Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso on Monday filed his certificate of candidacy to run for May 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines.

Domagoso, 46, popularly known by his celebrity nickname Isko Moreno, and his running-mate Willie Ong, a doctor with more than 16 million followers on Facebook, filed their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections, reports Xinhua news agency.

The mayor of the Philippine capital will run under the political party Aksyon Demokratiko, of which he is the President.

According to a recent survey published by Pulse Asia, 13 per cent of the Filipino respondents expressed support for Domagoso as a "probable" presidential candidate.

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Monday's development comes two days after incumbent President Rodrigo Duterte announced his retirement from politics, adding that he will not contest for Vice President in 2022 elections.

Meanwhile, his former long-time aid and Senator Christopher Go, 47, has his candidacy for Vice President.

On October 1, Filipino boxing icon and Senator Manny Pacquiao became to first candidate to file his official certificate, just days after he announced his retirement from boxing.

The May 9, 2022 elections will elect the President, Vice President, half of the 24-member Senate, members of the House of Representatives, and other local officials.

Candidates have until Friday to file their official certificates to contest the polls.

The EU had yet to formally reply to UK proposals made in July to reform the so-called Northern Ireland Protocol, he noted.

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"But from what I hear, I worry that we will not get one which enables the significant change we need.&nbsp;

"So I urge the EU to be ambitious. It's no use tinkering around the edges. &nbsp;We need significant change," Frost said.&nbsp;

"But we cannot wait for ever. Without an agreed solution soon, we will need to act, using the Article 16 safeguard mechanism, to address the impact the protocol is having on Northern Ireland."

The protocol formed part of the UK's drawn-out divorce from the EU, and was designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the bloc's single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland.

But pro-UK unionists in Northern Ireland are opposed, arguing that border checks on goods from mainland Great Britain -- England, Scotland and Wales -- effectively creates a border in the Irish Sea, compromising the province's place in the wider UK.

Brussels insists that the protocol is not up for renegotiation, and could trigger trade reprisals should the UK invoke its Article 16, which would suspend the pact owing to extraordinary circumstances.

"That may in the end be the only way to protect our country -- our people, our trade, our territorial integrity, the peace process, and the benefits of this great UK of which we are all part," Frost warned.

Addressing the annual conference of the ruling Conservative party, Brexit minister David Frost said: "The long bad dream of our EU membership is over.

Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso on Monday filed his certificate of candidacy to run for May 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines. Domagoso, 46, popularly known by his celebrity nickname Isko Moreno, and his running-mate Willie Ong, a doctor with more than 16 million followers on Facebook, filed their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections, reports Xinhua news agency.

Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso on Monday filed his certificate of candidacy to run for May 2022 presidential elections in the Philippines. Domagoso, 46, popularly known by his celebrity nickname Isko Moreno, and his running-mate Willie Ong, a doctor with more than 16 million followers on Facebook, filed their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections, reports Xinhua news agency. The mayor of the Philippine capital will run under the political party Aksyon Demokratiko, of which he is the President. According to a recent survey published by Pulse Asia, 13 per cent of the Filipino respondents expressed support for Domagoso as a "probable" presidential candidate. Also Read: Hong Kong Stock Exchange halts trading of Evergrande shares Monday's development comes two days after incumbent President Rodrigo Duterte announced his retirement from politics, adding that he will not contest for Vice President in 2022 elections. Meanwhile, his former long-time aid and Senator Christopher Go, 47, has his candidacy for Vice President. On October 1, Filipino boxing icon and Senator Manny Pacquiao became to first candidate to file his official certificate, just days after he announced his retirement from boxing. The May 9, 2022 elections will elect the President, Vice President, half of the 24-member Senate, members of the House of Representatives, and other local officials. Candidates have until Friday to file their official certificates to contest the polls. The EU had yet to formally reply to UK proposals made in July to reform the so-called Northern Ireland Protocol, he noted. Also Read | Trial of Myanmar's Suu Kyi taking toll on her health: Lawyer "But from what I hear, I worry that we will not get one which enables the significant change we need. "So I urge the EU to be ambitious. It's no use tinkering around the edges. We need significant change," Frost said. "But we cannot wait for ever. Without an agreed solution soon, we will need to act, using the Article 16 safeguard mechanism, to address the impact the protocol is having on Northern Ireland." The protocol formed part of the UK's drawn-out divorce from the EU, and was designed to prevent unchecked goods heading into the bloc's single market via the UK's only land border with the EU to Ireland. But pro-UK unionists in Northern Ireland are opposed, arguing that border checks on goods from mainland Great Britain -- England, Scotland and Wales -- effectively creates a border in the Irish Sea, compromising the province's place in the wider UK. Brussels insists that the protocol is not up for renegotiation, and could trigger trade reprisals should the UK invoke its Article 16, which would suspend the pact owing to extraordinary circumstances. "That may in the end be the only way to protect our country -- our people, our trade, our territorial integrity, the peace process, and the benefits of this great UK of which we are all part," Frost warned. Addressing the annual conference of the ruling Conservative party, Brexit minister David Frost said: "The long bad dream of our EU membership is over.

Manila Mayor officially joins 2022 presidential race

The&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;will ease coronavirus restrictions in the capital Manila to spur economic activity, officials said Tuesday, despite record infection numbers and a warning from the WHO against the move.

Restaurants, churches and beauty salons in the national capital region will open at lower capacities from Thursday to get tens of thousands more people back to work.

"We should strive for total health and this can only be realised by carefully balancing our COVID-19 response by considering both the health of our people and the economic health of the nation," President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque said.

Virus cases have surged to record levels — more than 140,000 cases in the past week — thanks to an outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant.

The World Health Organization's representative in the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;on Tuesday warned against relaxing curbs.

While six of 10 adults in the capital are fully inoculated, "this is not adequate at this point to relax quarantine positions", the WHO's official in the&nbsp;Philippines, Rabindra Abeyasinghe, told government television.

"If there is a further increase in the current transmission levels, it could lead to an overwhelming of the hospital systems, that's why we need to be very careful in calibrating how we respond to the current situation," he said.

The metropolis of 13 million will be placed on the second-highest alert under a new classification system that replaces guidelines which left many residents and business owners confused about which activities were allowed.

Localised lockdowns targeting specific buildings, streets or neighbourhoods will be enforced to check the spread of the virus, replacing the current scheme that covers entire cities and regions.

Fully vaccinated customers in the capital region can now be served indoors in restaurants and beauty salons at up to 10 per cent capacity, and at outdoor venues at up to 30 per cent capacity regardless of vaccination status.

Churches will also be allowed to seat 10 per cent of their capacity for services but other indoor group activities, including those that lead to crowding, remain banned.

<h2>Cost of lockdown&nbsp;</h2>

A succession of shutdowns since the start of the pandemic has sidelined more than two million workers in the food and leisure sectors in the capital alone, according to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez.&nbsp;

Millions of children started a second year of remote lessons this week in the&nbsp;Philippines, which has kept schools closed since the start of the pandemic.

