The Philippines and China continue their blame game in the territory of the South China Sea. In the latest the Philippines has accused China of using water canons to obstruct three of its vessels.

Manila blames Chinese Coats Guard of ramming into its boat

In a historic moment for marine biology, a pregnant megamouth shark, a rare and elusive deepwater species, was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines last month.&nbsp;This is only the 60th ever seen and the first ever observed to be pregnant.

The groundbreaking find revealed that megamouth sharks, specifically the Megachasma pelagios species, are ovoviviparous. This means that their offspring develop in eggs inside the mother, leading to live births, according to Science Alert.

The dead female megamouth, found on November 14 in Barangay Ipil, Dipaculao, Aurora Province, measured an impressive 5.6 metres&nbsp;(18.4 feet) in length. Her colossal mouth, a defining feature, was estimated to be approximately 1.3 metres wide.

The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) shared this groundbreaking discovery on social media, hailing it as the world's first record of a pregnant megamouth shark. Scientists conducted a necropsy on the mother and one of its pups, providing valuable insights into the habits and physiology of this&nbsp;species.

Also watch |&nbsp;July 14 is celebrated as the 'shark awareness day'

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While the Philippines ranks second only to Taiwan in megamouth shark sightings, most encounters involve stranded or accidentally entangled sharks. The species faces threats, stressing on&nbsp;the need for conservation efforts to protect these rare creatures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/orcas-sink-another-yacht-near-strait-of-gibraltar-following-45-min-long-attack-656088">Also read |&nbsp;Orcas sink another yacht near Strait of Gibraltar after sustained 45-min-long attack</a>

<h2>Mysterious deep-sea habits</h2>

Megamouth sharks, like many deep-sea inhabitants, are believed to spend the majority of their time at depths of up to 4,600 metres&nbsp;(15,100 feet) and surface primarily at night.

Their elusive nature and limited sightings since their discovery in 1976 make every observation a crucial opportunity for scientific understanding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dramatic-rescue-at-sea-catamaran-survives-shark-attacks-in-coral-sea-632782">Also read |&nbsp;Dramatic rescue at sea: Catamaran survives shark attacks in coral sea</a>

Despite their intimidating name and massive mouths, megamouth sharks pose no threat to humans.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a historic moment for marine biology, a pregnant megamouth shark, a rare and elusive deepwater species, was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines last month.

In a historic moment for marine biology, a pregnant megamouth shark, a rare and elusive deepwater species, was discovered washed up on a beach in the Philippines last month. This is only the 60th ever seen and the first ever observed to be pregnant. The groundbreaking find revealed that megamouth sharks, specifically the Megachasma pelagios species, are ovoviviparous. This means that their offspring develop in eggs inside the mother, leading to live births, according to Science Alert. The dead female megamouth, found on November 14 in Barangay Ipil, Dipaculao, Aurora Province, measured an impressive 5.6 metres (18.4 feet) in length. Her colossal mouth, a defining feature, was estimated to be approximately 1.3 metres wide. The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) shared this groundbreaking discovery on social media, hailing it as the world's first record of a pregnant megamouth shark. Scientists conducted a necropsy on the mother and one of its pups, providing valuable insights into the habits and physiology of this species. Also watch | July 14 is celebrated as the 'shark awareness day' While the Philippines ranks second only to Taiwan in megamouth shark sightings, most encounters involve stranded or accidentally entangled sharks. The species faces threats, stressing on the need for conservation efforts to protect these rare creatures. Also read | Orcas sink another yacht near Strait of Gibraltar after sustained 45-min-long attack Mysterious deep-sea habits Megamouth sharks, like many deep-sea inhabitants, are believed to spend the majority of their time at depths of up to 4,600 metres (15,100 feet) and surface primarily at night. Their elusive nature and limited sightings since their discovery in 1976 make every observation a crucial opportunity for scientific understanding. Also read | Dramatic rescue at sea: Catamaran survives shark attacks in coral sea Despite their intimidating name and massive mouths, megamouth sharks pose no threat to humans. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, pregnant megamouth shark spotted on Philippines beach

A powerful explosion ripped through a Catholic mass in the southern Philippines this morning. Four people were killed and 40 people were left injured. The explosion took place during the morning mass that was underway in a state-run University gymnasium.

Islamic state militants 'ISIS' claim Philippines Catholic mass blast

The Philippines coast guard has released a video showing hundreds of maritime vessels gathered at a coral reef that lies within the Philippines exclusive economic zone.

Pilippines releases video showing Chinese boats at Whitsun Reef

The Philippines Coast Guard has released a video showing hundreds of Chinese maritime vessels gathered at a Coral Reef that lies within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea.

China vessels at Reef off Philippines, 'Beijing's present alarming at Whitsun Reef' | World DNA

Bomb blast rips through a Catholic mass in Southern Philippines

The Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) said on Sunday (Dec 3) that it monitored the illegal presence of more than 135 Chinese maritime militia vessels at a reef in the South China Sea. In a statement posted on X, Coast Guard officer Jay Tarriela said that on Nov 13, the PCG monitored 111 Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) swarming the area of Julian Felipe Reef, and this number increased to 125 based on the last monitoring of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.&nbsp;

Tarriela said that in response to this alarming development, authorities directed the PCG to carry out a maritime patrol to challenge and document the illegal presence of the CMM in Julian Felipe Reef.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-accuses-china-of-dangerous-actions-in-south-china-sea-657154">Philippines accuses China of 'dangerous' actions in South China Sea</a>

"Yesterday, the PCG Commandant, Coast Guard Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, deployed PCG vessels, BRP Sindangan and BRP Cabra, to conduct patrols in the immediate vicinity of Julian Felipe Reef. No response was made to the radio challenges issued by the PCG to the CMM vessels which is now estimated to have grown to more than 135 vessels dispersed and scattered within Julian Felipe Reef," he added.

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Here are the the photos: <a href="https://t.co/I8rEH8ADDJ">pic.twitter.com/I8rEH8ADDJ</a>
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The Julian Felipe Reef is located 175 nautical miles west of Bataraza, Palawan. It is considered a low-tide elevation within the territorial sea of relevant high-tide features in the Kalayaan Island Group, including Chigua Reef, over which the Philippines has sovereignty.

This development comes two days after the Philippines built a new coast guard station on the Thitu Island in the South China Sea. The country's outpost of the island is its biggest and most strategically important in the South China Sea.

Thitu lies about 480 kilometres west of the Philippine province of Palawan. The island is home to about 200 people and is used by Manila to maintain its territorial claim.

The three-storey Coast Guard station, inaugurated on Friday, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as radar, automatic identification, satellite communication, and coastal cameras, the PCG said in a statement.

During a visit to Thitu, Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said, "The behaviour of the Chinese Coast Guard, People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and Chinese militias are sometimes unpredictable."

"They do not adhere to the international order, to the rule of law," he added.&nbsp;

The Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) said on Sunday (Dec 3) that it monitored the illegal presence of more than 135 Chinese maritime militia vessels at a reef in the South China Sea.

The Philippines Coast Guard (PCG) said on Sunday (Dec 3) that it monitored the illegal presence of more than 135 Chinese maritime militia vessels at a reef in the South China Sea. In a statement posted on X, Coast Guard officer Jay Tarriela said that on Nov 13, the PCG monitored 111 Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) swarming the area of Julian Felipe Reef, and this number increased to 125 based on the last monitoring of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Tarriela said that in response to this alarming development, authorities directed the PCG to carry out a maritime patrol to challenge and document the illegal presence of the CMM in Julian Felipe Reef. Also read: Philippines accuses China of 'dangerous' actions in South China Sea "Yesterday, the PCG Commandant, Coast Guard Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, deployed PCG vessels, BRP Sindangan and BRP Cabra, to conduct patrols in the immediate vicinity of Julian Felipe Reef. No response was made to the radio challenges issued by the PCG to the CMM vessels which is now estimated to have grown to more than 135 vessels dispersed and scattered within Julian Felipe Reef," he added. Here are the the photos: pic.twitter.com/I8rEH8ADDJ — Jay Tarriela (@jaytaryela) December 3, 2023 × The Julian Felipe Reef is located 175 nautical miles west of Bataraza, Palawan. It is considered a low-tide elevation within the territorial sea of relevant high-tide features in the Kalayaan Island Group, including Chigua Reef, over which the Philippines has sovereignty. This development comes two days after the Philippines built a new coast guard station on the Thitu Island in the South China Sea. The country's outpost of the island is its biggest and most strategically important in the South China Sea. Thitu lies about 480 kilometres west of the Philippine province of Palawan. The island is home to about 200 people and is used by Manila to maintain its territorial claim. The three-storey Coast Guard station, inaugurated on Friday, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as radar, automatic identification, satellite communication, and coastal cameras, the PCG said in a statement. During a visit to Thitu, Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said, "The behaviour of the Chinese Coast Guard, People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and Chinese militias are sometimes unpredictable." "They do not adhere to the international order, to the rule of law," he added.

