The President of Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte on Monday rubbished the "nonsense" claims of Chinese intervention in the 2016 election which he had won.

A former foreign minister had recently alleged that China helped in determining the outcome of the Filipino election. Philippines' former foreign secretary Albert del Rosario spoke at a forum on Monday and claimed that a "most reliable international entity" had informed him that Chinese officials were caught bragging about how they had been able to influence the 2016 elections in the country to ensure Duterte's victory.

Rosario has remained a key voice in pushback against China especially with the country's behaviour in the South China Sea. He was one of the prominent voices in the country's arbitration victory against China.&nbsp;

Even then, Rosario did not shed light on how he received the information, which he claimed he got in early 2019, and how China may have influenced the election outcome.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/five-years-after-south-china-sea-ruling-chinas-presence-around-philippines-only-growing-397029" hreflang="en">Five years after South China Sea ruling, China's presence around Philippines only growing</a>

Harry Roque, a spokesperson for Duterte in his regular briefing described Del Rosario's claims as "nonsense". In addition, he referred to him as a "proven traitor" and urged him to "shut up".

Roque also alleged that Rosario had ceded control of the Scarborough Shoal to China during his time as the country's foreign secretary.

Duterte remains highly popular in the Philippines, even with his often fiery rhetoric about pretty much everything. He has been accused of playing softball with China and not doing enough to hold the country accountable for its maritime conduct. For long, he claimed that it was both pointless and dangerous to challenge China.

In 2022, the Philippines will hold their next presidential election. Even though Duterte is not eligible to run for a second term, he has indicated interest in the position of vice president, which analysts believe is a way to get another shot at the presidency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/go-to-india-or-us-philippines-president-rodrigo-duterte-warns-anti-vaxxers-393537" hreflang="en">'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers</a>

The President of Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte on Monday rubbished the "nonsense" claims of Chinese intervention in the 2016 election which he had won. A former foreign minister had recently alleged that China helped in determining the outcome of the Filipino election.

The President of Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte on Monday rubbished the "nonsense" claims of Chinese intervention in the 2016 election which he had won. A former foreign minister had recently alleged that China helped in determining the outcome of the Filipino election. Philippines' former foreign secretary Albert del Rosario spoke at a forum on Monday and claimed that a "most reliable international entity" had informed him that Chinese officials were caught bragging about how they had been able to influence the 2016 elections in the country to ensure Duterte's victory. Rosario has remained a key voice in pushback against China especially with the country's behaviour in the South China Sea. He was one of the prominent voices in the country's arbitration victory against China. Even then, Rosario did not shed light on how he received the information, which he claimed he got in early 2019, and how China may have influenced the election outcome. Also read: Five years after South China Sea ruling, China's presence around Philippines only growing Harry Roque, a spokesperson for Duterte in his regular briefing described Del Rosario's claims as "nonsense". In addition, he referred to him as a "proven traitor" and urged him to "shut up". Roque also alleged that Rosario had ceded control of the Scarborough Shoal to China during his time as the country's foreign secretary. Duterte remains highly popular in the Philippines, even with his often fiery rhetoric about pretty much everything. He has been accused of playing softball with China and not doing enough to hold the country accountable for its maritime conduct. For long, he claimed that it was both pointless and dangerous to challenge China. In 2022, the Philippines will hold their next presidential election. Even though Duterte is not eligible to run for a second term, he has indicated interest in the position of vice president, which analysts believe is a way to get another shot at the presidency. Also read: 'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers

'Nonsense': Philippines responds to allegations of Chinese interference in 2016 election

Hundreds of Filipinos marched in front of the Chinese Consulate on Monday to mark the five-year anniversary of the U.N.'s Permanent Court of Arbitration's decision upholding the Philippines territorial rights on the South China Sea.

5 year anniversary of South China Sea ruling

In Pics | Aftermath of Philippines plane crash

All 96 passengers of the Philippine Air Force plane that crashed on Sunday killing 47 people have been accounted for, military chief Cirilito Sobejana said on Monday. 
 
Forty nine military personnel were injured in the crash, Sobejana said. 
 
The Department of National Defence said on Sunday three civilians on the ground were also killed, and four civilians were injured. 
 
The Lockheed C-130 transport aircraft, carrying troops bound for counter-insurgency operations, overshot the runway after it touched down at Jolo airport in southern Sulu province, according to a military spokesman, Colonel Edgard Arevalo. 
 
Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said he had ordered an investigation of the incident, which would begin after rescue and recovery operations had been completed. 
 
The military has not seen any sign of an attack on the plane. 
 
Sulu, about 950 km (600 miles) south of the capital, Manila, is a stronghold of the militant Abu Sayyaf group, notorious for banditry and piracy, which the military has clashed with. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

All 96 passengers of the Philippine Air Force plane that crashed on Sunday killing 47 people have been accounted for, military chief Cirilito Sobejana said on Monday.

All 96 passengers of the Philippine Air Force plane that crashed on Sunday killing 47 people have been accounted for, military chief Cirilito Sobejana said on Monday. Forty nine military personnel were injured in the crash, Sobejana said. The Department of National Defence said on Sunday three civilians on the ground were also killed, and four civilians were injured. The Lockheed C-130 transport aircraft, carrying troops bound for counter-insurgency operations, overshot the runway after it touched down at Jolo airport in southern Sulu province, according to a military spokesman, Colonel Edgard Arevalo. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said he had ordered an investigation of the incident, which would begin after rescue and recovery operations had been completed. The military has not seen any sign of an attack on the plane. Sulu, about 950 km (600 miles) south of the capital, Manila, is a stronghold of the militant Abu Sayyaf group, notorious for banditry and piracy, which the military has clashed with. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines plane crash kills 47, injures 49; probe ordered

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas.&nbsp;

Sitting in a picturesque lake, the Taal volcano, has been pouring out sulphur dioxide for several days. This created a thick haze over Manila and several surrounding provinces and prompting health warnings.&nbsp;

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Taal Volcano is at ALERT LEVEL 3 (magmatic unrest) since 1 July 2021. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring the volcano’s condition and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.<a href="https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw">https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HandaAngMayAlam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HandaAngMayAlam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ScienceForThePeople?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ScienceForThePeople</a> <a href="https://t.co/zn6rkTiNU9">pic.twitter.com/zn6rkTiNU9</a>
— PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) <a href="https://twitter.com/phivolcs_dost/status/1411219065729806340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The volcano lies 50 kilometres south of Manila. For the past week, it has discharged volcanic smog that has blotted out the sun in the capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volcano-erupts-near-icelandic-capital-ending-a-streak-of-earthquakes-371804">Also Read |&nbsp;Volcano erupts near Icelandic capital, ending a streak of earthquakes</a>

Civil defence officials have warned that upwards of 317,000 people could be vulnerable to toxic gas emissions from the volcano under the current eruption's worst-case scenario.

Taal is considered as one of the most active volcanoes in a nation which is hit periodically by eruptions and earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", which is a zone of intense seismic activity.&nbsp;

The last eruption there in January 2020 shot ash 15 kilometres (nine miles) high and spewed red-hot lava, crushing scores of homes, killing livestock and sending over 135,000 people into shelters.

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BULKANG TAAL 
Buod ng 24 oras na pagmamanman 
03 Hulyo 2021 alas-5 ng umaga <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TaalVolcano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TaalVolcano</a> <a href="https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m">https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m</a> <a href="https://t.co/BlnKKUWA17">pic.twitter.com/BlnKKUWA17</a>
— PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) <a href="https://twitter.com/phivolcs_dost/status/1411114602071347201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Provincial disaster official Joselito Castro, while speaking to AFP, said, "We expect more residents to evacuate over the coming days". He further added that they were seeking refuge either in schools closed by the coronavirus pandemic or in the homes of relatives.

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas.

Philippine officials on Saturday said that over 2,000 people have fled from a volcano eruption that has filled the air near the Philippine capital with toxic gas. Sitting in a picturesque lake, the Taal volcano, has been pouring out sulphur dioxide for several days. This created a thick haze over Manila and several surrounding provinces and prompting health warnings. Taal Volcano is at ALERT LEVEL 3 (magmatic unrest) since 1 July 2021. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring the volcano’s condition and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.https://t.co/LAXzeYsWTw#HandaAngMayAlam #ScienceForThePeople pic.twitter.com/zn6rkTiNU9 — PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) July 3, 2021 × The volcano lies 50 kilometres south of Manila. For the past week, it has discharged volcanic smog that has blotted out the sun in the capital. Also Read | Volcano erupts near Icelandic capital, ending a streak of earthquakes Civil defence officials have warned that upwards of 317,000 people could be vulnerable to toxic gas emissions from the volcano under the current eruption's worst-case scenario. Taal is considered as one of the most active volcanoes in a nation which is hit periodically by eruptions and earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", which is a zone of intense seismic activity. The last eruption there in January 2020 shot ash 15 kilometres (nine miles) high and spewed red-hot lava, crushing scores of homes, killing livestock and sending over 135,000 people into shelters. BULKANG TAAL Buod ng 24 oras na pagmamanman 03 Hulyo 2021 alas-5 ng umaga #TaalVolcano https://t.co/KZu6Cqmi6m pic.twitter.com/BlnKKUWA17 — PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) July 3, 2021 × Provincial disaster official Joselito Castro, while speaking to AFP, said, "We expect more residents to evacuate over the coming days". He further added that they were seeking refuge either in schools closed by the coronavirus pandemic or in the homes of relatives.

More than 2,000 flee as Philippine volcano spews toxic gas

A two-year break from boxing has left Philippine legend Manny&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;"hungry" to get back in the&nbsp;ring&nbsp;for what could be the last fight of his storied career -- and a warm-up for a presidential rumble.

The eight-division world champion and beloved national hero will have tens of millions of fans from the boxing-mad archipelago in his corner when he faces American Errol Spence in Las Vegas on August 21.

Pacquiao's comeback fight is a chance to prove his mettle at 42 -- an age when most boxers have already hung up their gloves -- and score a lucrative payday before a widely expected tilt at the presidency next year.&nbsp;

"I'm a politician, all politicians are dreaming for the higher position," the elected senator told AFP in his southern hometown of General Santos, where he is training.&nbsp;

"I'm going to announce (my decision) in the proper time, maybe after the fight."&nbsp;

Pacquiao's star power in a country famed for its celebrity-obsessed politics would put him in a strong position in the presidential race.&nbsp;

But it would not guarantee victory.

A public skirmish between&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;and&nbsp;President&nbsp;Rodrigo Duterte over the latter's handling of the South China Sea dispute with Beijing and official graft could erode support for the boxer.

