynamics to alert public health officials and the general public about the broader implications of this trend. He pointed out that between 4th and 7th May, Covid-19 cases were roughly double the number of influenza cases, spotlighting the severity of the current outbreak. In this period, there were 2,593 Covid-19 cases compared to 1,321 influenza cases. Worryingly, there has also been one recorded Covid-19-related death during this timeframe. The health expert warns that individuals showing symptoms right now have a two-to-one likelihood of having Covid-19 over influenza, with an estimated 67% chance of contracting the virus if symptomatic. In response to this renewed threat, Dr Thira stressed the importance of targeted precautions for vulnerable groups such as young children, school students, the elderly, and those already hospitalised. He advises that individuals, particularly those working, should make health assessments a routine to ensure both personal safety and the safety of others. Dr Thira also recommends routine screening for inpatients and those scheduled for surgery, helping to safeguard patients and medical staff within healthcare facilities. He further called on educational institutions, childcare centres, elderly care facilities, and hospitals to adopt and enforce effective risk management strategies promptly. Quick action is necessary, he emphasised, to prevent a broader outbreak that could affect diverse age groups. The call for vigilance and proactive measures aligns with a global understanding that pandemic control requires collective effort and community-wide commitment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-08

File photo for reference only QUẢNG NAM — Lifestart Foundation, an Australian-origin not-for-profit organisation based in Hội An, recently donated ten clean water filtration systems and water tanks to underprivileged schools in the mountainous areas of Quảng Nam province. This initiative aims to improve access to clean drinking water for students and staff in rural districts, including Phước Sơn, Quế Sơn, and Thăng Bình. These newly installed systems benefit over 2,200 students and staff, particularly in Phước Sơn, where many schools serve the Giẻ Triêng ethnic group. The lack of clean water has been a significant challenge, with some students relying on bottled water or bringing water from home due to limited financial resources. Each filtration system is valued at VNĐ66.4 million (US$2,740) and can purify up to 250 litres per hour, removing contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and heavy metals. Paired with 500-litre storage tanks, these systems ensure a continuous supply of safe water, with this round of installations costing over VNĐ472 million (more than $19,500). Since its clean water initiative began in 2021, Lifestart Foundation has provided 48 filtration systems across Quảng Nam, benefitting over 12,400 individuals, including students and educators, with donations exceeding VNĐ2.2 billion ($90,000). Karen Leonard OAM, founder of Lifestart Foundation, emphasized the importance of clean water for health and education, stating that the foundation is committed to enhancing the learning environment in disadvantaged communities. Trần Văn Mai, Chairman of the Quảng Nam Province Union of Friendship Organisations, praised the foundation's timely support, encouraging schools to maintain the systems for long-term benefit. Nguyễn Văn Lanh, principal of Quế Xuân 1 Primary School, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting it ends the practice of students bringing water from home and commits to the system's upkeep. Lifestart Foundation is dedicated to driving lasting improvement in central Việt Nam, focusing on vulnerable populations, particularly children. The organisation plans to donate ten more systems soon, aiming to support a total of 58 schools. Beyond clean water, Lifestart Foundation has invested VNĐ33 billion ($1.28 million) in the region, supporting underprivileged youth through education scholarships and housing improvement projects. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-07

Photo: Vietnam News THANH HÓA — Police in Thanh Hóa Province have detained two foreign nationals amid an investigation into the alleged desecration of the royal tomb of Emperor Lê Túc Tông. The tomb, located in Kiên Thọ Commune, Ngọc Lặc District, showed signs of intrusion last Saturday evening. Officials from the Thanh Hóa Centre for Historical Research and Cultural Heritage Conservation discovered evidence of disturbance at the tomb, including a mobile phone with Chinese-language settings, identity documents of a Chinese citizen, and a metal probing tool indicative of artefact searching. The heritage centre promptly reported these findings to the Thanh Hóa Province Police Department. Upon suspecting that the two individuals involved were fleeing the country, local police alerted counterparts in Quảng Ninh Province. On Sunday at approximately 2.15pm, Quảng Ninh police apprehended Deng Zhui, 41, and Shen Jiangyang, 43, both from Guangxi Province, China. The suspects were subsequently transferred to Thanh Hóa Province police for further investigation. Preliminary investigations suggest that Deng and Shen violated laws pertaining to the desecration of tombs and human remains, specifically targeting the royal resting place of Emperor Lê Túc Tông. The emperor, also known as Lê Thuần, ruled during the Thái Trinh era, briefly ascending the throne in 1504 and being interred at Kính Lăng in what is now Kiên Thọ Commune after his death in 1505. Lê Túc Tông, celebrated for his intelligence, virtue, and devotion to promoting stability, succeeded his father, Emperor Lê Hiến Tông. His reign, although short, was noted for respecting the wise and maintaining peace, as documented in the Đại Việt sử ký toàn thư (The Complete Annals of Đại Việt). The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the suspected desecration of this significant historical site. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-05-07

