At least two people were killed in a shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato province in the southern Philippines on Friday (September 18), according to a regional disaster agency worker cited by news agency AFP. The incident marks the country's third deadly school shooting since June. Local rescuers were alerted to reports of gunfire at the school in Mindanao at around 1:30 pm local time.&nbsp;"From what I know, they are both students. There's really no complete details as of now," disaster agency worker Rolly Aquino said of the two victims, adding that at least seven people were being treated in hospital. Authorities had not immediately determined how many shooters were involved in the incident. "For now, we are trying to let our fellow citizens know that the situation is stable and the case is contained," said South Cotabato provincial governor Reynaldo Tamayo. "We never thought that this would happen."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unga-2026-theme-explained-what-does-restoring-trust-managing-transformation-a-united-nations-that-delivers-for-all-mean-1789715382814">UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean?</a>&nbsp;Videos shared on Facebook and confirmed by AFP showed the aftermath of the shooting. In one video, a man appeared to carry a wounded child from the school and place him inside the sidecar of a waiting motorcycle. In another video, a teacher speaking in a local dialect reportedly said there were two shooters, while a student claimed the attackers were outsiders.&nbsp;The shooting comes after two other deadly school incidents in the Philippines in recent months. Nationwide live-shooter drills were conducted this month as authorities sought to strengthen security at schools following the earlier attacks. Officials were continuing to investigate the shooting, while details about the victims, suspects, motive and the total number of casualties remained incomplete.&nbsp;Philippines mayor said that three have killed in school shooting including gunman and 8 have been injured. Four of 8 injured in school shooting are in critical condition. Suspected gunman in school shooting was a 16 year-old student and the victims in school shooting are all students, age 14-17.

Philippines school shooting at Banga National High School leaves two students dead and at least seven injured as authorities investigate the attack

At least two people were killed in a shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato province in the southern Philippines on Friday (September 18), according to a regional disaster agency worker cited by news agency AFP. The incident marks the country's third deadly school shooting since June. Local rescuers were alerted to reports of gunfire at the school in Mindanao at around 1:30 pm local time. "From what I know, they are both students. There's really no complete details as of now," disaster agency worker Rolly Aquino said of the two victims, adding that at least seven people were being treated in hospital. Authorities had not immediately determined how many shooters were involved in the incident. "For now, we are trying to let our fellow citizens know that the situation is stable and the case is contained," said South Cotabato provincial governor Reynaldo Tamayo. "We never thought that this would happen." Also Read: UNGA 2026 theme explained: What does ‘Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all’ mean? Videos shared on Facebook and confirmed by AFP showed the aftermath of the shooting. In one video, a man appeared to carry a wounded child from the school and place him inside the sidecar of a waiting motorcycle. In another video, a teacher speaking in a local dialect reportedly said there were two shooters, while a student claimed the attackers were outsiders. The shooting comes after two other deadly school incidents in the Philippines in recent months. Nationwide live-shooter drills were conducted this month as authorities sought to strengthen security at schools following the earlier attacks. Officials were continuing to investigate the shooting, while details about the victims, suspects, motive and the total number of casualties remained incomplete. Philippines mayor said that three have killed in school shooting including gunman and 8 have been injured. Four of 8 injured in school shooting are in critical condition. Suspected gunman in school shooting was a 16 year-old student and the victims in school shooting are all students, age 14-17.

Two students were killed and at least seven injured in a shooting at Banga National High School in the southern Philippines on Friday (September 18)

