A series of explosions rocked Sunday night a southern Philippine city known for Islamic State-linked violence, wounding at least 17 people including soldiers, a military official said.

A hand grenade was thrown into a military truck patrolling Cotabato City in the restive southern island of Mindanao, with 8 soldiers and 4 civilians sustaining injuries from the bomb's shrapnel.

It was quickly followed by an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in the nearby town of Libungan, wounding five civilians with one in "serious" condition, regional military spokesperson Major Arvin Encinas said.

Another explosion was recorded in the neighboring town in Maguindanao, although police are still gathering information on whether there are casualties.

No groups have yet claimed responsibility for the attacks, which happened as the government planned this year to lift its military rule in the island over the improving security situation. &nbsp;

"We do not discount the possibility that Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Daesh-inspired groups are behind this," Encinas told AFP, referring to the Islamic State-linked militants.

The Philippines is plagued by violent insurgencies, including a Muslim-led separatist uprising in Mindanao that has killed some 100,000 people.

Though a landmark peace deal with the largest of the rebel groups, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, was sealed in 2019, the most brutal extremist factions were not included.

Those groups include the Islamic State-aligned BIFF and Abu Sayyaf, a kidnap-for-ransom gang that has been behind some of the nation's deadliest attacks.

Two people were killed and 35 wounded in Cotabato in December last year after a bomb went off outside a shopping mall, which was also blamed on Islamic State-linked militants.

A worrying escalation of militancy was recorded in June when a Filipino jihadist -- who military named as the first local suicide bomber -- blew himself up in an attack on a military base.

Islamic State has stepped up its strategy of absorbing existing insurgent groups around the world as its "caliphate" crumbled in the Middle East.

In May 2017, hundreds of pro-IS gunmen seized the Muslim city of Marawi, sparking a five-month battle that left more than 1,000 people dead.

A series of explosions rocked Sunday night a southern Philippine city known for Islamic State-linked violence, wounding at least 17 people including soldiers, a military official said.

A series of explosions rocked Sunday night a southern Philippine city known for Islamic State-linked violence, wounding at least 17 people including soldiers, a military official said. A hand grenade was thrown into a military truck patrolling Cotabato City in the restive southern island of Mindanao, with 8 soldiers and 4 civilians sustaining injuries from the bomb's shrapnel. It was quickly followed by an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in the nearby town of Libungan, wounding five civilians with one in "serious" condition, regional military spokesperson Major Arvin Encinas said. Another explosion was recorded in the neighboring town in Maguindanao, although police are still gathering information on whether there are casualties. No groups have yet claimed responsibility for the attacks, which happened as the government planned this year to lift its military rule in the island over the improving security situation. "We do not discount the possibility that Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Daesh-inspired groups are behind this," Encinas told AFP, referring to the Islamic State-linked militants. The Philippines is plagued by violent insurgencies, including a Muslim-led separatist uprising in Mindanao that has killed some 100,000 people. Though a landmark peace deal with the largest of the rebel groups, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, was sealed in 2019, the most brutal extremist factions were not included. Those groups include the Islamic State-aligned BIFF and Abu Sayyaf, a kidnap-for-ransom gang that has been behind some of the nation's deadliest attacks. Two people were killed and 35 wounded in Cotabato in December last year after a bomb went off outside a shopping mall, which was also blamed on Islamic State-linked militants. A worrying escalation of militancy was recorded in June when a Filipino jihadist -- who military named as the first local suicide bomber -- blew himself up in an attack on a military base. Islamic State has stepped up its strategy of absorbing existing insurgent groups around the world as its "caliphate" crumbled in the Middle East. In May 2017, hundreds of pro-IS gunmen seized the Muslim city of Marawi, sparking a five-month battle that left more than 1,000 people dead.

Bombings rock southern Philippines, over a dozen injured

A judge in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-killed-as-earthquake-strikes-southern-philippines-268381">Philippines</a> prepared to deliver a verdict on Thursday on the&nbsp;massacre&nbsp;a decade ago of 58 people, among them 32 journalists, in one of the country's most high-profile cases and its worst single instance of election violence.

Three generations of a&nbsp;political&nbsp;clan accused of masterminding the&nbsp;2009&nbsp;killings are among 101 defendants awaiting judgement, in a case seen as a crucial test of impunity in country where provincial power is often decided by corruption, intimidation and violence.

Seven members of the influential Ampatuan family are accused of conspiring to ambush the convoy of a rival clan as it travelled to register its candidate for a gubernatorial election in the southern province of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-explosions-rock-southern-philippines-ahead-of-election-218374">Maguindanao</a>, an attack that spiralled into a bloodbath.

Among the casualties were the wife and relatives of the rival candidate, lawyers and 32 media workers, who were executed beside a rural road in a volley of gunfire, before being buried with their vehicles in a huge pit dug by an excavator.

It was one of the world's single, biggest attacks on journalists. The defendants deny charges of multiple counts of murder and face up to 30 years in jail for each one.

There were 357 witnesses and 197 suspects, 80 of those still at large, including 12 Ampatuans. The family patriarch, Andal Ampatuan, died in prison of a heart attack in 2015.

Five other Ampatuan family members and 54 police are also on trial and lawyers for the families said a guilty verdict would be crucial for&nbsp;Philippine&nbsp;democracy.

"We are rooting for a conviction no more, no less," Nena Santos, a private prosecutor in the case, told reporters.

"This is very important because if no conviction here it would mean the impunity continues, press freedom is dead and the democratic process is at stake."

The judge and lawyers were in discussions about how much of the verdict to read out from its more than 700 pages.

The attack, known as the "Maguindanao&nbsp;Massacre", was chilling even by&nbsp;Philippine&nbsp;standards, where&nbsp;political&nbsp;assassinations are commonplace in elections for mayors, governors and even congress. Several witnesses in the case have been killed.

Muslim-dominated parts of the southern&nbsp;Philippines are notoriously violent, prone to lawlessness, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-troops-pound-islamists-as-death-toll-passes-300-16944">separatist unrest</a> and the&nbsp;rule&nbsp;of warlords aided by an abundance of arms.

Human Rights Watch said that regardless of the verdict, suspects on the run must be caught.

"The families of Maguindanao victims and witnesses will be at risk so long as suspects remain free," said Phil Robertson, the group's deputy Asia director.

A judge in the Philippines prepared to deliver a verdict on Thursday on the massacre a decade ago of 58 people, among them 32 journalists, in one of the country's most high-profile cases and its worst single instance of election violence.

A judge in the Philippines prepared to deliver a verdict on Thursday on the massacre a decade ago of 58 people, among them 32 journalists, in one of the country's most high-profile cases and its worst single instance of election violence. Three generations of a political clan accused of masterminding the 2009 killings are among 101 defendants awaiting judgement, in a case seen as a crucial test of impunity in country where provincial power is often decided by corruption, intimidation and violence. Seven members of the influential Ampatuan family are accused of conspiring to ambush the convoy of a rival clan as it travelled to register its candidate for a gubernatorial election in the southern province of Maguindanao, an attack that spiralled into a bloodbath. Among the casualties were the wife and relatives of the rival candidate, lawyers and 32 media workers, who were executed beside a rural road in a volley of gunfire, before being buried with their vehicles in a huge pit dug by an excavator. It was one of the world's single, biggest attacks on journalists. The defendants deny charges of multiple counts of murder and face up to 30 years in jail for each one. There were 357 witnesses and 197 suspects, 80 of those still at large, including 12 Ampatuans. The family patriarch, Andal Ampatuan, died in prison of a heart attack in 2015. Five other Ampatuan family members and 54 police are also on trial and lawyers for the families said a guilty verdict would be crucial for Philippine democracy. "We are rooting for a conviction no more, no less," Nena Santos, a private prosecutor in the case, told reporters. "This is very important because if no conviction here it would mean the impunity continues, press freedom is dead and the democratic process is at stake." The judge and lawyers were in discussions about how much of the verdict to read out from its more than 700 pages. The attack, known as the "Maguindanao Massacre", was chilling even by Philippine standards, where political assassinations are commonplace in elections for mayors, governors and even congress. Several witnesses in the case have been killed. Muslim-dominated parts of the southern Philippines are notoriously violent, prone to lawlessness, separatist unrest and the rule of warlords aided by an abundance of arms. Human Rights Watch said that regardless of the verdict, suspects on the run must be caught. "The families of Maguindanao victims and witnesses will be at risk so long as suspects remain free," said Phil Robertson, the group's deputy Asia director.

