Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Combat helicopters fires into Northern Gaza - Putin reappoints Mishustin as PM - Netanyahu: Hope to clear tiff with US - UK Migration: Labour unveils new plan - Philippines calls for Chinese Diplomats' expulsion - New Chinese envoy to India arrives in New Delhi

Combat helicopters fires into Northern Gaza | Netanyahu: Hope to clear tiff with US

US and Philippines forces, backed by an Australian air force surveillance aircraft, sank a mock enemy ship as part of large-scale war drills in and near the disputed South China Sea that have antagonized Beijing.

US and Philippines forces sink mock enemy ship in during drill

The Philippines' recent induction of BrahMos missiles has been hailed as a significant development by Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio. In an exclusive interview with diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Philippines Ambassador Ignacio described the acquisition as a "milestone" for the country's defense modernization, providing "credible deterrence". The BrahMos missile, renowned for its speed and precision, was jointly developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia. The $375 million deal, signed in 2022, marked a crucial step forward for the Philippines undertaking its defense modernization.

'BrahMos acquisition a milestone for the Philippines', says Philippines Ambassador Ignacio

Philippines Amb Josel Francisco on India-Philippines ties: BrahMos missile crucial for Philippines

The Philippines' recent induction of BrahMos missiles has been hailed as a significant development by Ambassador Josel Francisco Ignacio. In an exclusive interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Philippines Ambassador Ignacio described the acquisition as a "milestone" for the country's defence modernisation, providing "credible deterrence".

BrahMos provides credible deterrence, recognition of India’s defence industry: Philippine Ambassador Ignacio

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia - AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines - Brazil floods leave 150,000 homeless - Students protests spread to Europe

Xi in Belgrade on a state visit to Serbia | AstraZeneca withdraws Covid-19 vaccines

U.S. & Filipino troops fire missiles & artillery at a decommissioned vessel off the Philippines' northern coast. It is a part of a maritime strike exercise, which aims to deter a hypothetical aggressor force. It comes amid a backdrop of increased confrontations between Philippine & Chinese vessels around South China Sea

South China Sea war games: Philippines, US troops fire missiles and artillery

Philippines and US armed forces fired missiles and artillery to thwart a simulated invasion in the Philippines' northern waters facing Taiwan on Monday, in a show of military force and strengthening ties as regional tensions rise. Watch in!

Philippines, US repel mock foreign invaders in annual military exercises

China has been usurping territory in South China Sea for several years. While It did not face a lot of resistance, but now, one country is challenging its might - Philippines. While it is still a David and Goliath face-off, under the leadership of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Philippines is posturing itself strongly against China and holding its ground despite all Chinese attempts to intimidate and scare. What is Philippines’ Game Plan? Watch Game Plan only on WION with Shivan Chana

South China Sea face-off: The Philippines that China was not prepared for

France and the Philippines will begin talks next month on a defence pact to allow military exercises in each other territories. Officials from both Nations will meet in Paris for the talks.

France-Philippines: 'Visiting forces agreement'

The Philippines summoned a Chinese Embassy official to protest the "harassment of Philippine vessels" as tensions flare up in the South China Sea. Watch in for more details!

Manila summons China's envoy over harassment in South China Sea

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Iran slaps sanctions on US, UK - Iran allows 130 UN nuclear inspectors - Local elections polling underway in UK - Philippines summons China envoy - Maldives FM likely to visit India on May 9 - Russia showcases war trophies

Iran slaps sanctions on US, UK | Local elections polling underway in UK

Philippines summoned a senior Chinese envoy on Thursday to protest a water cannon incident that damaged two Philippine vessels during a patrol in the South China Sea.

Philippines summons China envoy over water cannon incident

The rift is widening between China & Philippines. There has been a rise in clashes between Coast Guards. China is resorting to brute force in South China Sea. Is Beijing violating international law? Watch this video to find out.