Philippines says it monitored illegal presence of over 135 Chinese vessels in South China Sea

An explosion at a university in the insurgency-hit southern Philippines claimed four lives and left at least 50 people injured during a Catholic Mass in the varsity’s gymnasium on Sunday (Dec 3).

The blast occurred in Marawi, the country’s largest Muslim city which was besieged by Islamist militants for five months in 2017.

Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr&nbsp;condemning&nbsp;the&nbsp;attack targeting the educational institution said,&nbsp;“I condemn the violent bombing incident that transpired this morning. Terroristic attacks on educational institutions must also be condemned because these are places that promote the culture of peace.”

<h2>Military suspect pro-Islamic militants&nbsp;</h2>

Mindanao State University said it is “deeply saddened and appalled by the act of violence that occurred during a religious gathering” in a statement on Facebook.

“This is clearly an act of terrorism. It’s not a simple feud between two people. A bomb will kill everybody around,” Mandangan told the Associated Press.

While the officials are investigating who is responsible for the blast at Mindanao State University, regional police director Brigadier General Allan Nobleza told reporters that they are not ruling out the “revenge” angle by pro-Islamic State militants, reported AFP news agency.

“We’re investigating if it’s an IED (improvised explosive device) or grenade throwing,” he was quoted as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-one-dead-two-others-injured-after-man-attacks-tourists-near-eiffel-tower-665588">One dead, two others injured after man attacks tourists near Eiffel Tower</a>

The security chief of the campus, Taha Mandangan, said that at least two of the wounded were grievously injured.

<h2>Joint probe begins&nbsp;</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-flights-trains-cancelled-thousands-left-without-power-as-heavy-snowfall-batters-bavaria-665593">Germany: Over 700 flights, trains cancelled as heavy snowfall batters Bavaria</a>

Meanwhile, the blast site has been cordoned off as the army troops and police are conducting a joint investigation and checking security cameras for any indication of who may have been responsible for the attack. Security checkpoints have been&nbsp;set up around the city.

Marawi city mayor Majul Gandamra urged Muslim and Christian communities to remain unified.

“Our city has long been a beacon of peaceful coexistence and harmony, and we will not allow such acts of violence to overshadow our collective commitment to peace and unity,” Gandamra said in a statement.

It comes a day after the country’s armed forces on Saturday said it killed 11 militants, including members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Philippines—a pro-Islamic State group—during a military operation in Maguindanao del Sur province.

An explosion at a university in the insurgency-hit southern Philippines claimed four lives and left at least 50 people injured during a Catholic Mass in the varsity’s gymnasium on Sunday (Dec 3).

An explosion at a university in the insurgency-hit southern Philippines claimed four lives and left at least 50 people injured during a Catholic Mass in the varsity’s gymnasium on Sunday (Dec 3). The blast occurred in Marawi, the country’s largest Muslim city which was besieged by Islamist militants for five months in 2017. Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr condemning the attack targeting the educational institution said, “I condemn the violent bombing incident that transpired this morning. Terroristic attacks on educational institutions must also be condemned because these are places that promote the culture of peace.” Military suspect pro-Islamic militants Mindanao State University said it is “deeply saddened and appalled by the act of violence that occurred during a religious gathering” in a statement on Facebook. “This is clearly an act of terrorism. It’s not a simple feud between two people. A bomb will kill everybody around,” Mandangan told the Associated Press. While the officials are investigating who is responsible for the blast at Mindanao State University, regional police director Brigadier General Allan Nobleza told reporters that they are not ruling out the “revenge” angle by pro-Islamic State militants, reported AFP news agency. “We’re investigating if it’s an IED (improvised explosive device) or grenade throwing,” he was quoted as saying. Also read | One dead, two others injured after man attacks tourists near Eiffel Tower The security chief of the campus, Taha Mandangan, said that at least two of the wounded were grievously injured. Joint probe begins Also read | Germany: Over 700 flights, trains cancelled as heavy snowfall batters Bavaria Meanwhile, the blast site has been cordoned off as the army troops and police are conducting a joint investigation and checking security cameras for any indication of who may have been responsible for the attack. Security checkpoints have been set up around the city. Marawi city mayor Majul Gandamra urged Muslim and Christian communities to remain unified. “Our city has long been a beacon of peaceful coexistence and harmony, and we will not allow such acts of violence to overshadow our collective commitment to peace and unity,” Gandamra said in a statement. It comes a day after the country’s armed forces on Saturday said it killed 11 militants, including members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Philippines—a pro-Islamic State group—during a military operation in Maguindanao del Sur province.

Four killed, 50 injured in Catholic Mass blast at Philippines university, military on alert

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the Philippines' department of foreign affairs said that it did not announce the Nov 24 executions until the government was formally notified by China.

The department said that it provided all possible help to both Filipinos, including funding for their legal defence from the time they were arrested in 2013 until their 2016 convictions by a lower Chinese court. The department also did not identify them, citing the wishes of their families for privacy.&nbsp;

“The government of the Republic of the Philippines further exhausted all measures available to appeal to the relevant authorities of the People’s Republic of China to commute their sentences to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds,” the department said on Saturday.

“The Chinese government, citing their internal laws, upheld the conviction and the Philippines must respect China’s criminal laws and legal processes,” it added.

The foreign affairs department also said that while the government would continue to exhaust all possible avenues to assist Filipinos overseas, “ultimately it is the laws and sovereign decisions of foreign countries, and not the Philippines, which will prevail in these cases.”

These executions renewed a reminder for Filipinos travelling abroad to be vigilant against drug syndicates, which recruit travellers to serve as “drug mules” or couriers and to refuse to carry any uninspected package from other people.

The department said that while it was saddened by the executions, their deaths strengthened the government’s resolve to continue relentless efforts to rid the country of drug syndicates that prey on the vulnerable.

Meanwhile, two other penalty cases involving Filipinos were on appeal and under final review in China, as per the department.&nbsp;

One other Filipino, Mary Jabe Veloso, was facing execution in Indonesia after being convicted of drug trafficking. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appealed for a commutation of her death sentence or a pardon but it remained to be seen whether it would be granted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison.

The Philippines said on Saturday (Dec 2) that China executed two Filipinos for drug trafficking despite Manila's appeals to commute their death sentences to life in prison. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the Philippines' department of foreign affairs said that it did not announce the Nov 24 executions until the government was formally notified by China. The department said that it provided all possible help to both Filipinos, including funding for their legal defence from the time they were arrested in 2013 until their 2016 convictions by a lower Chinese court. The department also did not identify them, citing the wishes of their families for privacy. “The government of the Republic of the Philippines further exhausted all measures available to appeal to the relevant authorities of the People’s Republic of China to commute their sentences to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds,” the department said on Saturday. “The Chinese government, citing their internal laws, upheld the conviction and the Philippines must respect China’s criminal laws and legal processes,” it added. The foreign affairs department also said that while the government would continue to exhaust all possible avenues to assist Filipinos overseas, “ultimately it is the laws and sovereign decisions of foreign countries, and not the Philippines, which will prevail in these cases.” These executions renewed a reminder for Filipinos travelling abroad to be vigilant against drug syndicates, which recruit travellers to serve as “drug mules” or couriers and to refuse to carry any uninspected package from other people. The department said that while it was saddened by the executions, their deaths strengthened the government’s resolve to continue relentless efforts to rid the country of drug syndicates that prey on the vulnerable. Meanwhile, two other penalty cases involving Filipinos were on appeal and under final review in China, as per the department. One other Filipino, Mary Jabe Veloso, was facing execution in Indonesia after being convicted of drug trafficking. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appealed for a commutation of her death sentence or a pardon but it remained to be seen whether it would be granted. (With inputs from agencies)

China executes two Filipinos convicted of drug trafficking: Manila

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has said that disputes over the South China Sea should not define bilateral relations with China. The two leaders met on Friday to find a way to diffuse tensions over the territorial rights in the busy Waterway.

South China sea dispute: Is Philippines risking confrontation?

Philippines and China see tense confrontation over maritime claims

The militaries of the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China.

Security engagements between the treaty allies have soared this year, including a decision to almost double the number of Philippine bases the American military can access, some facing Taiwan, and their largest-ever joint military drill in April.

This week's three-day joint air and maritime exercise was a "significant initiative" to boost interoperability between the two, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said.

"I am confident this ... will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people," he said on social media platform X.

