Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: U.S. and Philippines launch largest-ever joint military drills

At least seven people, including two children, were killed after a fire broke out late Saturday (April 8) in a residential complex near the Philippine capital city of Manila, police said, as per AFP. According to the report, more than 40 houses were destroyed in the densely populated Taytay municipality southeast of Manila, the Philippine police said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The fire broke out just before 10:00 pm (local time) in Taytay town and spread fast in the densely packed neighbourhood of old houses. The municipality is located in the southeastern part of the capital city of Manila where several families who lived in one house accessible only through a long, narrow alley, were caught in the flames, said a report by the news agency citing officials.&nbsp;

According to the police, victims were trapped in their house at the end of the street, and the bodies were found on the kitchen floor and inside the bathroom, reported the Chinese news agency, Xinhua.

Among the seven killed were a two-year-old girl and a 12-year-old boy. “They weren't able to escape. They were trapped,” Taytay’s acting police chief Joel Custodio told AFP, adding that they were found “hugging each other.” Additionally, at least one person was injured due to falling debris.&nbsp;

It took around two hours to put out the fire which has also left at least 60 families homeless, said the police. Initial investigation into the incident by the Bureau of Fire Protection suspects faulty wiring inside one of the houses as the possible cause of the fire. &nbsp;

This incident also comes a week after an inter-island vessel caught on fire in the Philippines, killing 29 people, including a six-month-old baby. At the time, the authorities had rescued over 200 people off the southern island of Basilan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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At least seven people, including two children, were killed after a fire broke out late Saturday (April 8) in a residential complex near the Philippine capital city of Manila, police said, as per AFP.

At least seven people, including two children, were killed after a fire broke out late Saturday (April 8) in a residential complex near the Philippine capital city of Manila, police said, as per AFP. According to the report, more than 40 houses were destroyed in the densely populated Taytay municipality southeast of Manila, the Philippine police said on Sunday. The fire broke out just before 10:00 pm (local time) in Taytay town and spread fast in the densely packed neighbourhood of old houses. The municipality is located in the southeastern part of the capital city of Manila where several families who lived in one house accessible only through a long, narrow alley, were caught in the flames, said a report by the news agency citing officials. According to the police, victims were trapped in their house at the end of the street, and the bodies were found on the kitchen floor and inside the bathroom, reported the Chinese news agency, Xinhua. Among the seven killed were a two-year-old girl and a 12-year-old boy. “They weren't able to escape. They were trapped,” Taytay’s acting police chief Joel Custodio told AFP, adding that they were found “hugging each other.” Additionally, at least one person was injured due to falling debris. It took around two hours to put out the fire which has also left at least 60 families homeless, said the police. Initial investigation into the incident by the Bureau of Fire Protection suspects faulty wiring inside one of the houses as the possible cause of the fire. This incident also comes a week after an inter-island vessel caught on fire in the Philippines, killing 29 people, including a six-month-old baby. At the time, the authorities had rescued over 200 people off the southern island of Basilan. (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.

Philippines: At least seven killed in fire near capital city Manila

India's Ministry of Home Affairs has released a list of 117 apps that it seeks to get banned in the country. The list includes dating, gaming and illegal loan-providing apps linked to China, the Philippines and Nigeria. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India wants 117 apps banned | Apps linked to China, Philippines & Nigeria

Four weeks after a Philippine tanker loaded with 800,000 litres of thick oil sank off the central island of Mindoro, Philippine fishermen continue to struggle to scrape toxic sludge from the rocks along the shore while the vessel continues to leak. Hem Kaur Soraya brings you the report.

Philippine fishermen struggle as oil spill keeps them ashore | WION Climate Tracker

News of tragedy off the coast of the Philippines, at least 31 people have either drowned or were burnt alive after a ferry caught fire near the coast late on Wednesday. One report says 250 people were aboard the ill-fated boat when the fire erupted.

Philippines: 31 die in a fire aboard a ferry off the coast | World News | WION

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has said has said that Philippines has given the United States access to four more military bases in the country. He also added that the locations will be announced pretty soon.

Philippines grants US access to four more military bases

The United States and Philippines are set to hold joint military drills, which are aimed at strengthening the interoperability of both nations under different circumstances.

U.S. & Philippines set to hold joint military drills to strengthen synergy of troops

Philippines has claimed that China is yet again creating discord in the Spratly islands located in the South China sea. Specifically targeting its Thitu island, which is also a major military base. It has been under China's surveillance for some time now.

Philippines reports Chinese navy ship near disputed island

A shocking incident is being reported from the Philippines where a provincial governor who is also the political ally of the President has been shot dead by unidentified assailants.

Negros Oriental governor shot dead by unidentified assailants

On Tuesday, a fuel tanker carrying 800,000 litres of industrial fuel oil had sunk near the coast of the Philippines. Now it has been four days, and the situation continues to remain grim. The region's ecology seems to have altered and organisms are struggling to survive.

Oil spill off the Philippine coast turns into an ecological catastrophe

A provincial governor in the central Philippines and five other people were shot dead by unknown gunmen on Saturday (March 3). According to a police statement, Roel Degamo, 56, the governor of the Negros Oriental province and some civilians were hospitalised with unspecified injuries. The shooting took place at Degamo's residence in Pamplona town, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

Speaking to AFP, police spokesperson Kym Lopez several gunmen entered Degamo's residence and opened fire as the 56-year-old politician was distributing aid to constituents.&nbsp;

Degamo is the third politician to be shot since the local elections last year. The Philippines has a long history of attacks on politicians. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos condemned what he described as the "assassination" of his political ally Degamo, and vowed to bring swift justice to his killers.