Officials said Tuesday that when the alert level is reduced to the second lowest, classrooms may reopen alongside indoor entertainment and social events at up to 50 per cent capacity.

Duterte has previously said the country cannot afford more lockdowns.

But authorities have had few options to slow the spread of the virus as hospitals have filled up and the nationwide vaccination rate remains low at 22 per cent.

The president said in a pre-recorded television address aired Tuesday that vaccinations -- now limited to priority sectors -- could start for the general adult population next month "if there is a stable vaccine supply".

The coronavirus has infected more than 2.2 million people and killed more than 35,000 in the country.

The Philippines will ease coronavirus restrictions in the capital Manila to spur economic activity, officials said Tuesday, despite record infection numbers and a warning from the WHO against the move.

The Philippines will ease coronavirus restrictions in the capital Manila to spur economic activity, officials said Tuesday, despite record infection numbers and a warning from the WHO against the move. Restaurants, churches and beauty salons in the national capital region will open at lower capacities from Thursday to get tens of thousands more people back to work. "We should strive for total health and this can only be realised by carefully balancing our COVID-19 response by considering both the health of our people and the economic health of the nation," President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque said. Virus cases have surged to record levels — more than 140,000 cases in the past week — thanks to an outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant. The World Health Organization's representative in the Philippines on Tuesday warned against relaxing curbs. While six of 10 adults in the capital are fully inoculated, "this is not adequate at this point to relax quarantine positions", the WHO's official in the Philippines, Rabindra Abeyasinghe, told government television. "If there is a further increase in the current transmission levels, it could lead to an overwhelming of the hospital systems, that's why we need to be very careful in calibrating how we respond to the current situation," he said. The metropolis of 13 million will be placed on the second-highest alert under a new classification system that replaces guidelines which left many residents and business owners confused about which activities were allowed. Localised lockdowns targeting specific buildings, streets or neighbourhoods will be enforced to check the spread of the virus, replacing the current scheme that covers entire cities and regions. Fully vaccinated customers in the capital region can now be served indoors in restaurants and beauty salons at up to 10 per cent capacity, and at outdoor venues at up to 30 per cent capacity regardless of vaccination status. Churches will also be allowed to seat 10 per cent of their capacity for services but other indoor group activities, including those that lead to crowding, remain banned. Cost of lockdown A succession of shutdowns since the start of the pandemic has sidelined more than two million workers in the food and leisure sectors in the capital alone, according to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez. Millions of children started a second year of remote lessons this week in the Philippines, which has kept schools closed since the start of the pandemic. Officials said Tuesday that when the alert level is reduced to the second lowest, classrooms may reopen alongside indoor entertainment and social events at up to 50 per cent capacity. Duterte has previously said the country cannot afford more lockdowns. But authorities have had few options to slow the spread of the virus as hospitals have filled up and the nationwide vaccination rate remains low at 22 per cent. The president said in a pre-recorded television address aired Tuesday that vaccinations -- now limited to priority sectors -- could start for the general adult population next month "if there is a stable vaccine supply". The coronavirus has infected more than 2.2 million people and killed more than 35,000 in the country.

Philippines eases virus lockdown in capital to spur economy despite WHO warning

Philippines evacuates thousands as monsoon rains flood Manila, provinces

The COVID -19 cases surging in Manila. The Philipines has ordered more than 24 million people in and around Manila into complete Coronavirus lockdown.

Coronavirus Update: Philippines announces strict COVID-19 lockdown in and around Manila

Hundreds of Filipino Catholics, many in face shields, attended Ash Wednesday services in Manila on Wednesday (February 26) to mark the start of Lent.

Face-shielded Filipino Catholics observe Ash Wednesday in Manila

Sitting in gondolas, moviegoers in the Philippine capital are enjoying films while keeping safe amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Venice Grand Canal set up a screen in an outdoor "canal" of the upscale mall earlier in December and started showing films for those who miss the big screen as theatres have been closed since mid-March to stop the spread of the virus.

Philippines: Float-in cinema helps Manila moviegoers with social distancing

Heavy rain effectively shut down Manila, the sprawling capital of 12 million people, and surrounding areas.

Typhoon Vamco lashes the Philippines, paralyses parts of Manila

A group of Filipino teachers have found a creative way to help children of indigenous communities living in remote mountains north of Manila catch up on their studies under the new norms of pandemic restrictions. Using old bookshelves and used wooden boards, the teachers built a makeshift learning centre complete with a large monitor.

Filipino teachers bring classrooms to isolated villages via travelling-school rickshaw

Coronavirus-wary animal owners in the Philippines had their pets blessed via a drive-through ceremony on Sunday to mark World Animal Day and the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.

Pandemic prompts drive-through pet blessing in Philippines

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that&nbsp;he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila.

Moreno&nbsp;has shut down four stores that sold the Ashley Shine hair care product. Now, he is asking the government to deport all Chinese citizens who are importing such strangely-labelled products and selling them in his city.

Mayor Isko Moreno is very popular in the Philippines. He is even seen as a Presidential candidate for 2022 elections. So, his posts lit up the social media platforms and a hashtag of #ProvinceOfChina began to trend.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-china-clamour-in-the-philippines-323800/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Filippinos started noticing many more Ashley Shine products carrying labels listing Manila as a province of China. That prompted other politicians to join the battle.

Lawmaker Jericho Nograles started shooting off letters to authorities. He has called for blacklisting of the Chinese manufacturer and&nbsp;termed the mislabeling a repulsive offense against the Philippines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-dual-bomb-blast-two-female-suicide-attackers-carried-bomb-blasts-323209">Also read|&nbsp;Philippines dual bomb blast, Two female suicide attackers carried bomb blasts</a>

The Mayor Isko Moreno wants criminal charges filed against the distributor Elegant Fumes Beauty Products.

The Presidential office is portraying the incident as being trivial — something that doesn't deserve the attention of the President Rodrigo Duterte. His spokesperson said "no one believes we are a province of China."

However, the Filipinos have always been angered by Chinese actions, and especially China's illegal claims over the Philippine territories in the South China sea.

Also, previously, textile products have identified Philippine cities as part of China. A geotag on Facebook and Instagram once displayed: the Philippines, the province of China.

It is not a matter of belief, but perception. A perception that China is out to get the Philippines and&nbsp;that the government&nbsp;is not standing up to it. The Filipinos believe this mislabeling is yet another attempt of China to mess with their minds.

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila.

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila. Moreno has shut down four stores that sold the Ashley Shine hair care product. Now, he is asking the government to deport all Chinese citizens who are importing such strangely-labelled products and selling them in his city. Mayor Isko Moreno is very popular in the Philippines. He is even seen as a Presidential candidate for 2022 elections. So, his posts lit up the social media platforms and a hashtag of #ProvinceOfChina began to trend. Filippinos started noticing many more Ashley Shine products carrying labels listing Manila as a province of China. That prompted other politicians to join the battle. Lawmaker Jericho Nograles started shooting off letters to authorities. He has called for blacklisting of the Chinese manufacturer and termed the mislabeling a repulsive offense against the Philippines. Also read| Philippines dual bomb blast, Two female suicide attackers carried bomb blasts The Mayor Isko Moreno wants criminal charges filed against the distributor Elegant Fumes Beauty Products. The Presidential office is portraying the incident as being trivial — something that doesn't deserve the attention of the President Rodrigo Duterte. His spokesperson said "no one believes we are a province of China." However, the Filipinos have always been angered by Chinese actions, and especially China's illegal claims over the Philippine territories in the South China sea. Also, previously, textile products have identified Philippine cities as part of China. A geotag on Facebook and Instagram once displayed: the Philippines, the province of China. It is not a matter of belief, but perception. A perception that China is out to get the Philippines and that the government is not standing up to it. The Filipinos believe this mislabeling is yet another attempt of China to mess with their minds.

