On Monday, authorities in the Philippines filed a complaint against the top prison officials including their chief for allegedly ordering the killing of a prominent radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, whose death had sparked outrage and drawn condemnation from several groups including politicians, media groups as well as activists.&nbsp;

The charges were filed against Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag who has since been suspended from his post, additionally, another prison security official named Ricardo Zulueta as well as other key suspects. Reports suggest that Percival Mabasa whose broadcast name was Percy Lapid often criticised officials including Bantag and others for alleged corruption and other anomalies in the prison.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-journalist-percival-mabasa-shot-dead-sparks-outrage-among-people-522653">Philippines: Journalist Percival Mabasa shot dead; murder sparks public outrage</a>

Mabasa was one of the country’s most prominent journalists who was killed on October 3 after he was fatally shot by two gunmen riding a motorcycle at the gate of his residential compound in the Las Pinas area in the country’s capital, Manila, said the local police.&nbsp;

At a press briefing, the country’s top justice, interior and police officials said that three gang members were imprisoned in the country’s largest prison which was under Bantag’s control, and were hired by him to kill Mabasa for a 550,000 peso ($9,300) contract. “Bantag had a clear motive to effect the murders,” said the officials.&nbsp;

According to the statement, &nbsp;Joel Escorial was identified by the police and came forward in fear when a prize was announced for his capture. He later publicly identified Jun Villamor who he claimed was assigned by the prison’s gang leaders to arrange the journalist’s killing. Subsequently, Villamor was suffocated by a plastic bag allegedly on the orders of the two prison officials.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/videos/gunmen-kill-philippine-radio-commentator-percival-mabasa-in-manila-522618">Gunmen kill Philippine radio commentator Percival Mabasa in Manila</a>

Bantag had a “clear motive” to order all these killings, said the officials. They added, “For Percy Lapid, it was the continued exposé by the latter of the issues against the former on his show, Lapid Fire.” While Bantag has denied his involvement in the killings both he and Zulueta are charged with Villamor’s killing too. However, no warrants have yet been issued for their arrests, said the officials.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the police searched Bantag’s maximum-security prison complex and found alcohol, drugs and other contraband including phones, laptops, etc smuggled into the prison. This also includes the death of 18 drug lords that were detained in the prison and supposedly died of Covid-19 and were cremated in the span of two and a half months.&nbsp;

Amid speculations the country’s president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the prison police chief’s indefinite suspension. Mabasa’s show had also been critical of the previous President Rodrigo Duterte and his successor Marcos Jr, the son of the ousted dictator.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hold-the-line-philippines-maria-ressa-fights-for-press-freedom-495654">'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom</a>

The Philippines has been one of Asia’s most liberal media environments but it remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists, particularly in the rural areas of the country. This incident came weeks after another radio broadcaster Rey Blanco was stabbed to death on September 18. Mabasa’s death had drawn international condemnation from several groups as well as countries like the Netherlands, Canada and the UK.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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On Monday, authorities in the Philippines filed a complaint against the top prison officials including their chief for allegedly ordering the killing of a prominent radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, whose death had sparked outrage and drawn condemnation from several groups including politicians, media groups as well as activists.

On Monday, authorities in the Philippines filed a complaint against the top prison officials including their chief for allegedly ordering the killing of a prominent radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, whose death had sparked outrage and drawn condemnation from several groups including politicians, media groups as well as activists. The charges were filed against Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag who has since been suspended from his post, additionally, another prison security official named Ricardo Zulueta as well as other key suspects. Reports suggest that Percival Mabasa whose broadcast name was Percy Lapid often criticised officials including Bantag and others for alleged corruption and other anomalies in the prison. ALSO READ: Philippines: Journalist Percival Mabasa shot dead; murder sparks public outrage Mabasa was one of the country’s most prominent journalists who was killed on October 3 after he was fatally shot by two gunmen riding a motorcycle at the gate of his residential compound in the Las Pinas area in the country’s capital, Manila, said the local police. At a press briefing, the country’s top justice, interior and police officials said that three gang members were imprisoned in the country’s largest prison which was under Bantag’s control, and were hired by him to kill Mabasa for a 550,000 peso ($9,300) contract. “Bantag had a clear motive to effect the murders,” said the officials. According to the statement, Joel Escorial was identified by the police and came forward in fear when a prize was announced for his capture. He later publicly identified Jun Villamor who he claimed was assigned by the prison’s gang leaders to arrange the journalist’s killing. Subsequently, Villamor was suffocated by a plastic bag allegedly on the orders of the two prison officials. ALSO WATCH: Gunmen kill Philippine radio commentator Percival Mabasa in Manila Bantag had a “clear motive” to order all these killings, said the officials. They added, “For Percy Lapid, it was the continued exposé by the latter of the issues against the former on his show, Lapid Fire.” While Bantag has denied his involvement in the killings both he and Zulueta are charged with Villamor’s killing too. However, no warrants have yet been issued for their arrests, said the officials. Meanwhile, the police searched Bantag’s maximum-security prison complex and found alcohol, drugs and other contraband including phones, laptops, etc smuggled into the prison. This also includes the death of 18 drug lords that were detained in the prison and supposedly died of Covid-19 and were cremated in the span of two and a half months. Amid speculations the country’s president, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the prison police chief’s indefinite suspension. Mabasa’s show had also been critical of the previous President Rodrigo Duterte and his successor Marcos Jr, the son of the ousted dictator. ALSO READ: 'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom The Philippines has been one of Asia’s most liberal media environments but it remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists, particularly in the rural areas of the country. This incident came weeks after another radio broadcaster Rey Blanco was stabbed to death on September 18. Mabasa’s death had drawn international condemnation from several groups as well as countries like the Netherlands, Canada and the UK. (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: Police chief charged over killing of prominent radio journalist Percival Mabasa

Storm Nalgae wreaks havoc in Philippines as more than 100 people have been killed and millions are affected due to flooding and rain-induced landslides across the country.

WION Climate Tracker: Over 100 dead as storm 'Nalgae' wreaks havoc in Philippines

Floods and Landslides are battering the Philippines. At least 45 people have been declared dead and thousands were evacuated as floods continue to lash the southern Philippines.