In February, the Supreme Court declared Degamo the rightful winner of the contest for the Negros Oriental governorship following a recount that unseated his local rival, who previously proclaimed victory.&nbsp;

Also last month, two other politicians were attacked in the country. Mamintal Adiong, governor of the southern province of Lanao del Sur, was shot and wounded in an attack that killed his driver and three police escorts.&nbsp;

Rommel Alameda, the vice-mayor of the northern town of Aparri, and five other people who were travelling with him were shot dead in a highway ambush. The police identified the registered owner of a car used by the assailants in the ambush. According to a report by the Philippine Star on February 22, the police had the name of the owner of the Mitsubishi Adventure, which was found burned in Solano town.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A provincial governor in the central Philippines and five other people were shot dead by unknown gunmen on Saturday (March 3). According to a police statement, Roel Degamo, 56, the governor of the Negros Oriental province and some civilians were hospitalised with unspecified injuries.

A provincial governor in the central Philippines and five other people were shot dead by unknown gunmen on Saturday (March 3). According to a police statement, Roel Degamo, 56, the governor of the Negros Oriental province and some civilians were hospitalised with unspecified injuries. The shooting took place at Degamo's residence in Pamplona town, the news agency AFP reported on Sunday. Speaking to AFP, police spokesperson Kym Lopez several gunmen entered Degamo's residence and opened fire as the 56-year-old politician was distributing aid to constituents. Degamo is the third politician to be shot since the local elections last year. The Philippines has a long history of attacks on politicians. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos condemned what he described as the "assassination" of his political ally Degamo, and vowed to bring swift justice to his killers. In February, the Supreme Court declared Degamo the rightful winner of the contest for the Negros Oriental governorship following a recount that unseated his local rival, who previously proclaimed victory. Also last month, two other politicians were attacked in the country. Mamintal Adiong, governor of the southern province of Lanao del Sur, was shot and wounded in an attack that killed his driver and three police escorts. Rommel Alameda, the vice-mayor of the northern town of Aparri, and five other people who were travelling with him were shot dead in a highway ambush. The police identified the registered owner of a car used by the assailants in the ambush. According to a report by the Philippine Star on February 22, the police had the name of the owner of the Mitsubishi Adventure, which was found burned in Solano town. (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.

Philippines: Provincial governor, five others shot dead by unknown gunmen

Authorities in the Philippines are rushing to contain an oil spill that has been caused by a sunken fuel tanker. The oil spill has reached coastal towns on a large central island. The oil spill is threatening to endanger marine ecosystem. Fisherfolk have been told to stay ashore.

The tanker, MT Princess Empress, was still missing on Friday after sinking en route to Iloilo province carrying about 800,000 litres (211,338 gallons) of industrial fuel oil.

On Tuesday, the oil tanker encountered engine trouble on Tuesday (March 3) due to overheating. It drifted due to rough sea conditions, said the coast guard. All 20 crew were rescued before it sank. It was not immediately clear what caused the vessel to sink.

Carlos Primo David, undersecretary at the environment ministry, said it was crucial authorities find the tanker soon as there could still be a large volume of oil inside.

"If we can recover it that will help us a lot in containing the spill," he said in a media briefing.

"Bear in mind that the cleanup will be more difficult if more oil reaches coastal areas."

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga said a rapid assessment was being undertaken of coastal and marine habitats that could be impacted.

At risk of damage was approximately 591 hectares of coral reefs, 1,626 hectares of mangroves and 362 hectares of seagrass, the ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities in the Philippines are rushing to contain an oil spill that has been caused by a sunken fuel tanker. The oil spill has reached coastal towns on a large central island.

Authorities in the Philippines are rushing to contain an oil spill that has been caused by a sunken fuel tanker. The oil spill has reached coastal towns on a large central island. The oil spill is threatening to endanger marine ecosystem. Fisherfolk have been told to stay ashore. The tanker, MT Princess Empress, was still missing on Friday after sinking en route to Iloilo province carrying about 800,000 litres (211,338 gallons) of industrial fuel oil. On Tuesday, the oil tanker encountered engine trouble on Tuesday (March 3) due to overheating. It drifted due to rough sea conditions, said the coast guard. All 20 crew were rescued before it sank. It was not immediately clear what caused the vessel to sink. Carlos Primo David, undersecretary at the environment ministry, said it was crucial authorities find the tanker soon as there could still be a large volume of oil inside. "If we can recover it that will help us a lot in containing the spill," he said in a media briefing. "Bear in mind that the cleanup will be more difficult if more oil reaches coastal areas." Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga said a rapid assessment was being undertaken of coastal and marine habitats that could be impacted. At risk of damage was approximately 591 hectares of coral reefs, 1,626 hectares of mangroves and 362 hectares of seagrass, the ministry said. (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: Authorities rush to contain oil spill caused by sunken tanker

Philippine coast guard authorities are rushing to find out and secure a tanker which sank in rough seas and is now spilling the industrial fuel oil cargo it was carrying. The tanker MT Princess Empress was carrying 800,000 litres (210,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil and sank off the northeast coast of Mindoro island, Philippines on 28 February.&nbsp;

The oil product tanker was on its journey from Bataan province, near the capital, Manila, to the central province of Iloilo.&nbsp;

The vessel faced an issue with its engine and sank into the sea. After the tanker sank, a spillage was spotted by the coast guard and was initially thought to be just the malfunctioned engine's diesel fuel.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-lambast-west-for-blackmailing-attempting-to-interfere-in-other-countries-internal-affairs-567688">Russia, China lambast West for blackmailing, attempting to interfere in other countries' internal affairs</a>

However, after conducting a test of the water samples, the authorities confirmed on Thursday that it was in fact some spillage&nbsp;of the industrial oil cargo the tanker was carrying.&nbsp;The industrial oil leakage was spotted off Oriental Mindoro province.&nbsp;

By Wednesday, the coast guard said that a spill had spread in an area of over 24sq km (9 square miles). &nbsp;

However, anything certain could not be said about the extent of the spillage. Philippines Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo, as quoted by media portals, said, “A ship’s structural integrity may be compromised during the sinking, and it may develop a hole through which oil will leak under pressure."&nbsp;

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It is becoming difficult for the divers to reach the tanker as the vessel sank into over 400 metres deep (1,300 feet) seas, he said. Balilo added that the cargo was not sealed and was loaded directly into the tanker. Oriental Mindoro provincial Governor Humerlito Dolor said that a search is underway.&nbsp;

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The coast guards are using oil spill booms to contain the oil spillage. The areas where the oil spillage is spotted include Verde Island Passage, a marine ecosystem that provides food and livelihood to millions of people. Environmental groups are expressing concerns that the oil spill could potentially endanger protected 21 marine protected areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Philippine coast guard authorities are rushing to find out and secure a tanker which sank in rough seas and is now spilling the industrial fuel oil cargo it was carrying.