Philippine court to rule on 2009 political massacre

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October.

Police said a rescue operation had been launched at a heavily damaged market building in Padada near the 6.8 magnitude quake's epicentre, which is about 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the major city of Davao.

Patients were evacuated from hospitals as a precaution and nervous crowds massed outside shopping malls after the jolt and dozens of smaller, but strong aftershocks.

"We can no longer use our office because the walls cracked and the stairs collapsed," local police spokeswoman Lea Orbuda told AFP. "The power is off and the water taps are dry."

A provincial police commander said the number of injured across the hardest hit areas had reached 62, with one confirmed fatality after a child was crushed under a collapsed structure.

The commander, Alberto Lupaz, said there appeared to be some people trapped under the damaged market building but rescue efforts had been delayed.

"They (rescuers) were attempting to check the rubble... the aftershocks were too strong," Lupaz said.

President Rodrigo Duterte, who is from Davao, was caught up in the earthquake but was unharmed, officials said.

"The First Lady... said the car she was riding (in) was swaying," spokesman Salvador Panelo said. "They are unhurt."

There was no threat of a tsunami, said the US Geological Survey, which initially reported the magnitude at 6.9.&nbsp;

The Philippines is situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

Three quakes above 6.0 magnitude hit roughly the same area of Mindanao in a matter of weeks in October, killing some two dozen people and heavily damaging office buildings, schools and apartments.

Tens of thousands of people were forced into shelters by the string of tremors, the government said, either because their homes were damaged or they were too afraid to return.

Most of the deaths in October were due to collapsing walls and falling debris, including a teenage boy who was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school.

Other fatalities were attributed to rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking that injured at least 400 people.&nbsp;

The Philippines has been hit by several very powerful earthquakes in recent decades, including one of magnitude 7.8 that struck the northern resort town of Baguio in 1990.

That tremor toppled multi-story buildings and hotels, killing some 1,200 people.

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October.

A powerful earthquake hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao on Sunday, killing a child, injuring dozens and damaging buildings in an area still recovering from a string of deadly quakes in October. Police said a rescue operation had been launched at a heavily damaged market building in Padada near the 6.8 magnitude quake's epicentre, which is about 90 kilometres (55 miles) south of the major city of Davao. Patients were evacuated from hospitals as a precaution and nervous crowds massed outside shopping malls after the jolt and dozens of smaller, but strong aftershocks. "We can no longer use our office because the walls cracked and the stairs collapsed," local police spokeswoman Lea Orbuda told AFP. "The power is off and the water taps are dry." A provincial police commander said the number of injured across the hardest hit areas had reached 62, with one confirmed fatality after a child was crushed under a collapsed structure. The commander, Alberto Lupaz, said there appeared to be some people trapped under the damaged market building but rescue efforts had been delayed. "They (rescuers) were attempting to check the rubble... the aftershocks were too strong," Lupaz said. President Rodrigo Duterte, who is from Davao, was caught up in the earthquake but was unharmed, officials said. "The First Lady... said the car she was riding (in) was swaying," spokesman Salvador Panelo said. "They are unhurt." There was no threat of a tsunami, said the US Geological Survey, which initially reported the magnitude at 6.9. The Philippines is situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Three quakes above 6.0 magnitude hit roughly the same area of Mindanao in a matter of weeks in October, killing some two dozen people and heavily damaging office buildings, schools and apartments. Tens of thousands of people were forced into shelters by the string of tremors, the government said, either because their homes were damaged or they were too afraid to return. Most of the deaths in October were due to collapsing walls and falling debris, including a teenage boy who was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school. Other fatalities were attributed to rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking that injured at least 400 people. The Philippines has been hit by several very powerful earthquakes in recent decades, including one of magnitude 7.8 that struck the northern resort town of Baguio in 1990. That tremor toppled multi-story buildings and hotels, killing some 1,200 people.

Child killed as earthquake strikes southern Philippines

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ar-rahman-and-u2-collaborate-for-a-new-single-ahead-of-bands-maiden-concert-in-india-263943">U2</a> frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">President Rodrigo Duterte</a> ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert.

The Philippine leader has waged a deadly war on drugs that has claimed thousands of lives.

Overwhelmingly backed by Filipinos but condemned by critics who say it is a war crime, the killings by police as well as unknown suspects are the subject of a preliminary inquiry by the International Criminal Court prosecutor.

The rock icon, a longtime member of Amnesty International, a critic of Duterte's drug war, said human rights are "critical" which he takes "very seriously".

"I would just say you can't compromise on human rights and that's my soft message to the president," Bono said, when asked about his views on the Philippines' overall human rights situation in the country.

Duterte, elected in a landslide in 2016, told supporters on the stump to "forget the laws on human rights" as he vowed to kill 100,000 criminals and dump their bodies into Manila Bay to fatten the fish.

He has also told police he will have their backs, vowing to hand out presidential pardons should they be prosecuted and sent to jail while enforcing his crackdown.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/post-berlin-gig-voice-loss-episode-u2s-bono-says-will-be-back-to-full-voice-163277">Bono</a>, in Manila for a U2 concert Wednesday, said he has no plans to see the Filipino leader, adding: "President Duterte is very popular. He doesn't need me on his side."

U2 are in Asia for their Joshua Tree Tour 2019 that will wrap up in the Indian city of Mumbai on Sunday.

Earlier stops included Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, as well as Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul.

Bono was not the first outspoken musician to speak out against Duterte's drug war.&nbsp;

In 2016, American singer James Taylor cancelled his planned Manila concert to protest extrajudicial killings in the country.&nbsp;

Duterte's drug war has killed over 5,500 alleged dealers and users who fought back during arrests, but watchdogs say the actual toll is at least four times higher.&nbsp;

International Criminal Court prosecutors have launched a preliminary probe of the killing, and the UN's top rights body voted in favour an in-depth review.

U2 frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert.

U2 frontman Bono said Tuesday there must be no compromise on human rights, in a rebuke of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of the Irish rockers' first Manila concert. The Philippine leader has waged a deadly war on drugs that has claimed thousands of lives. Overwhelmingly backed by Filipinos but condemned by critics who say it is a war crime, the killings by police as well as unknown suspects are the subject of a preliminary inquiry by the International Criminal Court prosecutor. The rock icon, a longtime member of Amnesty International, a critic of Duterte's drug war, said human rights are "critical" which he takes "very seriously". "I would just say you can't compromise on human rights and that's my soft message to the president," Bono said, when asked about his views on the Philippines' overall human rights situation in the country. Duterte, elected in a landslide in 2016, told supporters on the stump to "forget the laws on human rights" as he vowed to kill 100,000 criminals and dump their bodies into Manila Bay to fatten the fish. He has also told police he will have their backs, vowing to hand out presidential pardons should they be prosecuted and sent to jail while enforcing his crackdown. Bono, in Manila for a U2 concert Wednesday, said he has no plans to see the Filipino leader, adding: "President Duterte is very popular. He doesn't need me on his side." U2 are in Asia for their Joshua Tree Tour 2019 that will wrap up in the Indian city of Mumbai on Sunday. Earlier stops included Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, as well as Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul. Bono was not the first outspoken musician to speak out against Duterte's drug war. In 2016, American singer James Taylor cancelled his planned Manila concert to protest extrajudicial killings in the country. Duterte's drug war has killed over 5,500 alleged dealers and users who fought back during arrests, but watchdogs say the actual toll is at least four times higher. International Criminal Court prosecutors have launched a preliminary probe of the killing, and the UN's top rights body voted in favour an in-depth review.

Bono: 'No compromise' on human rights in the Philippines

The Philippines' north has been hit by some of its worst flooding in decades, with torrents of muddy runoff forcing 66,000 from their homes and prompting rescues of trapped locals, authorities said Friday.

Luzon island, the nation's largest, has been hit by a string of storms that have battered its northern tip while monsoon rains were intensified by the passage of Typhoon Kammuri this week.&nbsp;

Large swaths of lush green land were inundated after rivers burst their banks, leaving only treetops visible above the waterline.

Landslides have cut off roads to some isolated towns and some bridges are covered by the flooding. However, authorities said they have not confirmed any deaths caused by the high water.

"This is one of the biggest floods in decades," Rogelio Sending, information officer for Cagayan province in the northeast of Luzon, told AFP.

The flood waters have have forced about 66,000 people to flee their homes, some of whom had to be rescued by emergency crews in boats, local disaster authorities said.

The north of the country has had heavy rains for nearly a month as part of monsoon season, which was worsened by at least three typhoons that have passed the Philippines since November.