Philippines: Floods and Landslides kill 45, thousands evacuated

Official tally in the Philippines showed that landslides and flooding killed at least 67 people on Friday. Southern part of the country has been lashed due to storm.

The village of Kusiong accounted for many of the 50 deaths in the area around Datu Odin Sinsuat town, after heavy overnight rain unleashed floods mixed with mud, rocks and fallen trees that buried the community, the area's civil defence office said in a statement.

Similar avalanches also struck villages in the nearby towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat and Upi, which accounted for 17 more deaths. 
Eleven people remain missing and 31 were injured, according to official figures.

Tropical Storm Nalgae caused heavy rains which in turn led to flash floods that swamped nine mostly rural towns around Cotabato. It is a city of 300,000 people on Mindanao island. &nbsp;

Naguib Sinarimbo, the spokesman and civil defence chief for the regional government, tol AFP that many residents were caught by surprise as floodwaters rose rapidly before dawn. Sinamaribo said that Teams in rubber boats rescued residents.

In recent years, flash floods with mud and debris from largely deforested mountainsides have been among the deadliest hazards posed by typhoons in Philippine communities.

Mindanao is rarely hit by the 20 or so typhoons that strike the Philippines each year and kill hundreds of people. Those that do, however, tend to be deadlier than those that hit the country's main island of Luzon.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Official tally in the Philippines showed that landslides and flooding killed at least 67 people on Friday. Southern part of the country has been lashed due to storm.

Official tally in the Philippines showed that landslides and flooding killed at least 67 people on Friday. Southern part of the country has been lashed due to storm. The village of Kusiong accounted for many of the 50 deaths in the area around Datu Odin Sinsuat town, after heavy overnight rain unleashed floods mixed with mud, rocks and fallen trees that buried the community, the area's civil defence office said in a statement. Similar avalanches also struck villages in the nearby towns of Datu Blah Sinsuat and Upi, which accounted for 17 more deaths. Eleven people remain missing and 31 were injured, according to official figures. Tropical Storm Nalgae caused heavy rains which in turn led to flash floods that swamped nine mostly rural towns around Cotabato. It is a city of 300,000 people on Mindanao island. Naguib Sinarimbo, the spokesman and civil defence chief for the regional government, tol AFP that many residents were caught by surprise as floodwaters rose rapidly before dawn. Sinamaribo said that Teams in rubber boats rescued residents. In recent years, flash floods with mud and debris from largely deforested mountainsides have been among the deadliest hazards posed by typhoons in Philippine communities. Mindanao is rarely hit by the 20 or so typhoons that strike the Philippines each year and kill hundreds of people. Those that do, however, tend to be deadlier than those that hit the country's main island of Luzon. (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: Death toll due to storm reaches 67

Floods and Landslides are battering the Philippines. At least 31 people have been declared dead as floods continue to lash the southern Philippines.

WION Climate Tracker: Floods & Landslides in the Philippines; At least 31 people dead

Aftershocks rocked the northern&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;early Wednesday, hours after a strong earthquake injured at least six people and caused substantial damage to a hospital and several old churches, authorities said.

The 6.4-magnitude quake struck the mountain town of Dolores in Abra province late Tuesday, followed by numerous aftershocks over the rest of the night, the state seismology office said.

"We hid under a table and my family only went out of the house after the shaking stopped," Abra rescuer Ron Sequerra told AFP by telephone, adding his family had been woken by strong ground shaking.

Six people were injured in the Abra town of Lagayan, Sequerra added.&nbsp;

The Lagayan mayor's office and a high school building were sealed off after they sustained cracks and broken glass windows, according to pictures posted on the town's official Facebook page.

In the city of Batac in the neighbouring province of Ilocos Norte, several patients spent most of the night outside a government hospital after the ceiling collapsed on several rooms and damaged equipment, hospital staff said.

Boulders rolling down a hillside temporarily blocked a road linking Batac to the nearby town of Banna, but rescue officials said the landslide had since been cleared.

A number of old churches in Abra and Ilocos Norte also sustained damage, the civil defence office said.

Ilocos Norte governor Matthew Manotoc declared a school holiday and government workers were told not to report for work as the authorities inspected the integrity of buildings.

In July, a 7.0-magnitude quake also in mountainous Abra province triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring several hundred others, according to the official count.

Quakes are a daily occurrence in the&nbsp;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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Aftershocks rocked the northern Philippines early Wednesday, hours after a strong earthquake injured at least six people and caused substantial damage to a hospital and several old churches, authorities said.

Aftershocks rocked the northern Philippines early Wednesday, hours after a strong earthquake injured at least six people and caused substantial damage to a hospital and several old churches, authorities said. The 6.4-magnitude quake struck the mountain town of Dolores in Abra province late Tuesday, followed by numerous aftershocks over the rest of the night, the state seismology office said. "We hid under a table and my family only went out of the house after the shaking stopped," Abra rescuer Ron Sequerra told AFP by telephone, adding his family had been woken by strong ground shaking. Six people were injured in the Abra town of Lagayan, Sequerra added. The Lagayan mayor's office and a high school building were sealed off after they sustained cracks and broken glass windows, according to pictures posted on the town's official Facebook page. In the city of Batac in the neighbouring province of Ilocos Norte, several patients spent most of the night outside a government hospital after the ceiling collapsed on several rooms and damaged equipment, hospital staff said. Boulders rolling down a hillside temporarily blocked a road linking Batac to the nearby town of Banna, but rescue officials said the landslide had since been cleared. A number of old churches in Abra and Ilocos Norte also sustained damage, the civil defence office said. Ilocos Norte governor Matthew Manotoc declared a school holiday and government workers were told not to report for work as the authorities inspected the integrity of buildings. In July, a 7.0-magnitude quake also in mountainous Abra province triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring several hundred others, according to the official count. 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.

Aftershocks rock Philippines as six hurt by strong quake

A professor in the Philippines came up with a novel way to prevent her students from cheating during mid-term exams. She asked them to fashion their own anti-cheating hats! Neha Khanna tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Philippines 'Anti-Cheating' hats go viral

A Korean Airlines Jet with 173 people on board has overshot the runway at Cebu International Airport. According to the airline, there were no injuries and all the passengers were evacuated from the plane safely.