The drill would start off in Mavulis island, the&nbsp;Philippines' northernmost point, located about 100 km (62 miles) off Taiwan, said Eugene Cabusao, spokesperson for the Northern Luzon command.

It will end in the West Philippine Sea, the name Manila uses for waters in the South China Sea that fall within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Philippine military said three navy vessels, two FA-50 light combat aircraft and an A-29B Super Tucano light attack plane would participate, while the United States would send a littoral combat ship and a P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft.

The news comes a day after Marcos told a forum in Hawaii the situation in the South China Sea had become more "dire", with the Chinese military inching closer to the Philippine coastline.

The patrols, which are likely to irk China, are a sign the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;is stepping up its defence posture amid what it described as China's "aggressive activities" in the highly strategic waters, long seen as a potential flashpoint between the United States and China.

"China believes that defense and security cooperation between countries needs to be conducive to regional peace and stability. They should not escalate tensions or undermine trust between countries, still less target any third party," China's Washington embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said.

China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China claims most of the South China Sea on the basis of a "nine-dash line" that stretches as far as 1,500 km (900 miles) south of its mainland, cutting into the EEZs of rival claimants Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;and Vietnam.

Marcos has forged closer ties with Washington since assuming office last year after a testy relationship with former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had pivoted closer to Beijing in exchange for infrastructure projects and investments.

Ties with China have soured under Marcos, with repeated standoffs between Chinese and Filipino vessels in waters claimed by both countries, prompting heated exchanges of rhetoric and concerns of an escalation.

Marcos recently met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bid to reduce the tension.

The joint patrol with the United States showed that Manila was making a stand over the South China Sea, said Jay Batongbacal, director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea in Manila, the capital.

"It shows that the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;is really firming up its posture on West Philippine Sea issues," Batongbacal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China.

The militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in waters near Taiwan, officials of the Southeast Asian nation said, a move likely to fan further tension with China. Security engagements between the treaty allies have soared this year, including a decision to almost double the number of Philippine bases the American military can access, some facing Taiwan, and their largest-ever joint military drill in April. This week's three-day joint air and maritime exercise was a "significant initiative" to boost interoperability between the two, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said. "I am confident this ... will contribute to a more secure and stable environment for our people," he said on social media platform X. The drill would start off in Mavulis island, the Philippines' northernmost point, located about 100 km (62 miles) off Taiwan, said Eugene Cabusao, spokesperson for the Northern Luzon command. It will end in the West Philippine Sea, the name Manila uses for waters in the South China Sea that fall within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The Philippine military said three navy vessels, two FA-50 light combat aircraft and an A-29B Super Tucano light attack plane would participate, while the United States would send a littoral combat ship and a P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. The news comes a day after Marcos told a forum in Hawaii the situation in the South China Sea had become more "dire", with the Chinese military inching closer to the Philippine coastline. The patrols, which are likely to irk China, are a sign the Philippines is stepping up its defence posture amid what it described as China's "aggressive activities" in the highly strategic waters, long seen as a potential flashpoint between the United States and China. "China believes that defense and security cooperation between countries needs to be conducive to regional peace and stability. They should not escalate tensions or undermine trust between countries, still less target any third party," China's Washington embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China claims most of the South China Sea on the basis of a "nine-dash line" that stretches as far as 1,500 km (900 miles) south of its mainland, cutting into the EEZs of rival claimants Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Marcos has forged closer ties with Washington since assuming office last year after a testy relationship with former President Rodrigo Duterte, who had pivoted closer to Beijing in exchange for infrastructure projects and investments. Ties with China have soured under Marcos, with repeated standoffs between Chinese and Filipino vessels in waters claimed by both countries, prompting heated exchanges of rhetoric and concerns of an escalation. Marcos recently met Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bid to reduce the tension. The joint patrol with the United States showed that Manila was making a stand over the South China Sea, said Jay Batongbacal, director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea in Manila, the capital. "It shows that the Philippines is really firming up its posture on West Philippine Sea issues," Batongbacal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines launches joint sea, air patrols with US military

Philippines: South China Sea dispute should not define ties

The United States and the Philippines on Friday sealed a landmark nuclear deal that will let the US export nuclear tech and material to Manila. The Philippines is planning to use nuclear power in order to decarbonise and take further steps towards energy independence.

"The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a signing ceremony held on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco.

Watch | Apec Summit 2023: Xi says China hasn't occupied a 'single inch' of foreign land

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Negotiations for the 123 Agreement&nbsp;started in November last year.

"We see nuclear energy becoming a part of the Philippines' energy mix by 2032 and we are more than happy to pursue this path with the United States," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a speech. "Nuclear energy is one area where we can show the Philippines-U.S. alliance and partnership truly works."

The deal would still need stamp of approval from the US Congress post which it will allow peaceful&nbsp;transfer of nuclear material, information as well as equipment while adhering to requirements under non-proliferation.

By the end of last year, the US had 23 similar agreements with 47 countries, the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) and Taiwan.

The Philippines is seeking to reduce dependence on and retire coal plants in order to meet climate goals. To boost energy security, the country wants to tap nuclear power as alternative power source.

Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/xi-and-bidens-pre-apec-meet-is-all-about-power-politics-659540">Opinion: Xi and Biden's pre-APEC meet is all about power politics</a>

The country in Southeast Asia is often affected by volatile global oil prices and suffers from seasonal power outages in addition to high electricity rates.

Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apec-summit-biden-speaks-on-workers-rights-substantial-progress-on-ipef-659518">APEC summit: Biden speaks on workers' rights, 'substantial' progress on IPEF</a>

Attempts to pursue nuclear power hit roadblock in the Philippines in past. But the current president is exploring the possibility of reviving a nuclear power plant, which was mothballed during the rule of his namesake father.

The Bataan Nuclear power plant, which was completed in 1984, was not taken ahead in light of ouster of older Marcos, the Chernobyl accident and corruption allegations.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and the Philippines on Friday sealed a landmark nuclear deal that will let the US export nuclear tech and material to Manila. The Philippines is planning to use nuclear power in order to decarbonise and take further steps towards energy independence.

The United States and the Philippines on Friday sealed a landmark nuclear deal that will let the US export nuclear tech and material to Manila. The Philippines is planning to use nuclear power in order to decarbonise and take further steps towards energy independence. "The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a signing ceremony held on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco. Watch | Apec Summit 2023: Xi says China hasn't occupied a 'single inch' of foreign land × Negotiations for the 123 Agreement started in November last year. "We see nuclear energy becoming a part of the Philippines' energy mix by 2032 and we are more than happy to pursue this path with the United States," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a speech. "Nuclear energy is one area where we can show the Philippines-U.S. alliance and partnership truly works." The deal would still need stamp of approval from the US Congress post which it will allow peaceful transfer of nuclear material, information as well as equipment while adhering to requirements under non-proliferation. By the end of last year, the US had 23 similar agreements with 47 countries, the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) and Taiwan. The Philippines is seeking to reduce dependence on and retire coal plants in order to meet climate goals. To boost energy security, the country wants to tap nuclear power as alternative power source. Read | Opinion: Xi and Biden's pre-APEC meet is all about power politics The country in Southeast Asia is often affected by volatile global oil prices and suffers from seasonal power outages in addition to high electricity rates. Read | APEC summit: Biden speaks on workers' rights, 'substantial' progress on IPEF Attempts to pursue nuclear power hit roadblock in the Philippines in past. But the current president is exploring the possibility of reviving a nuclear power plant, which was mothballed during the rule of his namesake father. The Bataan Nuclear power plant, which was completed in 1984, was not taken ahead in light of ouster of older Marcos, the Chernobyl accident and corruption allegations. (With inputs from agencies)

US signs major nuclear deal with Philippines, to export tech, material for energy infra

The United States and the Philippines on Friday signed a landmark deal that would allow Washington to export nuclear technology and material to Manila, which is exploring the use of nuclear power to decarbonise and boost energy independence.

"The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure," U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco.

Negotiations for the 123 Agreement started in November, 2022.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/like-a-meteorite-new-footage-reveals-russian-missile-with-nuclear-capable-glide-vehicle-loaded-in-silo-659741">'Like a meteorite': New footage reveals Russian missile with nuclear-capable glide vehicle loaded in silo</a>

"We see nuclear energy becoming a part of the Philippines' energy mix by 2032 and we are more than happy to pursue this path with the United States," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a speech. "Nuclear energy is one area where we can show the Philippines-U.S. alliance and partnership truly works."

U.S. Congress approval is needed for the deal, which will allow a peaceful transfer of nuclear material, equipment and information in adherence with non-proliferation requirements.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pro-palestinian-group-marks-locations-in-nyc-as-targets-in-antisemitic-map-659711">Pro-Palestinian group marks locations in NYC as 'targets' in antisemitic map</a>

As of end-2022, the United States had 23 agreements covering 47 countries, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and democratically governed Taiwan.