Duterte -- who is allowed to serve only one term as&nbsp;president&nbsp;-- rivals&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;for the affections of many Filipinos and has even flagged a possible run for the vice presidency in 2022.&nbsp;

Until recently,&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;was a high-profile backer of Duterte and his controversial drug war, which International Criminal Court prosecutors want to investigate for the alleged unlawful killing of possibly tens of thousands of people.

Pacquiao&nbsp;told AFP he would continue the crackdown, but in a "proper way" that does not abuse "the rights of individuals".

Asked if he would protect the current&nbsp;president&nbsp;from criminal charges if he became leader, he said: "All of us are bound to the law."

Pacquiao&nbsp;would face a formidable opponent if Duterte's daughter, Sara, were to run for the&nbsp;top&nbsp;job.

A recent poll showed the Davao city mayor -- the same position her father held before he took power in 2016 -- with the most voter support, well ahead of&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;and other potential contenders.&nbsp;

But a lot can change between now and the October deadline for candidates to register.

"Right now my expectation is that (Pacquiao) runs, but not as Duterte's chosen successor," said Eurasia Group analyst Peter Mumford.

"But it's the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;so it's very unpredictable."

Decisions on whether to retire after the Spence fight or run for the highest office are in God's hands, according to&nbsp;Pacquiao, a father of five.

Religion looms large in the life of the boxer, who became a devout evangelical Christian about a decade ago after giving up his playboy lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-report-of-china-building-more-than-100-nuclear-missile-silos-concerning-395234">Also Read |&nbsp;US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning'</a>

He even relies on his faith -- and vitamin C -- to ward off Covid-19 while he considers getting vaccinated against the deadly disease.&nbsp;

"I always keep in trusting God because he's the one who give me the ability to accomplish all those things," he said.

'Idol of everyone'&nbsp;

Pacquiao&nbsp;is deeply admired in the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;for his generosity and hauling himself out of poverty to become one of the world's greatest and wealthiest boxers.

Dozens of locals wait outside his gym in downtown General Santos in the hope of catching a glimpse of the rags-to-riches hero -- and receiving some money -- before he climbs into an olive green Hummer to drive back to his manicured compound.

"Pacquiao&nbsp;is the idol of everyone in this city," said Meme Dipundato, a 40-year-old tricycle driver.&nbsp;

"What I really like about&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;is not his boxing but his act of helping the poor."

But the fighter has stirred controversy since entering politics in 2010 -- first as a congressman and then a more high-profile position in the Senate -- supporting the death penalty and describing gay couples as "worse than animals".

He promises to pull no punches if he were to become&nbsp;president&nbsp;-- starting with sending "hundreds or thousands" of crooked politicians to a purpose-built "mega prison".

"There are so many problems in this country caused by corruption... there's no economic growth and development, there's no improvement," he said.&nbsp;

'I feel so hungry again'

For now,&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;said his mind was focused on the looming showdown with fellow southpaw Spence, the 31-year-old unbeaten unified welterweight world champion.

Pacquiao, who boasts a 62-7-2 win-loss-draw record, will be fighting for the first time since he beat Keith Thurman in July 2019 for the WBA welterweight title -- which he lost during the coronavirus pandemic due to inactivity.&nbsp;

He will fly to Los Angeles this month where he will be reunited with veteran trainer Freddie Roach.

In the meantime, he shadow boxes and spars with long-time associate Buboy Fernandez at his Pacman Wild Card Gym.&nbsp;

"I believe 110 percent that Manny is going to win. His stamina is still there," Fernandez told AFP.

Hanging above the&nbsp;ring, along with photos of his bloody fights, are biblical proverbs on the importance of "self-discipline" and faith.

Despite his age and long absence from the&nbsp;ring,&nbsp;Pacquiao&nbsp;said he was undaunted.&nbsp;

"It's good for me to have (a) rest for almost two years," he said.&nbsp;

"I feel so hungry again and excited (for) the fight... I feel that same feeling that I had when I was at 22, 23 years old."

A two-year break from boxing has left Philippine legend Manny Pacquiao "hungry" to get back in the ring for what could be the last fight of his storied career -- and a warm-up for a presidential rumble.

A two-year break from boxing has left Philippine legend Manny Pacquiao "hungry" to get back in the ring for what could be the last fight of his storied career -- and a warm-up for a presidential rumble. The eight-division world champion and beloved national hero will have tens of millions of fans from the boxing-mad archipelago in his corner when he faces American Errol Spence in Las Vegas on August 21. Pacquiao's comeback fight is a chance to prove his mettle at 42 -- an age when most boxers have already hung up their gloves -- and score a lucrative payday before a widely expected tilt at the presidency next year. "I'm a politician, all politicians are dreaming for the higher position," the elected senator told AFP in his southern hometown of General Santos, where he is training. "I'm going to announce (my decision) in the proper time, maybe after the fight." Pacquiao's star power in a country famed for its celebrity-obsessed politics would put him in a strong position in the presidential race. But it would not guarantee victory. A public skirmish between Pacquiao and President Rodrigo Duterte over the latter's handling of the South China Sea dispute with Beijing and official graft could erode support for the boxer. Duterte -- who is allowed to serve only one term as president -- rivals Pacquiao for the affections of many Filipinos and has even flagged a possible run for the vice presidency in 2022. Until recently, Pacquiao was a high-profile backer of Duterte and his controversial drug war, which International Criminal Court prosecutors want to investigate for the alleged unlawful killing of possibly tens of thousands of people. Pacquiao told AFP he would continue the crackdown, but in a "proper way" that does not abuse "the rights of individuals". Asked if he would protect the current president from criminal charges if he became leader, he said: "All of us are bound to the law." Pacquiao would face a formidable opponent if Duterte's daughter, Sara, were to run for the top job. A recent poll showed the Davao city mayor -- the same position her father held before he took power in 2016 -- with the most voter support, well ahead of Pacquiao and other potential contenders. But a lot can change between now and the October deadline for candidates to register. "Right now my expectation is that (Pacquiao) runs, but not as Duterte's chosen successor," said Eurasia Group analyst Peter Mumford. "But it's the Philippines so it's very unpredictable." Decisions on whether to retire after the Spence fight or run for the highest office are in God's hands, according to Pacquiao, a father of five. Religion looms large in the life of the boxer, who became a devout evangelical Christian about a decade ago after giving up his playboy lifestyle. Also Read | US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning' He even relies on his faith -- and vitamin C -- to ward off Covid-19 while he considers getting vaccinated against the deadly disease. "I always keep in trusting God because he's the one who give me the ability to accomplish all those things," he said. 'Idol of everyone' Pacquiao is deeply admired in the Philippines for his generosity and hauling himself out of poverty to become one of the world's greatest and wealthiest boxers. Dozens of locals wait outside his gym in downtown General Santos in the hope of catching a glimpse of the rags-to-riches hero -- and receiving some money -- before he climbs into an olive green Hummer to drive back to his manicured compound. "Pacquiao is the idol of everyone in this city," said Meme Dipundato, a 40-year-old tricycle driver. "What I really like about Pacquiao is not his boxing but his act of helping the poor." But the fighter has stirred controversy since entering politics in 2010 -- first as a congressman and then a more high-profile position in the Senate -- supporting the death penalty and describing gay couples as "worse than animals". He promises to pull no punches if he were to become president -- starting with sending "hundreds or thousands" of crooked politicians to a purpose-built "mega prison". "There are so many problems in this country caused by corruption... there's no economic growth and development, there's no improvement," he said. 'I feel so hungry again' For now, Pacquiao said his mind was focused on the looming showdown with fellow southpaw Spence, the 31-year-old unbeaten unified welterweight world champion. Pacquiao, who boasts a 62-7-2 win-loss-draw record, will be fighting for the first time since he beat Keith Thurman in July 2019 for the WBA welterweight title -- which he lost during the coronavirus pandemic due to inactivity. He will fly to Los Angeles this month where he will be reunited with veteran trainer Freddie Roach. In the meantime, he shadow boxes and spars with long-time associate Buboy Fernandez at his Pacman Wild Card Gym. "I believe 110 percent that Manny is going to win. His stamina is still there," Fernandez told AFP. Hanging above the ring, along with photos of his bloody fights, are biblical proverbs on the importance of "self-discipline" and faith. Despite his age and long absence from the ring, Pacquiao said he was undaunted. "It's good for me to have (a) rest for almost two years," he said. "I feel so hungry again and excited (for) the fight... I feel that same feeling that I had when I was at 22, 23 years old."

President Pacquiao? King of the ring mulls Philippines' top job

Each morning, a group of Filipinos rakes up piles of&nbsp;trash&nbsp;on the banks of one of the world's most polluted rivers, filling sacks in an endless pursuit to clean a waterway that is also a major source of ocean plastics.

These "river warriors" are a decade-old group of about 100 people who work to clear the glut of garbage floating or washed up along Manila's notorious Pasig River.

The 27 km (16.8 mile) river cutting through the&nbsp;Philippine&nbsp;capital was once a vital trade route. But urbanisation and poor sewage planning have left the river all but dead.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deaths-outnumber-births-in-britain-for-the-first-time-since-1976-393790">Also Read |&nbsp;Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976</a>

"There's never a time without garbage here. It's unlimited," said Angelita Imperio, a river warrior for six years.

The warriors wear rubber boots and elbow-length gloves, using rakes and handmade tools to scoop rubbish from stagnant waters in different locations.

The warriors started off as volunteers but now receive a basic income from a local government and operate in small groups at different parts of the river.

Dexter Opiana, another river warrior with six years of service, says she and about 19 others work shifts of about seven hours and collect an average of 80 to 100 sacks a day, more during monsoon season.

Most of it is plastic wrappers, single-use sachets, and packaging materials. Since the pandemic began, surgical face masks are sometimes mixed in among the other floating garbage.

Pasig's&nbsp;trash&nbsp;isn't just a&nbsp;Philippine&nbsp;problem.

A 2021 report by Oxford University's Our World in Data estimated 81% of global ocean plastic comes from Asian rivers and the&nbsp;Philippines alone contributes a third of that total.

The Pasig River alone provides up to 6.43% of ocean plastic originating from rivers, the report said.

Despite the&nbsp;warriors'&nbsp;Sisyphean task, they are optimistic of better days ahead.&nbsp;

"This has been our advocacy, to have the river cleaned for the sake of our children, our parents, our nation and mother nature," Imperio said.

Joan Lagunda, assistant secretary at the environment department, said authorities were coordinating with local governments to establish proper waste segregation practices and want informal settlers on the riverbanks to be moved.&nbsp;

Marian Ledesma, a campaigner with Greenpeace&nbsp;Philippines, said the government should reduce single-use plastics and strengthen law enforcement on waste disposal and sewage.

"I've seen it done in other cities, in other countries, so I don't think it's impossible to revive and clean up Pasig River," she said.