South China Sea: Philippines accuses Chinese coast guard of using brute force

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - China, a threat to our crews: Philippines - Russia strikes Ukraine Army HQ in Odesa - Police clear Columbia's Hamilton Hall - Blinken in Israel to push for truce - US moves to reclassify Marijuana - South korea discusses joining AUKUS - Multiple Delhi-NCR schools recieve bomb threats

China, a threat to our crews: Philippines | Russia strikes Ukraine Army HQ in Odesa

Farmers in Philippines are left devastated due to the extreme temperatures that have put their crops and livelihood at risk. The temperature in the capital region is soaring to 37 degrees celcius, leaving them to produce quality fruits & vegetables.

Philippines: Filipino farmers struggle in drought, crop lands hit by heatwaves

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made&nbsp;from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day. Manila has experienced record-high temperatures, compelling&nbsp;schools nationwide to suspend in-person classes. As residents seek refuge in air-conditioned malls and pools, animals at Manila Zoo are also seeking relief from the extreme heat.

Ensuring the prevention of heatstroke, especially among the large cats, was the primary concern, according to zoo veterinarian Dave Vinas in an interview with AFP on Tuesday, as temperatures soared to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city.

To reduce temperatures inside the concrete enclosures, water is continuously splashed on the walls and ground throughout the day.

Frozen treats, dubbed "bloodsicles," consisting of frozen ground beef or chicken mixed with animal blood and vitamins, are provided for the big cats to lick.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-stunned-as-chinese-sleeper-cells-take-over-sensitive-security-zone-713942">Also read |&nbsp;Philippines stunned as Chinese ‘sleeper cells’ take over sensitive security zone</a>

Additionally, tigers and lions receive regular sprays of water and have access to pools within their enclosures to cool off.

Wendell, a five-year-old Bengal tiger weighing nearly 400 kilogrammes (882 pounds), continuously pants while spending hours submerged in a shallow pool.

Water is also poured in&nbsp;the enclosures housing snakes and turtles to help regulate their body temperature.

While providing ice treats and baths during the warmer months of March, April, and May is routine.&nbsp;

<h2>El Nino weather phenomenon</h2>

The El Niño weather pattern is being attributed to the intense heat and extreme weather conditions in the region.

During the typical high-temperature months of March, April, and May, the archipelago saw the heat index reach the "danger" level of 42°C (108°F).

State meteorologists anticipated even higher temperatures in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday.

Also watch |&nbsp;The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy

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The Philippine Department of Education reported that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday, April 24th.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day.

Amid a scorching heatwave in the Philippines, a zoo is providing tigers with frozen treats made from animal blood and is restricting lion mating during the hottest hours of the day. Manila has experienced record-high temperatures, compelling schools nationwide to suspend in-person classes. As residents seek refuge in air-conditioned malls and pools, animals at Manila Zoo are also seeking relief from the extreme heat. Ensuring the prevention of heatstroke, especially among the large cats, was the primary concern, according to zoo veterinarian Dave Vinas in an interview with AFP on Tuesday, as temperatures soared to 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city. To reduce temperatures inside the concrete enclosures, water is continuously splashed on the walls and ground throughout the day. Frozen treats, dubbed "bloodsicles," consisting of frozen ground beef or chicken mixed with animal blood and vitamins, are provided for the big cats to lick. Also read | Philippines stunned as Chinese ‘sleeper cells’ take over sensitive security zone Additionally, tigers and lions receive regular sprays of water and have access to pools within their enclosures to cool off. Wendell, a five-year-old Bengal tiger weighing nearly 400 kilogrammes (882 pounds), continuously pants while spending hours submerged in a shallow pool. Water is also poured in the enclosures housing snakes and turtles to help regulate their body temperature. While providing ice treats and baths during the warmer months of March, April, and May is routine. El Nino weather phenomenon The El Niño weather pattern is being attributed to the intense heat and extreme weather conditions in the region. During the typical high-temperature months of March, April, and May, the archipelago saw the heat index reach the "danger" level of 42°C (108°F). State meteorologists anticipated even higher temperatures in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday. Also watch | The Philippines becomes Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economy The Philippine Department of Education reported that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday, April 24th. (With inputs from agencies)

Beating the heat: Lions and tigers cool off with ‘bloodsicles’ at Philippine zoo

China's coast guard says it "expelled" a Philippine coast guard ship and another vessel from Scarborough Shoal. The Coast Guard did not provide additional information in a statement. Watch this video for all details.