Philippine coast guard authorities are rushing to find out and secure a tanker which sank in rough seas and is now spilling the industrial fuel oil cargo it was carrying. The tanker MT Princess Empress was carrying 800,000 litres (210,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil and sank off the northeast coast of Mindoro island, Philippines on 28 February. The oil product tanker was on its journey from Bataan province, near the capital, Manila, to the central province of Iloilo. The vessel faced an issue with its engine and sank into the sea. After the tanker sank, a spillage was spotted by the coast guard and was initially thought to be just the malfunctioned engine's diesel fuel. Also Read | Russia, China lambast West for blackmailing, attempting to interfere in other countries' internal affairs However, after conducting a test of the water samples, the authorities confirmed on Thursday that it was in fact some spillage of the industrial oil cargo the tanker was carrying. The industrial oil leakage was spotted off Oriental Mindoro province. By Wednesday, the coast guard said that a spill had spread in an area of over 24sq km (9 square miles). However, anything certain could not be said about the extent of the spillage. Philippines Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo, as quoted by media portals, said, “A ship’s structural integrity may be compromised during the sinking, and it may develop a hole through which oil will leak under pressure." Also Read | US Senate clears bill to declassify all information on Covid-19 origin It is becoming difficult for the divers to reach the tanker as the vessel sank into over 400 metres deep (1,300 feet) seas, he said. Balilo added that the cargo was not sealed and was loaded directly into the tanker. Oriental Mindoro provincial Governor Humerlito Dolor said that a search is underway. Watch | Israeli Protesters Confront Benjamin Netanyahu's Wife Outside Tel Aviv Hair Salon The coast guards are using oil spill booms to contain the oil spillage. The areas where the oil spillage is spotted include Verde Island Passage, a marine ecosystem that provides food and livelihood to millions of people. Environmental groups are expressing concerns that the oil spill could potentially endanger protected 21 marine protected areas. (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.

Philippines dispatches resources to contain oil spillage from sunken tanker 'Princess Empress'

In a hope to secure better market access, Philippine Senate on Tuesday ratified the nation's entry into the world’s biggest free trade bloc, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).&nbsp;

RCEP is a regional free trade agreement which&nbsp;entered into force on 1 January 2022 originally with 10 parties, namely, Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Japan, Laos, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The grouping then entered into force for the Republic of Korea on 1 February 2022, for Malaysia on 18 March 2022 and for Indonesia on 2 January 2023.&nbsp;

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The RCEP member countries accounts for around 30 per cent of global gross domestic product.

Arsenio Balisacan, Secretary in Philippine's National Economic and Development Authority welcomed the ratification and tweeted that the agreement will provide "another engine for growing the economy and making it part of rapidly rising Asia." "We thank the Senate’s honorable members for taking this bold and game-changing move," he added.&nbsp;

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Finally, the Philippine Senate has ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), providing another engine for growing the economy and making it part of rapidly rising Asia. We thank the Senate’s honorable members for taking this bold and game-changing move.
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Balisacan while speaking with reporters said, “Foreign investors look for places to go where there are clear rules, particularly trade facilitation, investment policies, and which are followed and not subject to change at any time."&nbsp;

The resolution to ratify the treaty was passed in Senate late Tuesday by a vote of 20-1, with one abstention.

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The agreement is supposed to lower costs for companies by letting them export products anywhere within the bloc. It provides benefit for countries and frees them of separate requirements for each country while trading.&nbsp;

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Even as Philippine has ratified the agreement, the country has seen dissenting voices of farmers, other organizations and country's private sector who have&nbsp;expressed their strong opposition on the agreement ratified by Duterte government. Meanwhile, after long discussion, India had exited the agreement in 2019 saying that the proposed agreement was unacceptable.&nbsp;

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In a hope to secure better market access, Philippine Senate on Tuesday ratified the nation's entry into the world’s biggest free trade bloc, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

In a hope to secure better market access, Philippine Senate on Tuesday ratified the nation's entry into the world’s biggest free trade bloc, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). RCEP is a regional free trade agreement which entered into force on 1 January 2022 originally with 10 parties, namely, Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Japan, Laos, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The grouping then entered into force for the Republic of Korea on 1 February 2022, for Malaysia on 18 March 2022 and for Indonesia on 2 January 2023. Also Read | Miracle baby 'Aya', born under Turkey quake rubble, adopted by her aunt, uncle The RCEP member countries accounts for around 30 per cent of global gross domestic product. Arsenio Balisacan, Secretary in Philippine's National Economic and Development Authority welcomed the ratification and tweeted that the agreement will provide "another engine for growing the economy and making it part of rapidly rising Asia." "We thank the Senate’s honorable members for taking this bold and game-changing move," he added. Finally, the Philippine Senate has ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), providing another engine for growing the economy and making it part of rapidly rising Asia. We thank the Senate’s honorable members for taking this bold and game-changing move. — Arsenio Balisacan (@ambalisacan) February 21, 2023 × Balisacan while speaking with reporters said, “Foreign investors look for places to go where there are clear rules, particularly trade facilitation, investment policies, and which are followed and not subject to change at any time." The resolution to ratify the treaty was passed in Senate late Tuesday by a vote of 20-1, with one abstention. Also Read | Indian Poet Javed Akhtar, at Lahore event, says 26/11 terrorists roaming free in Pakistan The agreement is supposed to lower costs for companies by letting them export products anywhere within the bloc. It provides benefit for countries and frees them of separate requirements for each country while trading. Watch | Air India begins massive hiring, pilots' salary crosses Rs 2 crore Even as Philippine has ratified the agreement, the country has seen dissenting voices of farmers, other organizations and country's private sector who have expressed their strong opposition on the agreement ratified by Duterte government. Meanwhile, after long discussion, India had exited the agreement in 2019 saying that the proposed agreement was unacceptable. 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.