The Philippines wants to tap nuclear power as a viable alternative baseload power source as it seeks to retire coal plants to help meet climate goals and boost energy security. The Southeast Asian nation is vulnerable to volatile global oil prices, seasonal power outages, and high electricity rates.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-says-artist-was-spreading-misinformation-about-military-659688">Russia says artist was spreading misinformation about military</a>

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Previous attempts to pursue nuclear energy in the Philippines were halted over safety concerns, but Marcos has discussed the possibility of reviving a mothballed nuclear power plant, built in response to an energy crisis during the rule of the late Philippines strongman and his namesake father.

Completed in 1984, the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was mothballed two years later following the ouster of the older Marcos, the deadly Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and corruption allegations.

 
&nbsp;

The United States and the Philippines on Friday signed a landmark deal that would allow Washington to export nuclear technology and material to Manila, which is exploring the use of nuclear power to decarbonise and boost energy independence.

The United States and the Philippines on Friday signed a landmark deal that would allow Washington to export nuclear technology and material to Manila, which is exploring the use of nuclear power to decarbonise and boost energy independence. "The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure," U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco. Negotiations for the 123 Agreement started in November, 2022. Also Read | 'Like a meteorite': New footage reveals Russian missile with nuclear-capable glide vehicle loaded in silo "We see nuclear energy becoming a part of the Philippines' energy mix by 2032 and we are more than happy to pursue this path with the United States," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a speech. "Nuclear energy is one area where we can show the Philippines-U.S. alliance and partnership truly works." U.S. Congress approval is needed for the deal, which will allow a peaceful transfer of nuclear material, equipment and information in adherence with non-proliferation requirements. Also Read | Pro-Palestinian group marks locations in NYC as 'targets' in antisemitic map As of end-2022, the United States had 23 agreements covering 47 countries, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and democratically governed Taiwan. The Philippines wants to tap nuclear power as a viable alternative baseload power source as it seeks to retire coal plants to help meet climate goals and boost energy security. The Southeast Asian nation is vulnerable to volatile global oil prices, seasonal power outages, and high electricity rates. Watch | Russia says artist was spreading misinformation about military × Previous attempts to pursue nuclear energy in the Philippines were halted over safety concerns, but Marcos has discussed the possibility of reviving a mothballed nuclear power plant, built in response to an energy crisis during the rule of the late Philippines strongman and his namesake father. Completed in 1984, the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was mothballed two years later following the ouster of the older Marcos, the deadly Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and corruption allegations.

US, Philippines sign landmark nuclear deal

The US Geological Survey said that a magnitude 6.7 earthquake shook the southern&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;on Friday (Nov 17). So far, there were no reports of casualties, but the local authorities have warned of potential damage. Some reports claimed that the&nbsp;magnitude was 7.2.&nbsp;

The USGS said in a statement that the quake struck off Sarangani province on the main southern island of Mindanao at a depth of 78 kilometres at 0814 GMT. No tsunami threat was issued.&nbsp;

The Philippines' seismology agency asked the residents to be on alert for aftershocks and damage. It said that the quake lasted several seconds.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/situation-may-worsen-in-icelands-sinking-town-lava-likely-to-flow-from-fissures-for-weeks-warn-experts-659392">Situation may worsen in Iceland's sinking town, lava likely to flow from fissures for weeks, warn experts</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Radio announcer Leny Aranego of General Santos City in South Cotabato said the strong earthquake damaged walls and toppled some computers from desks.

"We saw how the walls cracked and computers fell," Aranego told DZRH radio station.

A&nbsp;social media post claimed that blocks of cement fell from a construction crane from the top of a building in Matina, Davao City when the earthquake hit Sarangani.&nbsp;

"I think it was the strongest earthquake I've ever experienced," Keeshia Leyran, 27, told AFP from Davao City, about 200 kilometres (124 miles) from the epicentre, where she was attending a conference.

"People around me were panicking and running to go outside. There are hundreds of people here at the event, so I was more scared of a stampede happening to be honest."&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

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Debris fell from a construction crane from the top of a building in Matina, Davao City as magnitude 7.2 quake hit Sarangani, Davao Occidental on Friday afternoon. (🎥: Reymark Leopoldo) | via <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrislenBulosan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChrislenBulosan</a> <a href="https://t.co/4k51K582Am">pic.twitter.com/4k51K582Am</a>
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABSCBNNews/status/1725437494723051567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: 
Gensan earthquake 7.2 magnitude 
 
A magnitude 7.2 earthquake shook the waters off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sarangani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sarangani</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Davao?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Davao</a> Occidental, November 17, 2023, 4:14 p.m. STAY SAFE ALL 😮😮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Philippine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Philippine</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mandanao?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mandanao</a> <a href="https://t.co/LnqeHDejCp">pic.twitter.com/LnqeHDejCp</a>
— kiran joshi (100% Follow Back) (@kiranjoshi235) <a href="https://twitter.com/kiranjoshi235/status/1725438287987593343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EarthquakePH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EarthquakePH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EarthquakeDavaoOccidental?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EarthquakeDavaoOccidental</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iFelt_DavaoOccidentalEarthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iFelt_DavaoOccidentalEarthquake</a> 
Earthquake Information No.1 
Date and Time: 17 November 2023 - 04:14 PM 
Magnitude = 7.2 
Depth = 010 km 
Location = 05.37°N, 125.15°E - 030 km S 81° W of Sarangani (Davao Occidental)<a href="https://t.co/QgzWwbmEno">https://t.co/QgzWwbmEno</a> <a href="https://t.co/i5eq0lSft1">pic.twitter.com/i5eq0lSft1</a>
— PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) <a href="https://twitter.com/phivolcs_dost/status/1725429418292850753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sinkholes-tunnels-staggering-wealth-of-microbial-life-in-mexicos-underwater-labyrinth-unravelled-659447">Sinkholes, tunnels: Staggering wealth of microbial life in Mexico’s underwater labyrinth unravelled</a>&nbsp;

The Reuters report also mentioned that passengers at an airport in General Santos City were being evacuated to the tarmac. Michael Ricafort said he was about to board a plane to Manila when the quake hit.

The Philippines lies on the "Ring of Fire", a belt of volcanoes circling the Pacific Ocean that is prone to seismic activity.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The US Geological Survey said that a magnitude 6.7 earthquake shook the southern Philippines on Friday (Nov 17). So far, there were no reports of casualties, but the local authorities have warned of potential damage.

The US Geological Survey said that a magnitude 6.7 earthquake shook the southern Philippines on Friday (Nov 17). So far, there were no reports of casualties, but the local authorities have warned of potential damage. Some reports claimed that the magnitude was 7.2. The USGS said in a statement that the quake struck off Sarangani province on the main southern island of Mindanao at a depth of 78 kilometres at 0814 GMT. No tsunami threat was issued. The Philippines' seismology agency asked the residents to be on alert for aftershocks and damage. It said that the quake lasted several seconds. Also read: Situation may worsen in Iceland's sinking town, lava likely to flow from fissures for weeks, warn experts As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Radio announcer Leny Aranego of General Santos City in South Cotabato said the strong earthquake damaged walls and toppled some computers from desks. "We saw how the walls cracked and computers fell," Aranego told DZRH radio station. A social media post claimed that blocks of cement fell from a construction crane from the top of a building in Matina, Davao City when the earthquake hit Sarangani. "I think it was the strongest earthquake I've ever experienced," Keeshia Leyran, 27, told AFP from Davao City, about 200 kilometres (124 miles) from the epicentre, where she was attending a conference. "People around me were panicking and running to go outside. There are hundreds of people here at the event, so I was more scared of a stampede happening to be honest." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Debris fell from a construction crane from the top of a building in Matina, Davao City as magnitude 7.2 quake hit Sarangani, Davao Occidental on Friday afternoon. (🎥: Reymark Leopoldo) | via @ChrislenBulosan pic.twitter.com/4k51K582Am — ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) November 17, 2023 × #BREAKING: Gensan earthquake 7.2 magnitude A magnitude 7.2 earthquake shook the waters off #Sarangani, #Davao Occidental, November 17, 2023, 4:14 p.m. STAY SAFE ALL 😮😮#earthquake#Philippine#Mandanao pic.twitter.com/LnqeHDejCp — kiran joshi (100% Follow Back) (@kiranjoshi235) November 17, 2023 × #EarthquakePH #EarthquakeDavaoOccidental#iFelt_DavaoOccidentalEarthquake Earthquake Information No.1 Date and Time: 17 November 2023 - 04:14 PM Magnitude = 7.2 Depth = 010 km Location = 05.37°N, 125.15°E - 030 km S 81° W of Sarangani (Davao Occidental)https://t.co/QgzWwbmEno pic.twitter.com/i5eq0lSft1 — PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) November 17, 2023 × Also read: Sinkholes, tunnels: Staggering wealth of microbial life in Mexico’s underwater labyrinth unravelled The Reuters report also mentioned that passengers at an airport in General Santos City were being evacuated to the tarmac. Michael Ricafort said he was about to board a plane to Manila when the quake hit. The Philippines lies on the "Ring of Fire", a belt of volcanoes circling the Pacific Ocean that is prone to seismic activity. (With inputs from agencies)

Magnitude 6.7 quake shakes southern Philippines

The Philippines accused the Chinese coast guard Friday of "dangerous harassment" of Filipino boats in the disputed South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, including firing a water cannon.&nbsp;

The latest incident near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands comes nearly three weeks after two collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels during a resupply mission to the same tiny garrison.