"It will need a collective action."&nbsp;

Each morning, a group of Filipinos rakes up piles of trash on the banks of one of the world's most polluted rivers, filling sacks in an endless pursuit to clean a waterway that is also a major source of ocean plastics.

Each morning, a group of Filipinos rakes up piles of trash on the banks of one of the world's most polluted rivers, filling sacks in an endless pursuit to clean a waterway that is also a major source of ocean plastics. These "river warriors" are a decade-old group of about 100 people who work to clear the glut of garbage floating or washed up along Manila's notorious Pasig River. The 27 km (16.8 mile) river cutting through the Philippine capital was once a vital trade route. But urbanisation and poor sewage planning have left the river all but dead. Also Read | Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976 "There's never a time without garbage here. It's unlimited," said Angelita Imperio, a river warrior for six years. The warriors wear rubber boots and elbow-length gloves, using rakes and handmade tools to scoop rubbish from stagnant waters in different locations. The warriors started off as volunteers but now receive a basic income from a local government and operate in small groups at different parts of the river. Dexter Opiana, another river warrior with six years of service, says she and about 19 others work shifts of about seven hours and collect an average of 80 to 100 sacks a day, more during monsoon season. Most of it is plastic wrappers, single-use sachets, and packaging materials. Since the pandemic began, surgical face masks are sometimes mixed in among the other floating garbage. Pasig's trash isn't just a Philippine problem. A 2021 report by Oxford University's Our World in Data estimated 81% of global ocean plastic comes from Asian rivers and the Philippines alone contributes a third of that total. The Pasig River alone provides up to 6.43% of ocean plastic originating from rivers, the report said. Despite the warriors' Sisyphean task, they are optimistic of better days ahead. "This has been our advocacy, to have the river cleaned for the sake of our children, our parents, our nation and mother nature," Imperio said. Joan Lagunda, assistant secretary at the environment department, said authorities were coordinating with local governments to establish proper waste segregation practices and want informal settlers on the riverbanks to be moved. Marian Ledesma, a campaigner with Greenpeace Philippines, said the government should reduce single-use plastics and strengthen law enforcement on waste disposal and sewage. "I've seen it done in other cities, in other countries, so I don't think it's impossible to revive and clean up Pasig River," she said. "It will need a collective action."

Philippine 'river warriors' fight tide of trash for cleaner future

Former Philippine president&nbsp;Benigno&nbsp;"Noynoy"&nbsp;Aquino, the reserved scion of one of Asia's most famous political families, died Thursday. He was 61.

Aquino, who was in office from 2010 to 2016, was the only son of the late former president Corazon&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;and her assassinated husband, senator&nbsp;Benigno&nbsp;"Ninoy"&nbsp;Aquino, both revered for leading the struggle to restore democracy in the archipelago nation.

President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman announced&nbsp;Aquino's death hours after local media reported the former leader had been rushed to a Manila hospital.

"We commiserate and condole with the family and loved ones of former president&nbsp;Benigno&nbsp;Simeon 'Noynoy'&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;III as we extend our condolences on his untimely demise," presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.

"We are grateful to the former president for his contributions and services to the country and we ask our people to offer a prayer for the eternal repose of the former chief executive."

Details about the unmarried politician's death were not announced. The&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;clan was expected to issue a statement shortly.&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin tweeted his "grief over the death of a sea-green incorruptible".

He said&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;was&nbsp;"brave under armed attack, wounded in crossfire, indifferent to power and its trappings, and ruled our country with a puzzling coldness but only because he hid his feelings so well it was thought he had none".

Supreme Court Justice Marvic Leonen, who was&nbsp;Aquino's former peace negotiator with Muslim rebels, expressed "profound sadness" over the former leader's death.

"I knew him to be a kind man, driven by his passion to serve our people, diligent in his duties, and with an avid and consuming curiosity about new knowledge and the world in general," Leonen said.

Aquino, who was succeeded by President Rodrigo Duterte, waged an anti-corruption campaign during a term that ushered in key economic reforms.

Unusually for the conservative Catholic country,&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;remained a bachelor throughout his life, though had relationships with a number of women.

Powerful family name

Aquino&nbsp;was born on February 8, 1960, to one of the country's wealthiest land-owning political families.

A latecomer to the presidential race in 2010, he declared his candidacy only after his mother's death from cancer the previous year had plunged the country into mourning, and demonstrated the power of the family name.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/go-to-india-or-us-philippines-president-rodrigo-duterte-warns-anti-vaxxers-393537">Also Read |&nbsp;'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers</a>

He made fighting corruption his mantra, capitalising on his family's clean reputation, and vowed to reduce the poverty afflicting a third of the population.

His administration delivered average annual economic growth of just over 6.0 per cent, the highest since the 1970s, handing the country investment-grade status -- but poverty remained endemic.&nbsp;

Aquino, who earned an economics degree from the elite Ateneo de Manila University, was long mocked by opponents as a fortunately surnamed under-achiever with no administrative or business experience.

They also said he had little to show for the more than a decade he spent as a congressman and senator.

But the chain-smoking&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;blossomed during the election campaign into a confident public speaker and the nation's leading critic of his predecessor, Gloria Arroyo, who was arrested for corruption after she left office.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;family name was stamped into Philippine political history through tragedy.

Military personnel shot dead "Ninoy"&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;at Manila airport in 1983 as he returned from US exile to lead the democracy movement against dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The event shocked the world and ignited the non-violent "People Power" movement that toppled Marcos. The martyred politician's widow, Corazon, led the revolution and succeeded Marcos as president in 1986.

Aquino&nbsp;had a bullet lodged in his neck -- one of five that struck him when rebel soldiers attacked the presidential palace in 1987 in a coup attempt against his mother.

Unlike Duterte,&nbsp;Aquino&nbsp;put the Philippines' long-running dispute with China over competing claims to the South China Sea at the top of his foreign policy agenda.&nbsp;

He launched a landmark case with an UN-backed tribunal to challenge Beijing's claims to most of the sea, which ruled in favour of the Philippines.&nbsp;

But Beijing rejected the decision.

Aquino&nbsp;is survived by four sisters.

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Former Philippine president Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino, the reserved scion of one of Asia's most famous political families, died Thursday. He was 61. Aquino, who was in office from 2010 to 2016, was the only son of the late former president Corazon Aquino and her assassinated husband, senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, both revered for leading the struggle to restore democracy in the archipelago nation.

Former Philippine president Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino, the reserved scion of one of Asia's most famous political families, died Thursday. He was 61. Aquino, who was in office from 2010 to 2016, was the only son of the late former president Corazon Aquino and her assassinated husband, senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, both revered for leading the struggle to restore democracy in the archipelago nation. President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman announced Aquino's death hours after local media reported the former leader had been rushed to a Manila hospital. "We commiserate and condole with the family and loved ones of former president Benigno Simeon 'Noynoy' Aquino III as we extend our condolences on his untimely demise," presidential spokesman Harry Roque said. "We are grateful to the former president for his contributions and services to the country and we ask our people to offer a prayer for the eternal repose of the former chief executive." Details about the unmarried politician's death were not announced. The Aquino clan was expected to issue a statement shortly. Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin tweeted his "grief over the death of a sea-green incorruptible". He said Aquino was "brave under armed attack, wounded in crossfire, indifferent to power and its trappings, and ruled our country with a puzzling coldness but only because he hid his feelings so well it was thought he had none". Supreme Court Justice Marvic Leonen, who was Aquino's former peace negotiator with Muslim rebels, expressed "profound sadness" over the former leader's death. "I knew him to be a kind man, driven by his passion to serve our people, diligent in his duties, and with an avid and consuming curiosity about new knowledge and the world in general," Leonen said. Aquino, who was succeeded by President Rodrigo Duterte, waged an anti-corruption campaign during a term that ushered in key economic reforms. Unusually for the conservative Catholic country, Aquino remained a bachelor throughout his life, though had relationships with a number of women. Powerful family name Aquino was born on February 8, 1960, to one of the country's wealthiest land-owning political families. A latecomer to the presidential race in 2010, he declared his candidacy only after his mother's death from cancer the previous year had plunged the country into mourning, and demonstrated the power of the family name. Also Read | 'Go to India or US': Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte warns anti-vaxxers He made fighting corruption his mantra, capitalising on his family's clean reputation, and vowed to reduce the poverty afflicting a third of the population. His administration delivered average annual economic growth of just over 6.0 per cent, the highest since the 1970s, handing the country investment-grade status -- but poverty remained endemic. Aquino, who earned an economics degree from the elite Ateneo de Manila University, was long mocked by opponents as a fortunately surnamed under-achiever with no administrative or business experience. They also said he had little to show for the more than a decade he spent as a congressman and senator. But the chain-smoking Aquino blossomed during the election campaign into a confident public speaker and the nation's leading critic of his predecessor, Gloria Arroyo, who was arrested for corruption after she left office. The Aquino family name was stamped into Philippine political history through tragedy. Military personnel shot dead "Ninoy" Aquino at Manila airport in 1983 as he returned from US exile to lead the democracy movement against dictator Ferdinand Marcos. The event shocked the world and ignited the non-violent "People Power" movement that toppled Marcos. The martyred politician's widow, Corazon, led the revolution and succeeded Marcos as president in 1986. Aquino had a bullet lodged in his neck -- one of five that struck him when rebel soldiers attacked the presidential palace in 1987 in a coup attempt against his mother. Unlike Duterte, Aquino put the Philippines' long-running dispute with China over competing claims to the South China Sea at the top of his foreign policy agenda. He launched a landmark case with an UN-backed tribunal to challenge Beijing's claims to most of the sea, which ruled in favour of the Philippines. But Beijing rejected the decision. Aquino is survived by four sisters.

Philippines' ex-president 'Noynoy' Aquino dies

Former Philippines President Benigno Aquino has died at the age of 61. Aquino was the country's 15th President and was in office from 2010 to 2016. He died of renal failure as a result of diabetes.

Ex-Philippines President benigno aquino dies at the age of 61

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will not cooperate with an investigation of the Southeast Asian nation's drug war killings planned by the International Criminal Court (ICC), his spokesperson said on Tuesday. 
 
Rights groups and critics of the drug killings have welcomed the step by the ICC, saying a full-scale investigation will bring justice closer for the thousands of people killed in Duterte's bloody war on drugs. 
 
"We will not cooperate because we are no longer a member," Harry Roque told a news conference. Duterte canceled the Philippines' membership of the ICC's founding treaty in March 2018. 
 
"We do not need foreigners to investigate killings in the drug war because the legal system is working in the Philippines," Roque said, adding he believed launching a formal probe was 'legally erroneous and politically motivated'. 
 
An ICC prosecutor sought authorisation on Monday to open a full investigation into the killings, saying crimes against humanity could have been committed. 
 
"The long arm of the law will soon catch up with Duterte and his accomplices," former opposition senator Antonio Trillanes said in a statement. 
 