'Governor of Manila, not China': Isko Moreno's statement takes over Twitter with #ProvinceOfChina

The Philippines' iconic and notoriously packed and polluting jeepneys were back on the road in the capital's thoroughfares for the first time on Friday (July 3) following the government's further easing of measures to revive an economy squeezed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Iconic jeepneys back on the road in Philippine capital

The lockdown in Manila, which was one of the world's longest and strictest, was relaxed on June 1 to reduce the economic damage of the pandemic. Restaurants in the capital on Monday (June 15) were allowed to reopen their dine-in services, provided they allow only a 30 percent seating capacity and adhere to strict health protocols inside the establishments.

Partial dine-in services resume in Philippine capital amid lockdown ease

Traffic jams, honking, taxis, and ride-sharing were seen on the streets of Manila on Monday as the Philippines relaxed one of the world's longest lockdown from the capital city.

Commuter trains, special shuttle buses, and motorcycles ran on the road in metropolitan Manila, the Guardian reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-threatens-martial-law-like-virus-crackdown-293127">Philippines' Duterte threatens martial law-like virus crackdown</a>

However, the vehicles are allowed to operate only a fraction of their capacity.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/home-quarantine-no-option-for-thousands-in-philippines-288048">Home quarantine no option for thousands in Philippines</a>

Public transport also did not resume its full services and many commuters waited for hours to get their ride. There were long queues as the country's major mode of transportations are&nbsp;still not allowed to return on roads.&nbsp;

Haircutting shops and salons will reopen next week and be allowed to work with only a third of their capacity, but, schools will remain closed for another two weeks.&nbsp;

Under the new relaxations, most of the workers will be allowed to go to work, however, they will still be encouraged to work from home.&nbsp;

On May 28, President Rodrigo Duterte announced the reopening of non-essential services in Manila after nearly 80 days in a bid to restart the economy. &nbsp;

Manila is the epicentre of coronavirus in the country and is under lockdown since mid-March.

The Philippines has so far seen more than 18,000 COVID-19 infections and over 950 deaths.

Traffic jams, honking, taxis, and ride-sharing were seen on the streets of Manila on Monday as the Philippines relaxed one of the world's longest lockdown from the capital city.

Traffic jams, honking, taxis, and ride-sharing were seen on the streets of Manila on Monday as the Philippines relaxed one of the world's longest lockdown from the capital city. Commuter trains, special shuttle buses, and motorcycles ran on the road in metropolitan Manila, the Guardian reported. Also read | Philippines' Duterte threatens martial law-like virus crackdown However, the vehicles are allowed to operate only a fraction of their capacity. Also read | Home quarantine no option for thousands in Philippines Public transport also did not resume its full services and many commuters waited for hours to get their ride. There were long queues as the country's major mode of transportations are still not allowed to return on roads. Haircutting shops and salons will reopen next week and be allowed to work with only a third of their capacity, but, schools will remain closed for another two weeks. Under the new relaxations, most of the workers will be allowed to go to work, however, they will still be encouraged to work from home. On May 28, President Rodrigo Duterte announced the reopening of non-essential services in Manila after nearly 80 days in a bid to restart the economy. Manila is the epicentre of coronavirus in the country and is under lockdown since mid-March. The Philippines has so far seen more than 18,000 COVID-19 infections and over 950 deaths.

Traffic jams, long queues seen in Manila as one of world's longest lockdowns lifted

Donning blue protective suits, stoles and crosses, a group of Filipino Catholic priests have been roaming around Metro Manila's poorest communities in hopes of giving hope to the people amid a government-enforced lockdown.

Priests bring faith to Philippines amid lockdown

Millions of people woke up confused, confined and frustrated in the Philippines on Tuesday, as a sweeping home quarantine order kicked in with just a few hours of warning, and Southeast Asia prepared tighter measures against a surge in coronavirus cases.

With many unaware that half the population of 107 million had been told to stay home for a month, stranded workers crowded checkpoints on the edges of Manila as vehicles tried to duck suspensions and police impounded taxis that were still running.

<img alt="Lockdown in Philippine due to coronavirus" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="566b7619-b685-4f6e-82df-5cd69c0b2039" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2862%29.jpg" />

"I need to make a living for my family," said Albert Santos, 42, the driver of a passenger jeep, adding that he would try to make as much money before being forced to stop.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-detects-bird-flu-outbreak-in-quail-farm-286649">Philippines detects bird flu outbreak in quail farm</a>

"I can't stop or they have nothing to eat."

The Philippines is the first regional nation to take such drastic steps against the virus, which President Rodrigo Duterte described as "the fight of our lives", after deeming existing curbs on movement and gatherings insufficient.

In just 10 days, virus infections in the Philippines climbed to 142 from three, with 12 deaths.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-prohibits-passengers-from-afghanistan-philippines-and-malaysia-over-coronavirus-286890"> India prohibits passengers from Afghanistan, Philippines and Malaysia over coronavirus</a>

Malaysia will follow suit from Wednesday, closing borders, schools and most businesses, while restricting internal movement, after a daily jump of 125 cases to 553, nearly two-thirds of them linked to a major event at a mosque.

<img alt="Lockdown in Philippine due to covid-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b4f0180-40c6-43cd-96d9-e8e59eabdd6d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2863%29.jpg" />

Cambodia's infections doubled to 24 on Tuesday and Thailand reported 30 new ones, taking its tally to 177, for a nearly threefold jump in a week. The regional trend casts more doubt on the view that warmer weather might stem the spread.

Thailand's cabinet agreed on Tuesday to close schools, cinemas, bars and entertainment centres, and postpone next month's festivities for New Year in the mainly Buddhist nation.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-announces-lockdown-of-manila-to-fight-coronavirus-285944">Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus</a>

Manila's usually busy business areas were almost deserted on the first morning of home quarantine, with only delivery trucks, police patrols and occasional private vehicles on the roads.

City workers in protective suits disinfected public areas, security guards sat outside banks and convenience stores and workers trickled home after night shifts at call centres and medical clinics, among the few exemptions to Duterte's curbs.

QUARANTINE? WHAT QUARANTINE?

Many shift workers were stranded after transport was suspended. Police pulled over dozens of taxis, with drivers - and many commuters - unaware of the new quarantine measures, announced on Monday afternoon and only clarified late at night.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922">Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus</a>

"I need to work. I don't get paid if I don't show up," said Sheila Reyes, 24, as she waited hopefully for a ride to a factory, some of which are allowed to operate.