South China Sea tensions: Chinese coast guard expels Philippine vessels

The Philippines will suspend in-person classes in all public schools on Monday and Tuesday due to extreme heat and a nationwide strike by jeepney drivers, the country's education department said on Sunday (Apr 28).

The Philippines will suspend in-person classes in all public schools on Monday and Tuesday due to extreme heat and a nationwide strike by jeepney drivers, the country's education department said on Sunday (Apr 28). In a post on Facebook, the department said, "In view of the latest heat index forecast... and the announcement of a nationwide transport strike, all public schools nationwide shall implement asynchronous classes/distance learning on April 29 and 30, 2024." The suspension of offline classes came as the capital city of Manila recorded its highest-ever temperature. Citing data from the state weather forecaster, a report by the news agency AFP said that Manila hit a record high of 38.8 degrees Celsius on Saturday with the heat index reaching 45 degrees Celsius. Many schools in the country have no air-conditioning, leaving students to swelter in crowded, poorly ventilated-classrooms. AFP reported that March, April, and May are typically the hottest and driest of the year, but this year's conditions have been exacerbated by the El Nino weather phenomenon. Also read | Deaths due to heat at all-time high; heatwaves in Europe linked to 30% increase in fatalities Glaiza Escullar from the state weather forecaster told the news agency, "There is a possibility that the areas will exceed those temperatures being measured today until the second week of May." "There is a possibility that the areas will exceed those temperatures being measured today until the second week of May," Escullar added. On Sunday, hot weather persisted in the Philippines with several citizens flocking to air-conditioned shopping malls and swimming pools for relief. Meanwhile, the suspension of offline classes in schools is also due to a nationwide strike by jeepney drivers. The drivers plan to hold a three-day nationwide strike starting Monday to protest the government's plan to phase out the smoke-belching vehicles used by many Filipinos to commute to work and school. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines to suspend in-person classes in public schools due to heat wave, jeepney drivers' strike

The U.S. and the Philippines have launched their largest combat exercises, Balikatan drills in the South China Sea. For the first time, the drills will extend beyond 12 nautical miles off the Philippines coast and into the waters claimed by China. The military exercises come amid escalating maritime tensions between the Philippines and China. As Balikatan drills began, dozens of Chinese vessels were detected in the contested waters in the South China Sea, So, what is the maritime dispute between Manila and Beijing? We deep dive and tell you all about China's aggression in the region on WION Wideangle

Chinese vessels detected amid US-Philippines drills

A “foreign actor” is likely behind deepfake content that made Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sound like he’s urging military action against China, according to his communications office.

Philippines government disowns President Marcos' deepfake audio which urges combat with China

Soaring temperatures in South and Southeast Asia on Wednesday (Apr 24) affected millions, prompting schools and colleges to suspend classes across the Philippines. 
 
The situation also triggered heatwave warnings in Thailand's capital Bangkok.

Extensive scientific research has found that climate change was triggering prolonged intense heatwaves across the region.

"It's so hot you can't breathe," news agency AFP quoted Erlin Tumaron, 60, who works at a Philippine seaside resort in Cavite province, south of Manila, as saying.

The heat index&nbsp;reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) on Tuesday (Apr 23) in the region.&nbsp;

"It's surprising our pools are still empty. You would expect people to come and take a swim, but it seems they're reluctant to leave their homes because of the heat."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-attacked-two-russian-oil-depots-714600">Ukraine claims to have attacked two Russian oil depots</a>

<h2>El Nino weather phenomenon</h2>

El Nino weather phenomenon is being considered responsible for the scorching heat and severe weather conditions across the region.

The archipelago, which usually experiences high temperatures during the months of March, April and May, recorded the heat index at the "danger" level of 42C (108F).

It was expected to go even higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday, said the state weather forecaster.

The Philippine Department of Education said that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday (Apr 24).