Philippines: Korean air flight overshoots runway at Cebu airport

Authorities across the world routinely find new ways to curb the menace of cheating during exams. While some appear amusing, others make one question the practicality of it. One such incident has emerged from the&nbsp;Philippines where college students can be seen wearing 'anti-cheating' hats.

Reportedly, the images of the students wearing them during an exam went viral on the&nbsp;Philippines' social media and quickly spread across the globe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-student-surgically-fits-bluetooth-device-to-cheat-in-final-mbbs-exam-455725">Read more:&nbsp;Indian student surgically fits bluetooth device to cheat in final MBBS exam</a>

In the images, students&nbsp;at the Bicol University College of Engineering in Legazpi City could be seen wearing hats made from different materials, ranging from cardboard to egg crates and other recyclable items.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, the students were asked to wear headgear to prevent them from peeking into their peers' exam papers and cheating.

However, since the college authorities didn't specify the type of headgear, the students used their creativity and came up with different styles of headgear. Some quite resourceful, some rather more ingenious.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-bollywood-style-wedding-procession-shuts-down-broadway-in-new-york--viral-video-527547">Read more:&nbsp;Bollywood-style wedding procession shuts down broadway in New York | Viral video</a>

Mary Joy Mandane-Ortiz, the professor at the college who came up with the idea said she was looking for a 'fun way' to instill the virtues of 'integrity and honesty' in the students.&nbsp;

The mid-term exams presented the perfect opportunity for Mary and she issued the order and the students obliged.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bts-jin-is-all-set-to-perform-the-astronaut-at-coldplays-buenos-aires-concert-527316">Read more:&nbsp;BTS' Jin is all set to perform 'The Astronaut' at Coldplay's Buenos Aires concert</a>

One of the netizens questioned the practice saying, "Why are the college authorities using such drastic measures?". Meanwhile, another was impressed by the creativity of the college students, "The one with the tunnel-vision binoculars has to be my favourite tho."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities across the world routinely find new ways to curb the menace of cheating during exams. While some appear amusing, others make one question the practicality of it.

Authorities across the world routinely find new ways to curb the menace of cheating during exams. While some appear amusing, others make one question the practicality of it. One such incident has emerged from the Philippines where college students can be seen wearing 'anti-cheating' hats. Reportedly, the images of the students wearing them during an exam went viral on the Philippines' social media and quickly spread across the globe. Read more: Indian student surgically fits bluetooth device to cheat in final MBBS exam In the images, students at the Bicol University College of Engineering in Legazpi City could be seen wearing hats made from different materials, ranging from cardboard to egg crates and other recyclable items. According to local media reports, the students were asked to wear headgear to prevent them from peeking into their peers' exam papers and cheating. However, since the college authorities didn't specify the type of headgear, the students used their creativity and came up with different styles of headgear. Some quite resourceful, some rather more ingenious. Read more: Bollywood-style wedding procession shuts down broadway in New York | Viral video Mary Joy Mandane-Ortiz, the professor at the college who came up with the idea said she was looking for a 'fun way' to instill the virtues of 'integrity and honesty' in the students. The mid-term exams presented the perfect opportunity for Mary and she issued the order and the students obliged. Read more: BTS' Jin is all set to perform 'The Astronaut' at Coldplay's Buenos Aires concert One of the netizens questioned the practice saying, "Why are the college authorities using such drastic measures?". Meanwhile, another was impressed by the creativity of the college students, "The one with the tunnel-vision binoculars has to be my favourite tho." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Students don 'anti-cheating hats' in Philippines, images go viral

The Indian military is willing to provide operational and cyber-security training to the Armed Forces of the Philippines as the two nations further deepen their defence engagement. But while Philippines has long been an ally of the US, why did it look towards India for its defence requirements? How do the two nations benefit from each other and why has the US been ousted from the equation?

India-Philippines defence ties: A win-win equation

When it comes to lottery, it is common to hear one buyer hitting the big jackpot. But when hundreds say that they have won, it is sure to cause eyebrows to raise.&nbsp;

Such a thing has happened in Philippines where 433 have hit the biggest jackpot. This has caused quite a stir and has led to demand of inquiry from even a lawmaker.

Interestingly, the numbers that won the 236m peso ($4 million) Grand Lotto jackpot are all multiples of 9.

General Manager of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has attempted to assure the public by saying that winning numbers could not be rigged.

Melquiades Robles, the general manager, also pointed out that people in Philippines had a tendency to bet on number sequences.

"Many have held on to their numbers. It's not only good to be loyal to your wives and husbands, it's also good to be loyal to your numbers," said Robles, as quoted by BBC.

Since so many people have won the jackpot, eyebrows have been raised. A lawmaker has called for an inquiry into 'suspicious' results.

"These lotto games are authorised by the Republic of the Philippines. Therefore, we need to maintain and protect the integrity of these gambling games," said Koko Pimentel. Pimentel is Philippines senate minority leader.

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When it comes to lottery, it is common to hear one buyer hitting the big jackpot. But when hundreds say that they have won, it is sure to cause eyebrows to raise.

When it comes to lottery, it is common to hear one buyer hitting the big jackpot. But when hundreds say that they have won, it is sure to cause eyebrows to raise. Such a thing has happened in Philippines where 433 have hit the biggest jackpot. This has caused quite a stir and has led to demand of inquiry from even a lawmaker. Interestingly, the numbers that won the 236m peso ($4 million) Grand Lotto jackpot are all multiples of 9. General Manager of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has attempted to assure the public by saying that winning numbers could not be rigged. Melquiades Robles, the general manager, also pointed out that people in Philippines had a tendency to bet on number sequences. "Many have held on to their numbers. It's not only good to be loyal to your wives and husbands, it's also good to be loyal to your numbers," said Robles, as quoted by BBC. Since so many people have won the jackpot, eyebrows have been raised. A lawmaker has called for an inquiry into 'suspicious' results. "These lotto games are authorised by the Republic of the Philippines. Therefore, we need to maintain and protect the integrity of these gambling games," said Koko Pimentel. Pimentel is Philippines senate minority leader. 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: 433 people hit lottery jackpot at once

A prominent Philippine radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, was killed while driving in the country’s capital Manila, the police said on Tuesday. The&nbsp;killing has sparked protests and drawn condemnation from media groups, activists, politicians and foreign embassies who have described this “brazen” attack as a blow to press freedom in the country.&nbsp;

According to reports, the 63-year-old radio broadcaster, also known as Percy Lapid, was shot by two gunmen riding a motorcycle at the gate of his residential compound in the Las Pinas area of Manila. The incident took place on Monday night when he was driving to work at the DWBL radio station, said the local police.