File photo for reference only A Vietnam Airlines flight from Hanoi to Frankfurt made an emergency landing in Turkey on May 6 due to a passenger's serious medical condition. The incident occurred when Flight VN37, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, had been airborne for approximately eight hours. A 61-year-old Vietnamese male passenger began experiencing severe breathing difficulties and oxygen deficiency. In response, the cabin crew issued an onboard medical call, prompting a doctor on the flight to administer first aid and oxygen. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the flight crew decided to divert to the closest airport, landing at Erzurum Airport in eastern Turkey at 10:32 a.m. (Vietnam time). Emergency medical responders swiftly boarded the plane, transferring the passenger and a family member to a local hospital for urgent care. After completing necessary procedural checks and receiving clearance from Turkish authorities, the flight continued to Frankfurt at 3:00 p.m. the same day, arriving over six hours late. Despite the delay, passengers commended the crew for their prompt action and prioritization of the passenger's health. Vietnam Airlines highlighted this incident as a testament to its commitment to safety and the professionalism of its crew in handling emergencies. The airline acknowledged the financial and logistical challenges, such as additional fuel costs and schedule disruptions, but affirmed that health and safety are paramount. This instance is not isolated for Vietnam Airlines, as the carrier has rerouted flights for medical emergencies in the past. Earlier cases include a diversion to Da Nang in January and an emergency landing in Taiwan in December 2024 for similar medical reasons. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-07

File photo for reference only MANILA, Philippines — Criminal charges have been filed against a vlogger for allegedly disseminating false information about a purported police raid on former President Rodrigo Duterte's residence in Davao City. The complaint, filed by the Davao City police and the Anti-Cybercrime Group, cites violations of Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code, concerning the unlawful use of means of publication and unlawful utterances, in connection with Republic Act 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act. The vlogger, whose identity remains undisclosed by the Philippine National Police (PNP), posted on social media on April 30, claiming that 30 officers from the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, along with 90 Special Action Force commandos, had raided Duterte’s property. This misinformation led to hundreds of Duterte's supporters gathering at the location in response to the false alarm. Col. Randulf Tuano, the PNP public information officer, stated that the identity of the vlogger would be revealed once an arrest warrant is issued. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address the spread of false information and the legal implications of such actions within the Philippines. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-07

File photo for reference only The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has called for a fair and data-driven approach to the ongoing discussions surrounding the nationwide wage hike proposals. This approach aims to ensure worker welfare is safeguarded without compromising the country's economic stability. DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma highlighted that the department has provided Congress with technical inputs on the matter and emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue among labor, employers, and government entities. The current proposal under consideration is a P200 increase in the daily minimum wage. In his Labor Day message, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supported a meticulous and comprehensive review of wage proposals. He advocated for a balance that delivers long-term benefits without risking jobs and investments. Business groups have voiced concerns over the potential negative impact of a uniform wage hike on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Given that MSMEs constitute over 99 percent of businesses nationally, the fear is that the additional financial burden could lead to layoffs or increased consumer prices. Laguesma reiterated that wage-setting authority remains with the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs). These boards assess factors such as inflation, the cost of living, and employers’ ability to pay before setting region-specific wage levels. While Congress holds the power to legislate wages, the executive branch, through DOLE, offers technical support and policy insights to aid in legislative discussions. "As part of the executive, we provide technical support and act as resource persons. Whether our recommendations are adopted or not, we respect the legislative process," Laguesma stated. The Ibon Foundation, an independent think tank, emphasized the equity aspect of higher wages, citing the widening gap between workers’ earnings and corporate profits. They pointed out that current wages haven't kept pace with the rising cost of living, advocating for policies that fairly distribute economic benefits. Aside from wage discussions, DOLE continues to enhance programs for low-income and vulnerable workers, focusing on employment facilitation, skills development, and social protection services. Wage determination in the Philippines is governed by Republic Act No. 6727, or the Wage Rationalization Act, which empowers RTWPBs to set region-specific wages based on economic conditions. As of May 2025, the National Capital Region (NCR) maintains the highest minimum daily wage at P645, following a P35 increase under Wage Order No. NCR-25, issued in July 2024. Several wage petitions are still pending across different regions, with labor groups urging that wage policies should reflect the true cost of living and promote dignified employment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-07