Typhoon Kammuri pounded the storm-prone nation this week, leaving at least 13 people dead.&nbsp;

The Philippines' north has been hit by some of its worst flooding in decades, with torrents of muddy runoff forcing 66,000 from their homes and prompting rescues of trapped locals, authorities said Friday.

The Philippines' north has been hit by some of its worst flooding in decades, with torrents of muddy runoff forcing 66,000 from their homes and prompting rescues of trapped locals, authorities said Friday. Luzon island, the nation's largest, has been hit by a string of storms that have battered its northern tip while monsoon rains were intensified by the passage of Typhoon Kammuri this week. Large swaths of lush green land were inundated after rivers burst their banks, leaving only treetops visible above the waterline. Landslides have cut off roads to some isolated towns and some bridges are covered by the flooding. However, authorities said they have not confirmed any deaths caused by the high water. "This is one of the biggest floods in decades," Rogelio Sending, information officer for Cagayan province in the northeast of Luzon, told AFP. The flood waters have have forced about 66,000 people to flee their homes, some of whom had to be rescued by emergency crews in boats, local disaster authorities said. The north of the country has had heavy rains for nearly a month as part of monsoon season, which was worsened by at least three typhoons that have passed the Philippines since November. Typhoon Kammuri pounded the storm-prone nation this week, leaving at least 13 people dead.

Philippines floods force 66,000 from homes

The number of people killed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-typhoon-kammuris-death-toll-touches-10-266059">Typhoon Kammuri's pounding</a> of the Philippines this week has hit 13, officials said Thursday, as authorities confirmed reports of storm-related deaths.

Kammuri's fierce winds toppled trees and flattened flimsy homes across a swathe of the nation's north on Tuesday, and forced a rare 12-hour shutdown of Manila's international airport.

Authorities said on Wednesday one person had drowned while three died after being hit by trees and flying objects.&nbsp;

Disaster officials did not offer details on how the other victims died, but local police reports indicated some may have drowned or been crushed by trees.

Mark Timbal, the spokesman for the national disaster agency, said no new bodies have been found but the death toll could rise as reports on the ground are verified.&nbsp;

"There is the possibility of an increase in the number, but we are hoping against it," Timbal told AFP.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-over-two-lakh-evacuated-as-typhoon-kammuri-pounds-philippines-closes-manila-airport-265891">Hundreds of thousands of people</a> living in exposed or low-lying areas were evacuated from their homes before Kammuri made landfall late Monday, which authorities said had saved lives.

Still the storm-damaged 135 schools and destroyed nearly 1,200 homes, with crop damage in the hardest-hit areas estimated to reach nearly $16 million.

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty.&nbsp;

President Rodrigo Duterte is scheduled to visit on Thursday the Bicol region, a peninsula south of Manila which was hit hard by the typhoon. &nbsp;

Ninoy Aquino International Airport was closed half of Tuesday as a precaution, affecting over 500 flights, while roughly half the day's programme at the Southeast Asian Games, hosted by Manila and nearby cities, had to be postponed.

The number of people killed by Typhoon Kammuri's pounding of the Philippines this week has hit 13, officials said Thursday, as authorities confirmed reports of storm-related deaths.

The number of people killed by Typhoon Kammuri's pounding of the Philippines this week has hit 13, officials said Thursday, as authorities confirmed reports of storm-related deaths. Kammuri's fierce winds toppled trees and flattened flimsy homes across a swathe of the nation's north on Tuesday, and forced a rare 12-hour shutdown of Manila's international airport. Authorities said on Wednesday one person had drowned while three died after being hit by trees and flying objects. Disaster officials did not offer details on how the other victims died, but local police reports indicated some may have drowned or been crushed by trees. Mark Timbal, the spokesman for the national disaster agency, said no new bodies have been found but the death toll could rise as reports on the ground are verified. "There is the possibility of an increase in the number, but we are hoping against it," Timbal told AFP. Hundreds of thousands of people living in exposed or low-lying areas were evacuated from their homes before Kammuri made landfall late Monday, which authorities said had saved lives. Still the storm-damaged 135 schools and destroyed nearly 1,200 homes, with crop damage in the hardest-hit areas estimated to reach nearly $16 million. The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty. President Rodrigo Duterte is scheduled to visit on Thursday the Bicol region, a peninsula south of Manila which was hit hard by the typhoon. Ninoy Aquino International Airport was closed half of Tuesday as a precaution, affecting over 500 flights, while roughly half the day's programme at the Southeast Asian Games, hosted by Manila and nearby cities, had to be postponed.

Philippines: Typhoon Kammuri death toll hits 13

The death toll from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-kills-3-in-philippines-hundreds-of-flights-halted-265967">a typhoon</a> that hit provinces south of the Philippine capital rose to 10, disaster agencies said on Wednesday, pointing to precautions and compulsory evacuations as key in preventing more casualties.

Typhoon Kammuri, the 20th to enter the Philippines this year, hit land on Monday night, prompting forced evacuation of thousands of residents and cancellation of hundreds of flights. It also disrupted the schedule for some events in the Southeast Asian Games, which the Philippines is hosting until Dec. 11.

Five people died in the central Bicol region, including three who drowned, a local disaster agency said in a report. Five more were killed in a region south of the capital.

Around 345,000 people are still in evacuation centres, awaiting authorities' clearance for them to return home, disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal told broadcaster ANC.

"The storm left the usual damage of major storms such as fallen trees, ruined roofs of houses and some government facilities," Timbal said. Officials said forced evacuations and preparations prevented greater loss of life.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-over-two-lakh-evacuated-as-typhoon-kammuri-pounds-philippines-closes-manila-airport-265891">Sustained winds of Kammuri weakened to 100 kilometres per hour</a>, with gusts of up to 125 kph&nbsp;as it heads towards the South China Sea. It is set to leave the Philippines on Wednesday night, the state weather bureau said.

An average of 20 typhoons annually hit the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands.

The death toll from a typhoon that hit provinces south of the Philippine capital rose to 10, disaster agencies said on Wednesday, pointing to precautions and compulsory evacuations as key in preventing more casualties.

The death toll from a typhoon that hit provinces south of the Philippine capital rose to 10, disaster agencies said on Wednesday, pointing to precautions and compulsory evacuations as key in preventing more casualties. Typhoon Kammuri, the 20th to enter the Philippines this year, hit land on Monday night, prompting forced evacuation of thousands of residents and cancellation of hundreds of flights. It also disrupted the schedule for some events in the Southeast Asian Games, which the Philippines is hosting until Dec. 11. Five people died in the central Bicol region, including three who drowned, a local disaster agency said in a report. Five more were killed in a region south of the capital. Around 345,000 people are still in evacuation centres, awaiting authorities' clearance for them to return home, disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal told broadcaster ANC. "The storm left the usual damage of major storms such as fallen trees, ruined roofs of houses and some government facilities," Timbal said. Officials said forced evacuations and preparations prevented greater loss of life. Sustained winds of Kammuri weakened to 100 kilometres per hour, with gusts of up to 125 kph as it heads towards the South China Sea. It is set to leave the Philippines on Wednesday night, the state weather bureau said. An average of 20 typhoons annually hit the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands.

Philippines: Typhoon Kammuri kills ten

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evacuations-airport-closure-as-typhoon-kammuri-nears-philippines-265793">typhoon struck the Philippines</a> on Tuesday, killing one man and bringing heavy rains that prompted the suspension of air travel and government offices in the capital, and warnings of floods, storm surges and landslides.

Local governments evacuated some 225,000 people ahead of the arrival overnight of Typhoon Kammuri, known locally as Tisoy, which weakened slightly and picked up speed as it moved across central parts of the archipelago.

Kammuri, the 20th typhoon to hit the country this year, brought winds of 150 kph&nbsp;and gusts of up to 205 kph, damaging some homes and structures and felling trees and signage in urban areas.

A 33-year-old man died after being electrocuted while attempting to fix his roof, a civil defence official in the Bicol region told local radio.

Some 499 flights were postponed and 100,000 people impacted by a rare precautionary closure of all four terminals at Manila's main airport for 12 hours until 11:00 p.m. Tuesday (1500 GMT).

Air travel continued in unaffected areas of the country.

Pictures posted by social media users showed waves crashing against bulwarks, panels flying off roofs, trees on roads or being battered by strong winds.

Disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal said good preparation had minimised the human impact so far.

"We've seen a great improvement in local government management of preparations for disasters," he told news channel ANC.