The country’s police chief has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and indicated that they will set up a national task force to investigate the attack. “We are not discounting the possibility that the shooting could be related to the victim's work in media,” said police chief Jaime Santos in a statement, as the motive of the attack remains unclear.

Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) took to Twitter and published a statement condemning the attack on Mabasa saying, “This&nbsp;killing shows that journalism remains a dangerous profession in the country.&nbsp;That the incident took place in Metro Manila indicates how brazen the perpetrators were, and how authorities have failed to protect journalists as well as ordinary citizens from harm.”&nbsp;

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Join us in condemning another murder of a journalist. 
 
Justice for Percy Lapid! <a href="https://t.co/prytGWY2cO">pic.twitter.com/prytGWY2cO</a>
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Mabasa used the broadcast name Percy Lapid&nbsp;for his show “Lapid Fire” and one of his recent segments warned people of the dangers of “red-tagging” which is reportedly slang that is used to dismiss dissenting voices by accusing them of being communist sympathizers. According to the NUJP statement, he also commented on the security risks of the country’s overseas online gambling operations and misinformation around martial law.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Mabasa’s show had also been critical of the previous President Rodrigo Duterte&nbsp; and his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son of the ousted dictator. However, reports have suggested that Marcos Jr’s office was concerned about the killing and has called for officials to conduct an investigation.&nbsp;

The journalist’s family has called this killing a “deplorable crime” and demanded that “his cowardly assassins be brought to justice,” said media reports. On the other hand, foreign embassies of the Netherlands, Canada and the UK have condemned the killing and called for swift action against the assailants.&nbsp;

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hold-the-line-philippines-maria-ressa-fights-for-press-freedom-495654">'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom</a>

This comes weeks after another radio broadcaster Rey Blanco was stabbed to death on September 18. Mabasa is the second journalist to be killed under Marcos Jr’s administration, said the statement by NUJP. While the Philippines has been one of Asia’s most liberal media environments, it remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists, particularly in the rural areas of the country.&nbsp;

According to a report by the international watchdog, Reporters Without Borders, at least 187 journalists have been killed since 1987. This includes 32 journalists killed in a single attack on a rural opposition politician, his supporters and the reporters covering him in 2009.&nbsp;

The rights group Karapatan described Mabasa as “one of the country’s fiercest truth-tellers”. Meanwhile, the International Federation of Journalists also condemned the killing, calling it “the latest in a long list of journalists killed in the country,” and urged the government to investigate the case.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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A prominent Philippine radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, was killed while driving in the country’s capital Manila, the police said on Tuesday. The killing has sparked protests and drawn condemnation from media groups, activists, politicians and foreign embassies who have described this “brazen” attack as a blow to press freedom in the country.

A prominent Philippine radio journalist, Percival Mabasa, was killed while driving in the country’s capital Manila, the police said on Tuesday. The killing has sparked protests and drawn condemnation from media groups, activists, politicians and foreign embassies who have described this “brazen” attack as a blow to press freedom in the country. According to reports, the 63-year-old radio broadcaster, also known as Percy Lapid, was shot by two gunmen riding a motorcycle at the gate of his residential compound in the Las Pinas area of Manila. The incident took place on Monday night when he was driving to work at the DWBL radio station, said the local police. The country’s police chief has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice and indicated that they will set up a national task force to investigate the attack. “We are not discounting the possibility that the shooting could be related to the victim's work in media,” said police chief Jaime Santos in a statement, as the motive of the attack remains unclear. Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) took to Twitter and published a statement condemning the attack on Mabasa saying, “This killing shows that journalism remains a dangerous profession in the country. That the incident took place in Metro Manila indicates how brazen the perpetrators were, and how authorities have failed to protect journalists as well as ordinary citizens from harm.” Join us in condemning another murder of a journalist. Justice for Percy Lapid! pic.twitter.com/prytGWY2cO — NUJP (@nujp) October 4, 2022 × Mabasa used the broadcast name Percy Lapid for his show “Lapid Fire” and one of his recent segments warned people of the dangers of “red-tagging” which is reportedly slang that is used to dismiss dissenting voices by accusing them of being communist sympathizers. According to the NUJP statement, he also commented on the security risks of the country’s overseas online gambling operations and misinformation around martial law. Reportedly, Mabasa’s show had also been critical of the previous President Rodrigo Duterte and his successor Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the son of the ousted dictator. However, reports have suggested that Marcos Jr’s office was concerned about the killing and has called for officials to conduct an investigation. The journalist’s family has called this killing a “deplorable crime” and demanded that “his cowardly assassins be brought to justice,” said media reports. On the other hand, foreign embassies of the Netherlands, Canada and the UK have condemned the killing and called for swift action against the assailants. ALSO READ: 'Hold the line': Philippines' Maria Ressa fights for press freedom This comes weeks after another radio broadcaster Rey Blanco was stabbed to death on September 18. Mabasa is the second journalist to be killed under Marcos Jr’s administration, said the statement by NUJP. While the Philippines has been one of Asia’s most liberal media environments, it remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists, particularly in the rural areas of the country. According to a report by the international watchdog, Reporters Without Borders, at least 187 journalists have been killed since 1987. This includes 32 journalists killed in a single attack on a rural opposition politician, his supporters and the reporters covering him in 2009. The rights group Karapatan described Mabasa as “one of the country’s fiercest truth-tellers”. Meanwhile, the International Federation of Journalists also condemned the killing, calling it “the latest in a long list of journalists killed in the country,” and urged the government to investigate the case. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Philippines: Journalist Percival Mabasa shot dead; murder sparks public outrage

In yet another killing, a journalist in Philippines was shot dead while driving in the capital Manila. This is the second journalist that has been killed since Marcus Jr took office as President on June 30th.