Since Duterte took office in 2016 until the end of April this year, police have killed more than 6,100 suspected drug dealers in sting operations, government data show. 
 
Rights group say police were summarily executing suspects, but authorities say they were killed after violently resisting arrest.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will not cooperate with an investigation of the Southeast Asian nation's drug war killings planned by the International Criminal Court (ICC), his spokesperson said on Tuesday.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will not cooperate with an investigation of the Southeast Asian nation's drug war killings planned by the International Criminal Court (ICC), his spokesperson said on Tuesday. Rights groups and critics of the drug killings have welcomed the step by the ICC, saying a full-scale investigation will bring justice closer for the thousands of people killed in Duterte's bloody war on drugs. "We will not cooperate because we are no longer a member," Harry Roque told a news conference. Duterte canceled the Philippines' membership of the ICC's founding treaty in March 2018. "We do not need foreigners to investigate killings in the drug war because the legal system is working in the Philippines," Roque said, adding he believed launching a formal probe was 'legally erroneous and politically motivated'. An ICC prosecutor sought authorisation on Monday to open a full investigation into the killings, saying crimes against humanity could have been committed. "The long arm of the law will soon catch up with Duterte and his accomplices," former opposition senator Antonio Trillanes said in a statement. Since Duterte took office in 2016 until the end of April this year, police have killed more than 6,100 suspected drug dealers in sting operations, government data show. Rights group say police were summarily executing suspects, but authorities say they were killed after violently resisting arrest.

Philippine President will not cooperate with ICC probe into killings

The coronavirus pandemic is adding a new unwelcome element to sea pollution off the town of Bauan, a popular dive site in the Philippines' Batangas province. Regular visitors and local residents have reported a rise in the number of face masks, face shields and PPEs (Personal Protection Equipment) being collected from the seabed.

World Oceans Day 2021: Divers in the Philippines try to clear face masks, plastics from sea

The Philippines has protested China's continuing 'illegal presence and activities' near an island in the South China Sea held by the Southeast Asian nation, the foreign ministry said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Manila lodged the diplomatic protest on Friday over the 'incessant deployment, prolonged presence, and illegal activities of Chinese maritime assets and fishing vessels' in the vicinity of Thitu island.&nbsp;

It demanded its giant neighbour withdraw the vessels.&nbsp;

The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside business hours.&nbsp;

Tensions between Manila and Beijing have escalated over the months-long presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in the Philippines' 200-mile exclusive economic zone. The Philippines says it believes the vessels were manned by militia, while Beijing has said they were fishing boats sheltering from bad weather.&nbsp;

"The Pag-asa Islands is an integral part of the Philippines over which it has sovereignty and jurisdiction," the foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Thitu, known as Pag-asa in the Philippines, is 451 km (280 miles) from the mainland and is the biggest of the eight reefs, shoals and islands it occupies in the Spratly archipelago.&nbsp;

China has built a mini-city with runways, hangars and surface-to-air-missiles in the Subi Reef about 25 km (15 miles) from Thitu.&nbsp;

This was at least the 84th diplomatic protest the Philippines has filed against China since President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016.&nbsp;

An international tribunal that year invalidated China's expansive claim in the South China Sea, where about $3 trillion worth of ship-borne trade passes annually. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have competing claims to various islands and features in the area.&nbsp;

Duterte shelved the favourable ruling and pursued a rapprochement with Beijing in exchange for pledges of billions of dollars of loans, aid and investment, much of which are pending.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippines has protested China's continuing 'illegal presence and activities' near an island in the South China Sea held by the Southeast Asian nation, the foreign ministry said on Saturday.

The Philippines has protested China's continuing 'illegal presence and activities' near an island in the South China Sea held by the Southeast Asian nation, the foreign ministry said on Saturday. Manila lodged the diplomatic protest on Friday over the 'incessant deployment, prolonged presence, and illegal activities of Chinese maritime assets and fishing vessels' in the vicinity of Thitu island. It demanded its giant neighbour withdraw the vessels. The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside business hours. Tensions between Manila and Beijing have escalated over the months-long presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in the Philippines' 200-mile exclusive economic zone. The Philippines says it believes the vessels were manned by militia, while Beijing has said they were fishing boats sheltering from bad weather. "The Pag-asa Islands is an integral part of the Philippines over which it has sovereignty and jurisdiction," the foreign ministry said in a statement. Thitu, known as Pag-asa in the Philippines, is 451 km (280 miles) from the mainland and is the biggest of the eight reefs, shoals and islands it occupies in the Spratly archipelago. China has built a mini-city with runways, hangars and surface-to-air-missiles in the Subi Reef about 25 km (15 miles) from Thitu. This was at least the 84th diplomatic protest the Philippines has filed against China since President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016. An international tribunal that year invalidated China's expansive claim in the South China Sea, where about $3 trillion worth of ship-borne trade passes annually. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have competing claims to various islands and features in the area. Duterte shelved the favourable ruling and pursued a rapprochement with Beijing in exchange for pledges of billions of dollars of loans, aid and investment, much of which are pending. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines protests China's 'illegal' South China Sea presence 

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom. 
 
Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello said in a May 27 order that his department will issue an official statement on resumption of deployment "after this matter has been clarified accordingly". 
 
It was not immediately clear how many Filipinos bound for Saudi Arabia would be directly affected. 
 
Saudi Arabia was the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data showed, hosting one out of five Filipinos who landed jobs abroad during that year. 
 
More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, many in construction or as domestic helpers or nurses. 
 
Saudi Arabia`s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside office hours. 
 
Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances in 2020, making it an important source of foreign exchange inflows, a key driver of the Philippines` consumption-led economy.

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom.

The Philippines has suspended the deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia after it received reports that their employers and recruiters were making them pay for COVID-19 testing, quarantine and insurance upon arrival in the kingdom. Labour Secretary Silvestre Bello said in a May 27 order that his department will issue an official statement on resumption of deployment "after this matter has been clarified accordingly". It was not immediately clear how many Filipinos bound for Saudi Arabia would be directly affected. Saudi Arabia was the most preferred destination of overseas Filipino workers in 2019, government data showed, hosting one out of five Filipinos who landed jobs abroad during that year. More than a million Filipinos work in Saudi Arabia, many in construction or as domestic helpers or nurses. Saudi Arabia`s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment outside office hours. Filipinos in Saudi Arabia sent home $1.8 billion in remittances in 2020, making it an important source of foreign exchange inflows, a key driver of the Philippines` consumption-led economy.

Philippines halts deployment of workers to Saudi Arabia

The government of the Philippines says it has logged what it calls "illegal incursions" into its waters by 287 boats with Chinese militia aboard.

Chinese militia boats 'entering Philippine water'

Philippine&nbsp;President&nbsp;Rodrigo&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> infections.

Duterte&nbsp;issued the directive after a meeting with his COVID-19 task force,&nbsp;where everyone except him can be seen wearing the mandatory face covering,&nbsp;an official video released late Wednesday showed.

Thousands of people have been punished for violating COVID-19 rules since the end of March when restrictions were tightened in the capital and surrounding provinces after a spike in cases.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-becomes-latest-nation-to-report-10-lakh-covid-19-cases-380580/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The justice secretary and police chief have urged officers to fine offenders or make them do community service instead of arresting them, following the death of a man forced to do a hundred squats as punishment for breaking curfew.

But&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;said police should get tough on rule-breakers and arrest those not wearing a mask properly, including those who leave their nose exposed.

"My orders to the police are those who are not wearing their masks properly... arrest them and detain them, investigate why they are doing it,"&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;said.

"It's not for me, it's not for us. It's for the interest of the country so you won't infect and you won't be infected."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-lifts-suspension-on-astrazeneca-vaccine-for-under-60s-378678">Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s</a>

Duterte&nbsp;last year told security forces to shoot dead anyone causing "trouble" in areas under lockdown, drawing condemnation from rights groups.

Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque confirmed the arrest order on Thursday, saying violators could be held for up to 12 hours without charge.

Rights group Karapatan slammed the latest directive as "brazenly unscientific and ineffective" as well as a "disproportionate use of force".

"Overcongestion and inhumane conditions in the country's detention facilities already pose risks to the health of prisoners,&nbsp;and detaining hundreds of alleged violators in these cramped facilities where physical distancing is impossible to observe would only facilitate the rapid spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19," it said in a statement.

Police and soldiers have played a key role in the country's pandemic response, setting up checkpoints and deploying thousands of personnel to enforce stay-at-home orders.

The Philippines' caseload of more a million infections is the second-highest in Southeast Asia.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging coronavirus infections.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered police to arrest anyone not wearing a mask properly, including below the nose, as the country battles to contain surging coronavirus infections. Duterte issued the directive after a meeting with his COVID-19 task force, where everyone except him can be seen wearing the mandatory face covering, an official video released late Wednesday showed. Thousands of people have been punished for violating COVID-19 rules since the end of March when restrictions were tightened in the capital and surrounding provinces after a spike in cases. The justice secretary and police chief have urged officers to fine offenders or make them do community service instead of arresting them, following the death of a man forced to do a hundred squats as punishment for breaking curfew. But Duterte said police should get tough on rule-breakers and arrest those not wearing a mask properly, including those who leave their nose exposed. "My orders to the police are those who are not wearing their masks properly... arrest them and detain them, investigate why they are doing it," Duterte said. "It's not for me, it's not for us. It's for the interest of the country so you won't infect and you won't be infected." Also read | Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s Duterte last year told security forces to shoot dead anyone causing "trouble" in areas under lockdown, drawing condemnation from rights groups. Duterte's spokesman Harry Roque confirmed the arrest order on Thursday, saying violators could be held for up to 12 hours without charge. Rights group Karapatan slammed the latest directive as "brazenly unscientific and ineffective" as well as a "disproportionate use of force". "Overcongestion and inhumane conditions in the country's detention facilities already pose risks to the health of prisoners, and detaining hundreds of alleged violators in these cramped facilities where physical distancing is impossible to observe would only facilitate the rapid spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19," it said in a statement. Police and soldiers have played a key role in the country's pandemic response, setting up checkpoints and deploying thousands of personnel to enforce stay-at-home orders. The Philippines' caseload of more a million infections is the second-highest in Southeast Asia.

COVID-19: Philippine President Duterte orders arrest of mask violators

China on Tuesday urged the Philippines to maintain “basic etiquette” after the Filipino Foreign Minister posted a message on Twitter laden with expletives. The Chinese also requested the Philippines to avoid diplomacy on social media after the Tweet went viral, calling it “microphone diplomacy”.