At least three killed, several injured in Philippines school shooting

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, Philippines' Muslim-majority south held its first parliamentary elections on Monday. It is being viewed as a crucial step in a concerted and a long time effort for self-rule after decades of insurgency and violence plagued the region.&nbsp;On Sunday, a shooting incident killed three people and injured 15 others in Cotabato City after which it was placed under the commission’s control, with an administrator to be designated said Commission on Elections Chairman Erwin Garcia, reported Associated Press.&nbsp;While in another incident in the city, an improvised bomb went off injuring the person carrying the explosive, and a gun was fired but no injuries were reported.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-s-centre-left-opposition-bloc-likely-to-win-election-by-one-seat-1789361987218">Sweden's centre-left opposition bloc likely to win election by one seat</a>&nbsp;The town of Maluso in Basilan has also been put under the commission’s control after pre-shaded ballots were found in 36 out of 68 precincts. As soon as the news cam to light, reprinting of ballots for the affected precincts was immediately ordered, said Garcia.&nbsp;More than 20,000 soldiers and police forces were deployed for elections, while troops carrying long arms patrolled roadsides.&nbsp;There are 80 seats at stake in the elections that will determine members of parliament. The region comprises five provinces, three cities and 63 villages with nearly 2.4 million voters.&nbsp;Election officials said they expected an 80% turnout after polling was postponed for several years.&nbsp;The region’s chief minister, who heads the executive branch, will be elected by parliament in its first session.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

On Sunday, a shooting incident killed three people and injured 15 others in Cotabato City after which it was placed under the commission’s control.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, Philippines' Muslim-majority south held its first parliamentary elections on Monday. It is being viewed as a crucial step in a concerted and a long time effort for self-rule after decades of insurgency and violence plagued the region. On Sunday, a shooting incident killed three people and injured 15 others in Cotabato City after which it was placed under the commission’s control, with an administrator to be designated said Commission on Elections Chairman Erwin Garcia, reported Associated Press. While in another incident in the city, an improvised bomb went off injuring the person carrying the explosive, and a gun was fired but no injuries were reported. ALSO READ: Sweden's centre-left opposition bloc likely to win election by one seat The town of Maluso in Basilan has also been put under the commission’s control after pre-shaded ballots were found in 36 out of 68 precincts. As soon as the news cam to light, reprinting of ballots for the affected precincts was immediately ordered, said Garcia. More than 20,000 soldiers and police forces were deployed for elections, while troops carrying long arms patrolled roadsides. There are 80 seats at stake in the elections that will determine members of parliament. The region comprises five provinces, three cities and 63 villages with nearly 2.4 million voters. Election officials said they expected an 80% turnout after polling was postponed for several years. The region’s chief minister, who heads the executive branch, will be elected by parliament in its first session. With inputs from agencies

On Sunday, a shooting incident killed three people and injured 15 others in Cotabato City after which it was placed under the commission’s control.

Philippines’ Muslim-majority Bangsamoro region votes in its first elections

At least five people have died and 86 are missing after a fire broke out aboard the MV June Aster ferry near the Philippine tourist hotspot of Coron. The vessel was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members when the blaze erupted, with strong currents and thick smoke hampering rescue and firefighting efforts.

Philippine ferry fire: Fire breaks out aboard M/V June Aster near tourist hotspot

A deadly school shooting has shaken the Philippines after a high school student allegedly opened fire inside a campus in Zamboanga City. Authorities say the suspect carried two firearms and may have used a body camera to livestream the attack. A fellow student was killed, two others were injured, and the suspected gunman later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident has renewed concerns about school safety, youth violence, and access to firearms. Investigators are now working to determine the motive behind the attack and reconstruct the sequence of events that unfolded on campus.


Philippines school shooting: Class 7 student allegedly opens fire at school

The Philippines’ ambassador to India, Josel F. Ignacio, has described the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal as a game-changer that delivers “real credible deterrence” for the archipelago nation amid rising territorial challenges in the South China Sea. Josel F. Ignacio, speaking at ORF's "Diplomatic Diaries" pointed out that the acquisition supports the modernisation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthens its territorial defence posture.&nbsp;“We are very pleased with how the BrahMos project with India is going. At this point, it bestows on us real credible deterrence, which is in sync with the kind of archipelagic defence we want to have,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-dead-pakistani-journalist-s-claim-raises-serious-questions-about-his-health-1786534280781">Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health</a>&nbsp;The ambassador linked the missile system directly to Manila’s security concerns. “For us, the BrahMos acquisition supports the modernisation of our armed forces and bestows us with credible deterrence as we improve our territorial defence posture, especially amidst concerns like areas in the South China Sea.” The Philippines became India’s first export customer for the BrahMos, a joint Indo-Russian system known for its speed and precision. Ignacio noted that other Southeast Asian nations have since shown interest, following Manila’s lead. He described the deal as more than a simple arms purchase, but one that has elevated India’s standing. “What the BrahMos project has done is raise the profile of India for the Philippines defence establishment as a credible, reliable source of quality defence equipment.” Looking beyond hardware, Ignacio signalled interest in deeper industrial cooperation. “We are not just talking about buying equipment from India, but going beyond that, perhaps cooperating with India, which has a robust indigenous defence sector, to have a similar one in the Philippines, going by the Indian experience.” Defence ties now form a central pillar of the bilateral strategic partnership. “This is an important pillar for the strategic partnership. The BrahMos purchased by the Philippines is the most visible example,” he said. “It also marked a milestone in the emergence of India as a very trusted defence partner and exporter and source of defence equipment for the Philippines. Yet our defence cooperation extends well beyond just the BrahMos.” Indian systems are increasingly attractive, according to the ambassador. “India is sort of higher on our horizon in our minds, when it comes to looking at possible sources for procurement of technologies. Indian technologies, indigenous missiles and weaponry, have proven their worth as reliable, and cost-effective.”