The countries, which have a long history of maritime disputes in the hotly contested waters, traded blame for those incidents.

On Friday, Manila said the Chinese coast guard and other vessels "recklessly harassed, blocked, executed dangerous maneuvers" as they tried to "illegally impede or obstruct a routine resupply" of Filipino troops at the outpost.&nbsp;

The Philippines' National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea&nbsp;said in a statement a Chinese coast guard vessel had also fired a water cannon against a Philippine boat.

The task force said the Philippine embassy in Beijing lodged a protest with the Chinese foreign ministry over the incident.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;China&nbsp;said it "took control measures" against two Philippine transport ships and three coast guard vessels it insisted were in Chinese waters.

"The Philippines' actions infringe on&nbsp;China's territorial sovereignty,"&nbsp;China&nbsp;Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said.

"We urge the Philippines to immediately stop its infringing actions."

A handful of Filipino troops are stationed on the crumbling BRP Sierra Madre, which the Philippine Navy grounded on the reef in 1999 to check&nbsp;China's advance in the waters.

The troops depend on the resupply missions for their survival.

China&nbsp;claims almost the entire South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Over the past decade or so, Beijing has deployed vessels to patrol the waters, swarm reefs and built artificial islands that it has militarised to reinforce its stance. &nbsp;

Second Thomas Shoal is about 200 kilometres (124 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan, and more than 1,000 kilometres from&nbsp;China's nearest major landmass, Hainan island.

The Marcos administration has publicly criticised Chinese actions in the South&nbsp;China&nbsp;Sea, publishing photos and videos to support its claims of Chinese harassment and the blocking of its vessels.

Beijing has released its own images of the incidents.

The Philippines accused the Chinese coast guard Friday of "dangerous harassment" of Filipino boats in the disputed South China Sea, including firing a water cannon.

The Philippines accused the Chinese coast guard Friday of "dangerous harassment" of Filipino boats in the disputed South China Sea, including firing a water cannon. The latest incident near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands comes nearly three weeks after two collisions between Chinese and Philippine vessels during a resupply mission to the same tiny garrison. The countries, which have a long history of maritime disputes in the hotly contested waters, traded blame for those incidents. On Friday, Manila said the Chinese coast guard and other vessels "recklessly harassed, blocked, executed dangerous maneuvers" as they tried to "illegally impede or obstruct a routine resupply" of Filipino troops at the outpost. The Philippines' National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said in a statement a Chinese coast guard vessel had also fired a water cannon against a Philippine boat. The task force said the Philippine embassy in Beijing lodged a protest with the Chinese foreign ministry over the incident. But China said it "took control measures" against two Philippine transport ships and three coast guard vessels it insisted were in Chinese waters. "The Philippines' actions infringe on China's territorial sovereignty," China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said. "We urge the Philippines to immediately stop its infringing actions." A handful of Filipino troops are stationed on the crumbling BRP Sierra Madre, which the Philippine Navy grounded on the reef in 1999 to check China's advance in the waters. The troops depend on the resupply missions for their survival. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. Over the past decade or so, Beijing has deployed vessels to patrol the waters, swarm reefs and built artificial islands that it has militarised to reinforce its stance. Second Thomas Shoal is about 200 kilometres (124 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan, and more than 1,000 kilometres from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan island. The Marcos administration has publicly criticised Chinese actions in the South China Sea, publishing photos and videos to support its claims of Chinese harassment and the blocking of its vessels. Beijing has released its own images of the incidents.

Philippines accuses China of 'dangerous' actions in South China Sea

The Philippines has delivered a significant blow to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)&nbsp;by opting to exit the trillion-dollar infrastructure project of President Xi Jinping.

The announcement followed a recent collision between a Philippines boat and a Chinese coastguard vessel in the South China Sea. Furthermore, China's military alleged that a Philippines military ship entered waters near Scarborough Shoal without permission.

The Philippines' decision comes on the heels of the grand Belt and Road Initiative Summit in Beijing&nbsp;where &nbsp;President Xi &nbsp;welcomed leaders and delegates from over 140 nations to commemorate the project's decade-long journey.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-radio-broadcaster-shot-dead-inside-studio-president-orders-probe-655372">Philippines'</a> Department of Transportation has announced the "full termination" of several major infrastructure projects previously partnered with China.&nbsp;

Instead, the Philippines is turning to Japanese and other Western counterparts, signalling the uphill battle that many of China's key investment initiatives face in the country due to a mix of economic and political factors.

This decision also accentuates the ongoing friction between the Philippines and China regarding their territorial disputes in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-philippines-vessels-collide-us-china-violated-international-law-650384">South China Sea</a>.

"Manila has to contend with serious public anger against China's claims over and capture of Philippines territory in the South China Sea. Its run-ins against Filipino vessels in these waters indicate a complete lack of respect for international law as well as of Filipino interests," Dr Jabin Jacob, Associate Professor, Department of International Relations and Governance Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, told WION.&nbsp;

"China is unambiguously playing the bully, attempting to coerce the Philippines into accepting Chinese power in the South China Sea. Under the circumstances, Manila, took a clear and decisive step of its own - one that is calculated to show up China's foreign policy in general and its pet project of the BRI, in particular," notes Dr Jacob.&nbsp;

Jaime Batista, the Philippine Transportation Secretary, announced the dropping of $4 billion in Chinese infrastructure projects, which involved two railway projects in Luzon and Mindanao.

"We have three projects that won't be funded by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-decries-bidens-vow-to-defend-philippines-if-its-attacked-651494">Chinese</a> government anymore. We can't wait forever, and it seems like China isn't that interested anymore," Batista said during a forum organised by European investors in Manila.&nbsp;

Based on the latest data from the China Global Investment Tracker, China's participation in the BRI has seen investments well below its decade-long average of $94 billion since the beginning of 2020.

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<h2>Is China's BRI model exploitative?</h2>

A mere few weeks ago, Italy, the singular G7 member engaged in the BRI, declared its plan&nbsp;to discontinue its participation by the end of the year, citing unmet project expectations.

"Apart from a bilateral cost-benefit analysis - BRI projects often promise a great deal more than they actually deliver," says Dr Jacob.&nbsp;

According to a report by Bloomberg, the overall activity within the BRI has decreased significantly by 40 per cent from its peak in 2018, primarily due to economic troubles in China and the debt issues affecting participating nations.

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A substantial number of those receiving financial support from China are also grappling with considerable debt burdens. One of the most prominent instances of this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-shin-yan-6-in-question-is-china-arm-twisting-sri-lanka-to-comply-with-its-demands-653135">debt entanglement is Sri Lanka</a>, which finds itself ensnared in a relentless cycle of Chinese coercion.

"Countries like Italy and the Philippines are also reconsidering their association with Chinese projects from a wider geopolitical lens. Italy, for example, cannot ignore the wider European concerns about China's mercantilism, its interference and influence operations in the domestic politics of other countries and about Chinese technology," Dr Jacob adds.&nbsp;

Also watch this report:

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The Philippines has delivered a significant blow to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by opting to exit the trillion-dollar infrastructure project of President Xi Jinping.