"The pre-positioning of supplies was executed well before the arrival of the storm."

Authorities warned of storm surges of up to three metres and floods and landslides from heavy winds and rain.

Government offices and schools were closed in Metropolitan Manila and affected areas and utility firms appealed for patience ahead of anticipated power outages. The coastguard halted commercial sea travel in affected areas.

Worst hit was the airport in Legazpi City, where television footage showed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-thousands-flee-as-typhoon-kammuri-expected-to-make-landfall-265636">structural damage and cables</a>, lighting and panels hanging from the ceiling over departure areas.

Provincial governor Al Francis Bichara said it was important that a mandatory evacuation of tens of thousands of families had taken place. 
"The wind was so terrible," he said. "Some of their houses were badly damaged."

The Philippines is hosting the Southeast Asian Games until December 11 and organisers postponed several events until later in the competition, among them surfing, kayak, windsurfing, polo, sailing, skateboarding and canoeing.

A typhoon struck the Philippines on Tuesday, killing one man and bringing heavy rains that prompted the suspension of air travel and government offices in the capital, and warnings of floods, storm surges and landslides.

A typhoon struck the Philippines on Tuesday, killing one man and bringing heavy rains that prompted the suspension of air travel and government offices in the capital, and warnings of floods, storm surges and landslides. Local governments evacuated some 225,000 people ahead of the arrival overnight of Typhoon Kammuri, known locally as Tisoy, which weakened slightly and picked up speed as it moved across central parts of the archipelago. Kammuri, the 20th typhoon to hit the country this year, brought winds of 150 kph and gusts of up to 205 kph, damaging some homes and structures and felling trees and signage in urban areas. A 33-year-old man died after being electrocuted while attempting to fix his roof, a civil defence official in the Bicol region told local radio. Some 499 flights were postponed and 100,000 people impacted by a rare precautionary closure of all four terminals at Manila's main airport for 12 hours until 11:00 p.m. Tuesday (1500 GMT). Air travel continued in unaffected areas of the country. Pictures posted by social media users showed waves crashing against bulwarks, panels flying off roofs, trees on roads or being battered by strong winds. Disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal said good preparation had minimised the human impact so far. "We've seen a great improvement in local government management of preparations for disasters," he told news channel ANC. "The pre-positioning of supplies was executed well before the arrival of the storm." Authorities warned of storm surges of up to three metres and floods and landslides from heavy winds and rain. Government offices and schools were closed in Metropolitan Manila and affected areas and utility firms appealed for patience ahead of anticipated power outages. The coastguard halted commercial sea travel in affected areas. Worst hit was the airport in Legazpi City, where television footage showed structural damage and cables, lighting and panels hanging from the ceiling over departure areas. Provincial governor Al Francis Bichara said it was important that a mandatory evacuation of tens of thousands of families had taken place. "The wind was so terrible," he said. "Some of their houses were badly damaged." The Philippines is hosting the Southeast Asian Games until December 11 and organisers postponed several events until later in the competition, among them surfing, kayak, windsurfing, polo, sailing, skateboarding and canoeing.

One killed, over two lakh evacuated as Typhoon Kammuri pounds Philippines, closes Manila airport

Typhoon Kammuri slams into the Philippines.

Typhoon Forces closure of Manila Airport

Typhoon Kammuri barrelled towards the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-thousands-flee-as-typhoon-kammuri-expected-to-make-landfall-265636">Philippines </a>on Monday, pushing tens of thousands of people into evacuation centres and prompting authorities to order a temporary closure of Manila's international airport as a safety precaution.

Kammuri was expected to make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday and then pass to the south of the capital, which is home to some 13 million people and is hosting thousands of athletes for the regional Southeast Asian Games.

Airport officials said they made the call based on the potency of the storm, which was forecast to come ashore with intense rains and sustained winds of up to 165 kilometres (100 miles) per hour as well as gusts of up to 230 kilometres per hour, forecasters said.

"Based on our estimate, it will be closed from 11 am (0300 GMT) to 11 pm tomorrow, December 3," said Ed Monreal, general manager of Manila's airport authority.

Nearly 70,000 people had already fled their homes in the Bicol region, disaster officials said, which is where the typhoon is expected to strike first.

However, some residents opted to stay put even as the storm's power began to hit.

"The wind is howling. Roofs are being torn off and I saw one roof flying," local Gladys Castillo Vidal told AFP. &nbsp;

"We decided to stay because our house is a two-storey made of concrete... Hopefully it can withstand the storm."

The weather bureau also warned of rain-induced landslides and possible storm surges of up to three metres (10 feet) which could hit coastal areas in the nation's east.

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty.

The country's deadliest cyclone on record was Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013.

Games plagued by build-up woes&nbsp;

Kammuri already snarled some plans for the SEA Games, which opened Saturday for thousands of athletes from the region and is set to run through to December 11 in and around Manila.

Windsurfing was halted as a precaution and triathlon events were held earlier than scheduled.

Ramon Suzara, the chief operating officer of the organising committee, said contingency plans were in place for bad weather, but the duration of the Games would not be extended.

"Everything is set," Suzara told reporters. "For contingency, all venues, all competition managers, technical delegates are ready."

The storm is the latest trouble for the Games, which saw a series of transport hiccups and a rush of last-minute construction ahead of the opening.

This year's Games in Clark, Manila and Subic are already particularly complex, with a record 56 sports across dozens of venues that are in some cases hours apart by car.

Around 8,750 athletes and team officials are expected at this year's 30th edition -- the biggest ever -- along with another 12,000 volunteers. Organisers hope more than 500 million viewers will tune in on TV by the end of the competition on December 11.

The Philippines have made a strong start to the Games, rising to the top of the medal table with over 70 in total, ahead of Vietnam in second place and Malaysia in third.

Typhoon Kammuri barrelled towards the Philippines on Monday, pushing tens of thousands of people into evacuation centres and prompting authorities to order a temporary closure of Manila's international airport as a safety precaution.

Typhoon Kammuri barrelled towards the Philippines on Monday, pushing tens of thousands of people into evacuation centres and prompting authorities to order a temporary closure of Manila's international airport as a safety precaution. Kammuri was expected to make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday and then pass to the south of the capital, which is home to some 13 million people and is hosting thousands of athletes for the regional Southeast Asian Games. Airport officials said they made the call based on the potency of the storm, which was forecast to come ashore with intense rains and sustained winds of up to 165 kilometres (100 miles) per hour as well as gusts of up to 230 kilometres per hour, forecasters said. "Based on our estimate, it will be closed from 11 am (0300 GMT) to 11 pm tomorrow, December 3," said Ed Monreal, general manager of Manila's airport authority. Nearly 70,000 people had already fled their homes in the Bicol region, disaster officials said, which is where the typhoon is expected to strike first. However, some residents opted to stay put even as the storm's power began to hit. "The wind is howling. Roofs are being torn off and I saw one roof flying," local Gladys Castillo Vidal told AFP. "We decided to stay because our house is a two-storey made of concrete... Hopefully it can withstand the storm." The weather bureau also warned of rain-induced landslides and possible storm surges of up to three metres (10 feet) which could hit coastal areas in the nation's east. The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty. The country's deadliest cyclone on record was Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013. Games plagued by build-up woes Kammuri already snarled some plans for the SEA Games, which opened Saturday for thousands of athletes from the region and is set to run through to December 11 in and around Manila. Windsurfing was halted as a precaution and triathlon events were held earlier than scheduled. Ramon Suzara, the chief operating officer of the organising committee, said contingency plans were in place for bad weather, but the duration of the Games would not be extended. "Everything is set," Suzara told reporters. "For contingency, all venues, all competition managers, technical delegates are ready." The storm is the latest trouble for the Games, which saw a series of transport hiccups and a rush of last-minute construction ahead of the opening. This year's Games in Clark, Manila and Subic are already particularly complex, with a record 56 sports across dozens of venues that are in some cases hours apart by car. Around 8,750 athletes and team officials are expected at this year's 30th edition -- the biggest ever -- along with another 12,000 volunteers. Organisers hope more than 500 million viewers will tune in on TV by the end of the competition on December 11. The Philippines have made a strong start to the Games, rising to the top of the medal table with over 70 in total, ahead of Vietnam in second place and Malaysia in third.

Evacuations, airport closure as Typhoon Kammuri nears Philippines

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrests-ordered-in-philippines-vaping-ban-263361">The Philippines</a> was braced for powerful Typhoon Kammuri as the storm churned closer, forcing evacuations and threatening plans for the Southeast Asian Games events near the capital Manila.