Last year, global temperatures struck record levels with the UN's World Meteorological Organization stating that Asia was warming at a relatively rapid speed.

"Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms," said WMO chief Celeste Saulo, who described the report as "sobering".

WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett said, "Extreme heat is increasingly becoming the big silent killer".

However, Barrett said that "heat-related mortality is widely under-reported and so the true scale of premature deaths and economic costs... is not accurately reflected in the statistics."

(With inputs from agencies)

Soaring temperatures in South and Southeast Asia on Wednesday (Apr 24) affected millions, prompting schools and colleges to suspend classes across the Philippines.

Soaring temperatures in South and Southeast Asia on Wednesday (Apr 24) affected millions, prompting schools and colleges to suspend classes across the Philippines. The situation also triggered heatwave warnings in Thailand's capital Bangkok. Extensive scientific research has found that climate change was triggering prolonged intense heatwaves across the region. "It's so hot you can't breathe," news agency AFP quoted Erlin Tumaron, 60, who works at a Philippine seaside resort in Cavite province, south of Manila, as saying. The heat index reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) on Tuesday (Apr 23) in the region. "It's surprising our pools are still empty. You would expect people to come and take a swim, but it seems they're reluctant to leave their homes because of the heat." Also read: Ukraine claims to have attacked two Russian oil depots El Nino weather phenomenon El Nino weather phenomenon is being considered responsible for the scorching heat and severe weather conditions across the region. The archipelago, which usually experiences high temperatures during the months of March, April and May, recorded the heat index at the "danger" level of 42C (108F). It was expected to go even higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday, said the state weather forecaster. The Philippine Department of Education said that nearly 6,700 schools suspended in-person classes on Wednesday (Apr 24). Last year, global temperatures struck record levels with the UN's World Meteorological Organization stating that Asia was warming at a relatively rapid speed. "Many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023, along with a barrage of extreme conditions, from droughts and heatwaves to floods and storms," said WMO chief Celeste Saulo, who described the report as "sobering". WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett said, "Extreme heat is increasingly becoming the big silent killer". However, Barrett said that "heat-related mortality is widely under-reported and so the true scale of premature deaths and economic costs... is not accurately reflected in the statistics." (With inputs from agencies)

Soaring temperatures prompt suspension of classes in Philippines

Is an energy war breaking out in the South China Sea? China has been using its maritime militia and its 'Monster' to deter Vietnam and the Philippines from exploring and developing the oil rich waters of the South China Sea. But for how long? As Vietnam and the Philippines' reliance on energy imports increase, will the two countries stand up to Chinese aggression in South China Sea?

Gravitas: Is an energy war breaking out in the South China Sea?

All eyes are on the massive show of strength in South China as the Philippines and US navies prepare to conduct their annual joint military exercises.

US-Philippines to hold joint-maritime exercise

39th edition of Balikatan drills: US-Philippines to hold joint-maritime exercise

Warning bells have been sounded in the Philippines by the unusual influx of Chinese nationals in a region very critical for its national security. Lawmakers have warned that these nationals could very well be “spies,” prompting the government to dispatch units to the province of Cagayan to investigate the matter.

It has been reported that a whopping 4,600 Chinese nationals have arrived in the province, located on the northern tip of Luzon Island facing Taiwan, and enrolled into private universities.

Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council, said Saturday (Apr 20), “Our intelligence units have been assigned to take a look at the situation there. Is this a case of a national security threat, or is this just a case of people wanting to study in the Philippines?”

<h2>‘Creeping invasion’</h2>

Some hawkish congressmen have termed the trend as a “creeping invasion”, with Congressman Robert Ace Barbers emerging as the strongest voice.

Barbers said the motive of the Chinese students was not clear and they could be “spies or members of sleeper cells sent to gather intelligence.”