File photo for reference only Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has directed police forces nationwide to ramp up their efforts against vote-buying as the country approaches the crucial May 12 elections. With a heightened security alert in place since May 3, Marbil has insisted on the visibility of police commanders alongside their units to ensure election security. "We are now entering the most crucial phase of our preparations. By May 8, we will begin the full deployment of our personnel on the ground to secure polling precincts, vital installations, and other areas of concern,” Marbil stated. A significant part of this effort includes "Kontra-Bigay," a campaign focused on combating vote-buying and other electoral violations, which regional directors will oversee from May 9 onwards. Intelligence gathering has been intensified to catch candidates engaging in vote-buying activities, with evidence forwarded to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for legal action. During a command conference at Camp Crame in Quezon City, Marbil outlined the final operational plans for election security and reaffirmed the PNP's role in safeguarding the integrity of elections. In terms of other security measures, Marbil emphasized the strict implementation of a campaign activity ban starting May 10 and a liquor ban beginning May 11. Store owners have been reminded of these prohibitions to prevent any electoral disruptions. Concurrently, operations against loose firearms and private armed groups will persist. In preparation for the elections, around 120,000 police officers are set to be deployed to secure approximately 37,000 voting centers. The PNP is finalizing the logistics, including transportation and communication equipment, in collaboration with Comelec and other partner agencies. "As we enter the final stretch, I urge every member of the PNP to stay focused, upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” Marbil urged. "On May 12, Election Day, we must remain apolitical. Let us show the Filipino people that the PNP can be trusted — visible, impartial, and fully committed to ensuring a peaceful election." Marbil’s directives underscore a comprehensive approach to election security, aiming to protect the democratic process and ensure fair, credible elections in the Philippines. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-07

Thai Post Eyes Potential U.S. Tariff Risks, Reports Strong Q1 Growth File photo for reference only Thailand Post has flagged reciprocal import tariffs from the United States as a potential risk to global cross-border shipping, urging logistics firms to monitor the situation closely. Chief Executive Dhanant Subhadrabandhu highlighted that these tariffs, originally set to take effect on April 9 but paused for 90 days, could notably affect global trade dynamics and shipping volumes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360040-thai-post-eyes-potential-us-tariff-risks-reports-strong-q1-growth/

File photo for reference only Thailand Post has flagged reciprocal import tariffs from the United States as a potential risk to global cross-border shipping, urging logistics firms to monitor the situation closely. Chief Executive Dhanant Subhadrabandhu highlighted that these tariffs, originally set to take effect on April 9 but paused for 90 days, could notably affect global trade dynamics and shipping volumes. Thailand Post, collaborating with the United States Postal Service, is actively exchanging information on these policies, including the "de minimis" exemption allowing for import tax exemptions on items valued below US$800 during the pause. This collaboration aims to mitigate potential disruptions by leveraging Thailand Post’s expansive logistics network, which covers 205 destinations worldwide. Despite these potential challenges, Thailand Post has reported robust growth in the first quarter of the year, with total revenue reaching 5.9 billion baht, marking an 11.8% increase year-on-year. Net profit spiked over 227% to more than 534 million baht, driven by effective cost controls and the enhancement of revenue streams. Parcel delivery revenues surged 10% per parcel, alongside a domestic postal service revenue increase of 20.1% and a 13.1% rise in the transport and logistics sector. The agency's retail business revenues also rose to 5.94 billion baht, a significant improvement from the previous year. To support Thai businesses in reaching international markets, Thailand Post has formed partnerships with platforms like eBay and Amazon, offering logistics and warehousing solutions for cross-border sellers. Looking ahead, the Post Next Business Group plans to upgrade existing services into the information logistics sector. In the third quarter, Thailand Post will launch new features like Digital Postbox, an electronic document exchange system, and Prompt Vote, a secure online voting system. The organisation is set to invest 1.4 billion baht in IT and automation enhancements, positioning itself as a tech-focused postal company. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-07