Kammuri is expected to make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday in the nation's east with heavy rains and wind gusts of up to 185 kilometres&nbsp;per hour, forecasters said.

The storm is on track to then pass close to Manila, which is home to some 13 million people and the site for many of the SEA Games competitions.

Nearly 70,000 people have already fled their homes in the Bicol region, which is where the typhoon is expected to make landfall.

"We hope there won't be any damage, but given its (Kammuri's) strength, we can't avoid it," Mark Timbal, spokesman for the national disaster agency, told AFP.

"We have preemptively evacuated people in areas that are in the storm's direct path."

The weather bureau also warned of rain-induced landslides and possible storm surges of up to three meters which could hit coastal areas in the nation's east.

The Philippines is hit by an average of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-in-philippines-flee-typhoon-kalmaegi-263171">20 storms and typhoons each year</a>, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty.&nbsp;

The country's deadliest cyclone on record was Super&nbsp;Typhoon&nbsp;Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013.

Games plagued by build-up woes

Kammuri is already snarling plans for the SEA Games, which opened Saturday for thousands of athletes from the region and is set to run through December 11 in and around Manila.

Windsurfing was cancelled and triathlon events were held earlier than scheduled. Organisers are due to deliver an update on the impact later on Monday.

Organisers have insisted they have contingency plans in place, including allowing indoor events to proceed but with attendance limited to competitors.

The storm is the latest trouble for the SEA Games, which saw a series of transport snafus and a rush of last-minute construction ahead of the opening.

This year's Games in Clark, Manila and Subic are already particularly complex, with a record 56 sports across dozens of venues that are in some cases hours apart by car.

Around 8,750 athletes and team officials are expected at this year's 30th edition,&nbsp;the biggest ever, along with another 12,000 volunteers. Organisers hope more than 500 million viewers will tune in on TV by the end of competition on December 11.

In an eclectic programme, Olympic sports like swimming and athletics sit side-by-side with regional favourites such as martial arts, and this year athletes will even battle an obstacle racecourse in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">Manila</a>.

The Philippines was braced for powerful Typhoon Kammuri as the storm churned closer, forcing evacuations and threatening plans for the Southeast Asian Games events near the capital Manila.

The Philippines was braced for powerful Typhoon Kammuri as the storm churned closer, forcing evacuations and threatening plans for the Southeast Asian Games events near the capital Manila. Kammuri is expected to make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday in the nation's east with heavy rains and wind gusts of up to 185 kilometres per hour, forecasters said. The storm is on track to then pass close to Manila, which is home to some 13 million people and the site for many of the SEA Games competitions. Nearly 70,000 people have already fled their homes in the Bicol region, which is where the typhoon is expected to make landfall. "We hope there won't be any damage, but given its (Kammuri's) strength, we can't avoid it," Mark Timbal, spokesman for the national disaster agency, told AFP. "We have preemptively evacuated people in areas that are in the storm's direct path." The weather bureau also warned of rain-induced landslides and possible storm surges of up to three meters which could hit coastal areas in the nation's east. The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and putting people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty. The country's deadliest cyclone on record was Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013. Games plagued by build-up woes Kammuri is already snarling plans for the SEA Games, which opened Saturday for thousands of athletes from the region and is set to run through December 11 in and around Manila. Windsurfing was cancelled and triathlon events were held earlier than scheduled. Organisers are due to deliver an update on the impact later on Monday. Organisers have insisted they have contingency plans in place, including allowing indoor events to proceed but with attendance limited to competitors. The storm is the latest trouble for the SEA Games, which saw a series of transport snafus and a rush of last-minute construction ahead of the opening. This year's Games in Clark, Manila and Subic are already particularly complex, with a record 56 sports across dozens of venues that are in some cases hours apart by car. Around 8,750 athletes and team officials are expected at this year's 30th edition, the biggest ever, along with another 12,000 volunteers. Organisers hope more than 500 million viewers will tune in on TV by the end of competition on December 11. In an eclectic programme, Olympic sports like swimming and athletics sit side-by-side with regional favourites such as martial arts, and this year athletes will even battle an obstacle racecourse in Manila.

Philippines: Thousands flee as Typhoon Kammuri expected to make landfall

As rising seas threaten, Philippines village sinks 4 centimetres every year

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrests-ordered-in-philippines-vaping-ban-263361">Philippine</a> Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said.

Pilots of flight 113&nbsp;declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine.

The plane landed around noon local time&nbsp;and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights.

Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March.

GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service."

Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car."

"I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-ban-toxic-vaping-philippines-president-duterte-263244">Philippine</a> Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport.

"All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said.

A Philippine Airlines flight bound for Manila suffered an apparent engine failure on Thursday shortly after takeoff from Los Angeles and made an emergency landing, authorities said. All 347 passengers and 18 crew aboard Flight 113, a Boeing Co 777 widebody, are safe, an airline spokeswoman said. Pilots of flight 113 declared an emergency and reported a possible engine failure, Los Angeles International Airport said. A witness on the ground described "bursts of flames" coming out of an engine. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration said the plane returned and landed safely. Television station ABC-7 in Los Angeles aired video of the aircraft after takeoff that showed flames and smoke coming out of the right engine. The plane landed around noon local time and was met by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the airport said. The emergency landing did not affect other flights. Although the cause of the apparent engine failure was not immediately clear, it comes as Boeing faces intense scrutiny over twin deadly crashes involving its 737 MAX single-aisle jetliner. The 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since March. GE Aviation, a subsidiary of General Electric, which makes the GE90 engine for the 777 twin-aisle jetliners, said it was aware of the incident and was "working with the airline to determine the cause of the event and to promptly return the aircraft to service." Boeing did not immediately respond to requests for comment. "You saw bursts of flames, little flames shooting out from the engine," said Andrew Ames, a 36-year-old fitness professional in Los Angeles, who watched as the 777 ascended over the ocean after takeoff. "It almost looked like backfire flames from a motorcycle or car." "I had never seen a plane spew flames repeatedly. Then it stopped. As soon as it stopped, I saw the plane bank left, like it was heading back to the airport," Ames said. The Philippine Airlines spokeswoman said the flight crew noticed smoke in the plane's second engine, declared an emergency and returned safely to the airport. "All passengers are safe and sound," spokeswoman Cielo Villaluna said. "They are all being assisted to another flight."

Philippine Airlines flight heading to Manila makes emergency landing in Los Angeles

A ban on e-cigarettes has been ordered by Philippine President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-president-picks-top-drug-war-critic-as-his-drugs-tsar-260094">Rodrigo Duterte</a>, who is threatening to arrest anyone vaping publicly in a country that already has some of Asia's toughest anti-smoking rules.

Duterte is notorious internationally for his deadly anti-narcotics crackdown, but he has also imposed a wide-ranging ban on smoking in public that is part of his pledge to get tough on the public disorder.

The president told a late-night press conference on Tuesday that the use and importation of electronic cigarettes would be banned, but did not provide a precise timeline.

"I will ban it, the use and the importation. I hope everybody is listening. Please relay this to them. You know why? Because it is toxic," said Duterte, an ex-smoker.

"Now this vaping, they say it is electronic. Don't give me that... Better stop it because in,&nbsp;I will order your arrest if you do it in a room," he added at his first public speaking engagement in weeks.

Watch: Protest against Duterte's war on drugs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-protest-against-dutertes-war-on-drugs-237848/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His comments come days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/preferably-dead-duterte-offers-cash-for-the-capture-of-freed-filipino-felons-250396">Philippine health authorities</a> reported the nation's first vaping-related lung injury, which resulted in a 16-year-old girl being hospitalised.

E-cigarettes have become hugely popular in the past decade but a rash of vaping-linked deaths and illnesses in the United States is feeding caution about the product, already banned in some places.

In September 2019 India became the latest country to ban the import, sale, production and advertising of e-cigarettes, citing in particular concerns about its youth.

The devices are already banned in several places such as Brazil, Singapore, Thailand and the US state of Massachusetts.

Before Duterte's presidency, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-duterte-to-bring-up-territorial-issues-with-china-during-meeting-with-president-xi-philippines-ambassador-246386">the Philippines</a> already had a ban on tobacco advertising, as well as a law that requires graphic images of smoking health hazards to be printed on cigarette packaging.

A ban on e-cigarettes has been ordered by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who is threatening to arrest anyone vaping publicly in a country that already has some of Asia's toughest anti-smoking rules.