"If I have to, I'll walk to work."

<img alt="Lockdown in Philippine due to covid-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d52ed4c3-1d46-49c7-8131-e576e4b8ba5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%2864%29.jpg" />

The measures widen a lockdown since Friday that brought immigration limits, curfews, closures of schools and malls, bans on gatherings, social distancing, and restrictions on movement for the capital.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-governments-across-the-world-shutting-down-offices-for-disinfection-286000">Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection</a>

The Philippines suspended financial markets on Tuesday, the first trading shutdown in a world struggling to rein in the virus. Malaysia postponed a meeting this week of APEC finance officials.

Philippine authorities said international airports in Manila and Clark would be closed to citizens, amid an expected exodus of foreigners before the expiry of a 72-hour deadline to leave.

Teething troubles from the quarantine were inevitable and stranded people would receive help to get home and stay there, said Jonathan Malaya, an interior ministry official.

Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: Philippines presser on nCoV

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-outbreak-philippines-presser-on-ncov-278257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"As expected, there still are people uninformed on last night's announcement," he said. "We have some kinks to fix ... it will normalise once people understand that they really need to stay home."

In Bangkok's Patpong area, famed for racy nightlife and counterfeit handbags, bar owners and workers said they were already suffering from the virus effect, and mandatory closures were probably for the best.

"We have to follow the government's measures," said one bar worker, Kornpisit Kutakorn. "We have to do this for the common interest."

Millions of people woke up confused, confined and frustrated in the Philippines on Tuesday, as a sweeping home quarantine order kicked in with just a few hours of warning, and Southeast Asia prepared tighter measures against a surge in coronavirus cases.

Millions of people woke up confused, confined and frustrated in the Philippines on Tuesday, as a sweeping home quarantine order kicked in with just a few hours of warning, and Southeast Asia prepared tighter measures against a surge in coronavirus cases. With many unaware that half the population of 107 million had been told to stay home for a month, stranded workers crowded checkpoints on the edges of Manila as vehicles tried to duck suspensions and police impounded taxis that were still running. "I need to make a living for my family," said Albert Santos, 42, the driver of a passenger jeep, adding that he would try to make as much money before being forced to stop. Also read: Philippines detects bird flu outbreak in quail farm "I can't stop or they have nothing to eat." The Philippines is the first regional nation to take such drastic steps against the virus, which President Rodrigo Duterte described as "the fight of our lives", after deeming existing curbs on movement and gatherings insufficient. In just 10 days, virus infections in the Philippines climbed to 142 from three, with 12 deaths. Also see: India prohibits passengers from Afghanistan, Philippines and Malaysia over coronavirus Malaysia will follow suit from Wednesday, closing borders, schools and most businesses, while restricting internal movement, after a daily jump of 125 cases to 553, nearly two-thirds of them linked to a major event at a mosque. Cambodia's infections doubled to 24 on Tuesday and Thailand reported 30 new ones, taking its tally to 177, for a nearly threefold jump in a week. The regional trend casts more doubt on the view that warmer weather might stem the spread. Thailand's cabinet agreed on Tuesday to close schools, cinemas, bars and entertainment centres, and postpone next month's festivities for New Year in the mainly Buddhist nation. Also read: Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus Manila's usually busy business areas were almost deserted on the first morning of home quarantine, with only delivery trucks, police patrols and occasional private vehicles on the roads. City workers in protective suits disinfected public areas, security guards sat outside banks and convenience stores and workers trickled home after night shifts at call centres and medical clinics, among the few exemptions to Duterte's curbs. QUARANTINE? WHAT QUARANTINE? Many shift workers were stranded after transport was suspended. Police pulled over dozens of taxis, with drivers - and many commuters - unaware of the new quarantine measures, announced on Monday afternoon and only clarified late at night. Also see: Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus "I need to work. I don't get paid if I don't show up," said Sheila Reyes, 24, as she waited hopefully for a ride to a factory, some of which are allowed to operate. "If I have to, I'll walk to work." The measures widen a lockdown since Friday that brought immigration limits, curfews, closures of schools and malls, bans on gatherings, social distancing, and restrictions on movement for the capital. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection The Philippines suspended financial markets on Tuesday, the first trading shutdown in a world struggling to rein in the virus. Malaysia postponed a meeting this week of APEC finance officials. Philippine authorities said international airports in Manila and Clark would be closed to citizens, amid an expected exodus of foreigners before the expiry of a 72-hour deadline to leave. Teething troubles from the quarantine were inevitable and stranded people would receive help to get home and stay there, said Jonathan Malaya, an interior ministry official. Watch: Coronavirus Outbreak: Philippines presser on nCoV "As expected, there still are people uninformed on last night's announcement," he said. "We have some kinks to fix ... it will normalise once people understand that they really need to stay home." In Bangkok's Patpong area, famed for racy nightlife and counterfeit handbags, bar owners and workers said they were already suffering from the virus effect, and mandatory closures were probably for the best. "We have to follow the government's measures," said one bar worker, Kornpisit Kutakorn. "We have to do this for the common interest."

Confusion, concern as locked-down Philippines starts coronavirus quarantine

Vehicles entering the Philippine capital were stuck in kilometer-long queues Monday at checkpoints enforcing a quarantine aimed at curbing the nation's rising coronavirus cases.

Despite a halt on domestic travel to and from the capital, shuttered malls and curfews, workers as well as provisions were still being allowed in via police and military checkpoints.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-announces-lockdown-of-manila-to-fight-coronavirus-285944">Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus</a>

Manila's population of some 12 million swells daily with an army of laborers who commute to work on packed buses from its relatively cheaper suburbs. &nbsp;

"I am fine with it because it is for the safety of everyone," said 47-year-old truck driver Pablito Elipien, who is used to the capital's notorious gridlock.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-pandemic-governments-across-the-world-shutting-down-offices-for-disinfection-286000">Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection</a>

Though the Philippines has detected a fraction of the infections seen in hot spots such as China and Italy, its confirmed cases have jumped to 140, with 12 deaths.

President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the capital sealed off to domestic travel from Sunday, and by Monday the city's malls centers of life in the country were opting to shut down.

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Local leaders were also to begin imposing night-time curfews in some areas to encourage people to stay home, and "large" masses have been called off in the Catholic-majority nation's capital.

For the workers stuck in the checkpoint queues, delay and discomfort are facts of life for their commutes into the city, which take hours on a normal day.

"It's (checkpoints) not really an inconvenience as long as you have the necessary documents," said Virgilio Aniceto, 51, a construction worker.

Vehicles entering the Philippine capital were stuck in kilometer-long queues Monday at checkpoints enforcing a quarantine aimed at curbing the nation's rising coronavirus cases.