In the Tweet, the country’s minister said that China’s vessels should leave disputed waters. The minister in question, Teodoro Locsin is known for such remarks.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-filipino-diplomat-swears-at-china-382825">Watch |</a></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

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China’s foreign ministry was quick to to respond to the expletives, urging the Philippines to respect the country’s sovereignty and jurisdiction, while asking the Philippines to stop complicating the situation. "Facts have repeatedly proved that microphone diplomacy cannot change the facts, but can only undermine mutual trust," the Chinese statement said.

Currently, Chinese boats are inside what the Philippines calls its 321-kilometres Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

"It is hoped that relevant people in the Philippines will comply with basic etiquette and their position when making remarks”, the Chinese statement added. The statement also cited comments earlier made by Rodrigo Duterte, the Filipino President who said that differences between the countries on individual issues should not get in the way of cooperation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/south-china-sea-dispute-philippines-foreign-minister-lambasts-china-in-expletive-laced-tweet-382529" hreflang="en">South China Sea dispute: Philippines foreign minister lambasts China in expletive-laced tweet</a>

"China has always worked, and will continue to work with the Philippines, to properly resolve differences and advance cooperation through friendly consultations”, the statement also said.

Since then, Locsin has responded to the statement…. On Twitter! "I won't plead the last provocation as an excuse for losing it; but if Wang Yi is following Twitter then I'm sorry for hurting his feelings but his alone," Locsin said on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/philippines-vows-to-continue-maritime-exercises-in-south-china-sea-382343" hreflang="en">Philippines vows to continue maritime exercises in South China Sea</a>

Duterte has asked his officials to not curse in the midst of diplomacy. In fact, his spokesman, Harry Roque said that “only the president can cuss”.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Tuesday urged the Philippines to maintain “basic etiquette” after the Filipino Foreign Minister posted a message on Twitter laden with expletives. The Chinese also requested the Philippines to avoid diplomacy on social media after the Tweet went viral, calling it “microphone diplomacy”.

China on Tuesday urged the Philippines to maintain “basic etiquette” after the Filipino Foreign Minister posted a message on Twitter laden with expletives. The Chinese also requested the Philippines to avoid diplomacy on social media after the Tweet went viral, calling it “microphone diplomacy”. In the Tweet, the country’s minister said that China’s vessels should leave disputed waters. The minister in question, Teodoro Locsin is known for such remarks. Watch | China’s foreign ministry was quick to to respond to the expletives, urging the Philippines to respect the country’s sovereignty and jurisdiction, while asking the Philippines to stop complicating the situation. "Facts have repeatedly proved that microphone diplomacy cannot change the facts, but can only undermine mutual trust," the Chinese statement said. Currently, Chinese boats are inside what the Philippines calls its 321-kilometres Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). "It is hoped that relevant people in the Philippines will comply with basic etiquette and their position when making remarks”, the Chinese statement added. The statement also cited comments earlier made by Rodrigo Duterte, the Filipino President who said that differences between the countries on individual issues should not get in the way of cooperation. Also read: South China Sea dispute: Philippines foreign minister lambasts China in expletive-laced tweet "China has always worked, and will continue to work with the Philippines, to properly resolve differences and advance cooperation through friendly consultations”, the statement also said. Since then, Locsin has responded to the statement…. On Twitter! "I won't plead the last provocation as an excuse for losing it; but if Wang Yi is following Twitter then I'm sorry for hurting his feelings but his alone," Locsin said on Tuesday. Also read: Philippines vows to continue maritime exercises in South China Sea Duterte has asked his officials to not curse in the midst of diplomacy. In fact, his spokesman, Harry Roque said that “only the president can cuss”. (With inputs from agencies)

China asks the Philippines to exercise 'basic etiquette' after minister cusses on Twitter

The Philippines does not recognise China's annual fishing ban that covers the West Philippine Sea, the country's national security adviser said on Wednesday.

"This fishing ban does not apply to our fishermen," the Philippines' South China Sea task force said in a statement late on Tuesday.

"Our fisherfolk are encouraged to go out and fish in our waters." 
 
West Philippine Sea is the official designation by the Philippine government of eastern parts of the South China Sea which are included in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. The term is also sometimes incorrectly used to refer to the South China Sea as a whole.

The fishing moratorium imposed by China since 1999 runs from May 1 to Aug. 16 and covers areas of the South China Sea as well as other waters off China.

The task force opposed China's imposition of the ban over the areas within the territory and jurisdiction of the Philippines, adding "our fisherfolk are encouraged to go out and fish in our waters in the WPS (West Philippine Sea)"

The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Manila, which refers to an area as the West Philippine Sea, has for years been embroiled in a dispute over Beijing's sweeping claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea.

An international tribunal in 2016 invalidated China's claims, but China has rejected the ruling.

Tensions between the two countries have recently escalated after Manila accused China of territorial incursions by hundreds of its vessels in the resource-rich waterway.

The Philippines has filed diplomatic protests against China over what it calls the "illegal" presence of the Chinese vessels, which it says are manned by militia.

Chinese diplomats have said the boats were just sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard.

The Philippines' South China Sea taskforce said it spotted seven "Chinese Maritime Militia" at the Sabina shoal in the disputed Spratly archipelago on April 27, which dispersed after being challenged by the Philippine coast guard.

Five returned two days later but left after the Philippine coast guard arrived, it said. Sabina shoal is around 130 nautical miles from the western Philippine island of Palawan.

"The Philippines is not deterred from defending our national interest, patrimony, and our dignity as a people with all that we have," the task force said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines does not recognise China's annual fishing ban that covers the West Philippine Sea, the country's national security adviser said on Wednesday. "This fishing ban does not apply to our fishermen," the Philippines' South China Sea task force said in a statement late on Tuesday.

The Philippines does not recognise China's annual fishing ban that covers the West Philippine Sea, the country's national security adviser said on Wednesday. "This fishing ban does not apply to our fishermen," the Philippines' South China Sea task force said in a statement late on Tuesday. "Our fisherfolk are encouraged to go out and fish in our waters." West Philippine Sea is the official designation by the Philippine government of eastern parts of the South China Sea which are included in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. The term is also sometimes incorrectly used to refer to the South China Sea as a whole. The fishing moratorium imposed by China since 1999 runs from May 1 to Aug. 16 and covers areas of the South China Sea as well as other waters off China. The task force opposed China's imposition of the ban over the areas within the territory and jurisdiction of the Philippines, adding "our fisherfolk are encouraged to go out and fish in our waters in the WPS (West Philippine Sea)" The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Manila, which refers to an area as the West Philippine Sea, has for years been embroiled in a dispute over Beijing's sweeping claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea. An international tribunal in 2016 invalidated China's claims, but China has rejected the ruling. Tensions between the two countries have recently escalated after Manila accused China of territorial incursions by hundreds of its vessels in the resource-rich waterway. The Philippines has filed diplomatic protests against China over what it calls the "illegal" presence of the Chinese vessels, which it says are manned by militia. Chinese diplomats have said the boats were just sheltering from rough seas and no militia were aboard. The Philippines' South China Sea taskforce said it spotted seven "Chinese Maritime Militia" at the Sabina shoal in the disputed Spratly archipelago on April 27, which dispersed after being challenged by the Philippine coast guard. Five returned two days later but left after the Philippine coast guard arrived, it said. Sabina shoal is around 130 nautical miles from the western Philippine island of Palawan. "The Philippines is not deterred from defending our national interest, patrimony, and our dignity as a people with all that we have," the task force said. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines rejects Chinese fishing ban in South China Sea

Whether it's politics or sports, the show always goes on. We saw one play out over the weekend. Thankfully it was on social media. So the ordinary citizens were spared. At the centre of it were a couple of embassies in New Delhi. The row started with a video on Twitter.

The video showed oxygen cylinders being delivered to the Philippine embassy. The men delivering the cylinders belong to the Youth Congress. For those unfamiliar, they are the youth wing of Congress, India's principal opposition party.

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&nbsp;

The matter should have ended there. But what's philanthropy without social media posts? And what's politics without a bit of chest-thumping?

Opposition leaders soon started sharing this video. Former union minister Jairam Ramesh went one step ahead. He asked whether India's foreign ministry was sleeping?

The matter could have ended there as well. But what's politics without one-upping your rival?

The reply came right from the top.

India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar was the one who responded. He said there were no Wuhan virus cases at the Philippine embassy.

Jaishankar called this an unsolicited supply. Then the story shifted to the New Zealand High Commission.

They posted a tweet which was later deleted. It was an appeal for oxygen cylinders.

The Youth Congress jumped in again. And another video followed. This time they were at the Kiwi mission delivering Oxygen.

Now it's highly unusual for a diplomatic mission to reach out to the opposition. Especially in the middle of a crisis. It sends a wrong message politically. New Zealand was quick to recognise this. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern admitted that her diplomats chose the wrong route.

New Zealand should have been more mindful of the protocols. It was some employee's moment of desperation on Twitter.

But there is no denying that our leaders should have been more mature. Jairam Ramesh continued with his jibes on Twitter.

And this time the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson set the record straight.

"The chief of protocol and heads of divisions are in continuous touch with all high commissions and embassies and MEA is responding to their medical demands, especially those related to Covid. This includes facilitating their hospital treatment. Given the pandemic situation, all are urged not to hoard essential supplies, including oxygen."

Couple of things to note here. Most importantly, this entire controversy was needless and avoidable.

We don't know the exact situation at the New Zealand High Commission. So we won't speculate on that.

But the fact is, such back and forth helps no one. This is not the time for sabre-rattling on social media.

Could the Youth Congress not have coordinated this with the MEA? Yes they could have. Could seasoned politicians not have dragged this row on Twitter? Of course they could have.

But in politics it's all about playing to the gallery. It's not about helping but being seen helping.&nbsp;

We have seen leaders flag off relief trucks in the past.

Imagine that, people are eagerly waiting for aid. But the trucks are held off so that the leader can flag them off.

This isn't the first time politics has let down India.

And it won't be the last time. But unprecedented crises call for unprecedented measures.

So maybe our leaders can hold off on playing politics. Because once the dust settles, there will be plenty of time for that.

Circling back to the embassies, why are they appealing for oxygen? The foreign minister says the Philippine embassy has zero cases. So the cylinders were a precaution.

They weren't actively looking for them. But considering how pressed we are for oxygen, precaution is in effect hoarding. This applies for all embassies.&nbsp;

We realise how vulnerable the diplomats feel. They are thousands of miles away in a foreign land. That too in the middle of a deadly pandemic. But there are patients who need oxygen right now.

So hoarding is simply not acceptable. And this was the MEA's message to embassies and high commissions.

Do not hoard essentials, including oxygen.

As for the politicians. These diplomats are our guests. Helping them is our collective responsibility. India has offered vaccines to all foreign diplomats. A few of them have already gotten the jabs.

But the season of politics is perennial. Crisis or not they continue to squabble.

Whether it's politics or sports, the show always goes on. We saw one play out over the weekend. Thankfully it was on social media. So the ordinary citizens were spared.