Philippines Senate ratifies entry to RCEP; world’s largest trade pact

A Cessna 340 aircraft with four people on board crashed in the central Philippines where rescuers were searching for survivors on Sunday (February 19). According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the aircraft went missing early Saturday morning shortly after departing for Manila from Bicol International Airport, the news agency AFP reported. The CAAP added that the aircraft was carrying two passengers, a pilot and a crew member.&nbsp;

Speaking to AFP, CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio said a local search and rescue team identified a possible crash site near the airport. "The problem is that the weather is bad and it hampers the visibility of the ground search," Apolonio added.

This crash in the central Philippines comes after another Cessna aircraft carrying six people went missing on January 24 &nbsp;in the northern province of Isabela. Eric Apolonio told the news agency on Sunday that the search for the aircraft's wreckage is still ongoing.&nbsp;

A day later (on January 25), two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed. The SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province 40 minutes after takeoff, according to the air force.

The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, and the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft was temporarily grounded.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Cessna 340 aircraft with four people on board crashed in the central Philippines where rescuers were searching for survivors on Sunday (February 19). According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the aircraft went missing early Saturday morning shortly after departing for Manila from Bicol International Airport, the news agency AFP reported.

A Cessna 340 aircraft with four people on board crashed in the central Philippines where rescuers were searching for survivors on Sunday (February 19). According to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), the aircraft went missing early Saturday morning shortly after departing for Manila from Bicol International Airport, the news agency AFP reported. The CAAP added that the aircraft was carrying two passengers, a pilot and a crew member. Speaking to AFP, CAAP spokesperson Eric Apolonio said a local search and rescue team identified a possible crash site near the airport. "The problem is that the weather is bad and it hampers the visibility of the ground search," Apolonio added. This crash in the central Philippines comes after another Cessna aircraft carrying six people went missing on January 24 in the northern province of Isabela. Eric Apolonio told the news agency on Sunday that the search for the aircraft's wreckage is still ongoing. A day later (on January 25), two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed. The SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province 40 minutes after takeoff, according to the air force. The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, and the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft was temporarily grounded. (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.

Aircraft with four on board crashes in central Philippines, search for survivors on

The Philippine government has lodged a diplomatic protest, calling on China to ensure its vessels cease “aggressive activities” after the Chinese coastguard used a “military-grade laser” to try to block one of its ships in the South China Sea.

Philippines files protest over China’s laser use in sea dispute

The Philippines on Monday (February 13) accused a Chinese coast guard ship of using a “military-grade laser” to hinder its resupply mission and urged Beijing to refrain from committing any “provocative act” endangering the lives of people. According to the Philippine coast guard (PCG), their vessel was assisting a navy mission to resupply its troops in the South China Sea, on February 6, when the Chinese coast guard ship emitted a green laser light which temporarily blinded its crew on the bridge.&nbsp;

“I think it’s time for the Chinese government to restrain its forces so that it does not commit any provocative act that will endanger the lives of people”, said Philippine military spokesperson Medel Aguilar to reporters. Subsequently, quoting the military chief Aguilar also called China’s action “offensive”.&nbsp;

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In a statement, the PCG also said that the Chinese ship manoeuvred dangerously close, about 137 metres, in a bid to block the Philippine patrol vessel BRP Malapascua from approaching Second Thomas Shoal, where the incident occurred. The Second Thomas Shoal is some 195 km off the coast of the Philippine province of Palawan which has been occupied by a small Philippine military contingent.&nbsp;

“The deliberate blocking of the Philippine government ships to deliver food and supplies to our military personnel on board the BRP Sierra Madre is a blatant disregard for, and a clear violation of, Philippine sovereign rights in this part of the West Philippine Sea,”, the statement added. A video released by the Philippine authorities shows a Chinese&nbsp;coast guard ship hindering the path&nbsp;of a Philippine vessel from a distance and subsequently emitting a green laser.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-harris-arrives-in-the-philippines-to-bolster-ties-amid-growing-chinese-influence-in-region-535751">US VP Harris meets Philippines President Marcos, reaffirms ‘unwavering’ commitment amid South China Sea feud</a>

On the other hand, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that the Philippine coast guard vessel trespassed into Chinese waters without permission, on February 6. He also went on to, in turn, urge the Philippines to “avoid such actions” and that their staff’s actions were “professional and restrained” as well as in accordance with Beijing and international law.&nbsp;

He added, “We hope the Philippines will earnestly respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea and avoid any actions that may lead to the expansion of the dispute and complication of the situation”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-south-china-sea-dispute-escalate-into-a-full-scale-war-414263">Can South China Sea dispute escalate into a full-scale war?</a>

Additionally, China and the Philippines are maintaining communication through diplomatic channels about the incident, said Wang during a daily briefing. Notably, the Philippines filed at least 200 diplomatic protests against Beijing’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea last year alone.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Philippines on Monday (February 13) accused a Chinese coast guard ship of using a “military-grade laser” to hinder its resupply mission and urged Beijing to refrain from committing any “provocative act” endangering the lives of people.