Vehicles entering the Philippine capital were stuck in kilometer-long queues Monday at checkpoints enforcing a quarantine aimed at curbing the nation's rising coronavirus cases. Despite a halt on domestic travel to and from the capital, shuttered malls and curfews, workers as well as provisions were still being allowed in via police and military checkpoints. Also read: Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus Manila's population of some 12 million swells daily with an army of laborers who commute to work on packed buses from its relatively cheaper suburbs. "I am fine with it because it is for the safety of everyone," said 47-year-old truck driver Pablito Elipien, who is used to the capital's notorious gridlock. Also see: Coronavirus pandemic: Governments across the world shutting down offices for disinfection Though the Philippines has detected a fraction of the infections seen in hot spots such as China and Italy, its confirmed cases have jumped to 140, with 12 deaths. President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the capital sealed off to domestic travel from Sunday, and by Monday the city's malls centers of life in the country were opting to shut down. × Local leaders were also to begin imposing night-time curfews in some areas to encourage people to stay home, and "large" masses have been called off in the Catholic-majority nation's capital. For the workers stuck in the checkpoint queues, delay and discomfort are facts of life for their commutes into the city, which take hours on a normal day. "It's (checkpoints) not really an inconvenience as long as you have the necessary documents," said Virgilio Aniceto, 51, a construction worker.

Checkpoint queues stretch for kilometres in Manila amid coronavirus

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-to-declare-public-health-emergency-to-combat-coronavirus-284922"> Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus</a>

Duterte approved a resolution to allow a raft of containment measures including bans on mass gatherings, a month of school closures and quarantining in communities where cases are detected, as well as stopping domestic travel in and out of Manila.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-infects-100000-plus-worldwide-21-cases-found-on-ship-off-san-francisco-284865">Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco</a>

It follows confirmation on Saturday of the Philippines' first domestic transmission of the virus, which has killed two people there and infected 53.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced a halt on domestic land, sea and air travel to and from Manila, as well as community quarantine measures, in what he called a "lockdown" of the capital to arrest the spread of coronavirus. Also read: Philippines' Duterte to declare public health emergency to combat coronavirus Duterte approved a resolution to allow a raft of containment measures including bans on mass gatherings, a month of school closures and quarantining in communities where cases are detected, as well as stopping domestic travel in and out of Manila. Also see: Coronavirus infects 100,000-plus worldwide, 21 cases found on ship off San Francisco It follows confirmation on Saturday of the Philippines' first domestic transmission of the virus, which has killed two people there and infected 53.

Philippines' Duterte announces 'lockdown' of Manila to fight coronavirus

Philippine police has surrounded a shopping mall in an upscale district of Manila after a gunman opened fire and took several people inside hostage.

Philippines: One Injured, Dozens Held Hostage in Manila Mall Shooting

Philippine police on Monday surrounded a shopping mall in an upscale district in Manila after a gunman opened fire and took people inside hostage. The incident happened at the V-Mall in the San Juan area of the Philippine capital.

Gunman takes hostages at Manila Mall in Philippines

At least 30 people are being held hostage as a gunman has gone on the rampage in a shopping mall in Manila.

Philippine police have surrounded the area around the mall.

"The police have surrounded a shopping mall in an upscale section of Manila after a recently dismissed security guard opened fire and took dozens of people hostage," Philippine officials said.

Mayor Francis Zamora of the Philippine capital’s San Juan area said the gunman shot one person at the shopping Mall. The victim was in stable condition at a nearby hospital.

Zamora said a negotiator was trying to talk to the gunman — a disgruntled former security guard at the shopping complex — inside a mall administration office.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 30 people are being held hostage as a gunman has gone on the rampage in a shopping mall in Manila. Philippine police have surrounded the area around the mall.

At least 30 people are being held hostage as a gunman has gone on the rampage in a shopping mall in Manila. Philippine police have surrounded the area around the mall. "The police have surrounded a shopping mall in an upscale section of Manila after a recently dismissed security guard opened fire and took dozens of people hostage," Philippine officials said. Mayor Francis Zamora of the Philippine capital’s San Juan area said the gunman shot one person at the shopping Mall. The victim was in stable condition at a nearby hospital. Zamora said a negotiator was trying to talk to the gunman — a disgruntled former security guard at the shopping complex — inside a mall administration office. (With inputs from agencies)

Disgruntled former security guard takes 30 hostages, in Manila shopping complex

Tackling traffic! Four Indian cities among top 10 world's most congested

An elderly seamstress is sewing hundreds of protective masks from her small workshop to donate to evacuees displaced by a restive volcano south of the capital Manila. Rosalina Mantuano said she wanted to help people scrambling to find ways to protect themselves from hazardous ashfall brought by a steam-driven eruption of Taal volcano.

Your Story: Filipina grandmother makes free face masks for ash-stricken community

Philippines' Taal hazard might escalate into a 'volcanic tsunami'

Thousands of residents living near a restive volcano south of Manila sought refuge at temporary shelters on Monday (January 13) after it spewed ash and blanketed several towns into a grey landscape.

Thousands of residents evacuate after restive volcano spews ash

An erupting volcano in the Philippine capital on Monday spewed lava and broad columns of ash, which grounded hundreds of flights amid an alert for a possible "explosive eruption".&nbsp;

Officials have also warned of a possible "<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-51086961">volcanic tsunami</a>", which can be caused by falling debris after an eruption, reported BBC.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-suspends-manila-airport-flights-as-volcano-spews-ash-273803">Philippines suspends Manila airport flights as volcano spews ash</a>

Homes and streets in the region surrounding the Taal volcano, which blasted on Sunday along with a series of earthquakes, were coated in fine grit and nearly 10,000 people had sought refuge in evacuation centres.

<img alt="Philippine volcano" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48cd505b-d106-47d9-863c-e331e3f56cd1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1NN8S3.jpg" />

(A resident uses a shovel to clear mud and ash spewed by Taal volcano at a development in Tanauan town,&nbsp;Philippine | Photo Credit: AFP)&nbsp;

"You could not sleep anymore, because every time you closed your eyes the house would shake," restaurant owner Lia Monteverde said.&nbsp;

"All of us didn't sleep at all. We just prepared to leave."&nbsp;

<img alt="Philippine volcano" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8e864008-b669-4557-8eca-8783c2c4962d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/hL92U9n6.jpg" />

(Visuals of Taal volcano | Photo Credit: AFP)

Taal, which is in the south of Manila, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. &nbsp;

Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common in the country because of its position in Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide deep below the Earth's surface.&nbsp;

As a precautionary step, schools, government offices around the area and Philippine Stock Exchange were closed on Monday.&nbsp;

Aviation officials said that they are making efforts to resume flights at Manila's main international airport, after they were shut down due to the threat of volcanic ash affecting planes. &nbsp;

The eruption started with an explosion of superheated steam and rock, but by early Monday "fountains" of lava had been detected on Taal, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

Second-highest level of alert was raised on Sunday, saying an "explosive eruption" could happen in "hours to days".

(with AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

An erupting volcano in the Philippine capital on Monday spewed lava and broad columns of ash, which grounded hundreds of flights amid an alert for a possible "explosive eruption".