A ban on e-cigarettes has been ordered by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who is threatening to arrest anyone vaping publicly in a country that already has some of Asia's toughest anti-smoking rules. Duterte is notorious internationally for his deadly anti-narcotics crackdown, but he has also imposed a wide-ranging ban on smoking in public that is part of his pledge to get tough on the public disorder. The president told a late-night press conference on Tuesday that the use and importation of electronic cigarettes would be banned, but did not provide a precise timeline. "I will ban it, the use and the importation. I hope everybody is listening. Please relay this to them. You know why? Because it is toxic," said Duterte, an ex-smoker. "Now this vaping, they say it is electronic. Don't give me that... Better stop it because in, I will order your arrest if you do it in a room," he added at his first public speaking engagement in weeks. Watch: Protest against Duterte's war on drugs His comments come days after Philippine health authorities reported the nation's first vaping-related lung injury, which resulted in a 16-year-old girl being hospitalised. E-cigarettes have become hugely popular in the past decade but a rash of vaping-linked deaths and illnesses in the United States is feeding caution about the product, already banned in some places. In September 2019 India became the latest country to ban the import, sale, production and advertising of e-cigarettes, citing in particular concerns about its youth. The devices are already banned in several places such as Brazil, Singapore, Thailand and the US state of Massachusetts. Before Duterte's presidency, the Philippines already had a ban on tobacco advertising, as well as a law that requires graphic images of smoking health hazards to be printed on cigarette packaging.

Want to ban 'toxic' vaping: Philippines' president Duterte

Just hours after Philippine President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-president-picks-top-drug-war-critic-as-his-drugs-tsar-260094">Rodrigo Duterte</a> announced he would ban<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/california-sues-e-cigarette-maker-juul-for-selling-nicotine-products-to-youth-263126"> e-cigarette</a> use, police were ordered on Wednesday to begin arresting people caught vaping in public and to confiscate the devices.

The abrupt prohibition, revealed by Duterte late Tuesday, adds to a growing global backlash against a product once promoted as less harmful than smoking.

Duterte called the devices "toxic" and said vaping introduced "chemicals" into the user's body.

He then threatened to arrest anyone vaping publicly in a country that already has some of Asia's toughest anti-smoking rules.

The president, a former smoker, is notorious internationally for his deadly anti-narcotics crackdown, but he has also targeted tobacco with a wide-ranging ban on smoking in public.

Citing "the order of the president", the head of the Philippine police ordered "effective today, all police units nationwide to enforce the ban on the use of vapes; ensure that all violators will be arrested," according to a statement.

Duterte's order came days after Philippine health authorities reported the nation's first vaping-related lung injury, which resulted in a 16-year-old girl being hospitalised.

About 24 per cent of Filipinos were tobacco users according to a 2015 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-deploys-new-vaccine-against-superbug-typhoid-outbreak-262349">World Health Organization </a>study, the most recent available.

E-cigarettes do not "burn" but instead heat up a liquid,&nbsp;tasting of anything from bourbon to bubble gum, and which usually contains nicotine,&nbsp;that turns into vapour and is inhaled.

Just hours after Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte announced he would ban e-cigarette use, police were ordered on Wednesday to begin arresting people caught vaping in public and to confiscate the devices.

Just hours after Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte announced he would ban e-cigarette use, police were ordered on Wednesday to begin arresting people caught vaping in public and to confiscate the devices. The abrupt prohibition, revealed by Duterte late Tuesday, adds to a growing global backlash against a product once promoted as less harmful than smoking. Duterte called the devices "toxic" and said vaping introduced "chemicals" into the user's body. He then threatened to arrest anyone vaping publicly in a country that already has some of Asia's toughest anti-smoking rules. The president, a former smoker, is notorious internationally for his deadly anti-narcotics crackdown, but he has also targeted tobacco with a wide-ranging ban on smoking in public. Citing "the order of the president", the head of the Philippine police ordered "effective today, all police units nationwide to enforce the ban on the use of vapes; ensure that all violators will be arrested," according to a statement. Duterte's order came days after Philippine health authorities reported the nation's first vaping-related lung injury, which resulted in a 16-year-old girl being hospitalised. About 24 per cent of Filipinos were tobacco users according to a 2015 World Health Organization study, the most recent available. E-cigarettes do not "burn" but instead heat up a liquid, tasting of anything from bourbon to bubble gum, and which usually contains nicotine, that turns into vapour and is inhaled.

Arrests ordered in Philippines after enforcement of vaping ban

At least 5,000 people have fled their homes with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-mangkhut-nears-philippines-165706">Typhoon</a> Kalmaegi poised to blast into the northern <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/magnitude-66-earthquake-strikes-off-southern-philippines-258606">Philippines</a> late Tuesday, with a second tropical storm forecast to hit just days later.

Kalmaegi is expected to batter the nation's lightly populated far north with 120 kilometres (75 miles) per hour winds, the national weather service said.

Heavy rains are forecast to swell rivers, cut off roads and threaten low-lying communities in Cagayan province, where officials guided residents towards shelter.

"We're expecting falling trees and houses that could be inundated by floods," provincial police chief Ariel Quilang told AFP.

Forecasters believe a second tropical storm could make landfall in the same province by Thursday.

The disaster-prone nation is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and condemning many areas in their path to perpetual poverty.

The weather bureau raised landslide warnings across the mountainous interior of the country's north, also warning of floods and waves up to two metres (6.5 feet) high in coastal areas.

At least a dozen domestic flights have been cancelled and schools shut down due to Kalmaegi, while small sea vessels were ordered to stay ashore with gale conditions forecast at sea.

The Philippines' deadliest cyclone on record was Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013.

At least 5,000 people have fled their homes with Typhoon Kalmaegi poised to blast into the northern Philippines late Tuesday, with a second tropical storm forecast to hit just days later.

At least 5,000 people have fled their homes with Typhoon Kalmaegi poised to blast into the northern Philippines late Tuesday, with a second tropical storm forecast to hit just days later. Kalmaegi is expected to batter the nation's lightly populated far north with 120 kilometres (75 miles) per hour winds, the national weather service said. Heavy rains are forecast to swell rivers, cut off roads and threaten low-lying communities in Cagayan province, where officials guided residents towards shelter. "We're expecting falling trees and houses that could be inundated by floods," provincial police chief Ariel Quilang told AFP. Forecasters believe a second tropical storm could make landfall in the same province by Thursday. The disaster-prone nation is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, killing hundreds and condemning many areas in their path to perpetual poverty. The weather bureau raised landslide warnings across the mountainous interior of the country's north, also warning of floods and waves up to two metres (6.5 feet) high in coastal areas. At least a dozen domestic flights have been cancelled and schools shut down due to Kalmaegi, while small sea vessels were ordered to stay ashore with gale conditions forecast at sea. The Philippines' deadliest cyclone on record was Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,300 people dead or missing in 2013.

Thousands in Philippines flee Typhoon Kalmaegi

Swvl, an Egyptian startup with an app to book bus tickets, plans to launch operations in the Philippines, Indonesia and Bangladesh by the end of next year, a senior official said.

The startup, which operates buses along fixed routes and allows customers to reserve and pay for them using its app, began operations in Egypt in 2017. Swvl has since launched in Pakistan and recently moved its headquarters to Dubai.

"By the end of next year, we want to be in more cities, a city is a market for us. We are planning to open in Manila, Jakarta and Dhaka," Shahzeb Memon, Swvl Pakistan's general manager told Reuters on Monday in a phone interview from Karachi.

The company, which has raised $80 million in funding so far, launched its services in August in the Pakistani cities of Karachi, Lahore and the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It plans to invest $25 million in the country to create 10,000 jobs and hopes to attract half a million customers by 2021, Memon said.

The company, however, has already run into regulatory hurdles.

Last week, a provincial government in Pakistan issued notices to the startup and another similar service saying they were operating without route permits and no-objection certificates from the government.

Swvl Pakistan responded with a statement saying the company always carried out its business in a lawful manner and was committed to complying with the region's laws.

Swvl says its service targets existing ride-hailing users and aims to create transportation options for a large and growing middle class in Asian cities.

Swvl's services are 30 per cent-40 per cent&nbsp;cheaper than using a car, Memon said.

Swvl, an Egyptian startup with an app to book bus tickets, plans to launch operations in the Philippines, Indonesia and Bangladesh by the end of next year, a senior official said.