The Philippines has delivered a significant blow to China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by opting to exit the trillion-dollar infrastructure project of President Xi Jinping. The announcement followed a recent collision between a Philippines boat and a Chinese coastguard vessel in the South China Sea. Furthermore, China's military alleged that a Philippines military ship entered waters near Scarborough Shoal without permission. The Philippines' decision comes on the heels of the grand Belt and Road Initiative Summit in Beijing where President Xi welcomed leaders and delegates from over 140 nations to commemorate the project's decade-long journey. The Philippines' Department of Transportation has announced the "full termination" of several major infrastructure projects previously partnered with China. Instead, the Philippines is turning to Japanese and other Western counterparts, signalling the uphill battle that many of China's key investment initiatives face in the country due to a mix of economic and political factors. This decision also accentuates the ongoing friction between the Philippines and China regarding their territorial disputes in the South China Sea. "Manila has to contend with serious public anger against China's claims over and capture of Philippines territory in the South China Sea. Its run-ins against Filipino vessels in these waters indicate a complete lack of respect for international law as well as of Filipino interests," Dr Jabin Jacob, Associate Professor, Department of International Relations and Governance Studies, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence, told WION. "China is unambiguously playing the bully, attempting to coerce the Philippines into accepting Chinese power in the South China Sea. Under the circumstances, Manila, took a clear and decisive step of its own - one that is calculated to show up China's foreign policy in general and its pet project of the BRI, in particular," notes Dr Jacob. Jaime Batista, the Philippine Transportation Secretary, announced the dropping of $4 billion in Chinese infrastructure projects, which involved two railway projects in Luzon and Mindanao. "We have three projects that won't be funded by the Chinese government anymore. We can't wait forever, and it seems like China isn't that interested anymore," Batista said during a forum organised by European investors in Manila. Based on the latest data from the China Global Investment Tracker, China's participation in the BRI has seen investments well below its decade-long average of $94 billion since the beginning of 2020. × Is China's BRI model exploitative? A mere few weeks ago, Italy, the singular G7 member engaged in the BRI, declared its plan to discontinue its participation by the end of the year, citing unmet project expectations. "Apart from a bilateral cost-benefit analysis - BRI projects often promise a great deal more than they actually deliver," says Dr Jacob. According to a report by Bloomberg, the overall activity within the BRI has decreased significantly by 40 per cent from its peak in 2018, primarily due to economic troubles in China and the debt issues affecting participating nations. × A substantial number of those receiving financial support from China are also grappling with considerable debt burdens. One of the most prominent instances of this debt entanglement is Sri Lanka, which finds itself ensnared in a relentless cycle of Chinese coercion. "Countries like Italy and the Philippines are also reconsidering their association with Chinese projects from a wider geopolitical lens. Italy, for example, cannot ignore the wider European concerns about China's mercantilism, its interference and influence operations in the domestic politics of other countries and about Chinese technology," Dr Jacob adds. Also watch this report:

First Italy, now Philippines jumps off the Belt and Road bandwagon: Is Xi Jinping's BRI exploitative?

A radio broadcaster in the Philippines was shot dead in his studio on Sunday (Nov 5). Juan Jumalon, 57, also known as "DJ Johnny Walker" used to do his Cebuano-language show at the 94.

A radio broadcaster in the Philippines was shot dead in his studio on Sunday (Nov 5). Juan Jumalon, 57, also known as "DJ Johnny Walker" used to do his Cebuano-language show at the 94.7 Gold FM Calamba station, a report by the news agency AFP said. According to the police, Jumalon was in his home-based studio on the island of Mindanao when a gunman shot him in the head, Calamba municipality's police chief Captain Deore Ragonio said. Police said that the gunman gained entry into Jumalon's studio by pretending to want to make an on-air announcement. The gunman escaped and Jumalon was announced dead. Paul Gutierrez, the head of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, said on Sunday that the attack was recorded on video which showed the gunman shooting Jumalon twice and grabbing his gold necklace before leaving. Police unaware of previous threats against Jumalon's life Speaking to the news agency AFP, Captain Ragonio said a motive for the killing was under investigation, adding the police were not aware of any previous threats against the 57-year-old's life. "He tackles mostly current events and is not known to have criticised anyone in his broadcasts," Ragonio said. Jumalon is the fourth journalist to be killed in the Philippines since President Ferdinand Marcos took office in June last year, according to the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP). AFP reported that the Philippines is one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists, and their killers often get punished. Radio broadcasters outside of Manila are frequently the target. President orders probe into killing On Sunday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr condemned Jumalon's killing and ordered the police to investigate to bring the perpetrators to justice. "Attacks on journalists will not be tolerated in our democracy, and those who threaten the freedom of the press will face the full consequences of their actions," President Marcos said in a post on X. A report by ABS-CBN news said that a special investigation task group (SITG) was formed to look into the killing. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines: Radio broadcaster shot dead inside studio, president orders probe

Another geopolitical implication unfolds as the Philippines has trumpeted the full termination of major projects under China's Belt and Road initiative.

Philippines terminates major Chinese infrastructure projects

At least nineteen people were killed in the restive southern Philippines on Monday as millions turned out to vote for village leaders following months of deadly poll-related violence.

Security forces were on high alert across the country for the long-delayed nationwide vote for more than 336,000 council positions.

While villages are the lowest-level government unit, the council posts are hotly contested because they are used by political parties to cultivate grassroots networks and build a support base for local and general elections.

More than 300,000 police officers and soldiers were deployed to secure polling stations in over 42,000 villages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/scientists-get-closer-to-cracking-mystery-of-father-of-terror-the-great-sphinx-653354">Scientists get closer to cracking mystery of 'Father of Terror' the Great Sphinx</a>

In the capital Manila, voters waited in long lines to cast their ballots at schools being used as polling venues.

"This is important for the people... we need to be able to consult someone over our problems," said Rosemarie Garcia in the hardscrabble neighbourhood of Tondo.

"We need somebody who is easily approachable to his or her constituents."

Elections are a traditionally volatile time in the Philippines, which has lax gun laws and a violent political culture.

Commission on Elections chairman George Garcia said voting had been "generally peaceful" except for several incidents on the southern island of Mindanao.

Two people were killed and five others were wounded outside a polling station in Maguindanao del Norte province, police said.

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The shootout happened during a confrontation between supporters of rival candidates for village captain, said Datu Odin Sinsuat municipality police chief Lieutenant-Colonel Esmail Madin.

In another incident on Mindanao, a woman was killed when a gunfight broke out after a van carrying a village captain and her supporters was stopped on a road by people backing her rival in Lanao del Norte province, the army said.

The husband of a village captain in Lanao del Sur province died after he was shot in the chest during a confrontation with his wife's rival, police said.

In 2009, before it was divided into two provinces, Maguindanao was the scene of the country's deadliest single incident of political violence on record.

Fifty-eight people were massacred as gunmen allegedly working for a local warlord attacked a group of people to stop a rival from filing his election candidacy.

<h2>'Very important' result&nbsp;</h2>

In the run-up to Monday's vote, there were 30 confirmed incidents of election-related violence, compared with 35 in 2018, the Philippine National Police said Sunday, without providing an updated breakdown for the number of dead and injured.

About one-third of the incidents happened in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Previous police data showed eight people were killed and seven injured in poll-related violence between August 28 and October 25.

More than 67 million people were registered to vote in the elections, which President Ferdinand Marcos described Monday as "very important" for higher-level politicians.

"What happens here in the barangay (village)... &nbsp;are going to have an effect on the results of the mid-term elections and subsequently at the national elections," Marcos said after casting his vote in his family's stronghold of Batac City in the northern province of Ilocos Norte.

"If other barangays tell you 'I will deliver 350 votes for you in my barangay', rest assured, you will get 350. That's why the result is very important."

Polling stations were due to close at 3:00 pm (0700 GMT), but voting was extended in some places.

Vote counting was underway and results would be announced late Monday, said Garcia.

Voters chose a village captain and seven councillors responsible for implementing national policies, resolving neighbourhood disputes and providing basic public services.

Village councils also enable politicians to "disseminate funds and other favours to secure votes", said Maria Ela Atienza, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines.

Village elections are supposed to be held every three years, but the last vote was in 2018.

They were postponed by former president Rodrigo Duterte and then his successor Marcos on the grounds the government could not afford them.

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At least nineteen people were killed in the restive southern Philippines on Monday as millions turned out to vote for village leaders following months of deadly poll-related violence.