An erupting volcano in the Philippine capital on Monday spewed lava and broad columns of ash, which grounded hundreds of flights amid an alert for a possible "explosive eruption". Officials have also warned of a possible "volcanic tsunami", which can be caused by falling debris after an eruption, reported BBC. Also read: Philippines suspends Manila airport flights as volcano spews ash Homes and streets in the region surrounding the Taal volcano, which blasted on Sunday along with a series of earthquakes, were coated in fine grit and nearly 10,000 people had sought refuge in evacuation centres. (A resident uses a shovel to clear mud and ash spewed by Taal volcano at a development in Tanauan town, Philippine | Photo Credit: AFP) "You could not sleep anymore, because every time you closed your eyes the house would shake," restaurant owner Lia Monteverde said. "All of us didn't sleep at all. We just prepared to leave." (Visuals of Taal volcano | Photo Credit: AFP) Taal, which is in the south of Manila, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are common in the country because of its position in Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide deep below the Earth's surface. As a precautionary step, schools, government offices around the area and Philippine Stock Exchange were closed on Monday. Aviation officials said that they are making efforts to resume flights at Manila's main international airport, after they were shut down due to the threat of volcanic ash affecting planes. The eruption started with an explosion of superheated steam and rock, but by early Monday "fountains" of lava had been detected on Taal, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said. Second-highest level of alert was raised on Sunday, saying an "explosive eruption" could happen in "hours to days". (with AFP inputs)

Philippines: Officials warn of tsunami as volcano spews ash, lava

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-criticises-russia-china-at-un-over-failure-to-condemn-baghdad-embassy-attack-272600">Qasem Soleimani</a>, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region.&nbsp;

About 2.3 million people from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-philippines-typhoon-hits-50-271165">Philippines</a>&nbsp;are working in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;as domestic helpers, construction&nbsp;workers, engineers, and nurses.

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/take-it-or-leave-it-duterte-on-water-distribution-contract-272682">Rodrigo Duterte</a> has ordered the armed forces to prepare air and naval assets for the evacuation of Filipinos in Iraq, Iran, and nearby Arab countries, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said on Tuesday.

Saying he was deeply worried about the prospect of a "protracted-war", Duterte told reporters he sent a special envoy to Tehran and Baghdad to get assurances that Filipinos would be provided safe passage in case of evacuation.

"We have so many Filipinos working mainly in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East. I am nervous. Iran seems to be hell-bent on retaliation, which I think will come," Duterte said in a speech on Monday.

There are close to 7,000 Filipinos working and living in Iraq and more than 1,000 in Iran, according to government data.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who heads a newly created committee to prepare the evacuation, said the government is readying aircraft to ferry Filipinos in Iraq and Iran who wish to come home or be&nbsp;evacuated to safer areas.

"We can send transportation to fetch them," Lorenza told reporters, adding that hiring a cruise ship was among the things the government was considering to safely&nbsp;evacuate&nbsp;those who would wish to be repatriated.

Iran is considering 13 scenarios to avenge Friday's killing of Qassem Soleimani by a US&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">drone attack</a> in Iraq, a senior Tehran official said on Tuesday as the general's body was brought to his hometown for burial.

Filipinos in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;sent home $5.4 billion in remittances from January to October last year, accounting for a fifth of total remittances for that period, making the region a major source of foreign exchange inflows which help drive growth in the consumption-led Philippine economy.

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-offer-to-host-apec-not-a-good-idea-malaysia-260620">Saifuddin Abdullah</a> advised Malaysians to defer nonessential travel to the region, "in particular areas where the security situation is critical", and for citizens in the region to register with their nearest foreign mission.

"The ministry advises all Malaysians residing, or currently traveling to the region to be more vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security,” Saifuddin told at a press conference.

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region.

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region. About 2.3 million people from the Philippines are working in the Middle East as domestic helpers, construction workers, engineers, and nurses. President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the armed forces to prepare air and naval assets for the evacuation of Filipinos in Iraq, Iran, and nearby Arab countries, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said on Tuesday. Saying he was deeply worried about the prospect of a "protracted-war", Duterte told reporters he sent a special envoy to Tehran and Baghdad to get assurances that Filipinos would be provided safe passage in case of evacuation. "We have so many Filipinos working mainly in the Middle East. I am nervous. Iran seems to be hell-bent on retaliation, which I think will come," Duterte said in a speech on Monday. There are close to 7,000 Filipinos working and living in Iraq and more than 1,000 in Iran, according to government data. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who heads a newly created committee to prepare the evacuation, said the government is readying aircraft to ferry Filipinos in Iraq and Iran who wish to come home or be evacuated to safer areas. "We can send transportation to fetch them," Lorenza told reporters, adding that hiring a cruise ship was among the things the government was considering to safely evacuate those who would wish to be repatriated. Iran is considering 13 scenarios to avenge Friday's killing of Qassem Soleimani by a US drone attack in Iraq, a senior Tehran official said on Tuesday as the general's body was brought to his hometown for burial. Filipinos in the Middle East sent home $5.4 billion in remittances from January to October last year, accounting for a fifth of total remittances for that period, making the region a major source of foreign exchange inflows which help drive growth in the consumption-led Philippine economy. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah advised Malaysians to defer nonessential travel to the region, "in particular areas where the security situation is critical", and for citizens in the region to register with their nearest foreign mission. "The ministry advises all Malaysians residing, or currently traveling to the region to be more vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security,” Saifuddin told at a press conference.

Philippines prepares for 'evacuation' of citizens in Middle East

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-philippines-typhoon-hits-50-271165">Philippine</a> government will take over the capital's water distribution services if the two largest water firms refuse to accept the terms of new contracts that will be offered to them, the presidential spokesman said on Tuesday.

Maynilad Water Services Inc and Manila Water Co Inc serve a combined 16 million customers under 25-year concession deals signed in 1997, but President Rodrigo Duterte labelled the agreements "onerous and disadvantageous" for ratepayers.

The firebrand leader in December ordered criminal charges filed against the two companies, including their billionaire owners. Earlier that month, they had won arbitration cases in Singapore against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-bans-two-us-senators-mulls-new-visa-rules-for-americans-270538">government</a>.

"The chief executive is giving the water concessionaires the option of accepting the new contracts minus the onerous provisions without any guarantee of not being criminally prosecuted together with those who conspired to craft the very onerous contracts," Salvador Panelo, Duterte's spokesman, told a news conference.

Watch: Philippines -&nbsp;Protest against Duterte's war on drugs

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"Should Maynilad and Manila Water refuse to accept the new agreements, the president will order the cancellation of their present water contracts, order the nationalisation of water services in their respective areas of operation," Panelo said.

Manila Water and Maynilad did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The market cheered the news that the two firms would be allowed to continue to operate if they adhered to the government's conditions.

Manila Water, which fell as much as 73 per cent&nbsp;and lost as much as $556 million in market value last month, rallied nearly 15 per cent&nbsp;on Tuesday after the announcement, while parent firm Ayala Corp, which shed up to $875 million in market capitalisation, gained 1.5 per cent.

Maynilad owners Metro Pacific Investments Corp and DMCI Holdings Inc, rose 3.2 per cent and 3.9 per cent, respectively, on Tuesday. The two firms collectively lost as much as $1.45 billion in market value after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jail-me-hang-me-philippines-duterte-firm-he-wont-answer-to-international-court-of-criminal-269397">Duterte</a>'s criticism.