WION Dispatch: Outrage after Philippine journalist shot dead

A lottery in the Philippines has left people surprised, 433 people hit the jackpot, it's the highest number of people to have won the grand Lotto stock price.

Philippines: 433 Filipinos hit grand jackpot, sparks surprise and suspicion

How happy would you be if you won the $4M in a lottery? How happy would you still be if over 400 other people along with you, also won the same lottery? Well, that’s exactly what happened in the Philippines. It was the highest number of people to have ever won the Grand Lotto's top prize.

Philippines: One jackpot, 433 winners: Too good to be true?

The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea".

The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea". The exercise will run till October 14 and will see the participation of 2,550 American and 530 Filipino troops. According to reports, alongside the two countries, Japan and South Korea will be joining the exercise as observers. The exercise held in select areas throughout Luzon will involve island-based armed operations and drills in amphibious landings, live fire and humanitarian assistance. "The exercise aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and interoperability among participating forces in the conduct of combined tactical operations that focus on capacitating the Marine Amphibious Ready Unit and enhancing their capabilities in Special Operations, Coastal Defense Capability, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) Operations, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Operations," the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) said in a statement. Read more: Philippines holds biggest military exercises in seven years with US amid South China Sea tensions Speaking at the kickoff ceremony of the sixth iteration of the exercise, Philippine Navy Acting Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia stated it would be bigger than the previous year's event. “The last exercise was not really conducted the way we want it to be [because of the COVID-19 pandemic]. This is a bigger exercise compared to what we did last year. There are a lot of marine corps participating this year. Last year was just virtual and tabletop exercises.” As reported by WION, earlier this year, the two countries held their biggest military exercise in seven years called Balikatan, Tagalog for shoulder-to-shoulder. The exercise ran from March 29 to April 8 with nearly 9,000 navy, marines, air force and army troops, including 5,100 American military personnel participating in it. WATCH | Philippines, US to begin two-week joint military drill from Monday × The US and the Philippines have a mutual defence treaty, signed way back in 1951. Under the treaty, both nations have sworn to defend each other in case of an attack by a third party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US and Philippines kick off joint naval exercise amid China tension

In a major crackdown on unlicensed online gaming businesses, the Philippines government on Tuesday announced that it will shut more than 175 gambling dens and deport about 40,000 Chinese workers.

In a major crackdown on unlicensed online gaming businesses, the Philippines government on Tuesday announced that it will shut more than 175 gambling dens and deport about 40,000 Chinese workers. “The crackdown was triggered by reports of murder, kidnapping and other crimes committed by Chinese nationals against fellow Chinese nationals,” said justice ministry spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano. The ministry said the measure was aimed at sending a strong message after the crime rate skyrocketed across the country. "This is really our job to society and to make sure that these crimes are not committed. We thought it best to send a signal that this type of behaviour is not tolerable, it's not acceptable to the country." Read more: US may use our military bases in case of a Taiwan conflict, says Philippine ambassador to the US The Philippine offshore gaming operators or POGOs had mushroomed in the country after 2016 when President Rodrigo Duterte started to pursue a closer relationship with China. The gambling industry peaked around 2020 when it raked in approximately $122 million and employed nearly 300,000 Chinese workers. However, the meteoric rise of POGO's also led to an increase in crimes as individuals, mostly Chinese engaged in kidnapping, prostitution and murder, according to the ministry. The regulators informed that only 30 POGO's had licenses to run operations in the country while the rest were either running on expired or revoked licenses. The Chinese embassy in a statement batted for the move and added POGO's were hurting the relationship between the two countries, "Crimes induced by and associated with online gambling not only harm China's interests and China-Philippines relations, but also hurt the interests of the Philippines." Gambling is strictly banned in mainland China and since last year, the Xi Jinping regime has enforced gaming laws as well, restricting the gaming time of kids and teenagers. Read more: Three hours a week: China's new rules for children playing video games (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Philippines cracks down on gambling; to shut 175 offshore firms, deport 40,000 Chinese workers

Typhoon Noru has made landfall in the Philippines. The typhoon hit the main island of Luzon with strong winds and heavy rains, it prompted the evacuation of thousands and killed at least five people who were deployed for rescue operations.

Typhoon Noru live updates: Five rescuers dead as typhoon hits Philippines

A day after Super Typhoon Noru hit the Philippines on Sunday, authorities have revealed that at least five rescuers were killed. The rescuers were said to be sent to a flooded community during a powerful typhoon. So far, the authorities did not reveal details on their cause of death.&nbsp;

The authorities have revealed that the rescuers were in San Miguel municipality in Bulacan province, near the capital Manila, when they died. Renan Herrera, who is the San Miguel disaster officer, confirmed the deaths and said that they may have drowned in floodwaters.&nbsp;

Lieutenant-Colonel Romualdo Andres, chief of police in San Miguel, said, "They were deployed by the provincial government to a flooded area."&nbsp;

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The typhoon caused thousands of people to leave their homes and locate in safer places. A heavily populated island of Luzon was battered by strong winds and heavy rain. The typhoon toppled trees and flooded low-lying communities.&nbsp;

This is the strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year. So far there have been no reports of severe damage.&nbsp;

To mitigate the impacts, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos declared suspension of government work and classes for Monday because of the category three tropical storm.&nbsp;

The state weather agency said in its latest advisory that nearly 8,400 people were pre-emptively evacuated from the path of Typhoon Noru, which further weakened with sustained winds of 175 kilometres per hour and gusts of up to 290 kph after making landfall.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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Marcos also suspended classes and work in Luzon. Flights got cancelled, ferries halted and bus routes shut as heavy rains and strong winds toppled trees and power lines.&nbsp;

Marcos said on Facebook that the energy ministry placed on high alert all energy-related facilities in typhoon-affected areas.&nbsp;

Nelson Egargue, disaster chief of Aurora province where Noru made landfall told DZRH radio station, "Utility posts fell and homes made of light materials near coastlines were damaged."&nbsp;

"The wind is calmer now but it's dark because we have no power supply," Eliseo Ruzol, mayor of coastal General Nakar town adjacent to Noru's landfall location, told DZRH.&nbsp;

(With inputs from inputs)&nbsp;

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A day after Super Typhoon Noru hit the Philippines on Sunday, authorities have revealed that at least five rescuers were killed. The rescuers were said to be sent to a flooded community during a powerful typhoon.