Fire Destroys Battery Storage Room; Investigations Underway Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday evening, a fire engulfed a battery storage room designated for solar panels in Bang Pa-in district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The blaze, punctuated by several explosions, was quickly handled by emergency services, preventing its spread to neighbouring homes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360039-fire-destroys-battery-storage-room-investigations-underway/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday evening, a fire engulfed a battery storage room designated for solar panels in Bang Pa-in district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The blaze, punctuated by several explosions, was quickly handled by emergency services, preventing its spread to neighbouring homes. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Police's 191 emergency centre reported the fire at approximately 5.30pm, at a residence in Baan Krot subdistrict. Firetrucks from Ban Krot municipality were dispatched to the scene and arrived to find the fire consuming a prefabricated house, which housed batteries used to store energy from solar panels installed on the roof. After about 30 minutes, the firefighting teams managed to contain the blaze. Despite their swift efforts, the prefabricated house was entirely destroyed, and an electric motorcycle was damaged in the incident. Pawin Uratana, the 23-year-old son of the homeowner, reported hearing six to seven explosions before the fire took hold. At the time, five people were inside the nearby two-story concrete house. They acted quickly to try to control the flames before calling the emergency services. The exact cause of the fire is currently unknown. Officers from Bang Pa-in Police Station are conducting an investigation, working closely with forensic officials to examine the scene thoroughly. Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were reported, and authorities are focused on determining the fire's origin to prevent future incidents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-07

Phetchabun Woman Struggles Financially After Accident With Drunk Driver Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A devastating car accident has left 40-year-old Namphueng Jetsorn bedridden and facing severe financial hardships, as she awaits justice in Phetchabun province. The incident occurred on January 18 in Bueng Sam Phan district when Namphueng was struck by a car driven by 46-year-old Chakrit, who was reportedly under the influence at the time. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360038-phetchabun-woman-struggles-financially-after-accident-with-drunk-driver/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A devastating car accident has left 40-year-old Namphueng Jetsorn bedridden and facing severe financial hardships, as she awaits justice in Phetchabun province. The incident occurred on January 18 in Bueng Sam Phan district when Namphueng was struck by a car driven by 46-year-old Chakrit, who was reportedly under the influence at the time. Namphueng has drained her savings, spending over 100,000 baht (US$3,050) on medical expenses, yet has received no compensation. Police mediation resulted in an agreement for Chakrit to pay 70,000 baht (US$2,135), but no funds have been provided. Chakrit's dismissive stance, allegedly urging Namphueng to seek legal action for compensation, has added to her predicament, as she cannot afford the legal costs. Recounting the accident, Namphueng explained that Chakrit's car suddenly appeared from his workplace, hitting a median barrier before colliding with her motorcycle. She sustained severe injuries, including a broken arm and leg and a blocked cerebral artery, complicating her recovery. Initially, Chakrit visited her in the hospital but ceased contact when compensation discussions arose. Namphueng hoped for a fair settlement, expressing disappointment over Chakrit's refusal to acknowledge her injuries. The accident has plunged Namphueng's family into financial distress. Her father, 62-year-old Srinil Klaisuban, expressed his anguish, noting that Namphueng, once the primary provider, is now immobilised. The family's financial woes have deepened, with unpaid bills leading to their electricity being disconnected. They are dependent on a neighbour's power supply and face the threat of their car being repossessed. Their funds depleted by medical costs, and unable to continue their agricultural work, the family is in dire straits. Srinil has publicly appealed for Chakrit to assume responsibility, as the lack of progress in the legal case exacerbates their financial burden. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-07

Pattaya Police Officers Injured in High-Speed Motorcycle Chase Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News A routine patrol in Pattaya escalated into a street-side calamity as two police officers were injured during a high-speed chase involving a suspicious motorbike. The incident occurred at sunset on May 5, along Soi Nern Plub Wan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360037-pattaya-police-officers-injured-in-high-speed-motorcycle-chase/