Last month, the state water regulator cancelled a 15-year extension of the water utilities' concession after pressure from Duterte. The existing concessions will expire in 2022.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/singapore-adds-bengaluru-to-its-global-innovation-alliance-255771">Singapore</a> last month ordered the Philippine government to pay Manila Water 7.4 billion pesos ($145.55 million) to recoup foregone revenues from rate increases that were rejected by regulators. Maynilad won a separate arbitration last year.

The companies had said they would forfeit any damage claims to avoid angering the president, who enjoys high public approval ratings.

The Philippine government will take over the capital's water distribution services if the two largest water firms refuse to accept the terms of new contracts that will be offered to them, the presidential spokesman said on Tuesday.

The Philippine government will take over the capital's water distribution services if the two largest water firms refuse to accept the terms of new contracts that will be offered to them, the presidential spokesman said on Tuesday. Maynilad Water Services Inc and Manila Water Co Inc serve a combined 16 million customers under 25-year concession deals signed in 1997, but President Rodrigo Duterte labelled the agreements "onerous and disadvantageous" for ratepayers. The firebrand leader in December ordered criminal charges filed against the two companies, including their billionaire owners. Earlier that month, they had won arbitration cases in Singapore against the government. "The chief executive is giving the water concessionaires the option of accepting the new contracts minus the onerous provisions without any guarantee of not being criminally prosecuted together with those who conspired to craft the very onerous contracts," Salvador Panelo, Duterte's spokesman, told a news conference. Watch: Philippines - Protest against Duterte's war on drugs × "Should Maynilad and Manila Water refuse to accept the new agreements, the president will order the cancellation of their present water contracts, order the nationalisation of water services in their respective areas of operation," Panelo said. Manila Water and Maynilad did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The market cheered the news that the two firms would be allowed to continue to operate if they adhered to the government's conditions. Manila Water, which fell as much as 73 per cent and lost as much as $556 million in market value last month, rallied nearly 15 per cent on Tuesday after the announcement, while parent firm Ayala Corp, which shed up to $875 million in market capitalisation, gained 1.5 per cent. Maynilad owners Metro Pacific Investments Corp and DMCI Holdings Inc, rose 3.2 per cent and 3.9 per cent, respectively, on Tuesday. The two firms collectively lost as much as $1.45 billion in market value after Duterte's criticism. Last month, the state water regulator cancelled a 15-year extension of the water utilities' concession after pressure from Duterte. The existing concessions will expire in 2022. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in Singapore last month ordered the Philippine government to pay Manila Water 7.4 billion pesos ($145.55 million) to recoup foregone revenues from rate increases that were rejected by regulators. Maynilad won a separate arbitration last year. The companies had said they would forfeit any damage claims to avoid angering the president, who enjoys high public approval ratings.

Take it or leave it: Duterte on water distribution contract

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-phanfone-ruining-christmas-for-thousands-of-filipinos-270027">Typhoon Phanfone</a> pummelled the central Philippines on Christmas Day, bringing a wet and miserable holiday season to millions in the mainly Catholic nation.

Thousands were stranded at shuttered ports or evacuation centres at the height of the festive season on Wednesday, and residents cowered in rain-soaked homes as Phanfone leapt from one small island to another for the second day.&nbsp;

The typhoon toppled houses and trees and blacked-out cities in the Philippines' most storm-prone region, but no deaths were reported.

Though weaker, Phanfone was tracking a similar path as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-thousands-flee-as-typhoon-kammuri-expected-to-make-landfall-265636">Super Typhoon Haiyan</a>, the country's deadliest cyclone on record which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013.

More than 10,000 people spent the night in schools, gyms and government buildings hastily converted into evacuation centres as the typhoon made landfall Tuesday, civil defence officials said.

"It was frightening. The glass windows shattered and we took cover by the stairs," Ailyn Metran added after she and her four-year-old child spent the night at the local state weather service office where her husband worked.

A metal window frame flew off and fell onto a car parked outside the building, she said.

With just two hours' sleep, the family returned to their home in the central city of Tacloban early Wednesday to find their two dogs safe, but the floor was covered in mud and a felled tree rested atop a nearby house.

The weather office said the typhoon strengthened slightly overnight Tuesday and was gusting at 195 kilometres (121 miles) an hour, velocities that can knock down small trees and destroy houses made of light materials.

More islands are along its projected path are expected to be hit with destructive winds and intense rainfall before blowing out into the South China Sea early Thursday, it added.

More than 25,000 people trying to get home for the traditional Christmas Eve midnight dinner with their families remained stranded at ports on Christmas Day with ferry services still shut down, the coast guard said.

Scores of flights to the region also remained cancelled, though the populous capital Manila, on the northern edge has so far been spared.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eleven-dead-after-coconut-wine-poisoning-in-philippines-269754">Philippines</a> is the first major landmass facing the Pacific cyclone belt.

As such, the archipelago gets hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing scores of people and wiping out harvests, homes and other infrastructure and keeping millions perennially poor.

A July 2019 study by the Manila-based <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asian-development-bank-approves-usd-1-billion-emergency-loan-for-pakistan-266593">Asian Development Bank</a> said the most frequent storms lop one per cent off the Philippine economic output, with the stronger ones cutting output by nearly three per cent.

Typhoon Phanfone pummelled the central Philippines on Christmas Day, bringing a wet and miserable holiday season to millions in the mainly Catholic nation. Thousands were stranded at shuttered ports or evacuation centres at the height of the festive season on Wednesday, and residents cowered in rain-soaked homes as Phanfone leapt from one small island to another for the second day.

Typhoon Phanfone pummelled the central Philippines on Christmas Day, bringing a wet and miserable holiday season to millions in the mainly Catholic nation. Thousands were stranded at shuttered ports or evacuation centres at the height of the festive season on Wednesday, and residents cowered in rain-soaked homes as Phanfone leapt from one small island to another for the second day. The typhoon toppled houses and trees and blacked-out cities in the Philippines' most storm-prone region, but no deaths were reported. Though weaker, Phanfone was tracking a similar path as Super Typhoon Haiyan, the country's deadliest cyclone on record which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013. More than 10,000 people spent the night in schools, gyms and government buildings hastily converted into evacuation centres as the typhoon made landfall Tuesday, civil defence officials said. "It was frightening. The glass windows shattered and we took cover by the stairs," Ailyn Metran added after she and her four-year-old child spent the night at the local state weather service office where her husband worked. A metal window frame flew off and fell onto a car parked outside the building, she said. With just two hours' sleep, the family returned to their home in the central city of Tacloban early Wednesday to find their two dogs safe, but the floor was covered in mud and a felled tree rested atop a nearby house. The weather office said the typhoon strengthened slightly overnight Tuesday and was gusting at 195 kilometres (121 miles) an hour, velocities that can knock down small trees and destroy houses made of light materials. More islands are along its projected path are expected to be hit with destructive winds and intense rainfall before blowing out into the South China Sea early Thursday, it added. More than 25,000 people trying to get home for the traditional Christmas Eve midnight dinner with their families remained stranded at ports on Christmas Day with ferry services still shut down, the coast guard said. Scores of flights to the region also remained cancelled, though the populous capital Manila, on the northern edge has so far been spared. The Philippines is the first major landmass facing the Pacific cyclone belt. As such, the archipelago gets hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing scores of people and wiping out harvests, homes and other infrastructure and keeping millions perennially poor. A July 2019 study by the Manila-based Asian Development Bank said the most frequent storms lop one per cent off the Philippine economic output, with the stronger ones cutting output by nearly three per cent.