A day after Super Typhoon Noru hit the Philippines on Sunday, authorities have revealed that at least five rescuers were killed. The rescuers were said to be sent to a flooded community during a powerful typhoon. So far, the authorities did not reveal details on their cause of death. The authorities have revealed that the rescuers were in San Miguel municipality in Bulacan province, near the capital Manila, when they died. Renan Herrera, who is the San Miguel disaster officer, confirmed the deaths and said that they may have drowned in floodwaters. Lieutenant-Colonel Romualdo Andres, chief of police in San Miguel, said, "They were deployed by the provincial government to a flooded area." ALSO READ | Elon Musk faces deposition with Twitter's lawyers ahead of trial The typhoon caused thousands of people to leave their homes and locate in safer places. A heavily populated island of Luzon was battered by strong winds and heavy rain. The typhoon toppled trees and flooded low-lying communities. This is the strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year. So far there have been no reports of severe damage. To mitigate the impacts, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos declared suspension of government work and classes for Monday because of the category three tropical storm. The state weather agency said in its latest advisory that nearly 8,400 people were pre-emptively evacuated from the path of Typhoon Noru, which further weakened with sustained winds of 175 kilometres per hour and gusts of up to 290 kph after making landfall. Watch this report: × ALSO READ | Donald Trump claimed 'he was not watching television during Capitol Hill riots', new book says Marcos also suspended classes and work in Luzon. Flights got cancelled, ferries halted and bus routes shut as heavy rains and strong winds toppled trees and power lines. Marcos said on Facebook that the energy ministry placed on high alert all energy-related facilities in typhoon-affected areas. Nelson Egargue, disaster chief of Aurora province where Noru made landfall told DZRH radio station, "Utility posts fell and homes made of light materials near coastlines were damaged." "The wind is calmer now but it's dark because we have no power supply," Eliseo Ruzol, mayor of coastal General Nakar town adjacent to Noru's landfall location, told DZRH. (With inputs from inputs) 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.

Five rescuers killed as Super Typhoon Noru hits northern Philippines

WION Climate Tracker: Typhoon Noru slams Philippines, floods inundate several provinces

Authorities confirmed on Sunday that&nbsp;Typhoon Noru made landfall in the Philippines after coastal communities were evacuated.

According to the state weather forecaster, the typhoon slammed in Burdeos municipality on the Polillo islands.

With maximum sustained winds of 195 kph (121 mph) and gusts of up to 240 kph (149 mph), it charged towards the archipelago nation after an unprecedented "explosive intensification".

Climate change is a big factor behind typhoons which are becoming more powerful as the world gets warmer.

Bracing for the possibility of strong winds and heavy rain battering the capital, emergency personnel are rescuing people stuck in Manila.

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Killing more than 400 people and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless, another super typhoon devastated swathes of the country.

Before entering the South China Sea on Monday and heading towards Vietnam, Noru is expected to weaken to a typhoon as it sweeps across central Luzon.

Along with widespread flooding and landslides, the weather bureau has warned of dangerous storm surges more than three metres high.

Causing severe losses" to rice and corn crops in the heavily agricultural region, it could topple coconut and mango trees.

As vessels took shelter ahead of the storm, more than 2,500 people had been left stranded by ferry cancellations as per the coast guard.

Almost 30 domestic and international flights to and from Manila, school classes and non-essential government services have been suspended.

The Philippines, which is hit by an average of 20 storms every year, is ranked among the most vulnerable nations to the impacts of climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Authorities confirmed on Sunday that Typhoon Noru made landfall in the Philippines after coastal communities were evacuated. According to the state weather forecaster, the typhoon slammed in Burdeos municipality on the Polillo islands.

Authorities confirmed on Sunday that Typhoon Noru made landfall in the Philippines after coastal communities were evacuated. According to the state weather forecaster, the typhoon slammed in Burdeos municipality on the Polillo islands. With maximum sustained winds of 195 kph (121 mph) and gusts of up to 240 kph (149 mph), it charged towards the archipelago nation after an unprecedented "explosive intensification". Climate change is a big factor behind typhoons which are becoming more powerful as the world gets warmer. Bracing for the possibility of strong winds and heavy rain battering the capital, emergency personnel are rescuing people stuck in Manila. × Killing more than 400 people and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless, another super typhoon devastated swathes of the country. Before entering the South China Sea on Monday and heading towards Vietnam, Noru is expected to weaken to a typhoon as it sweeps across central Luzon. Along with widespread flooding and landslides, the weather bureau has warned of dangerous storm surges more than three metres high. Causing severe losses" to rice and corn crops in the heavily agricultural region, it could topple coconut and mango trees. As vessels took shelter ahead of the storm, more than 2,500 people had been left stranded by ferry cancellations as per the coast guard. Almost 30 domestic and international flights to and from Manila, school classes and non-essential government services have been suspended. The Philippines, which is hit by an average of 20 storms every year, is ranked among the most vulnerable nations to the impacts of climate change. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Typhoon Noru makes landfall in Philippines, coastal communities evacuated

Super typhoon slammed into the Philippines which is the Category 3 typhoon. It was packing maximum sustained winds of 195 kilometers per hour as it made landfall on the Southeast Asian Nation. The heavily populated island of Luzon has been battered.

WION Climate Tracker: Typhoon Noru hits Philippines

In the Philippines a new service aims to provide some comfort to grieving pet owners. It is offering to make customized photo realistic replicas of people's late pets.

Grieving pet owners seek replicas of their late pets

Amid the Taiwan-China crisis, the Philippines has stated that it would allow the US forces to use its military bases in the event of a Taiwan conflict. The statement was made by Jose Manuel Romualdez, Philippines' ambassador to the US with the caveat "if it is important for us, for our own security,".