Whether it's politics or sports, the show always goes on. We saw one play out over the weekend. Thankfully it was on social media. So the ordinary citizens were spared. At the centre of it were a couple of embassies in New Delhi. The row started with a video on Twitter. The video showed oxygen cylinders being delivered to the Philippine embassy. The men delivering the cylinders belong to the Youth Congress. For those unfamiliar, they are the youth wing of Congress, India's principal opposition party. × The matter should have ended there. But what's philanthropy without social media posts? And what's politics without a bit of chest-thumping? Opposition leaders soon started sharing this video. Former union minister Jairam Ramesh went one step ahead. He asked whether India's foreign ministry was sleeping? The matter could have ended there as well. But what's politics without one-upping your rival? The reply came right from the top. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar was the one who responded. He said there were no Wuhan virus cases at the Philippine embassy. Jaishankar called this an unsolicited supply. Then the story shifted to the New Zealand High Commission. They posted a tweet which was later deleted. It was an appeal for oxygen cylinders. The Youth Congress jumped in again. And another video followed. This time they were at the Kiwi mission delivering Oxygen. Now it's highly unusual for a diplomatic mission to reach out to the opposition. Especially in the middle of a crisis. It sends a wrong message politically. New Zealand was quick to recognise this. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern admitted that her diplomats chose the wrong route. New Zealand should have been more mindful of the protocols. It was some employee's moment of desperation on Twitter. But there is no denying that our leaders should have been more mature. Jairam Ramesh continued with his jibes on Twitter. And this time the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson set the record straight. "The chief of protocol and heads of divisions are in continuous touch with all high commissions and embassies and MEA is responding to their medical demands, especially those related to Covid. This includes facilitating their hospital treatment. Given the pandemic situation, all are urged not to hoard essential supplies, including oxygen." Couple of things to note here. Most importantly, this entire controversy was needless and avoidable. We don't know the exact situation at the New Zealand High Commission. So we won't speculate on that. But the fact is, such back and forth helps no one. This is not the time for sabre-rattling on social media. Could the Youth Congress not have coordinated this with the MEA? Yes they could have. Could seasoned politicians not have dragged this row on Twitter? Of course they could have. But in politics it's all about playing to the gallery. It's not about helping but being seen helping. We have seen leaders flag off relief trucks in the past. Imagine that, people are eagerly waiting for aid. But the trucks are held off so that the leader can flag them off. This isn't the first time politics has let down India. And it won't be the last time. But unprecedented crises call for unprecedented measures. So maybe our leaders can hold off on playing politics. Because once the dust settles, there will be plenty of time for that. Circling back to the embassies, why are they appealing for oxygen? The foreign minister says the Philippine embassy has zero cases. So the cylinders were a precaution. They weren't actively looking for them. But considering how pressed we are for oxygen, precaution is in effect hoarding. This applies for all embassies. We realise how vulnerable the diplomats feel. They are thousands of miles away in a foreign land. That too in the middle of a deadly pandemic. But there are patients who need oxygen right now. So hoarding is simply not acceptable. And this was the MEA's message to embassies and high commissions. Do not hoard essentials, including oxygen. As for the politicians. These diplomats are our guests. Helping them is our collective responsibility. India has offered vaccines to all foreign diplomats. A few of them have already gotten the jabs. But the season of politics is perennial. Crisis or not they continue to squabble.

Amid India's Covid crisis, season of politics remains perennial

The Philippines will continue maritime exercises inside its 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, the country's defence minister said on Sunday, despite a call by China to stop actions that it said could escalate disputes.

The Philippine coastguard and fisheries bureau started maritime exercises last month, having boosted its presence in the area to counter the "threatening" presence of Chinese boats.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, through which about $3 trillion worth of ship borne trade passes each year, despite a 2016 ruling by an arbitration tribunal in The Hague that Beijing's claim was inconsistent with international law.

"The conduct of maritime patrol in the WPS (West Philippine Sea) and Kalayaan Island Group by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will continue," Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement, using the local name for the South China Sea.

"The government will not waver in its position," he said.

The lingering presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in the Philippines' EEZ has revived tensions between the countries, despite President Rodrigo Duterte's friendship with Beijing.

Lorenzana said his comments echoed the stance of Duterte on the issue, citing the latter's "very firm and straightforward" orders for the Philippine military to "defend what is rightfully ours without going to war and maintain the peace in the seas".

While Duterte still considers China as "a good friend", the Philippine leader last week said: "There are things that are not really subject to a compromise ... I hope they will understand but I have the interest of my country also to protect."

Lorenzana said the Philippines "can be cordial and cooperative with other nations but not at the expense of our sovereignty and sovereign rights".

The Philippines will continue maritime exercises inside its 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, the country's defence minister said on Sunday, despite a call by China to stop actions that it said could escalate disputes.

The Philippines will continue maritime exercises inside its 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, the country's defence minister said on Sunday, despite a call by China to stop actions that it said could escalate disputes. The Philippine coastguard and fisheries bureau started maritime exercises last month, having boosted its presence in the area to counter the "threatening" presence of Chinese boats. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, through which about $3 trillion worth of ship borne trade passes each year, despite a 2016 ruling by an arbitration tribunal in The Hague that Beijing's claim was inconsistent with international law. "The conduct of maritime patrol in the WPS (West Philippine Sea) and Kalayaan Island Group by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will continue," Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement, using the local name for the South China Sea. "The government will not waver in its position," he said. The lingering presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in the Philippines' EEZ has revived tensions between the countries, despite President Rodrigo Duterte's friendship with Beijing. Lorenzana said his comments echoed the stance of Duterte on the issue, citing the latter's "very firm and straightforward" orders for the Philippine military to "defend what is rightfully ours without going to war and maintain the peace in the seas". While Duterte still considers China as "a good friend", the Philippine leader last week said: "There are things that are not really subject to a compromise ... I hope they will understand but I have the interest of my country also to protect." Lorenzana said the Philippines "can be cordial and cooperative with other nations but not at the expense of our sovereignty and sovereign rights".

Philippines vows to continue maritime exercises in South China Sea

China has no business telling the Philippines what it can or cannot do within its waters, Manila's defence ministry said on Wednesday, rejecting Beijing's opposition to its ongoing coastguard exercises. &nbsp;

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, where about $3 trillion worth of ship-borne trade passes each year. In 2016, an arbitration tribunal in The Hague ruled that claim, which Beijing bases on its old maps, was inconsistent with international law. &nbsp;

Philippines Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters that Beijing had "no authority or legal basis to prevent us from conducting these exercises" in the South China Sea because "their claims... have no basis".&nbsp;

The Philippine coastguard and fisheries bureau started maritime exercises on Saturday inside the country's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), following an announcement of a boosting of its presence to counter the 'threatening' presence of Chinese boats. &nbsp;

Responding to the exercises, China's foreign ministry on Monday said the Philippines should "stop actions complicating the situation and escalating disputes".&nbsp;

The Philippine defence ministry in a statement responded saying: "China has no business telling the Philippines what it can and cannot do."&nbsp;

The Philippines has taken a tough tone in recent weeks over the lingering presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in its EEZ, reviving tensions that had eased due to President Rodrigo Duterte's embrace of Beijing.&nbsp;

While the Philippines owed China a 'huge debt' of gratitude for many things, including free COVID-19 vaccines, Duterte said on Wednesday, he would not compromise on his country's sovereignty in the South China Sea. &nbsp;

"So China, let it be known, is a good friend and we don't want trouble with them, especially a war," Duterte said in a late-night address. "But there are things that are not really subject to a compromise ... I hope they will understand but I have the interest of my country also to protect." &nbsp;

On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin ordered the filing of another diplomatic protest, one of more than a dozen recently, this time over China's rebuke.&nbsp;

"They can say what they want from the Chinese mainland; we continue to assert from our waters by right of international law what we won in The Hague. But we must not fail to protest," Locsin said in a Tweet. &nbsp;

The exercises took place near a Philippine-held island in the disputed Spratly archipelago and at the heavily contested Scarborough Shoal, which the tribunal in 2016 said was a traditional fishing spot for several countries.&nbsp;

Lorenzana said it was China that was complicating matters by illegally occupying reefs it turned into artificial islands.&nbsp;

"It is they who are encroaching and should desist and leave," he said.&nbsp;

China has no business telling the Philippines what it can or cannot do within its waters, Manila's defence ministry said on Wednesday, rejecting Beijing's opposition to its ongoing coastguard exercises.

China has no business telling the Philippines what it can or cannot do within its waters, Manila's defence ministry said on Wednesday, rejecting Beijing's opposition to its ongoing coastguard exercises. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, where about $3 trillion worth of ship-borne trade passes each year. In 2016, an arbitration tribunal in The Hague ruled that claim, which Beijing bases on its old maps, was inconsistent with international law. Philippines Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters that Beijing had "no authority or legal basis to prevent us from conducting these exercises" in the South China Sea because "their claims... have no basis". The Philippine coastguard and fisheries bureau started maritime exercises on Saturday inside the country's 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), following an announcement of a boosting of its presence to counter the 'threatening' presence of Chinese boats. Responding to the exercises, China's foreign ministry on Monday said the Philippines should "stop actions complicating the situation and escalating disputes". The Philippine defence ministry in a statement responded saying: "China has no business telling the Philippines what it can and cannot do." The Philippines has taken a tough tone in recent weeks over the lingering presence of hundreds of Chinese boats in its EEZ, reviving tensions that had eased due to President Rodrigo Duterte's embrace of Beijing. While the Philippines owed China a 'huge debt' of gratitude for many things, including free COVID-19 vaccines, Duterte said on Wednesday, he would not compromise on his country's sovereignty in the South China Sea. "So China, let it be known, is a good friend and we don't want trouble with them, especially a war," Duterte said in a late-night address. "But there are things that are not really subject to a compromise ... I hope they will understand but I have the interest of my country also to protect." On Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin ordered the filing of another diplomatic protest, one of more than a dozen recently, this time over China's rebuke. "They can say what they want from the Chinese mainland; we continue to assert from our waters by right of international law what we won in The Hague. But we must not fail to protest," Locsin said in a Tweet. The exercises took place near a Philippine-held island in the disputed Spratly archipelago and at the heavily contested Scarborough Shoal, which the tribunal in 2016 said was a traditional fishing spot for several countries. Lorenzana said it was China that was complicating matters by illegally occupying reefs it turned into artificial islands. "It is they who are encroaching and should desist and leave," he said.

Philippines tells China to mind its own business over maritime drills 

Meet the Philippine collector with a super-sized collection of fast-food restaurant toys who built his home especially to house his collection. From the age of five, Filipino graphic artist Percival Lugue has had a passion for collecting toys from fast-food restaurant chains like McDonald's, Burger King and home-country favourite Jollibee. Now, nearly five decades later, the 50-year-old has about 20,000 toys packed from floor to ceiling in his home and holds a Guinness World Record from 2014, when his collection reached more than 10,000 items.