Typhoon hits central Philippines on Christmas Day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ar-rahman-and-u2-collaborate-for-a-new-single-ahead-of-bands-maiden-concert-in-india-263943">U2</a> frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">President Rodrigo Duterte</a> ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert.

The Philippine leader has waged a deadly war on drugs that has claimed thousands of lives.

Overwhelmingly backed by Filipinos but condemned by critics who say it is a war crime, the killings by police as well as unknown suspects are the subject of a preliminary inquiry by the International Criminal Court prosecutor.

The rock icon, a longtime member of Amnesty International, a critic of Duterte's drug war, said human rights are "critical" which he takes "very seriously".

"I would just say you can't compromise on human rights and that's my soft message to the president," Bono said, when asked about his views on the Philippines' overall human rights situation in the country.

Duterte, elected in a landslide in 2016, told supporters on the stump to "forget the laws on human rights" as he vowed to kill 100,000 criminals and dump their bodies into Manila Bay to fatten the fish.

He has also told police he will have their backs, vowing to hand out presidential pardons should they be prosecuted and sent to jail while enforcing his crackdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-berlin-gig-voice-loss-episode-u2s-bono-says-will-be-back-to-full-voice-163277">Bono</a>, in Manila for a U2 concert Wednesday, said he has no plans to see the Filipino leader, adding: "President Duterte is very popular. He doesn't need me on his side."

U2 are in Asia for their Joshua Tree Tour 2019 that will wrap up in the Indian city of Mumbai on Sunday.

Earlier stops included Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, as well as Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul.

Bono was not the first outspoken musician to speak out against Duterte's drug war.&nbsp;

In 2016, American singer James Taylor cancelled his planned Manila concert to protest extrajudicial killings in the country.&nbsp;

Duterte's drug war has killed over 5,500 alleged dealers and users who fought back during arrests, but watchdogs say the actual toll is at least four times higher.&nbsp;

International Criminal Court prosecutors have launched a preliminary probe of the killing, and the UN's top rights body voted in favour an in-depth review.

U2 frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert.

U2 frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert. The Philippine leader has waged a deadly war on drugs that has claimed thousands of lives. Overwhelmingly backed by Filipinos but condemned by critics who say it is a war crime, the killings by police as well as unknown suspects are the subject of a preliminary inquiry by the International Criminal Court prosecutor. The rock icon, a longtime member of Amnesty International, a critic of Duterte's drug war, said human rights are "critical" which he takes "very seriously". "I would just say you can't compromise on human rights and that's my soft message to the president," Bono said, when asked about his views on the Philippines' overall human rights situation in the country. Duterte, elected in a landslide in 2016, told supporters on the stump to "forget the laws on human rights" as he vowed to kill 100,000 criminals and dump their bodies into Manila Bay to fatten the fish. He has also told police he will have their backs, vowing to hand out presidential pardons should they be prosecuted and sent to jail while enforcing his crackdown. Bono, in Manila for a U2 concert Wednesday, said he has no plans to see the Filipino leader, adding: "President Duterte is very popular. He doesn't need me on his side." U2 are in Asia for their Joshua Tree Tour 2019 that will wrap up in the Indian city of Mumbai on Sunday. Earlier stops included Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, as well as Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul. Bono was not the first outspoken musician to speak out against Duterte's drug war. In 2016, American singer James Taylor cancelled his planned Manila concert to protest extrajudicial killings in the country. Duterte's drug war has killed over 5,500 alleged dealers and users who fought back during arrests, but watchdogs say the actual toll is at least four times higher. International Criminal Court prosecutors have launched a preliminary probe of the killing, and the UN's top rights body voted in favour an in-depth review.

Bono: 'No compromise' on human rights in the Philippines

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrests-ordered-in-philippines-vaping-ban-263361">Philippine</a> Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said.

Pilots of flight 113&nbsp;declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine.

The plane landed around noon local time&nbsp;and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights.

Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March.

GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service."

Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car."

"I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">Philippine</a> Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport.

"All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said. All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said. Pilots of flight 113 declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine. The plane landed around noon local time and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights. Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March. GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service." Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car." "I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said. The Philippine Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport. "All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

Philippine Airlines flight heading to Manila makes emergency landing in Los Angeles

Office-sharing startup&nbsp;WeWork&nbsp;will&nbsp;open&nbsp;new&nbsp;locations in&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;and the Philippines this year, it said, even as it seeks a $1 billion lifeline from its biggest-backer Softbank Group&nbsp;Corp&nbsp;for a major restructuring.

The&nbsp;New&nbsp;York-based startup, which abandoned an initial public offering last week over investor&nbsp;concerns about its valuation and business model, will&nbsp;open&nbsp;two&nbsp;new&nbsp;offices for&nbsp;co-working&nbsp;in&nbsp;Singapore&nbsp;and two in&nbsp;Manila.

It made the announcements on Wednesday and Thursday.

The plan to boost its footprint in the two Southeast Asian cities follows a reports that its parent, The We&nbsp;Company, was&nbsp;considering curbing expansion plans in China to&nbsp;control&nbsp;costs.

The loss-making start-up is looking to trim its workforce and slow expansion to preserve cash as it seeks alternative sources of funding, sources have told Reuters.

A&nbsp;WeWork&nbsp;spokeswoman said in an email on Thursday that the&nbsp;company was "strengthening&nbsp;WeWork's presence in the region".

WeWork&nbsp;now has 25 locations across Southeast Asia, 12 of them in&nbsp;Singapore.

Office-sharing startup WeWork will open new locations in Singapore and the Philippines this year, it said, even as it seeks a $1 billion lifeline from its biggest-backer Softbank Group Corp for a major restructuring.

Office-sharing startup WeWork will open new locations in Singapore and the Philippines this year, it said, even as it seeks a $1 billion lifeline from its biggest-backer Softbank Group Corp for a major restructuring. The New York-based startup, which abandoned an initial public offering last week over investor concerns about its valuation and business model, will open two new offices for co-working in Singapore and two in Manila. It made the announcements on Wednesday and Thursday. The plan to boost its footprint in the two Southeast Asian cities follows a reports that its parent, The We Company, was considering curbing expansion plans in China to control costs. The loss-making start-up is looking to trim its workforce and slow expansion to preserve cash as it seeks alternative sources of funding, sources have told Reuters. A WeWork spokeswoman said in an email on Thursday that the company was "strengthening WeWork's presence in the region". WeWork now has 25 locations across Southeast Asia, 12 of them in Singapore.

WeWork to open new co-working sites in Singapore and Manila

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