Amid the Taiwan-China crisis, the Philippines has stated that it would allow the US forces to use its military bases in the event of a Taiwan conflict. The statement was made by Jose Manuel Romualdez, Philippines' ambassador to the US with the caveat "if it is important for us, for our own security,". It is pertinent to note that Romualdez is a relative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and wields considerable influence in the power corridors of Manila. His statement indicates the position Manila is taking despite assuming a relative neutral stance on the Taiwan issue. "Nobody wants to have any kind of war or confrontation. We want to ask both countries to lessen the tension by having more dialogue and then trying to resolve all of these issues because it's in our part of the world," added Romualdez. The envoy also added that Manila is in talks with Washington to increase the number of military bases that US forces can use in Philippine territory. "Our military and the military of the United States are all looking into what are the possible areas," Read more: Schools reopen in Philippines for the first time after two years of Covid lockdowns Romualdez's statement comes in the backdrop of the Biden administration announcing a more than $1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, much to the chagrin of China. Moreover, last week, two American warships had sailed through the Taiwan Strait. WATCH | Tensions continue to soar across Taiwan; China issues stern warning to the US × Beijing has repeatedly warned Washington to stay away from Taiwan and not muddle with the 'One China' policy However, since August, Washington has been taking an aggressive approach. As reported extensively by WION, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit, the first by a top US official in 25 years, set off a series of US lawmakers' visits to Taipei. US Senator Marsha Blackburn became the fourth lawmaker to visit Taiwan when she travelled to Taipei late last month. Meanwhile, after holding intensive military drills around the island nation in the aftermath of Pelosi's visit, Beijing is once again starting to crank up the pressure. Earlier today, Taiwan's defence ministry said that two Chinese fighter jets crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait again. It is pertinent to note that the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea which China considers its own. Thus, the Philipines extending the services of its military bases to the US is a move, purely dictated by its own gains. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US may use our military bases in case of a Taiwan conflict, says Philippine ambassador to the US

Tropical storm Ma-On caused three deaths in the Philippines, its disaster agency reported on Thursday, with the storm currently headed towards southeastern China.

Two people were confirmed dead, both hit by a fallen tree in mountainous northern provinces of Kalinga and Cagayan, while one drowning in eastern Camarines Sur province is being verified, the disaster agency said, adding that four people were reportedly injured.

Ma-On, with sustained winds of up to 110 km per hour (68 miles per hour), made landfall in the northeastern Philippines on Tuesday. It brought heavy rains that flooded communities and caused landslides before exiting land on Tuesday evening.

The Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Tuesday announced a two-day closure of government offices and public schools in the capital region and adjacent provinces.

In April, Tropical Storm Megi triggered landslides in coastal provinces, with 144 confirmed deaths in the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands that sees an average of 20 tropical storms a year.

Several cities in southern China braced for Ma-on ahead of an expected Thursday landfall along the coast of Guangdong province. Its winds and rain could bring much-needed relief to southern areas suffering from days of scorching heat, which pressured China's national electricity grid, damaged crops and caused wildfires.

Tropical storm Ma-On caused three deaths in the Philippines, its disaster agency reported on Thursday, with the storm currently headed towards southeastern China.

Tropical storm Ma-On caused three deaths in the Philippines, its disaster agency reported on Thursday, with the storm currently headed towards southeastern China. Two people were confirmed dead, both hit by a fallen tree in mountainous northern provinces of Kalinga and Cagayan, while one drowning in eastern Camarines Sur province is being verified, the disaster agency said, adding that four people were reportedly injured. Ma-On, with sustained winds of up to 110 km per hour (68 miles per hour), made landfall in the northeastern Philippines on Tuesday. It brought heavy rains that flooded communities and caused landslides before exiting land on Tuesday evening. The Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Tuesday announced a two-day closure of government offices and public schools in the capital region and adjacent provinces. In April, Tropical Storm Megi triggered landslides in coastal provinces, with 144 confirmed deaths in the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands that sees an average of 20 tropical storms a year. Several cities in southern China braced for Ma-on ahead of an expected Thursday landfall along the coast of Guangdong province. Its winds and rain could bring much-needed relief to southern areas suffering from days of scorching heat, which pressured China's national electricity grid, damaged crops and caused wildfires.

Philippines reports three deaths from tropical storm Ma-On

As the academic year started in the Philippines, millions of students returned to school with many taking their seats in classrooms for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

Many walk into school for first time in Philippines since COVID outbreak

At least five people were killed after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake jolted the northern Philippines on Wednesday (July 27). In the aftermath, the country's President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday visited the affected region and also promised to help rebuild the damaged homes on the island of Luzon.&nbsp;

Local media reports stated that residents have camped out in parks and on sidewalks as the quake left a trail of destruction in Bangued town in Abra province. It was just 11 km from the epicentre.&nbsp;

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The intensity of the earthquake was so high as buildings were toppled and it shook high-rise towers more than 300 kilometres away in the capital Manila.&nbsp;

After being briefed during a trip to inspect the damage, Marcos told officials: "For the affected and victims, let us make sure we are ready to support them and give them all they need."&nbsp;

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As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Elma Sia, who works at a restaurant, recalled her fearful experience of being caught up in such a powerful earthquake.&nbsp;

The 52-year-old told Reuters: "Everything was moving, our plates were breaking, our lights swaying. We were terrified. I could hear people shouting from a nearby McDonald's restaurant, so people rushed outside to the plaza and started crying out of fear."&nbsp;

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At least five people were killed after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake jolted the northern Philippines on Wednesday (July 27). In the aftermath, the country's President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday visited the affected region and also promised to help rebuild the damaged homes on the island of Luzon.

At least five people were killed after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake jolted the northern Philippines on Wednesday (July 27). In the aftermath, the country's President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday visited the affected region and also promised to help rebuild the damaged homes on the island of Luzon. Local media reports stated that residents have camped out in parks and on sidewalks as the quake left a trail of destruction in Bangued town in Abra province. It was just 11 km from the epicentre. ALSO READ | Fueling recession fears, the US economy shrank again in second quarter The intensity of the earthquake was so high as buildings were toppled and it shook high-rise towers more than 300 kilometres away in the capital Manila. After being briefed during a trip to inspect the damage, Marcos told officials: "For the affected and victims, let us make sure we are ready to support them and give them all they need." ALSO READ | US Justice Department gets a fresh warrant to search Trump's lawyer's phone As quoted by the news agency Reuters, Elma Sia, who works at a restaurant, recalled her fearful experience of being caught up in such a powerful earthquake. The 52-year-old told Reuters: "Everything was moving, our plates were breaking, our lights swaying. We were terrified. I could hear people shouting from a nearby McDonald's restaurant, so people rushed outside to the plaza and started crying out of fear." 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 President Ferdinand Marcos visits earthquake-hit area, vows to help victims

A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake has struck the northern Philippines Island of Luzon killing at least four people. Officials say 60 people were injured and strong tremors were also felt through the capital of Manila.