Philippines Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio said the BrahMos missile deal with India provides “real credible deterrence” for Manila while strengthening its territorial defence and deepening India-Philippines defence cooperation amid South China Sea tensions.

The Philippines’ ambassador to India, Josel F. Ignacio, has described the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal as a game-changer that delivers “real credible deterrence” for the archipelago nation amid rising territorial challenges in the South China Sea. Josel F. Ignacio, speaking at ORF's "Diplomatic Diaries" pointed out that the acquisition supports the modernisation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and strengthens its territorial defence posture. “We are very pleased with how the BrahMos project with India is going. At this point, it bestows on us real credible deterrence, which is in sync with the kind of archipelagic defence we want to have,” he said. Also Read: Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan dead? Pakistani journalist’s claim raises serious questions about his health The ambassador linked the missile system directly to Manila’s security concerns. “For us, the BrahMos acquisition supports the modernisation of our armed forces and bestows us with credible deterrence as we improve our territorial defence posture, especially amidst concerns like areas in the South China Sea.” The Philippines became India’s first export customer for the BrahMos, a joint Indo-Russian system known for its speed and precision. Ignacio noted that other Southeast Asian nations have since shown interest, following Manila’s lead. He described the deal as more than a simple arms purchase, but one that has elevated India’s standing. “What the BrahMos project has done is raise the profile of India for the Philippines defence establishment as a credible, reliable source of quality defence equipment.” Looking beyond hardware, Ignacio signalled interest in deeper industrial cooperation. “We are not just talking about buying equipment from India, but going beyond that, perhaps cooperating with India, which has a robust indigenous defence sector, to have a similar one in the Philippines, going by the Indian experience.” Defence ties now form a central pillar of the bilateral strategic partnership. “This is an important pillar for the strategic partnership. The BrahMos purchased by the Philippines is the most visible example,” he said. “It also marked a milestone in the emergence of India as a very trusted defence partner and exporter and source of defence equipment for the Philippines. Yet our defence cooperation extends well beyond just the BrahMos.” Indian systems are increasingly attractive, according to the ambassador. “India is sort of higher on our horizon in our minds, when it comes to looking at possible sources for procurement of technologies. Indian technologies, indigenous missiles and weaponry, have proven their worth as reliable, and cost-effective.”

Philippines Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio said the BrahMos missile deal with India provides “real credible deterrence” for Manila while strengthening its territorial defence and deepening India-Philippines defence cooperation amid South China Sea tensions.

Philippines Ambassador Ignacio calls BrahMos deal ‘real credible deterrence’ amid South China Sea tensions

China has conducted joint naval and air combat drills around the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, further escalating tensions in one of the world's most contested maritime regions.

The exercises, announced by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command, were described as a test of combat readiness and a demonstration of China's ability to defend what it calls its maritime rights and interests.

The drills took place around Scarborough Shoal, known as Huangyan Dao in China and Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines. The reef lies approximately 220 kilometres west of Luzon and falls within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) under international law.

China-Philippines Dispute Deepens | PLA Conducts Joint Naval And Air Exercises

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr denounced China yesterday in a veiled rebuke in his State of the Nation Address, vowing that his government would defend a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated Beijing’s expansive claims in the disputed South China Sea, and saying that Filipinos “do not yield” to conquerors.