At least nineteen people were killed in the restive southern Philippines on Monday as millions turned out to vote for village leaders following months of deadly poll-related violence. Security forces were on high alert across the country for the long-delayed nationwide vote for more than 336,000 council positions. While villages are the lowest-level government unit, the council posts are hotly contested because they are used by political parties to cultivate grassroots networks and build a support base for local and general elections. More than 300,000 police officers and soldiers were deployed to secure polling stations in over 42,000 villages. Also read | Scientists get closer to cracking mystery of 'Father of Terror' the Great Sphinx In the capital Manila, voters waited in long lines to cast their ballots at schools being used as polling venues. "This is important for the people... we need to be able to consult someone over our problems," said Rosemarie Garcia in the hardscrabble neighbourhood of Tondo. "We need somebody who is easily approachable to his or her constituents." Elections are a traditionally volatile time in the Philippines, which has lax gun laws and a violent political culture. Commission on Elections chairman George Garcia said voting had been "generally peaceful" except for several incidents on the southern island of Mindanao. Two people were killed and five others were wounded outside a polling station in Maguindanao del Norte province, police said. Also read | New Zealand: Company managing White Island volcano that killed 22, held guilty The shootout happened during a confrontation between supporters of rival candidates for village captain, said Datu Odin Sinsuat municipality police chief Lieutenant-Colonel Esmail Madin. In another incident on Mindanao, a woman was killed when a gunfight broke out after a van carrying a village captain and her supporters was stopped on a road by people backing her rival in Lanao del Norte province, the army said. The husband of a village captain in Lanao del Sur province died after he was shot in the chest during a confrontation with his wife's rival, police said. In 2009, before it was divided into two provinces, Maguindanao was the scene of the country's deadliest single incident of political violence on record. Fifty-eight people were massacred as gunmen allegedly working for a local warlord attacked a group of people to stop a rival from filing his election candidacy. 'Very important' result In the run-up to Monday's vote, there were 30 confirmed incidents of election-related violence, compared with 35 in 2018, the Philippine National Police said Sunday, without providing an updated breakdown for the number of dead and injured. About one-third of the incidents happened in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Previous police data showed eight people were killed and seven injured in poll-related violence between August 28 and October 25. More than 67 million people were registered to vote in the elections, which President Ferdinand Marcos described Monday as "very important" for higher-level politicians. "What happens here in the barangay (village)... are going to have an effect on the results of the mid-term elections and subsequently at the national elections," Marcos said after casting his vote in his family's stronghold of Batac City in the northern province of Ilocos Norte. "If other barangays tell you 'I will deliver 350 votes for you in my barangay', rest assured, you will get 350. That's why the result is very important." Polling stations were due to close at 3:00 pm (0700 GMT), but voting was extended in some places. Vote counting was underway and results would be announced late Monday, said Garcia. Voters chose a village captain and seven councillors responsible for implementing national policies, resolving neighbourhood disputes and providing basic public services. Village councils also enable politicians to "disseminate funds and other favours to secure votes", said Maria Ela Atienza, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines. Village elections are supposed to be held every three years, but the last vote was in 2018. They were postponed by former president Rodrigo Duterte and then his successor Marcos on the grounds the government could not afford them. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

19 people killed in Philippines during village elections

The United States does not have the right to get involved in problems between China and the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday at a regular press briefing.

"The US is not party to the South China Sea issue, it has no right to get involved in a problem between China and the Philippines," said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in addressing a question on the US saying it will defend the Philippines.

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"The US promise of defending the Philippines must not hurt China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea, and it also must not enable and encourage the illegal claims of the Philippines," Mao said.

US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday at the White House that America's commitment to Philippines defence remains "iron-clad," after accusing China of acting "dangerously and unlawfully" in the South China Sea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/us-china-chip-wars-biden-administration-imposes-new-curbs-on-chip-exports-to-china-651149">Also read:&nbsp;US-China chip war: Biden administration imposes new curbs on chip exports to China</a>

"Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke ... our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines," Biden said in remarks during a joint meeting with Australia's prime minister.

China and the Philippines recently have had several high-profile skirmishes in the South China Sea, most notably in disputed waters around the Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands.

Last Sunday, a Chinese vessel collided with a Philippine boat, with Manila condemning "in the strongest degree" the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres" of the vessel.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States does not have the right to get involved in problems between China and the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday at a regular press briefing.

The United States does not have the right to get involved in problems between China and the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday at a regular press briefing. "The US is not party to the South China Sea issue, it has no right to get involved in a problem between China and the Philippines," said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning in addressing a question on the US saying it will defend the Philippines. Watch: Probe by China unites Taiwan rivals × "The US promise of defending the Philippines must not hurt China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea, and it also must not enable and encourage the illegal claims of the Philippines," Mao said. US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday at the White House that America's commitment to Philippines defence remains "iron-clad," after accusing China of acting "dangerously and unlawfully" in the South China Sea. Also read: US-China chip war: Biden administration imposes new curbs on chip exports to China "Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke ... our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines," Biden said in remarks during a joint meeting with Australia's prime minister. China and the Philippines recently have had several high-profile skirmishes in the South China Sea, most notably in disputed waters around the Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands. Last Sunday, a Chinese vessel collided with a Philippine boat, with Manila condemning "in the strongest degree" the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres" of the vessel. (With inputs from agencies)

China decries Biden's vow to defend Philippines if it's attacked

In the most recent of several maritime encounters, Chinese vessels obstructed a Philippine boat that was resupply forces in the South China Sea on Sunday. China and the Philippines then swapped allegations over the collision that occurred in disputed seas of the South China Sea.

China: Philippines deliberately provoking trouble

China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea.&nbsp;

The Philippines foreign ministry official said that Manila summoned Beijing's ambassador on Monday over two collisions.&nbsp;

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza told reporters, "We're making full use of diplomatic processes... available to us. That includes summoning the Chinese ambassador (Huang Xilian), which we did this morning."&nbsp;

Daza also said that the ambassador was unavailable and was represented by his deputy chief of mission during the meeting at the foreign ministry. &nbsp;

"Ayungin Shoal is part of our exclusive economic zone and continental shelf and we have sovereign rights and jurisdiction over it," Daza said, using the Philippine name for the shoal.&nbsp;

"China, as a major power, bears a heavier responsibility of contributing to peace and stability in the region," she said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-holds-air-drill-with-japan-and-us-first-such-collaboration-649963">South Korea holds air drills with Japan and US in first such collaboration</a>

<h2>What exactly happened?&nbsp;</h2>

In a statement, China's coast guard said that the Philippine vessel had ignored repeated warnings, crossed the bow of the Chinese ship and "deliberately provoked trouble", which led to the collision.&nbsp;

In another incident, a Philippine coastguard vessel was "bumped" by what the Philippine task force described as a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel".&nbsp;

Both collisions happened during a routine Philippine resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed on a navy vessel grounded on the shoal to assert Manila's territorial claims.&nbsp;

The Philippines has also released videos to support its accusations as both nations blamed each other for Sunday's incidents near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-property-market-continues-to-struggle-despite-government-stimulus-650122">China's property market continues to struggle despite government stimulus</a>

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<h2>Recent escalation&nbsp;</h2>

China has repeatedly warned the Philippines over its mission of supplying troops stationed in disputed waters in the South China Sea. But Manila says it's within its rights.&nbsp;

Recently, tensions escalated after the Philippine Coast Guard said it removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef and alleged that China deployed the reef to block Filipinos from the traditional fishing ground.&nbsp;

In August, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard ships of firing water cannons and making dangerous manoeuvres at its ships in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Xilian was last summoned to the foreign ministry in August after the China Coast Guard used a water cannon on Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal.&nbsp;

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, pointing to a line on its maps that cuts into the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 said that the line on China's maps had no legal basis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea.

China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea. The Philippines foreign ministry official said that Manila summoned Beijing's ambassador on Monday over two collisions. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza told reporters, "We're making full use of diplomatic processes... available to us. That includes summoning the Chinese ambassador (Huang Xilian), which we did this morning." Daza also said that the ambassador was unavailable and was represented by his deputy chief of mission during the meeting at the foreign ministry. "Ayungin Shoal is part of our exclusive economic zone and continental shelf and we have sovereign rights and jurisdiction over it," Daza said, using the Philippine name for the shoal. "China, as a major power, bears a heavier responsibility of contributing to peace and stability in the region," she said. Also read: South Korea holds air drills with Japan and US in first such collaboration What exactly happened? In a statement, China's coast guard said that the Philippine vessel had ignored repeated warnings, crossed the bow of the Chinese ship and "deliberately provoked trouble", which led to the collision. In another incident, a Philippine coastguard vessel was "bumped" by what the Philippine task force described as a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel". Both collisions happened during a routine Philippine resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed on a navy vessel grounded on the shoal to assert Manila's territorial claims. The Philippines has also released videos to support its accusations as both nations blamed each other for Sunday's incidents near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Also read: China's property market continues to struggle despite government stimulus Watch the video here: × Recent escalation China has repeatedly warned the Philippines over its mission of supplying troops stationed in disputed waters in the South China Sea. But Manila says it's within its rights. Recently, tensions escalated after the Philippine Coast Guard said it removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef and alleged that China deployed the reef to block Filipinos from the traditional fishing ground. In August, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard ships of firing water cannons and making dangerous manoeuvres at its ships in the South China Sea. Xilian was last summoned to the foreign ministry in August after the China Coast Guard used a water cannon on Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal. China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, pointing to a line on its maps that cuts into the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 said that the line on China's maps had no legal basis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions

Tussle between the Philippines & China over the South China Sea is not something new. In the latest a Chinese coast guard ship and an accompanying vessel rammed a Phillipine coast guard ship and military run-supply boat off a contested shoal.