The Philippines on Monday (February 13) accused a Chinese coast guard ship of using a “military-grade laser” to hinder its resupply mission and urged Beijing to refrain from committing any “provocative act” endangering the lives of people. According to the Philippine coast guard (PCG), their vessel was assisting a navy mission to resupply its troops in the South China Sea, on February 6, when the Chinese coast guard ship emitted a green laser light which temporarily blinded its crew on the bridge. “I think it’s time for the Chinese government to restrain its forces so that it does not commit any provocative act that will endanger the lives of people”, said Philippine military spokesperson Medel Aguilar to reporters. Subsequently, quoting the military chief Aguilar also called China’s action “offensive”. ALSO READ | US holds exercises in South China Sea amid tensions with China In a statement, the PCG also said that the Chinese ship manoeuvred dangerously close, about 137 metres, in a bid to block the Philippine patrol vessel BRP Malapascua from approaching Second Thomas Shoal, where the incident occurred. The Second Thomas Shoal is some 195 km off the coast of the Philippine province of Palawan which has been occupied by a small Philippine military contingent. “The deliberate blocking of the Philippine government ships to deliver food and supplies to our military personnel on board the BRP Sierra Madre is a blatant disregard for, and a clear violation of, Philippine sovereign rights in this part of the West Philippine Sea,”, the statement added. A video released by the Philippine authorities shows a Chinese coast guard ship hindering the path of a Philippine vessel from a distance and subsequently emitting a green laser. ALSO READ | US VP Harris meets Philippines President Marcos, reaffirms ‘unwavering’ commitment amid South China Sea feud On the other hand, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that the Philippine coast guard vessel trespassed into Chinese waters without permission, on February 6. He also went on to, in turn, urge the Philippines to “avoid such actions” and that their staff’s actions were “professional and restrained” as well as in accordance with Beijing and international law. He added, “We hope the Philippines will earnestly respect China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea and avoid any actions that may lead to the expansion of the dispute and complication of the situation”. ALSO READ | Can South China Sea dispute escalate into a full-scale war? Additionally, China and the Philippines are maintaining communication through diplomatic channels about the incident, said Wang during a daily briefing. Notably, the Philippines filed at least 200 diplomatic protests against Beijing’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea last year alone. (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.

Philippines accuses China of using ‘military-grade laser’ to hinder resupply mission in South China Sea

Former Filipino poachers who used to hunt turtles are now at the forefront of conservation on the beaches of the northern Philippine province of La Union.

Filipino turtle poachers now at forefront of conservation

A wider range of parties will now have access to military bases in the Philippines, according to an announcement made by the United States and the Philippines. How successful will the United States' plan be in containing China's escalating assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region?

US and Philippines step up military cooperation, latter grants access to four more military bases

The United States and the Philippines have announced an expansion of their defence past, allowing wider access to military bases in the Philippines. As the united states aims to counter China's growing assertivenes in the Indo-Pacific region, how effective will its strategy prove to be? Director of South and South East Asia at the Philippine-middle east studies association shares his insights.

The Philippines grants US wider access to its military bases

An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the &nbsp;Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island. There were no immediate reports of any major damage. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Monkayo police Staff Sergeant Harvey Asayas said the quake was strong at the beginning but gradually weakened and stopped after 40 seconds.&nbsp;

Asayas added that authorities were conducting patrols around to assess the damage.

In the nearby municipality of New Bataan, Police Corporal Lucita Ambrocio told the news agency that the earthquake was quick. "After 10 minutes, our colleagues went back to the building. I checked the premises and I saw a small crack in the barracks," Ambrocio said.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Maricar Melgar from the Montevista municipality said the quake was so strong she feared the building that she was in would collapse. Melgar said this was probably the strongest earthquake that she experienced.

In Tagum city, about 40 kilometres southwest of the epicentre, residents fled their houses. "We were eating when (the house) began to shake -- it was strong. We ran outside -- we had to take safety measures. We did not see any damage inside the house when we got back," Grace Jao told the news agency.&nbsp;

The Philippines witnesses earthquakes daily as the country sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire."

Previously, the Philippines was rocked by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in Dolores in Abra province in October last year, injuring several people, cutting power to most of the region and damaging buildings. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15.2 kilometres (9.4 miles). Its impact was felt as far away as the capital Manila, more than 330 kilometres to the south.

In July 2022, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in mountainous Abra last July triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring hundreds.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island.

An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island. There were no immediate reports of any major damage. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Monkayo police Staff Sergeant Harvey Asayas said the quake was strong at the beginning but gradually weakened and stopped after 40 seconds. Asayas added that authorities were conducting patrols around to assess the damage. In the nearby municipality of New Bataan, Police Corporal Lucita Ambrocio told the news agency that the earthquake was quick. "After 10 minutes, our colleagues went back to the building. I checked the premises and I saw a small crack in the barracks," Ambrocio said. On the other hand, Maricar Melgar from the Montevista municipality said the quake was so strong she feared the building that she was in would collapse. Melgar said this was probably the strongest earthquake that she experienced. In Tagum city, about 40 kilometres southwest of the epicentre, residents fled their houses. "We were eating when (the house) began to shake -- it was strong. We ran outside -- we had to take safety measures. We did not see any damage inside the house when we got back," Grace Jao told the news agency. The Philippines witnesses earthquakes daily as the country sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire." Previously, the Philippines was rocked by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in Dolores in Abra province in October last year, injuring several people, cutting power to most of the region and damaging buildings. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15.2 kilometres (9.4 miles). Its impact was felt as far away as the capital Manila, more than 330 kilometres to the south. In July 2022, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in mountainous Abra last July triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring hundreds. (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.