Philippines: Lawmakers applaud Marcos' strong stance on maritime claims

Thousands of protesters have gathered in Manila to voice escalating anger against the Philippine government as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers his annual State of the Nation Address (SONA).Public anger has intensified due to widespread political friction, foreign policy choices, and severe corruption allegations.


Protests in Philippines as President Marcos delivers State of the Nation Address

A major search and rescue operation is underway after a Vietnamese cargo ship carrying 62 crew members sank in the disputed South China Sea during severe weather. Rescuers have saved 39 people, while 23 remain missing. Chinese rescue ships, helicopters, and nearby fishing vessels are assisting Vietnamese authorities in the search near Fiery Cross Reef in the Spratly Islands. The incident occurred in one of the world's most disputed maritime regions, where overlapping territorial claims by China, Vietnam, and the Philippines continue to fuel tensions.

23 Missing After Vietnamese Cargo Ship Sinks in South China Sea | Massive Rescue Ops Underway

Tensions boil over in the South China Sea as the China Coast Guard deploys water cannons and performs reckless blocking maneuvers against Philippine government and fisheries vessels near the disputed Scarborough Shoal for a second consecutive day.

South China Sea clash continues as China and Philippines face off near Scarborough Shoal

Tensions in the South China Sea are boiling over again. For the second straight day, China's Coast Guard fired water cannons at Philippine government vessels near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, with Manila saying one Chinese ship came within just 7 metres of a Philippine fisheries boat, creating what officials called a 'serious risk of collision'.

China fires water cannons near Scarborough Shoal

Philippines releases shocking footage of China Coast Guard firing water cannon at PH vessel in South China Sea. Watch the full video to know more on this.

South China Sea clash: Chinese Coast Guard blasts Philippine ship with water cannons

The Philippines has praised India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, calling it a major boost to the country's defense capabilities amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. In an exclusive conversation, the Philippine Ambassador to India highlighted how the BrahMos missile strengthens Manila's deterrence strategy and opens the door for deeper defense cooperation with New Delhi. The development comes as External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visits Manila for ASEAN meetings and as the Philippines continues to challenge China's expansive claims in the South China Sea. Here's everything you need to know about the growing India-Philippines strategic partnership and its impact on regional security.

Philippines hails BrahMos missile, seeks stronger defense partnership with India amid China dispute

The Philippines is ramping up defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system for strengthening its military posture. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio described the BrahMos acquisition as a game-changer for the country’s armed forces. “The BrahMos... is a very important contribution to the Philippines’ effort to achieve credible deterrence,” he said.&nbsp;“Its extended range affords the Philippines the ability to deter and even deny... It enhances our defence in a very significant way. This is the first [of its kind] for our arsenal.”&nbsp;The Philippines was the first export customer for the supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia.&nbsp;Ambassador Ignacio signalled that further defence acquisitions and deeper cooperation remain on the table, with India now viewed as a major partner in defence equipment, training and indigenous industry development.&nbsp;“India has become one of our top-of-mind partners... by virtue of the strength of India’s indigenous defence industry,” he added.&nbsp;“We are looking at opportunities for India to also help the Philippines as we try to develop our own indigenous defence industry.”&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected in Manila for ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings this week. Ambassador Ignacio welcomed the visit as proof of India’s enduring commitment.&nbsp;“India since 1992 has always been an ardent supporter of ASEAN... The visit of EAM to Manila... reinforces this commitment of India to ASEAN centrality,” he said. “It is a consistent show of Indian support for ASEAN which we appreciate very much.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-s-new-pm-andy-burnham-announces-tax-cut-on-household-electricity-bills-to-ease-cost-of-living-crisis-1784630627391">UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis</a>&nbsp;Under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairmanship theme “Navigating Our Future Together”, talks will centre on energy security, food security, supply chain resilience and peaceful resolution of conflicts.The push for stronger partnerships comes against the backdrop of renewed tensions in South China Sea. On 21 July, Philippine forces reported a violent confrontation near Second Thomas Shoal in which a Filipino navy personnel was injured.&nbsp;Ambassador Ignacio stressed the legal position: “Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. It is a low-tide elevation... The Chinese side has no law enforcement authority over that area... There is no legal basis for that under UNCLOS and under the arbitral award.”Development comes days after the 10th anniversary of the landmark 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. India welcomed the milestone, describing it as an “important milestone” for peaceful, law-based dispute settlement.&nbsp;Ignacio expressed gratitude for New Delhi’s support and highlighted the ruling’s wider importance: “The arbitral award is important... The clarification of provisions of UNCLOS has broader implications beyond the case... It is an important contribution to international law, especially to maritime law.”&nbsp;