“Why are they all there in Cagayan close to the EDCA site? Why are there so many enrolling there? Isn’t it that if you want to pursue a master’s degree, you would go to a big university overseas?” Barbers said. “Is there really that much interest to get a master’s degree from the Philippines?”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwig_YzD_9WFAxX03jgGHWWwBpYQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/indo-pacific-is-regaining-salience-amid-west-asia-crisis-us-china-strategic-contestation-711405" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/indo-pacific-is-regaining-salience-amid-west-asia-crisis-us-china-strategic-contestation-711405&amp;ved=2ahUKEwig_YzD_9WFAxX03jgGHWWwBpYQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Indo-Pacific is regaining salience amid West Asia crisis, US-China strategic contestation</a>

He also mentioned about a recent police raid in the province where a 24-year-old Chinese national was held for possessing high-powered firearms, including a tactical helmet with “CHINA” markings and a Chinese flag.

<h2>Significance</h2>

The region, where the influx is happening, hosts three new sites in the region under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a pact with the United States that allows for large-scale joint military exercises.

Watch:&nbsp;US-Philippines troops begin joint-maritime drills

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This makes it an extremely sensitive security zone, with implications for the country’s national security and joint co-operation with the US, a fierce rival of China.

(With inputs from agencies)

Warning bells have been sounded in the Philippines by the unusual influx of Chinese nationals in a region very critical for its national security. Lawmakers have warned that these nationals could very well be “spies,” prompting the government to dispatch units to the province of Cagayan to investigate the matter.

Warning bells have been sounded in the Philippines by the unusual influx of Chinese nationals in a region very critical for its national security. Lawmakers have warned that these nationals could very well be “spies,” prompting the government to dispatch units to the province of Cagayan to investigate the matter. It has been reported that a whopping 4,600 Chinese nationals have arrived in the province, located on the northern tip of Luzon Island facing Taiwan, and enrolled into private universities. Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general of the National Security Council, said Saturday (Apr 20), “Our intelligence units have been assigned to take a look at the situation there. Is this a case of a national security threat, or is this just a case of people wanting to study in the Philippines?” ‘Creeping invasion’ Some hawkish congressmen have termed the trend as a “creeping invasion”, with Congressman Robert Ace Barbers emerging as the strongest voice. Barbers said the motive of the Chinese students was not clear and they could be “spies or members of sleeper cells sent to gather intelligence.” “Why are they all there in Cagayan close to the EDCA site? Why are there so many enrolling there? Isn’t it that if you want to pursue a master’s degree, you would go to a big university overseas?” Barbers said. “Is there really that much interest to get a master’s degree from the Philippines?” Also read: Indo-Pacific is regaining salience amid West Asia crisis, US-China strategic contestation He also mentioned about a recent police raid in the province where a 24-year-old Chinese national was held for possessing high-powered firearms, including a tactical helmet with “CHINA” markings and a Chinese flag. Significance The region, where the influx is happening, hosts three new sites in the region under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), a pact with the United States that allows for large-scale joint military exercises. Watch: US-Philippines troops begin joint-maritime drills × This makes it an extremely sensitive security zone, with implications for the country’s national security and joint co-operation with the US, a fierce rival of China. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines stunned as Chinese ‘sleeper cells’ take over sensitive security zone

Filipino and American troops kicked off a three-week joint combat training exercise in the Philippines on Monday that includes maritime drills in the South China Sea. Watch in for more details!

US-Philippines troops begin joint-maritime drills

Nearly 17,000 Filipino and American troops will begin a controversial three-week joint combat training exercise in the Philippines on Monday (April 22) involving maritime drills in the South China Sea where Manila and Beijing have sparred over maritime borders.

All about Balikatan annual drills by US & Philippines amid tensions with China

India delivered the Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines on Friday, as part of the $375 million deal between the two sides signed in 2022. Watch in for more details!

India delivers first batch of Brahmos cruise missile system to Philippines

India has delivered the all-powerful Brahmos missile systems to the Philippines. The island nation is going to deploy the three batteries in coastal regions. Should China watch out?

Gravitas | India delivers Brahmos to the Philippines, should China watch out?

In a first, India has exported defence products worth over Rupees 21,000 crore. India has successfully delivered BrahMos missile to the Philippines, India has also delivered two Dornier 228 jets to Guyana. Is this the start of India's defence boom?

India to deliver BrahMos missile to Philippines, India's first major defence export deal

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