7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Philippines

From a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake in the northern Philippine island of Luzon to the Ukrainian fighters standing in Russia’s way on eastern front defending the captured eastern city of Izium, here are some impactful images from around the world on 27 July 2022.

World in Pictures: Earthquake strikes Philippines; Ukrainian fighters standing in Russia’s way

7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Philippines, 4 dead

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake jolted northern Philippines island on early Wednesday, the US Geological Survey said. The tremors caused minor damages and people to flee from their buildings. No casualty or major damage has been reported so far.

According to USGS, the epicentre was about 13 kilometres southeast of the small town of Dolores, with a depth of 10 kilometres.

The shallow but powerful quake struck the mountainous and lightly populated province of Abra on the main island of Luzon at 8:43 am (0043 GMT), the USGS said, after initially measuring the quake at 6.8 magnitude.

The tremor was so strong that it was also felt in the capital Manila city, which is almost&nbsp;more than 400 kilometres away from the epicentre, where&nbsp;the city's metro rail systems had been halted at rush hour after the quake, the transport ministry said.

According to media reports, the senate building in the capital was also evacuated.&nbsp;Renato Solidum, director of the state seismology agency, told DZMM radio station, that the quake could have caused damage in Abra where Dolores is located, but did not see damage in Manila.

"The quake was very strong," Sergio told AFP, adding that there were minor cracks in the police station building.

"Vegetables and fruits sold in the market were also disarranged after tables were toppled."

According to reports, Wednesday's quake was the strongest recorded in the Philippines in years. The previous high was recorded in October 2013, when a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Bohol Island in the central Philippines, killing over 200 people and triggering landslides.

Following the initial shallow tremors, several aftershocks followed the quake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Wednesday.

Several videos have emerged on social media showing minor cracks on the road and people being evacuated from buildings. However, no visible damage to shops or houses have been reported so far, local media reports.

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WATCH: Portions of Bantay Bell Tower in Ilocos Sur crumble after a magnitude 7.3 earthquake hit Abra Province this morning <a href="https://t.co/Yea6QsB9V6">https://t.co/Yea6QsB9V6</a> 
 
📹 Edison M. Adducul <a href="https://t.co/UnxZqfpPsV">pic.twitter.com/UnxZqfpPsV</a>
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) <a href="https://twitter.com/cnnphilippines/status/1552112422546448384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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WATCH: Panic at the public market area in Bangued, Abra minutes after the quake hit the province, damaging structures in and around the epicenter. 
 
A resident can be heard repeatedly shouting “Nagpigsa!”, Ilocano for “strong.” | <a href="https://twitter.com/anjo_bagaoisan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anjo_bagaoisan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LindolPH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LindolPH</a> 
 
(📹: Leonel Belena) <a href="https://t.co/MI1kwGO0Z5">pic.twitter.com/MI1kwGO0Z5</a>
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Police chief Major Nazareno Emia told AFP that a&nbsp;number of people were injured in Bangued and taken to hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

The Philippines is an earthquake-prone island as it is located on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

The island nation is also lashed by about 20 typhoons and tropical storms every year, making it one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 7.1 magnitude earthquake jolted northern Philippines island on early Wednesday, the US Geological Survey said. The tremors caused minor damages and people to flee from their buildings.

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake jolted northern Philippines island on early Wednesday, the US Geological Survey said. The tremors caused minor damages and people to flee from their buildings. No casualty or major damage has been reported so far. According to USGS, the epicentre was about 13 kilometres southeast of the small town of Dolores, with a depth of 10 kilometres. The shallow but powerful quake struck the mountainous and lightly populated province of Abra on the main island of Luzon at 8:43 am (0043 GMT), the USGS said, after initially measuring the quake at 6.8 magnitude. The tremor was so strong that it was also felt in the capital Manila city, which is almost more than 400 kilometres away from the epicentre, where the city's metro rail systems had been halted at rush hour after the quake, the transport ministry said. According to media reports, the senate building in the capital was also evacuated. Renato Solidum, director of the state seismology agency, told DZMM radio station, that the quake could have caused damage in Abra where Dolores is located, but did not see damage in Manila. "The quake was very strong," Sergio told AFP, adding that there were minor cracks in the police station building. "Vegetables and fruits sold in the market were also disarranged after tables were toppled." According to reports, Wednesday's quake was the strongest recorded in the Philippines in years. The previous high was recorded in October 2013, when a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck Bohol Island in the central Philippines, killing over 200 people and triggering landslides. Following the initial shallow tremors, several aftershocks followed the quake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Wednesday. Several videos have emerged on social media showing minor cracks on the road and people being evacuated from buildings. However, no visible damage to shops or houses have been reported so far, local media reports. WATCH: Portions of Bantay Bell Tower in Ilocos Sur crumble after a magnitude 7.3 earthquake hit Abra Province this morning https://t.co/Yea6QsB9V6 📹 Edison M. Adducul pic.twitter.com/UnxZqfpPsV — CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) July 27, 2022 × WATCH: Panic at the public market area in Bangued, Abra minutes after the quake hit the province, damaging structures in and around the epicenter. A resident can be heard repeatedly shouting “Nagpigsa!”, Ilocano for “strong.” | @anjo_bagaoisan #LindolPH (📹: Leonel Belena) pic.twitter.com/MI1kwGO0Z5 — ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) July 27, 2022 × Police chief Major Nazareno Emia told AFP that a number of people were injured in Bangued and taken to hospital for treatment. The Philippines is an earthquake-prone island as it is located on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. The island nation is also lashed by about 20 typhoons and tropical storms every year, making it one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

7.1 magnitude earthquake jolts northern Philippines

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