The Philippines is deepening defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system as a key boost to its military deterrence while seeking greater cooperation in defence technology and indigenous industry development.

The Philippines is ramping up defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system for strengthening its military posture. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio described the BrahMos acquisition as a game-changer for the country’s armed forces. “The BrahMos... is a very important contribution to the Philippines’ effort to achieve credible deterrence,” he said. “Its extended range affords the Philippines the ability to deter and even deny... It enhances our defence in a very significant way. This is the first [of its kind] for our arsenal.” The Philippines was the first export customer for the supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia. Ambassador Ignacio signalled that further defence acquisitions and deeper cooperation remain on the table, with India now viewed as a major partner in defence equipment, training and indigenous industry development. “India has become one of our top-of-mind partners... by virtue of the strength of India’s indigenous defence industry,” he added. “We are looking at opportunities for India to also help the Philippines as we try to develop our own indigenous defence industry.” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected in Manila for ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings this week. Ambassador Ignacio welcomed the visit as proof of India’s enduring commitment. “India since 1992 has always been an ardent supporter of ASEAN... The visit of EAM to Manila... reinforces this commitment of India to ASEAN centrality,” he said. “It is a consistent show of Indian support for ASEAN which we appreciate very much.” Also Read: UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis Under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairmanship theme “Navigating Our Future Together”, talks will centre on energy security, food security, supply chain resilience and peaceful resolution of conflicts. The push for stronger partnerships comes against the backdrop of renewed tensions in South China Sea. On 21 July, Philippine forces reported a violent confrontation near Second Thomas Shoal in which a Filipino navy personnel was injured. Ambassador Ignacio stressed the legal position: “Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. It is a low-tide elevation... The Chinese side has no law enforcement authority over that area... There is no legal basis for that under UNCLOS and under the arbitral award.” Development comes days after the 10th anniversary of the landmark 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. India welcomed the milestone, describing it as an “important milestone” for peaceful, law-based dispute settlement. Ignacio expressed gratitude for New Delhi’s support and highlighted the ruling’s wider importance: “The arbitral award is important... The clarification of provisions of UNCLOS has broader implications beyond the case... It is an important contribution to international law, especially to maritime law.”

The Philippines is deepening defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system as a key boost to its military deterrence while seeking greater cooperation in defence technology and indigenous industry development.

Philippines eyes deeper defence ties with India, says Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits the Philippines in a show of solidarity as Washington strongly condemns Beijing's latest dangerous and aggressive maritime actions in the contested South China Sea.

South China Sea clash: Philippine military says China injured sailor in Sea clash

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visits the Philippines in a show of solidarity as Washington strongly condemns Beijing's latest dangerous and aggressive maritime actions in the contested South China Sea.


South China sea clash: Rubio in Philippines as US condemns 'dangerous' China actions

China and the Philippines on Monday traded accusations after an encounter between vessels in contested South China Sea ‌waters, with Manila saying one of its navy personnel was struck on the head and Beijing saying Manila provoked the incident.
The Philippines said Chinese Coast Guard personnel aggressively struck one of its navy staff on the head with a wooden baton during an encounter in the Second Thomas Shoal on Monday in which a navy rubber boat was damaged.

China-Philippines sea clash: Taiwan warns of growing Chinese pressure at sea

Artificial intelligence is turning the images and voices of trusted political leaders in Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines into powerful weapons for global scam syndicates. 

Asian scammers rip off millions using political leader's image

The landscape of digital banking in the Philippines has officially shifted. Starting June 25, 2026, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has mandated that major banks and e-wallet operators move away from traditional SMS- and email-based one-time passwords (OTPs) for high-risk financial transactions.