Swvl, an Egyptian startup with an app to book bus tickets, plans to launch operations in the Philippines, Indonesia and Bangladesh by the end of next year, a senior official said. The startup, which operates buses along fixed routes and allows customers to reserve and pay for them using its app, began operations in Egypt in 2017. Swvl has since launched in Pakistan and recently moved its headquarters to Dubai. "By the end of next year, we want to be in more cities, a city is a market for us. We are planning to open in Manila, Jakarta and Dhaka," Shahzeb Memon, Swvl Pakistan's general manager told Reuters on Monday in a phone interview from Karachi. The company, which has raised $80 million in funding so far, launched its services in August in the Pakistani cities of Karachi, Lahore and the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It plans to invest $25 million in the country to create 10,000 jobs and hopes to attract half a million customers by 2021, Memon said. The company, however, has already run into regulatory hurdles. Last week, a provincial government in Pakistan issued notices to the startup and another similar service saying they were operating without route permits and no-objection certificates from the government. Swvl Pakistan responded with a statement saying the company always carried out its business in a lawful manner and was committed to complying with the region's laws. Swvl says its service targets existing ride-hailing users and aims to create transportation options for a large and growing middle class in Asian cities. Swvl's services are 30 per cent-40 per cent cheaper than using a car, Memon said.

Egyptian transport start-up Swvl targets Philippines, Bangladesh after launching in Pakistan

Philippine President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-president-sparks-outrage-for-calling-god-stupid-147127">Rodrigo Duterte</a> has appointed his main political rival, Leni Robredo, his "drugs tsar" after the opposition leader expressed alarm about the high death toll in his anti-narcotics campaign and said it needed a fresh approach.

The appointment follows critical remarks by Robredo during an interview with Reuters, and in subsequent media appearances, which angered the volatile Duterte and led to a torrent of social media fury at Robredo, who is his vice president but has no role in his administration.

Duterte's spokesman announced Robredo's appointment on Tuesday as co-chair of an inter-agency panel on drugs, which he said was genuine and not a cynical political play to discredit her, as her camp believed. The president has ordered all agencies to give her their full support.

"If she has been criticising the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-drugs-war-escalates-teenager-killed-19175">drug war</a> as ineffective, then there must be ideas on her mind to make it effective," Panelo said on television.

Robredo, 54, was elected separately to Duterte and is among a growing number of critics who say his approach has boosted his tough image but had little impact on the drugs trade or addiction rates.

She did not immediately confirm if she would take the job. Her spokesman has said she would not be a scapegoat for the shortcomings of Duterte's war on drugs.

He remains hugely popular because of his defiance of the international outcry caused by his signature crackdown, which human rights groups say involves systematic executions and police cover-ups. Police reject that and say the nearly 7,000 people they killed were armed drug suspects who resisted arrest.

Duterte is furious that the UN&nbsp;Human Rights Council wants to investigate the killings, adding to an ongoing preliminary examination by the International Criminal Court (ICC), of which Duterte has cancelled the Philippines' membership.

Obliged&nbsp;to&nbsp;accept

Allies of the president urged Robredo to take the post while the Dangerous Drugs Board and police said they welcomed her experience, ideas and a new perspective.

Political analyst Ramon Casiple said that politics aside, Robredo was not in a position to decline.

"There's the obligation, not just a personal decision. If you were elected and the president sought for help, you will," he said.

Duterte has openly insulted Robredo, who leads a party with diminished power and influence.

She advocates tackling drugs from a health, social and community perspective, including prevention and treatment rather than a largely police-centred approach.

Activists say police are operating with impunity, with the implied support of a president who once vowed to kill 100,000 dealers, and he would be happy to slaughter millions of addicts. He has since said he uses hyperbole to stress a point and denies inciting murder.

Estimates of the number killed during the drugs war vary significantly, but thousands of users and alleged dealers have wound up dead outside of official police operations, many in mysterious circumstances.

Robredo on October&nbsp;23 told Reuters that international help, including from the United Nations and ICC, should be sought if the government refused to change tack and stop abusive police. On Duterte's approach, she said: "Obviously, it's not working."

Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana of the Commission on Human Rights was hopeful Robredo could stop the killings.

"Are we going to look at addicts as victims?" she said. "The approach would not be to kill them but to rehabilitate them."

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed his main political rival, Leni Robredo, his "drugs tsar" after the opposition leader expressed alarm about the high death toll in his anti-narcotics campaign and said it needed a fresh approach.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed his main political rival, Leni Robredo, his "drugs tsar" after the opposition leader expressed alarm about the high death toll in his anti-narcotics campaign and said it needed a fresh approach. The appointment follows critical remarks by Robredo during an interview with Reuters, and in subsequent media appearances, which angered the volatile Duterte and led to a torrent of social media fury at Robredo, who is his vice president but has no role in his administration. Duterte's spokesman announced Robredo's appointment on Tuesday as co-chair of an inter-agency panel on drugs, which he said was genuine and not a cynical political play to discredit her, as her camp believed. The president has ordered all agencies to give her their full support. "If she has been criticising the drug war as ineffective, then there must be ideas on her mind to make it effective," Panelo said on television. Robredo, 54, was elected separately to Duterte and is among a growing number of critics who say his approach has boosted his tough image but had little impact on the drugs trade or addiction rates. She did not immediately confirm if she would take the job. Her spokesman has said she would not be a scapegoat for the shortcomings of Duterte's war on drugs. He remains hugely popular because of his defiance of the international outcry caused by his signature crackdown, which human rights groups say involves systematic executions and police cover-ups. Police reject that and say the nearly 7,000 people they killed were armed drug suspects who resisted arrest. Duterte is furious that the UN Human Rights Council wants to investigate the killings, adding to an ongoing preliminary examination by the International Criminal Court (ICC), of which Duterte has cancelled the Philippines' membership. Obliged to accept Allies of the president urged Robredo to take the post while the Dangerous Drugs Board and police said they welcomed her experience, ideas and a new perspective. Political analyst Ramon Casiple said that politics aside, Robredo was not in a position to decline. "There's the obligation, not just a personal decision. If you were elected and the president sought for help, you will," he said. Duterte has openly insulted Robredo, who leads a party with diminished power and influence. She advocates tackling drugs from a health, social and community perspective, including prevention and treatment rather than a largely police-centred approach. Activists say police are operating with impunity, with the implied support of a president who once vowed to kill 100,000 dealers, and he would be happy to slaughter millions of addicts. He has since said he uses hyperbole to stress a point and denies inciting murder. Estimates of the number killed during the drugs war vary significantly, but thousands of users and alleged dealers have wound up dead outside of official police operations, many in mysterious circumstances. Robredo on October 23 told Reuters that international help, including from the United Nations and ICC, should be sought if the government refused to change tack and stop abusive police. On Duterte's approach, she said: "Obviously, it's not working." Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana of the Commission on Human Rights was hopeful Robredo could stop the killings. "Are we going to look at addicts as victims?" she said. "The approach would not be to kill them but to rehabilitate them."

Philippines' President Duterte picks top drug war critic Robredo as his 'drugs tsar'

The death toll in two powerful quakes that struck the southern Philippines in the past week has risen to 21, authorities said Sunday, as survivors struggled to access food and water.

The 6.6-magnitude and 6.5-magnitude quakes hit the island of Mindanao two days apart, destroying buildings and displacing tens of thousands of residents.

Some villagers staying under tents near a highway were begging for help from passing motorists, carrying placards asking for food and water, TV footage showed.

Rescuers had found more bodies, many crushed by falling debris and landslides caused by the violent shaking, the national disaster council said.

The quakes also left 432 residents injured with two people still missing, it added.

Thursday's big quake was the third since mid-October in the Mindanao region, which makes up a third of the Philippines.

Temporary shelters have been set up to house more than 20,000 displaced individuals -- many already there since the first quake struck on October 16, leaving seven people dead.

On Sunday, rescuers continued their evacuation of families whose houses were endangered by landslides, while several residents trapped in mountainous villages had been airlifted to safety.

The government said aid has reached affected communities and instructed people sleeping near the road to go to evacuation centres for help.

The Philippines suffers regular tremors as part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

The death toll in two powerful quakes that struck the southern Philippines in the past week has risen to 21, authorities said Sunday, as survivors struggled to access food and water.