Have you ever seen a super-sized collection of fast-food restaurant toys?

The total number of coronavirus cases in the Philippines on Monday rose to 10,06,428, the country's health authority reported

Philippines becomes latest nation to report 10 lakh COVID-19 cases

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway.

'Will send navy ships in South China Sea to assert claim': Philippines

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has cancelled plans to visit&nbsp;India&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Philippines&nbsp;during his country's extended holiday starting in late April&nbsp;amid&nbsp;a sharp rise in&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases, a senior government spokesman said on Wednesday.

Japan's government is considering a state of emergency for Tokyo and several other prefectures, while&nbsp;Indian data showed on Wednesday there had been 295,041 new infections nationwide overnight and 2,023 deaths,&nbsp;India's highest in the pandemic.

Asked about media reports that Suga's&nbsp;trip&nbsp;to the two countries has been cancelled, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said: "In order to take all possible coronavirus countermeasures, it has been decided Prime Minister Suga won't take any overseas&nbsp;trips during the Golden Week."

Japan&nbsp;and&nbsp;India&nbsp;are members of a group known as the Quad, which also includes the United States and Australia.

Quad leaders last month pledged to work to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region and to cooperate on maritime, cyber and economic security, issues vital to the four democracies in the face of challenges from China.

Suga's&nbsp;India&nbsp;trip&nbsp;would have enabled him to hold his first in-person summit meeting with&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Suga has already held face-to-face talks with two other leaders from the Quad - US&nbsp;President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has cancelled plans to visit India and the Philippines during his country's extended holiday starting in late April amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, a senior government spokesman said on Wednesday.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has cancelled plans to visit India and the Philippines during his country's extended holiday starting in late April amid a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, a senior government spokesman said on Wednesday. Japan's government is considering a state of emergency for Tokyo and several other prefectures, while Indian data showed on Wednesday there had been 295,041 new infections nationwide overnight and 2,023 deaths, India's highest in the pandemic. Asked about media reports that Suga's trip to the two countries has been cancelled, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said: "In order to take all possible coronavirus countermeasures, it has been decided Prime Minister Suga won't take any overseas trips during the Golden Week." Japan and India are members of a group known as the Quad, which also includes the United States and Australia. Quad leaders last month pledged to work to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region and to cooperate on maritime, cyber and economic security, issues vital to the four democracies in the face of challenges from China. Suga's India trip would have enabled him to hold his first in-person summit meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Suga has already held face-to-face talks with two other leaders from the Quad - US President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Japan PM cancels trip to India, Philippines amid rising COVID-19 cases

Philippine&nbsp;President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway.

With some critics complaining Duterte had gone soft by refusing to push Beijing to comply with an arbitration ruling, he said the public can be assured he would assert the country's claims to resources like oil and minerals in the South China Sea.

"I'm not so much interested now in fishing. I don't think there's enough fish to quarrel about. But when we start to mine, when we start to get whatever it is in the bowels of the China Sea, our oil, by that time I will send my grey ships there to stake a claim," Duterte said in a late night public address.

"If they start drilling oil there, I will tell China, is that part of our agreement? If that is not part of our agreement, I will also drill oil there," he said even as he reiterated he wanted to remain friends with Beijing.

Duterte has sought to build an alliance with China and has been reluctant to confront its leadership, having been promised billions of dollars of loans and investments, much of which have yet to materialise, frustrating nationalists.

He has repeatedly said the&nbsp;Philippines was powerless to stop China, and that challenging its activities could risk a war his country would lose.

The firebrand leader said there was no way for the&nbsp;Philippines to enforce "without any bloodshed" a landmark 2016 arbitral ruling that clarified the&nbsp;Philippines sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The&nbsp;Philippines has filed several diplomatic protests against China's actions in the South China Sea, with the latest accusing its giant neighbour of undertaking illegal fishing and massing more than 240 boats within its territorial waters.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday he was prepared to send his military ships in the South China Sea to "stake a claim" over oil and mineral resources in the disputed part of the strategic waterway. With some critics complaining Duterte had gone soft by refusing to push Beijing to comply with an arbitration ruling, he said the public can be assured he would assert the country's claims to resources like oil and minerals in the South China Sea. "I'm not so much interested now in fishing. I don't think there's enough fish to quarrel about. But when we start to mine, when we start to get whatever it is in the bowels of the China Sea, our oil, by that time I will send my grey ships there to stake a claim," Duterte said in a late night public address. "If they start drilling oil there, I will tell China, is that part of our agreement? If that is not part of our agreement, I will also drill oil there," he said even as he reiterated he wanted to remain friends with Beijing. Duterte has sought to build an alliance with China and has been reluctant to confront its leadership, having been promised billions of dollars of loans and investments, much of which have yet to materialise, frustrating nationalists. He has repeatedly said the Philippines was powerless to stop China, and that challenging its activities could risk a war his country would lose. The firebrand leader said there was no way for the Philippines to enforce "without any bloodshed" a landmark 2016 arbitral ruling that clarified the Philippines sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone. The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Philippines has filed several diplomatic protests against China's actions in the South China Sea, with the latest accusing its giant neighbour of undertaking illegal fishing and massing more than 240 boats within its territorial waters.

Philippines' Duterte says he will send navy ships in South China Sea to assert claim over resources

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections.&nbsp;

Several countries suspended use of the drug after it was linked to rare but serious blood clotting.

Most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency, emphasised the benefits of the jab, judging it "safe and effective".

Philippine Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said the drug regulator had recommended "extra precautions" for administering the shot to people with certain existing health conditions.&nbsp;

"We need to recall that only a very small percentage of the population is affected by adverse effects from AstraZeneca," Vergeire told reporters.

"We will come up with guidelines on the use of AstraZeneca to include these different precautions that was stated by the Food and Drug Administration."

The Philippines has received around three million doses of Covid-19 vaccines so far -- the vast majority from China's Sinovac.

It also got 525,600 AstraZeneca doses through the Covax programme, according to official data.

The country expects another three million AstraZeneca doses in the coming months.&nbsp;

More than 1.2 million people have received their first dose of a vaccine, most of them health workers, official data shows.&nbsp;

Fewer than 200,000 people are fully vaccinated seven weeks after inoculations started.&nbsp;

President Rodrigo Duterte's government has been skewered by critics over its handling of the pandemic and efforts to secure vaccines.

A lockdown in the capital and four surrounding provinces has been in place for the past three weeks in a bid to curb the spread of the virus and decongest hospitals.&nbsp;

The roughly three million vaccine doses received so far represent a fraction of the shots Manila has been negotiating with seven manufacturers to secure.&nbsp;

The bulk of the supply is not expected until later this year.

But Duterte said last week he did not know when the country would have enough doses to vaccinate everyone, warning "many more will die".

The Philippines recorded more than 9,600 new infections on Monday, taking its caseload to 945,745, including just over 16,000 deaths. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections.

The Philippines has lifted a suspension on the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for people under 60, an official said Monday, arguing "the benefits outweigh the risk" as the country battles record infections. Several countries suspended use of the drug after it was linked to rare but serious blood clotting. Most have subsequently resumed after the European Medicines Agency, emphasised the benefits of the jab, judging it "safe and effective". Philippine Health Undersecretary Rosario Vergeire said the drug regulator had recommended "extra precautions" for administering the shot to people with certain existing health conditions. "We need to recall that only a very small percentage of the population is affected by adverse effects from AstraZeneca," Vergeire told reporters. "We will come up with guidelines on the use of AstraZeneca to include these different precautions that was stated by the Food and Drug Administration." The Philippines has received around three million doses of Covid-19 vaccines so far -- the vast majority from China's Sinovac. It also got 525,600 AstraZeneca doses through the Covax programme, according to official data. The country expects another three million AstraZeneca doses in the coming months. More than 1.2 million people have received their first dose of a vaccine, most of them health workers, official data shows. Fewer than 200,000 people are fully vaccinated seven weeks after inoculations started. President Rodrigo Duterte's government has been skewered by critics over its handling of the pandemic and efforts to secure vaccines. A lockdown in the capital and four surrounding provinces has been in place for the past three weeks in a bid to curb the spread of the virus and decongest hospitals. The roughly three million vaccine doses received so far represent a fraction of the shots Manila has been negotiating with seven manufacturers to secure. The bulk of the supply is not expected until later this year. But Duterte said last week he did not know when the country would have enough doses to vaccinate everyone, warning "many more will die". The Philippines recorded more than 9,600 new infections on Monday, taking its caseload to 945,745, including just over 16,000 deaths.

Philippines lifts suspension on AstraZeneca vaccine for under 60s

The Philippines has warned locals about incoming flash floods as Surigae has intensified while on water, making it the first super typhoon of 2021.

Also known as Bising, the typhoon is said to now have the strength of a Category 5 hurricane and is forming over the Philippine Sea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-president-duterte-asked-to-confront-china-in-south-china-sea-378001">Philippine President Duterte asked to confront China in South China Sea</a>

The experts have also made it clear that the storm, in all probability, may not hit the land, but will bring heavy rains and strong winds to the eastern provinces as it moves northwest with top winds of 215 kilometres (134 miles) per hour and gusts of up to 265 kilometres an hour.

"Considering the uncertainty in the track forecast of the typhoon, a westward shift in the current forecast track may result in potentially significant impacts," the Philippine weather bureau said. "The possibility of a close approach scenario is not ruled out."

The Philippines has warned locals about incoming flash floods as Surigae has intensified while on water, making it the first super typhoon of 2021. Also known as Bising, the typhoon is said to now have the strength of a Category 5 hurricane and is forming over the Philippine Sea.

The Philippines has warned locals about incoming flash floods as Surigae has intensified while on water, making it the first super typhoon of 2021. Also known as Bising, the typhoon is said to now have the strength of a Category 5 hurricane and is forming over the Philippine Sea. Also read | Philippine President Duterte asked to confront China in South China Sea The experts have also made it clear that the storm, in all probability, may not hit the land, but will bring heavy rains and strong winds to the eastern provinces as it moves northwest with top winds of 215 kilometres (134 miles) per hour and gusts of up to 265 kilometres an hour. "Considering the uncertainty in the track forecast of the typhoon, a westward shift in the current forecast track may result in potentially significant impacts," the Philippine weather bureau said. "The possibility of a close approach scenario is not ruled out."

Philippines warns flash floods as Surigae turns into super typhoon

Authorities in Philippines said on Saturday that they had seized 200 tonnes of illegally harvested giant clamshells. The shells are worth USD 24.8 million. This is one of the biggest known operations of its kind in the country.