Philippine banks, E-wallets ditch SMS and E-mail OTPs 

Fourteen countries, led by the United States, on Sunday reaffirmed that China's expansive claims in the South China Sea have no legal basis under international law, marking the 10th anniversary of a landmark arbitration ruling that Beijing continues to reject.


Beijing Has Called South China Sea Arbitration Ruling Illegal

At least 15 people have died after Typhoon Bavi triggered landslides in the southern Philippines, while Taiwan evacuated thousands of residents and grounded hundreds of flights as the powerful storm approached the island.&nbsp;Authorities said a landslide caused by days of heavy rain killed 10 people in Sarangani province on the southern island of Mindanao on Friday. The latest incident raised the storm's death toll in the Philippines to at least 15.&nbsp;"Ten people got buried and were killed" when soil saturated by days of rain caused the landslide in Mindanao's Sarangani province, regional civil defence director Rodrigo Sosmena, AFP quoted as saying.&nbsp;Earlier on Friday, another landslide on Mindanao left at least five people dead, while six others remained missing.&nbsp;Bavi earlier swept across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as a super typhoon before weakening over the Pacific Ocean. It is forecast to strike northern and eastern Taiwan before moving towards Japan's southwestern islands and eastern China over the weekend.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-visit-is-historic-pm-modi-begins-first-new-zealand-trip-by-an-indian-prime-minister-in-four-decades-1783677484662">‘This visit is historic’: PM Modi begins first New Zealand trip by an Indian prime minister in four decades</a><h2>Taiwan braces for Typhoon Bavi</h2>Neighbouring Taiwan evacuated more than 2,000 people from their homes and cancelled hundreds of flights as the storm drew closer.&nbsp;Forecasters said Typhoon Bavi is expected to batter northern and eastern Taiwan on Friday and Saturday before moving across Japan's remote southwestern islands and then into eastern China.&nbsp;After hitting Guam and the Northern Marianas on Monday as a super typhoon, Bavi weakened into a typhoon as it travelled across the Pacific Ocean.&nbsp;Taiwan's Central Weather Administration said Bavi's maximum sustained wind speeds reached 155 kilometres per hour, with gusts of around 190 kilometres per hour on Friday.&nbsp;Many schools and businesses remained closed across northern and eastern Taiwan on Friday, while hundreds of flights were cancelled.<h2>Japan and China remain on alert</h2>Japan's remote Sakashima Islands suspended classes and closed some government offices as authorities warned of high waves, strong winds and possible landslides.&nbsp;After passing Taiwan and Japan, Typhoon Bavi is expected to make landfall along China's eastern coast over the weekend, where maritime and transport authorities have activated emergency response measures.

Typhoon Bavi triggered deadly landslides that killed at least 15 people in the Philippines as Taiwan evacuated thousands and prepared for the storm's impact.

At least 15 people have died after Typhoon Bavi triggered landslides in the southern Philippines, while Taiwan evacuated thousands of residents and grounded hundreds of flights as the powerful storm approached the island. Authorities said a landslide caused by days of heavy rain killed 10 people in Sarangani province on the southern island of Mindanao on Friday. The latest incident raised the storm's death toll in the Philippines to at least 15. "Ten people got buried and were killed" when soil saturated by days of rain caused the landslide in Mindanao's Sarangani province, regional civil defence director Rodrigo Sosmena, AFP quoted as saying. Earlier on Friday, another landslide on Mindanao left at least five people dead, while six others remained missing. Bavi earlier swept across Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as a super typhoon before weakening over the Pacific Ocean. It is forecast to strike northern and eastern Taiwan before moving towards Japan's southwestern islands and eastern China over the weekend. Also Read: ‘This visit is historic’: PM Modi begins first New Zealand trip by an Indian prime minister in four decades Taiwan braces for Typhoon Bavi Neighbouring Taiwan evacuated more than 2,000 people from their homes and cancelled hundreds of flights as the storm drew closer. Forecasters said Typhoon Bavi is expected to batter northern and eastern Taiwan on Friday and Saturday before moving across Japan's remote southwestern islands and then into eastern China. After hitting Guam and the Northern Marianas on Monday as a super typhoon, Bavi weakened into a typhoon as it travelled across the Pacific Ocean. Taiwan's Central Weather Administration said Bavi's maximum sustained wind speeds reached 155 kilometres per hour, with gusts of around 190 kilometres per hour on Friday. Many schools and businesses remained closed across northern and eastern Taiwan on Friday, while hundreds of flights were cancelled. Japan and China remain on alert Japan's remote Sakashima Islands suspended classes and closed some government offices as authorities warned of high waves, strong winds and possible landslides. After passing Taiwan and Japan, Typhoon Bavi is expected to make landfall along China's eastern coast over the weekend, where maritime and transport authorities have activated emergency response measures.