Earthquake of 6.0-magnitude hits southern Philippines, no reports of major damage

In the Philippines, onions are becoming a luxury and are giving a close-shave competition to meat when it comes to prices. The South Asian nation is witnessing a high cost of living which is coming off heavily on the pockets of Filipinos. What is astonishing is that onions in the country now cost higher than meat and the nation's daily minimum wage.&nbsp;According to official statistics, the price of onions skyrocketed in the Philippines to around 700 pesos ($12.80; £10.40) per kg last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-arms-exports-up-49-in-fiscal-2022-556283">United States arms exports to foreign governments rose 49% in fiscal 2022</a>

Inflation is taking a whirlwind and everything from food to fuel is at a record 14-year-high. As the onion toppings seemed to be diminished from Filipino platters, the nation's president Ferdinand "Bongbong" Romualdez Marcos Jr. approved the import of red and yellow onions.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protests-in-haiti-by-police-tensions-soar-roads-blocked-and-airport-stormed-by-protesters-556417">Protests in Haiti by police, tensions soar; roads blocked and airport stormed by protesters</a>

Two factors are playing a role in the rising onion prices. First, the demand for onions in the Philippines is peaking as the economy is opening up. And secondly, unfavourable weather conditions have affected the production of onions.&nbsp;

As the country reels under cruel inflation, Marcos is feeling the pressure too as agriculture secretary. Legislators are urging the nation's president for a replacement for the post. Philippines Senator Grace Poe said, "Before it was sugar, now, it's onions. We'll end up having a hearing for everything in the kitchen."

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/passengers-panic-as-bus-falls-into-lake-in-turkiye-no-fatalities-reported-556349">Passengers panic as bus falls into lake in Turkiye, no fatalities reported</a>

The condition in the country is so dire that earlier this month, 10 crew members from Philippine Airlines were reportedly investigated for attempting to smuggle about 40kg of onions and fruits into their luggage bags. Marcos has also called rising food prices an "emergency situation" which suggests how grave the situation in the country really is where people are unable to get their hands on a staple ingredient of&nbsp;Filipino cuisine.&nbsp;

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In the Philippines, onions are becoming a luxury and are giving a close-shave competition to meat when it comes to prices. The South Asian nation is witnessing a high cost of living which is coming off heavily on the pockets of Filipinos.

In the Philippines, onions are becoming a luxury and are giving a close-shave competition to meat when it comes to prices. The South Asian nation is witnessing a high cost of living which is coming off heavily on the pockets of Filipinos. What is astonishing is that onions in the country now cost higher than meat and the nation's daily minimum wage. According to official statistics, the price of onions skyrocketed in the Philippines to around 700 pesos ($12.80; £10.40) per kg last month. Also Read | United States arms exports to foreign governments rose 49% in fiscal 2022 Inflation is taking a whirlwind and everything from food to fuel is at a record 14-year-high. As the onion toppings seemed to be diminished from Filipino platters, the nation's president Ferdinand "Bongbong" Romualdez Marcos Jr. approved the import of red and yellow onions. Also Read | Protests in Haiti by police, tensions soar; roads blocked and airport stormed by protesters Two factors are playing a role in the rising onion prices. First, the demand for onions in the Philippines is peaking as the economy is opening up. And secondly, unfavourable weather conditions have affected the production of onions. As the country reels under cruel inflation, Marcos is feeling the pressure too as agriculture secretary. Legislators are urging the nation's president for a replacement for the post. Philippines Senator Grace Poe said, "Before it was sugar, now, it's onions. We'll end up having a hearing for everything in the kitchen." Watch | Passengers panic as bus falls into lake in Turkiye, no fatalities reported The condition in the country is so dire that earlier this month, 10 crew members from Philippine Airlines were reportedly investigated for attempting to smuggle about 40kg of onions and fruits into their luggage bags. Marcos has also called rising food prices an "emergency situation" which suggests how grave the situation in the country really is where people are unable to get their hands on a staple ingredient of Filipino cuisine. 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.

In Philippines, onions cost higher than meat, nation's daily wage

The Philippine government said on Friday (January 27) that it intended to appeal to an International Criminal Court to reopen an inquiry into its brutal anti-drug campaign, which killed thousands of people. The appeal comes a day after the ICC announced the probe's resumption and said its pre-trial chamber was "not satisfied that the Philippines is undertaking relevant investigations that would warrant a deferral of the court's investigations," news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, who had initiated the drug war, had pulled his country out of the ICC in 2019, a year after the court had started a preliminary investigation into the crackdown. In September 2021, the ICC launched a formal inquiry. However, it was suspended after two months after Manila said it was re-examining several hundred cases of drug operations.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Menardo Guevarra, the Solicitor General for current President Ferdinand Marcos' government, told AFP, "It is our intention to exhaust our legal remedies, more particularly elevating the matter to the ICC appeals chamber."

Guevarra and Philippines Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said that Manila, instead of the ICC, should have jurisdiction over alleged drug war crimes. Speaking to reporters, "They are insulting us. I will not stand for any of these antics that will tend to question our sovereignty, our status as a sovereign country."

Meanwhile, the rights groups welcomed the ICC's announcement. National Union of People's Lawyers chairman Edre Olalia told the news agency that the court's announcement &nbsp; "validates" the assertions of the slain suspects' families that "there are no adequate and effective measures to achieve concrete justice for them on the ground... despite official claims to the contrary".

Human Rights Watch Asia deputy director Phil Robertson said that the ICC's probe in the Philippines is the only credible avenue for justice for the victims and their families.&nbsp;

According to official data, as many as 6,181 people were killed in the ''war on drugs'' during former President Duterte's tenure. However, rights groups said the death toll might be up to 30,000 which includes some innocent victims. President Marcos vowed to continue the war on drugs but with a focus on prevention and rehabilitation. While welcoming the ICC's announcement, the rights groups also alleged killings were continuing under Marcos.&nbsp;

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The Philippine government said on Friday (January 27) that it intended to appeal to an International Criminal Court to reopen an inquiry into its brutal anti-drug campaign, which killed thousands of people.

