ASEAN member states gathered in Manila for a maritime security dialogue, focusing on maintaining a rules-based order in the South China Sea. The discussions involved academics, policymakers, and maritime experts. The dialogue emphasized the importance of strategic autonomy, with ASEAN nations expressing their desire to address maritime security without external influence from major powers like…
A devastating flash flood and landslide in West Papua have claimed at least 10 lives, with search and rescue operations continuing. The disaster struck a mining area, engulfing temporary shelters used by workers. Authorities have deployed over 100 personnel to assist in recovery efforts. Families of the victims have joined the search, hoping to locate…
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a tax bill championed by former President Donald Trump, following last-minute amendments. The bill, which aims to restructure tax policies, has sparked debate among lawmakers and economists. Supporters argue that the bill will stimulate economic growth and benefit businesses, while critics warn that it may disproportionately favor corporations…
Washington, D.C.—U.S. cybersecurity and national security experts have raised alarm over discovering undocumented communication devices embedded in Chinese-manufactured solar power inverters. These devices, which may enable remote control of critical infrastructure, have heightened concerns about potential grid instability and widespread blackouts. Mike Rogers, former director of the U.S. National Security Agency, warned that such vulnerabilities…
Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has issued a warning as several areas in Luzon and Visayas experience dangerously high heat index levels, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. According to PAGASA, Dagupan City, Pangasinan, and Aparri, Cagayan recorded the highest heat index at 45°C, while five other areas—including…
May 19, 2025 – Stock markets across the Asia-Pacific region opened lower on Monday as investors reacted to Moody’s downgrade of the U.S. credit rating. The agency lowered the U.S. sovereign rating from Aaa to Aa1, citing concerns over rising fiscal challenges, growing federal debt, and refinancing difficulties amid elevated interest rates. Markets showed mixed…
Washington, D.C. – Former U.S. President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with an advanced form of prostate cancer that has metastasized to his bones, his office confirmed on Sunday. The diagnosis comes after Biden experienced urinary symptoms, prompting medical evaluations that led to the discovery of a prostate nodule. Biden’s medical team has classified…
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially proclaimed the 12 winning senators of the 2025 midterm elections, with familiar political names securing key seats in the upper chamber. Election Results Senator Bong Go leads the race, topping the polls with 27.12 million votes, securing a second consecutive term. Former Senator Bam Aquino…
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments Thursday on former President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to restrict birthright citizenship. While the court appeared hesitant to allow the policy to take effect, justices debated whether lower courts should have the power to block presidential orders nationwide. Trump’s order, signed on his first…
Berlin, Germany – The Philippines and Germany have officially signed a defense cooperation agreement, strengthening military ties as Manila seeks to bolster its alliances amid ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The agreement, signed by Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, expands cooperation between the two nations in…