Typhoon Bavi triggered deadly landslides that killed at least 15 people in the Philippines as Taiwan evacuated thousands and prepared for the storm's impact.

Typhoon Bavi triggers deadly landslides, kills at least 15 in Philippines as Taiwan braces for impact

The Philippines has entered a major political chapter as 23 senators were formally sworn in as judges for the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. The proceedings are expected to draw national attention, with lawmakers set to examine allegations and evidence in a case that could have significant implications for the country's political landscape and leadership ahead of future elections.


Sara Duterte impeachment trial: Accusations involve misuse of government funds & bribery

As tensions simmer in the South China Sea, the U.S. has provided the Philippines with advanced solar-powered sea drones capable of operating for 30 days without a crew. The systems are designed to track maritime threats, illegal fishing and gray-zone activities in contested waters. The transfer follows shortly after a multiday U.S.-Philippine coast guard exercise in the South China Sea.

US Hands Philippines $13M Sea Drones to Boost Maritime Surveillance 

The US, Japan, and South Korea are collaborating extensively with the Philippines to bolster its armed forces and increase maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. These allied nations are providing training, technology, and hardware rather than a single joint unit.


US, Japan, South Korea & Philippines Militaries Unite

A powerful earthquake struck the Philippines, leaving widespread destruction in General Santos City as buildings collapsed into rubble and panic spread across affected areas. Rescue teams and emergency services rushed to the scene as authorities assessed the scale of damage and searched for survivors trapped under debris.

Videos and images from the city showed shattered structures, damaged roads, and terrified residents fleeing to safety moments after the quake struck. Officials have warned of possible aftershocks as relief and rescue operations continue. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Philippines earthquake and its aftermath.

Philippines Earthquake: Race To Find Survivor Continues | More Than 32,000 Dispaced 

Philippines Earthquake: Buildings in General Santos City Turned to Rubble by Earthquake

A 6.1 magnitude aftershock has struck southern Philippines following a recent earthquake, triggering renewed concerns among residents and authorities. The tremor has caused panic in affected areas, with officials monitoring for possible damage and further seismic activity. Emergency response teams remain on alert as aftershocks continue to shake the region and residents are advised to stay cautious and follow safety instructions.


Philippines Earthquake: 6.1 Magnitude Aftershock Hits Southern Philippines

A powerful earthquake struck the Philippines, triggering immediate tsunami warnings across coastal regions. Authorities have urged residents to move to higher ground as monitoring agencies assess the potential impact of aftershocks and sea-level changes. Emergency response teams are on high alert as the situation develops, with officials closely tracking seismic activity and issuing continuous safety advisories.


Philippines Earthquake: Tsunami Threat Declared After Quake Rocks Philippines

Rescue teams in the Philippines are racing against time after a building collapse left at least 19 people feared trapped beneath the rubble. Emergency responders have launched a large-scale search and rescue operation, using heavy equipment and specialized teams to locate survivors. Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse, while families anxiously await updates on those missing.


Philippine Building Collapse: 19 Feared Trapped Under Collapsed Building

Political tensions escalated in Manila after Philippine Senator Ronald Dela Rosa reportedly evaded authorities linked to an arrest warrant connected to the International Criminal Court. The dramatic incident unfolded near the Senate premises amid reports of gunfire and heavy security activity. Dela Rosa, a key ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has long faced scrutiny over anti-drug operations conducted during Duterte’s administration.


Philippines Senate to Put Sara Duterte on Trial in Major Political Showdown

Philippine Senator Ronald Dela Rosa Evades Arrest Amid ICC Warrant Drama in Manila 

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