The coastguard said four suspects were arrested on the remote Green Island in the Sulu Sea that turned up the largest ever giant clamshell haul by law enforcers in the area.

"Taking the giant clams from their natural habitat is a form of inter-generational crime," Jovic Fabello, spokesman for the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development told AFP.

"It will permanently affect the marine ecosystem and future generations will be deprived of the benefits accruing from it," he added.

He said the seized shells included those of the Tridacna gigas, the world's largest clam.

Growing up to 1.3 metres (4.5 feet) wide and weighing up to 250 kilogrammes (550 pounds), these host marine algae which are a basic food source for many of the fish species consumed by humans.

Conservationists say giant clam shells are used as an alternative material for products ranging from earrings to chandeliers as ivory becomes scarce.

(With inputs from agencies)

Authorities in Philippines said on Saturday that they had seized 200 tonnes of illegally harvested giant clamshells. The shells are worth USD 24.8 million. This is one of the biggest known operations of its kind in the country.

Authorities in Philippines said on Saturday that they had seized 200 tonnes of illegally harvested giant clamshells. The shells are worth USD 24.8 million. This is one of the biggest known operations of its kind in the country. The coastguard said four suspects were arrested on the remote Green Island in the Sulu Sea that turned up the largest ever giant clamshell haul by law enforcers in the area. "Taking the giant clams from their natural habitat is a form of inter-generational crime," Jovic Fabello, spokesman for the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development told AFP. "It will permanently affect the marine ecosystem and future generations will be deprived of the benefits accruing from it," he added. He said the seized shells included those of the Tridacna gigas, the world's largest clam. Growing up to 1.3 metres (4.5 feet) wide and weighing up to 250 kilogrammes (550 pounds), these host marine algae which are a basic food source for many of the fish species consumed by humans. Conservationists say giant clam shells are used as an alternative material for products ranging from earrings to chandeliers as ivory becomes scarce. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines: Giant clamshells worth USD 25 million seized in raid

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.

Though military chief and country's top diplomat have asked China to withdraw its vessels from the region, Duterte has maintained his silence over the issue.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-china-sea-china-and-us-send-warships-into-disputed-waters-375776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier his spokesperson said that the Filipino president is pursuing "diplomatic initiatives" in "private".&nbsp;

On Thursday, the Philippine Coast Guard said that despite continual demands to Chinese vessels to leave Whitsun Reef, at least 240 Chinese vessels were present in the area till Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported.&nbsp;

The ships were first seen on March 7 at Whitsun Reef, which is about 320 km (200 miles) west of Palawan Island and in the Philippine EEZ, according to the International Court of Arbitration at The Hague.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="wionews.com/world/philippines-summons-chinese-ambassador-over-reef-dispute-in-south-china-sea-377299">Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea&nbsp;</a> 
&nbsp;

Opposition Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday said that the country could become "just another one of China's satellites" if Duterte and the Philippines military fail to confront Beijing.&nbsp;

She also said that despite the US's support regarding Manila's position in the South China Sea, the Filipino president's "policy of grovelling before China" could damage the integrity of the country's territory. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.

Philippine foreign policy experts and lawmakers have asked President Rodrigo Duterte to end his "policy of subservience" towards China, saying the Filipino leader's silence is leading to hundreds of Chinese vessels lining up in Manila's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. Though military chief and country's top diplomat have asked China to withdraw its vessels from the region, Duterte has maintained his silence over the issue. Watch | Earlier his spokesperson said that the Filipino president is pursuing "diplomatic initiatives" in "private". On Thursday, the Philippine Coast Guard said that despite continual demands to Chinese vessels to leave Whitsun Reef, at least 240 Chinese vessels were present in the area till Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported. The ships were first seen on March 7 at Whitsun Reef, which is about 320 km (200 miles) west of Palawan Island and in the Philippine EEZ, according to the International Court of Arbitration at The Hague. Also read | Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea Opposition Senator Leila de Lima on Thursday said that the country could become "just another one of China's satellites" if Duterte and the Philippines military fail to confront Beijing. She also said that despite the US's support regarding Manila's position in the South China Sea, the Filipino president's "policy of grovelling before China" could damage the integrity of the country's territory.

Philippine President Duterte asked to confront China in South China Sea

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The escalating feud between Manila and Beijing started after more than 200 Chinese vessels suspected by Philippine authorities to be operated by militias were spotted early last month at Whitsun Reef. The Philippine government demanded the vessels leave then deployed coast guard and patrol vessels to the area but China said it owns the reef and the Chinese vessels were sheltering from rough seas.&nbsp;

After summoning Ambassador Huang Xilian on Monday, Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso expressed to him Manila's displeasure over the illegal lingering presence of Chinese vessels around Julian Felipe Reef, the foreign affairs department said in a statement, using the Philippine name for Whitsun Reef in the most hotly disputed Spratlys region of the busy waterway.&nbsp;

"The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the reef is a source of regional tension," Buensuceso said.&nbsp;

She reiterated to Huang that the reef, which lies about 175 nautical miles (324 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, is within an internationally recognised offshore zone where Manila has the exclusive right to exploit fisheries, oil, gas and other resources.&nbsp;

She also cited a 2016 ruling in an international arbitration case the Philippines brought against China that invalidated Beijing's vast claims on historical grounds to virtually all of the South China Sea under a 1982 UN Maritime treaty.&nbsp;

The Philippine military has said aerial surveillance showed some of the Chinese vessels have left the reef but more than 40 remained moored in the area in late March. It debunked China's claim that the vessels were sheltering from rough seas saying the weather has been fine around the reef.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday.

The Philippine government summoned the Chinese ambassador to press its demand for Chinese vessels to immediately leave a reef claimed by Manila in the South China Sea and said their presence was stoking tensions, officials said on Tuesday. The escalating feud between Manila and Beijing started after more than 200 Chinese vessels suspected by Philippine authorities to be operated by militias were spotted early last month at Whitsun Reef. The Philippine government demanded the vessels leave then deployed coast guard and patrol vessels to the area but China said it owns the reef and the Chinese vessels were sheltering from rough seas. After summoning Ambassador Huang Xilian on Monday, Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso expressed to him Manila's displeasure over the illegal lingering presence of Chinese vessels around Julian Felipe Reef, the foreign affairs department said in a statement, using the Philippine name for Whitsun Reef in the most hotly disputed Spratlys region of the busy waterway. "The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the reef is a source of regional tension," Buensuceso said. She reiterated to Huang that the reef, which lies about 175 nautical miles (324 kilometres) west of the Philippine province of Palawan, is within an internationally recognised offshore zone where Manila has the exclusive right to exploit fisheries, oil, gas and other resources. She also cited a 2016 ruling in an international arbitration case the Philippines brought against China that invalidated Beijing's vast claims on historical grounds to virtually all of the South China Sea under a 1982 UN Maritime treaty. The Philippine military has said aerial surveillance showed some of the Chinese vessels have left the reef but more than 40 remained moored in the area in late March. It debunked China's claim that the vessels were sheltering from rough seas saying the weather has been fine around the reef. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines summons Chinese ambassador over reef dispute in South China Sea 

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands.

Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan. There are no permanent residents. But Taiwanese marines are stationed there. The islands are located 275 miles from the Taiwanese municipality of Kaohsiung.

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They are close to Hong Kong, located between China, Taiwan and the Philippines. reports of China trying to capture the islands emerged in 2020.

Taiwan's F-16s began patrolling the area. China sent more drones. And Taiwan drew the line. It said it will open fire and&nbsp;shoot down the Chinese drones, if needed.

China wants these islands just to make point of its 'sovereignty' over Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party will celebrate its 100th anniversary on July 23. It wants to make a point. And Dongsha makes for an easy target.

It's small, has flat geography. Which means it's hard to defend. Plus, it is strategically located.

A Chinese aircraft carrier has entered the South China Sea. The announcement was made by Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times. The aircraft carrier is called the Liao Ning. It's not alone. China has more than 200 military vessels in the region. It's a&nbsp;clear provocation.

A response has come from the US. America has stationed aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The flat-top was carrying out an exercise in the South China Sea. It was being joined by American assault ship USS Makin Island. There were also destroyers, smaller ships, and a cruiser involved.

The American ships carried out a drill just a day before the Liao Ning decided to pivot towards the South China Sea.

Are these two developments related?

The world says yes but China says no. Chinese experts claim that it's just a coincidence.

The article in Global Times speaks at length about a hypothetical war in Taiwan. It says, "PLA aircraft carriers operating on the east side of Taiwan can isolate the island's forces from foreign intervention".

USA's response is clear. Any attempt to alter the status quo will be a serious mistake. US and the Philippines have already begun a joint drill called Balikatan exercises. They will go on for 2 weeks.

China is chasing its geopolitical ambitions in the South China Sea. Islands big and small are standing up to it aided by military powers.

The confrontation is building up and We haven't heard the last of this.

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands. Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan.

China has been claiming islands in South China Sea since 1974. Now it is eyeing and moving to gain control of Dongsha islands. Dongsha islands are a part of Taiwan. There are no permanent residents. But Taiwanese marines are stationed there. The islands are located 275 miles from the Taiwanese municipality of Kaohsiung. They are close to Hong Kong, located between China, Taiwan and the Philippines. reports of China trying to capture the islands emerged in 2020. Taiwan's F-16s began patrolling the area. China sent more drones. And Taiwan drew the line. It said it will open fire and shoot down the Chinese drones, if needed. China wants these islands just to make point of its 'sovereignty' over Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party will celebrate its 100th anniversary on July 23. It wants to make a point. And Dongsha makes for an easy target. It's small, has flat geography. Which means it's hard to defend. Plus, it is strategically located. A Chinese aircraft carrier has entered the South China Sea. The announcement was made by Chinese mouthpiece the Global Times. The aircraft carrier is called the Liao Ning. It's not alone. China has more than 200 military vessels in the region. It's a clear provocation. A response has come from the US. America has stationed aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. The flat-top was carrying out an exercise in the South China Sea. It was being joined by American assault ship USS Makin Island. There were also destroyers, smaller ships, and a cruiser involved. The American ships carried out a drill just a day before the Liao Ning decided to pivot towards the South China Sea. Are these two developments related? The world says yes but China says no. Chinese experts claim that it's just a coincidence. The article in Global Times speaks at length about a hypothetical war in Taiwan. It says, "PLA aircraft carriers operating on the east side of Taiwan can isolate the island's forces from foreign intervention". USA's response is clear. Any attempt to alter the status quo will be a serious mistake. US and the Philippines have already begun a joint drill called Balikatan exercises. They will go on for 2 weeks. China is chasing its geopolitical ambitions in the South China Sea. Islands big and small are standing up to it aided by military powers. The confrontation is building up and We haven't heard the last of this.

China makes moves around Dongsha Island in South China Sea

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