The Philippine government said on Friday (January 27) that it intended to appeal to an International Criminal Court to reopen an inquiry into its brutal anti-drug campaign, which killed thousands of people. The appeal comes a day after the ICC announced the probe's resumption and said its pre-trial chamber was "not satisfied that the Philippines is undertaking relevant investigations that would warrant a deferral of the court's investigations," news agency AFP reported. Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, who had initiated the drug war, had pulled his country out of the ICC in 2019, a year after the court had started a preliminary investigation into the crackdown. In September 2021, the ICC launched a formal inquiry. However, it was suspended after two months after Manila said it was re-examining several hundred cases of drug operations. On Thursday, Menardo Guevarra, the Solicitor General for current President Ferdinand Marcos' government, told AFP, "It is our intention to exhaust our legal remedies, more particularly elevating the matter to the ICC appeals chamber." Guevarra and Philippines Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said that Manila, instead of the ICC, should have jurisdiction over alleged drug war crimes. Speaking to reporters, "They are insulting us. I will not stand for any of these antics that will tend to question our sovereignty, our status as a sovereign country." Meanwhile, the rights groups welcomed the ICC's announcement. National Union of People's Lawyers chairman Edre Olalia told the news agency that the court's announcement "validates" the assertions of the slain suspects' families that "there are no adequate and effective measures to achieve concrete justice for them on the ground... despite official claims to the contrary". Human Rights Watch Asia deputy director Phil Robertson said that the ICC's probe in the Philippines is the only credible avenue for justice for the victims and their families. According to official data, as many as 6,181 people were killed in the ''war on drugs'' during former President Duterte's tenure. However, rights groups said the death toll might be up to 30,000 which includes some innocent victims. President Marcos vowed to continue the war on drugs but with a focus on prevention and rehabilitation. While welcoming the ICC's announcement, the rights groups also alleged killings were continuing under Marcos. 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.

Philippines to appeal ICC decision to reopen inquiry into drug war: Report

Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported. The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, adding, it had temporarily grounded the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft.&nbsp;

Police investigator Edgardo Delos Santos told the news agency Associated Press that the bodies of the two pilots were pulled from the wreckage and that witnesses saw the aircraft rapidly descending apparently out of control before crashing in. Further details on the crash are awaited.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-senior-police-officers-in-philippines-asked-to-resign-heres-why-549327">Hundreds of senior police officers in Philippines asked to resign. Here's why</a>

The SF-260 TP has been in operation in the country since the 1970s and has served as a light attack combat aircraft. The aircraft was deployed during airstrikes on southern Marawi City after it was taken over in 2017 by militants loyal to Islamic State (IS), the Reuters report said.&nbsp;

In separate news, the Philippines Civil Aviation Authority said on Wednesday that a single-engine Cessna aircraft carrying six people lost contact with an airport tower about four minutes after takeoff on a 30-minute flight in the northern Isabela province on Tuesday, the Associated Press report said. The authority said that full-scale search and rescue operations were continuing but it did not identify those aboard the aircraft. The air force, meanwhile, said that its helicopters could not join the operations due to bad weather.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported.

Two pilots of the Philippine Air Force were killed after their trainer aircraft crashed on Wednesday (January 25). According to the air force, the SF-260 TP Marchetti was on a training flight from the Sangley airport in the Cavite province when it was seen going down into a paddy field in the Bataan province (northwest of the capital city of Manila) 40 minutes after takeoff, news agency Reuters reported. The air force said an investigation was underway into the cause of the crash, adding, it had temporarily grounded the fleet of SF-260 TP trainer aircraft. Police investigator Edgardo Delos Santos told the news agency Associated Press that the bodies of the two pilots were pulled from the wreckage and that witnesses saw the aircraft rapidly descending apparently out of control before crashing in. Further details on the crash are awaited. ALSO READ | Hundreds of senior police officers in Philippines asked to resign. Here's why The SF-260 TP has been in operation in the country since the 1970s and has served as a light attack combat aircraft. The aircraft was deployed during airstrikes on southern Marawi City after it was taken over in 2017 by militants loyal to Islamic State (IS), the Reuters report said. In separate news, the Philippines Civil Aviation Authority said on Wednesday that a single-engine Cessna aircraft carrying six people lost contact with an airport tower about four minutes after takeoff on a 30-minute flight in the northern Isabela province on Tuesday, the Associated Press report said. The authority said that full-scale search and rescue operations were continuing but it did not identify those aboard the aircraft. The air force, meanwhile, said that its helicopters could not join the operations due to bad weather. (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.

Philippines: Two air force pilots killed after trainer plane crashes in Bataan, say reports

Philippine finance secretary Benjamin Diokno presented to global economic leaders at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland the government’s plan to establish a sovereign wealth fund for investments in agriculture, clean energy, digitalization, and climate change.

Philippines unveils proposed sovereign wealth fund for food security and clean energy at Davos

When customs officials are on the prowl to make a bust, you'd imagine illegal shipments of gold nuggets or silver pieces are on their radar. But the Philippines's government machinery is now on alert to crack down on smugglers trying to bring in, wait for it, onions!&nbsp;The price of the humble vegetable has gone through the roof, so much so that even chicken is cheaper.

According to the Philippines' Department of Agriculture, a kilogram of red and white onions was selling for 600 Philippine pesos ($11). This is nearly three times the value of chicken, which sold for 220 pesos ($4) per kg. The price of onions has exceeded the minimum daily wage in the country and this had made smugglers find a profitable, and illegal, niche.

CNN quoted Joey Salceda, resident economist at the Philippine House of Representatives, who said that the Philippines was the country with “world’s most expensive domestic onion prices.”

There were signs that such a situation will occur. A spate of super typhoons last year destroyed tens of billions of pesos worth of onion crop. In recent months, soaring inflation has gripped the country.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, consumer prices jumped 8.1 per cent in December last year. This is a 14-year high.

Amid suspicions of onion price manipulation, the authorities are going hard after the smugglers.

On December 23, customs officials seized USD 310,000 worth of white onions. The onions were concealed in clothing shipments. Just two days before that, red onions worth USD 364,000 were seized. These were being smuggled in pastry boxes.

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When customs officials are on the prowl to make a bust, you'd imagine illegal shipments of gold nuggets or silver pieces are on their radar. But the Philippines's government machinery is now on alert to crack down on smugglers trying to bring in, wait for it, onions!