Tussle reignites between China & Philippines | Live discussion

China and the Philippines had a recent faceoff in the South China Sea. The incident involved boat collisions and blockades. The disagreement focused on the Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

Tensions rise after latest South China Sea clash between China & Philippines

Beijing and Manila trade charges over collision in South China Sea

The Philippines on Sunday (Oct 22) slammed a Chinese coastguard vessel of colliding with their resupply boat which was moving towards a tiny garrison in the disputed South China Sea. 
 
In a statement, a government task force said that the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres of China Coast Guard vessel 5203 caused it to collide with the Armed Forces of the Philippines-contracted indigenous resupply boat", which was at a distance of 25 kilometres (15 miles) from Second Thomas Shoal. 
 
Meanwhile, another Philippine coastguard vessel, which was escorting the resupply mission “bumped" into what the task force said was a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel".

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"The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea condemns in the strongest degree the latest dangerous, irresponsible, and illegal actions of the CCG and the Chinese Maritime Militia done this morning," the task force stated.

<h2>China claims Philippines ships 'lawfully' blocked</h2>

Reacting to the allegations of the Philippines, China's coast guard on Sunday (Oct 22) stated that it "lawfully" blocked Philippine vessels, which they claimed were transporting "illegal construction materials" to a warship in the disputed region of the South China Sea. 
 
In the last few months, China and the Philippines have faced each other numerous times in the South China Sea, especially in the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, which is a part of the Spratly Islands. 
 
The Philippines has been providing supplies to troops which are present on a World War Two-era, transport-ship-turned-military outpost on the shoal. Because of this, the China Coast Guard has been repeatedly deploying vessels to block the resupply missions.

Watch |&nbsp;China to have operational nukes by 2030? | World News | WION

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The Philippine military last week had asked China to stop its "dangerous and offensive" actions after a Chinese navy ship appeared and made attempts to cut off a Philippine navy vessel, which was carrying out a resupply mission. 
 
The Philippines has been warned by China against any further "provocations", stating that they have been violating the territorial sovereignty through such acts. 
 
China has made claims of its sovereignty over the entire South China Sea and has a dotted line on its maps which cuts into the exclusive economic zones of the Philippines, Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. 
 
The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 stated that the claims of China had no legal basis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Philippines on Sunday (Oct 22) slammed a Chinese coastguard vessel of colliding with their resupply boat which was moving towards a tiny garrison in the disputed South China Sea.

The Philippines on Sunday (Oct 22) slammed a Chinese coastguard vessel of colliding with their resupply boat which was moving towards a tiny garrison in the disputed South China Sea. In a statement, a government task force said that the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres of China Coast Guard vessel 5203 caused it to collide with the Armed Forces of the Philippines-contracted indigenous resupply boat", which was at a distance of 25 kilometres (15 miles) from Second Thomas Shoal. Meanwhile, another Philippine coastguard vessel, which was escorting the resupply mission “bumped" into what the task force said was a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel". ALSO READ | Six Chinese warships were operating in West Asia amid Israel-Hamas tensions "The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea condemns in the strongest degree the latest dangerous, irresponsible, and illegal actions of the CCG and the Chinese Maritime Militia done this morning," the task force stated. China claims Philippines ships 'lawfully' blocked Reacting to the allegations of the Philippines, China's coast guard on Sunday (Oct 22) stated that it "lawfully" blocked Philippine vessels, which they claimed were transporting "illegal construction materials" to a warship in the disputed region of the South China Sea. In the last few months, China and the Philippines have faced each other numerous times in the South China Sea, especially in the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, which is a part of the Spratly Islands. The Philippines has been providing supplies to troops which are present on a World War Two-era, transport-ship-turned-military outpost on the shoal. Because of this, the China Coast Guard has been repeatedly deploying vessels to block the resupply missions. Watch | China to have operational nukes by 2030? | World News | WION The Philippine military last week had asked China to stop its "dangerous and offensive" actions after a Chinese navy ship appeared and made attempts to cut off a Philippine navy vessel, which was carrying out a resupply mission. The Philippines has been warned by China against any further "provocations", stating that they have been violating the territorial sovereignty through such acts. China has made claims of its sovereignty over the entire South China Sea and has a dotted line on its maps which cuts into the exclusive economic zones of the Philippines, Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 stated that the claims of China had no legal basis. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Philippines says China coastguard vessel collided with resupply boat, Beijing says it 'lawfully' blocked it

The Philippine military has been ordered to refrain from using digital applications that harness artificial intelligence (AI) to generate personal portraits. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (Oct 20), Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

The Philippine military has been ordered to refrain from using digital applications that harness artificial intelligence (AI) to generate personal portraits. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday (Oct 20), Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. issued an order in an October 14 memorandum. On Friday, the defence department confirmed the authenticity of the memorandum but did not provide any other details, including what prompted Defence Secretary Teodoro Jr. to issue the order. Teodoro specifically warned against the use of a digital app that requires users to submit at least 10 pictures of themselves and then harness AI to create a digital person that mimics how a real individual speaks and moves. "Such apps pose significant privacy and security risks,” he added. Military ordered to be vigilant in sharing information online The defence secretary ordered all defence and military personnel to refrain from using AI photo generator applications and practice vigilance in sharing information online. “This seemingly harmless and amusing AI-powered application can be maliciously used to create fake profiles that can lead to identity theft, social engineering, phishing attacks and other malicious activities,” he added. Military creating 'cyber command' for online defence On Thursday, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. said that the military was creating a cyber command to improve defences against almost daily cyber attacks, and would relax recruitment rules to ensure it can attract online experts. "Instead of recruiting soldiers for infantry battalions, this time we will recruit cyber warriors," General Brawner told reporters. "There is this general realisation that this new breed of warriors does not have to be muscle strong," he added. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, several government agencies, including the lower house of Congress, have recently reported cyber attacks and the chief of the armed forces said some of the almost daily attacks on the military came from abroad. However, Brawner said that none of these attacks had been successful. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Philippine military ordered to stop using AI apps due to security risks

Philippines banks on India's Brahmos missile, Manila considering additional missiles

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake shook buildings in the Philippine capital on Friday, the US Geological Survey said, with local authorities warning of possible damage and aftershocks.

The shallow quake struck about 100 kilometres (62 miles) south of Manila at 8:24 am (0024 GMT) and sent students and office workers fleeing from their buildings.

Watch:&nbsp;Philippines protests China's attempt to block resupply mission

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"So far everything's okay. No casualties although this is the epicentre," said Rafael Cuevas, a disaster agency official in Calaca city in Batangas province.

"We felt a strong shake... for less than 10 seconds."

Mabini municipality disaster chief Arnold Panopio said: "At first it was just a slight jolt then it became strong then stopped immediately."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-places-42-commercial-airports-on-high-alert-over-likely-hoax-bomb-threat-643307">Also read:&nbsp;Philippines places 42 commercial airports on high alert over ‘likely hoax’ bomb threat</a>

Panopio said no casualties or damage had been reported, but a local high school with around 2,000 students had suspended classes as a precaution.

In Manila, students wearing hard hats and office workers assembled outside buildings, waiting for the all-clear to go back inside.

Quakes are a daily occurrence in the Philippines, which sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic as well as volcanic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

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&nbsp;

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake shook buildings in the Philippine capital on Friday, the US Geological Survey said, with local authorities warning of possible damage and aftershocks.

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake shook buildings in the Philippine capital on Friday, the US Geological Survey said, with local authorities warning of possible damage and aftershocks. The shallow quake struck about 100 kilometres (62 miles) south of Manila at 8:24 am (0024 GMT) and sent students and office workers fleeing from their buildings. Watch: Philippines protests China's attempt to block resupply mission × "So far everything's okay. No casualties although this is the epicentre," said Rafael Cuevas, a disaster agency official in Calaca city in Batangas province. "We felt a strong shake... for less than 10 seconds." Mabini municipality disaster chief Arnold Panopio said: "At first it was just a slight jolt then it became strong then stopped immediately." Also read: Philippines places 42 commercial airports on high alert over ‘likely hoax’ bomb threat Panopio said no casualties or damage had been reported, but a local high school with around 2,000 students had suspended classes as a precaution. In Manila, students wearing hard hats and office workers assembled outside buildings, waiting for the all-clear to go back inside. Quakes are a daily occurrence in the Philippines, which sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic as well as volcanic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Philippines: Magnitude 5.2 earthquake jolts Manila, aftershocks expected

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