When customs officials are on the prowl to make a bust, you'd imagine illegal shipments of gold nuggets or silver pieces are on their radar. But the Philippines's government machinery is now on alert to crack down on smugglers trying to bring in, wait for it, onions! The price of the humble vegetable has gone through the roof, so much so that even chicken is cheaper. According to the Philippines' Department of Agriculture, a kilogram of red and white onions was selling for 600 Philippine pesos ($11). This is nearly three times the value of chicken, which sold for 220 pesos ($4) per kg. The price of onions has exceeded the minimum daily wage in the country and this had made smugglers find a profitable, and illegal, niche. CNN quoted Joey Salceda, resident economist at the Philippine House of Representatives, who said that the Philippines was the country with “world’s most expensive domestic onion prices.” There were signs that such a situation will occur. A spate of super typhoons last year destroyed tens of billions of pesos worth of onion crop. In recent months, soaring inflation has gripped the country. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, consumer prices jumped 8.1 per cent in December last year. This is a 14-year high. Amid suspicions of onion price manipulation, the authorities are going hard after the smugglers. On December 23, customs officials seized USD 310,000 worth of white onions. The onions were concealed in clothing shipments. Just two days before that, red onions worth USD 364,000 were seized. These were being smuggled in pastry boxes. 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: Onions cost more than chicken, are even being smuggled in

China and the Philippines have agreed to set up direct communication channels on the South China Sea and handle disputes peacefully. Watch this video to know more.

China, Philippines agree on direct communication channel

China, Philippines agree to handle disputes 'peacefully'

Hundreds of senior police officers in the Philippines have been asked to resign after an investigation found out that a handful of them was involved in the narcotics trade. On Wednesday (January 4), the country's Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos appealed to all colonels and generals-about 300 in total- to offer courtesy resignations to restore trust in anti-narcotics operations.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference at the national police headquarters in the capital city of Manila, Abalos said that these senior police officers could continue to work while their records were being assessed by a committee, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

"If you're not involved, there's nothing to worry about," Abalos said, adding those officers who did not tender their resignation would be questionable.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombias-eln-guerrilla-slams-claims-they-have-agreed-to-a-ceasefire-549320">Colombia’s ELN guerrilla slams claims they have agreed to a ceasefire</a>

"This is one way of cleansing our ranks. Let us start afresh. It's difficult to fight a war when it's your ally that will shoot you in the back," the interior secretary further told reporters on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The police in the Philippines have been waging an anti-narcotics campaign launched by former president Rodrigo Duterte and continued by his successor Ferdinand Marcos.

Former president Duterte had faced worldwide condemnation for launching an anti-narcotics crackdown where over 6,200 people were killed in police operations between 2016 and 2022, Reuters reported on Wednesday.

ALSO WATCH | Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip amid security minister's Aqsa visit

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Since Ferdinand Marcos became the president in June last year, more than 24,000 sting operations were conducted by authorities in which around 30,000 people were arrested and a dozen suspects killed, police data showed.&nbsp;

The latest plan to cleanse the police was recommended by police chief General Rodolfo Azurin and other senior officers, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos said on Wednesday and pointed out Azurin himself is expected to tender his resignation while his records were being checked.&nbsp;

A security analyst told AFP that Abalos' plan was taking a politically safer and less confrontational route to clean up the police force.&nbsp;

"If nobody resigns, then he's got all the more justification to start going after corruption via the hard-power route," Sam Ramos-Jones, director of operations at Philippine Strategic Associates, told the news agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Hundreds of senior police officers in the Philippines have been asked to resign after an investigation found out that a handful of them was involved in the narcotics trade.

Hundreds of senior police officers in the Philippines have been asked to resign after an investigation found out that a handful of them was involved in the narcotics trade. On Wednesday (January 4), the country's Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos appealed to all colonels and generals-about 300 in total- to offer courtesy resignations to restore trust in anti-narcotics operations. Addressing a press conference at the national police headquarters in the capital city of Manila, Abalos said that these senior police officers could continue to work while their records were being assessed by a committee, news agency AFP reported. "If you're not involved, there's nothing to worry about," Abalos said, adding those officers who did not tender their resignation would be questionable. ALSO READ | Colombia’s ELN guerrilla slams claims they have agreed to a ceasefire "This is one way of cleansing our ranks. Let us start afresh. It's difficult to fight a war when it's your ally that will shoot you in the back," the interior secretary further told reporters on Wednesday. The police in the Philippines have been waging an anti-narcotics campaign launched by former president Rodrigo Duterte and continued by his successor Ferdinand Marcos. Former president Duterte had faced worldwide condemnation for launching an anti-narcotics crackdown where over 6,200 people were killed in police operations between 2016 and 2022, Reuters reported on Wednesday. ALSO WATCH | Israeli PM Netanyahu postpones UAE trip amid security minister's Aqsa visit × Since Ferdinand Marcos became the president in June last year, more than 24,000 sting operations were conducted by authorities in which around 30,000 people were arrested and a dozen suspects killed, police data showed. The latest plan to cleanse the police was recommended by police chief General Rodolfo Azurin and other senior officers, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos said on Wednesday and pointed out Azurin himself is expected to tender his resignation while his records were being checked. A security analyst told AFP that Abalos' plan was taking a politically safer and less confrontational route to clean up the police force. "If nobody resigns, then he's got all the more justification to start going after corruption via the hard-power route," Sam Ramos-Jones, director of operations at Philippine Strategic Associates, told the news agency. (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.

Hundreds of senior police officers in Philippines asked to resign. Here's why

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr arrived in China on Tuesday for a three-day state visit, during which Manila and Beijing are expected to bolster trade and investment ties and address security issues of mutual concern.

Philippines President Marcos arrives in China for 3-day state visit

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr arrived in China on Tuesday for a three-day state visit, during which Manila and Beijing are expected to bolster trade and investment ties and address security issues of mutual concern.

Philippine president Marcos off to China for 3-day state visit

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