The death toll in two powerful quakes that struck the southern Philippines in the past week has risen to 21, authorities said Sunday, as survivors struggled to access food and water. The 6.6-magnitude and 6.5-magnitude quakes hit the island of Mindanao two days apart, destroying buildings and displacing tens of thousands of residents. Some villagers staying under tents near a highway were begging for help from passing motorists, carrying placards asking for food and water, TV footage showed. Rescuers had found more bodies, many crushed by falling debris and landslides caused by the violent shaking, the national disaster council said. The quakes also left 432 residents injured with two people still missing, it added. Thursday's big quake was the third since mid-October in the Mindanao region, which makes up a third of the Philippines. Temporary shelters have been set up to house more than 20,000 displaced individuals -- many already there since the first quake struck on October 16, leaving seven people dead. On Sunday, rescuers continued their evacuation of families whose houses were endangered by landslides, while several residents trapped in mountainous villages had been airlifted to safety. The government said aid has reached affected communities and instructed people sleeping near the road to go to evacuation centres for help. The Philippines suffers regular tremors as part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

Toll in Philippine quakes climbs to 21

A<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-earthquake-65-magnitude-earthquake-hits-davao-city-258984"> powerful earthquake</a> struck the southern Philippines on Thursday, killing at least four people and sparking searches of seriously damaged buildings that had already been rattled by two previous deadly tremors in recent weeks.&nbsp;

The 6.5 magnitude quake hit the island of Mindanao, the US Geological Survey said, causing locals to run to safety in the same area where a strong tremor killed eight&nbsp;people on Tuesday.

The powerful shaking caused serious damage to a condominium building in the major southern city of Davao, which was about 45 kilometres&nbsp;from the epicentre.

At least nine people were hurt at the building, and rescuers had launched a search to determine if residents might be trapped inside, police told AFP.&nbsp;

Four people were killed in nearby Cotabato province by the quake, including a local official who was crushed to death, a police official said. &nbsp;

A hotel partially collapsed in another area, but a disaster official said the building had already been evacuated.

Locals have been left terrified by a string of powerful quakes, and hundreds of aftershocks since the first powerful tremor struck on October 16.

"I panicked and I rushed outside. I was afraid the building might collapse," said Beth Lancian, a restaurant cashier in Davao. "There's been an earthquake almost every week."

President Rodrigo Duterte was in his hometown of Davao when the shaking began, but his spokesman said he was unharmed.&nbsp;

Some 12,000 people were already in shelters on Mindanao island before Thursday's quake hit, the government said, either because their homes have been destroyed or they were too afraid to return to their residences.

The Philippines suffers regular tremors as part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

In the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/magnitude-66-earthquake-strikes-off-southern-philippines-258606">6.6 magnitude quake </a>on Tuesday, a teenage boy was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school in Magsaysay, the town spokesman told AFP.&nbsp;

Rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking killed four others, while a collapsed wall crushed a man, authorities said.

Nearly 400 people were hurt, including some seven pupils and teachers hurt escaping their collapsed elementary school.

The area was still suffering the effects of a 6.4-magnitude quake that hit less than two weeks ago, killing at least five people and damaging dozens of buildings.

Residents fled homes across the Mindanao region and a mall caught fire in the city of General Santos shortly after the quake struck on October 16.

Hundreds of people were still displaced two weeks after that quake when the second one struck earlier this week, forcing thousands more from their homes.

One of the deadliest quakes to hit the Philippines recently was in April, when 16 people were killed as a building near the capital Manila collapsed and the secondary Clark airport was shut down after damage to the passenger terminal.

High-rise structures in the capital swayed after the April quake, leaving some with large cracks in their walls.

&nbsp;

A powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Thursday, killing at least four people and sparking searches of seriously damaged buildings that had already been rattled by two previous deadly tremors in recent weeks.

A powerful earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Thursday, killing at least four people and sparking searches of seriously damaged buildings that had already been rattled by two previous deadly tremors in recent weeks. The 6.5 magnitude quake hit the island of Mindanao, the US Geological Survey said, causing locals to run to safety in the same area where a strong tremor killed eight people on Tuesday. The powerful shaking caused serious damage to a condominium building in the major southern city of Davao, which was about 45 kilometres from the epicentre. At least nine people were hurt at the building, and rescuers had launched a search to determine if residents might be trapped inside, police told AFP. Four people were killed in nearby Cotabato province by the quake, including a local official who was crushed to death, a police official said. A hotel partially collapsed in another area, but a disaster official said the building had already been evacuated. Locals have been left terrified by a string of powerful quakes, and hundreds of aftershocks since the first powerful tremor struck on October 16. "I panicked and I rushed outside. I was afraid the building might collapse," said Beth Lancian, a restaurant cashier in Davao. "There's been an earthquake almost every week." President Rodrigo Duterte was in his hometown of Davao when the shaking began, but his spokesman said he was unharmed. Some 12,000 people were already in shelters on Mindanao island before Thursday's quake hit, the government said, either because their homes have been destroyed or they were too afraid to return to their residences. The Philippines suffers regular tremors as part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. In the 6.6 magnitude quake on Tuesday, a teenage boy was crushed by a falling wall as he tried to escape his school in Magsaysay, the town spokesman told AFP. Rock and landslides unleashed by the violent shaking killed four others, while a collapsed wall crushed a man, authorities said. Nearly 400 people were hurt, including some seven pupils and teachers hurt escaping their collapsed elementary school. The area was still suffering the effects of a 6.4-magnitude quake that hit less than two weeks ago, killing at least five people and damaging dozens of buildings. Residents fled homes across the Mindanao region and a mall caught fire in the city of General Santos shortly after the quake struck on October 16. Hundreds of people were still displaced two weeks after that quake when the second one struck earlier this week, forcing thousands more from their homes. One of the deadliest quakes to hit the Philippines recently was in April, when 16 people were killed as a building near the capital Manila collapsed and the secondary Clark airport was shut down after damage to the passenger terminal. High-rise structures in the capital swayed after the April quake, leaving some with large cracks in their walls.

New powerful quake hits South Philippines

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 hit central Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Tuesday, shaking buildings and causing residents to rush from schools and offices.

The quake struck 26 km&nbsp;northeast of Tulunan, Cotabato at 9:04 am (0104 GMT), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

There were no were immediate reports of casualties or major damage, but with several aftershocks to be expected, Phivolcs advised residents in affected areas to remain outside the buildings.

The earthquake also shook nearby provinces and cities, including Davao City, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte and among the most populous cities in the country.

DZMM radio reported that power cables were seen swinging in Davao, while people rushed to open spaces, with some fainting because of fear.

Classes in schools were suspended after the earthquake.

It also triggered power cuts in General Santos City, ANC news channel reported.

The quake was initially reported as being of 6.7 magnitudes by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).

Earthquakes are common in the Philippines, which is on the geologically active Pacific Ring of Fire.

On October&nbsp;16, a magnitude <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-three-from-philippines-earthquake-256395">6.4 earthquake</a> struck central Mindanao, killing five people and injuring dozens.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 hit central Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Tuesday, shaking buildings and causing residents to rush from schools and offices.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 hit central Mindanao in the southern Philippines on Tuesday, shaking buildings and causing residents to rush from schools and offices. The quake struck 26 km northeast of Tulunan, Cotabato at 9:04 am (0104 GMT), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said. There were no were immediate reports of casualties or major damage, but with several aftershocks to be expected, Phivolcs advised residents in affected areas to remain outside the buildings. The earthquake also shook nearby provinces and cities, including Davao City, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte and among the most populous cities in the country. DZMM radio reported that power cables were seen swinging in Davao, while people rushed to open spaces, with some fainting because of fear. Classes in schools were suspended after the earthquake. It also triggered power cuts in General Santos City, ANC news channel reported. The quake was initially reported as being of 6.7 magnitudes by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). Earthquakes are common in the Philippines, which is on the geologically active Pacific Ring of Fire. On October 16, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck central Mindanao, killing five people and injuring dozens.

6.6-magnitude earthquake strikes off southern Philippines

India and the Philippines on Friday `strongly condemned` terrorism in all manifestations and expressed commitment to continue their cooperation in fighting the global menace.

"India and Philippines strongly condemn terrorism and commit to continue their cooperation in fighting this global menace! Defence and Maritime security emerge as a new focus area!" External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Earlier in the day, President Ram Nath Kovind has said that India and Philippines have been victims of terrorism and both the countries were committed to working together closely to defeat it in all forms and manifestations.

"Both our countries have been victims of terrorism. As you know, India has been the target of cross-border terrorism for decades. We are committed to working closely together to defeat and eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," President Kovind said during his ongoing five-day visit to the Philippines.

The President also emphasised that the "two vibrant democracies" believe in "rules-based international order." "As two vibrant democracies that believe in a rules-based international order, respect for international law and sovereign equality of nations, the Philippines and India are natural partners in the pursuit of their respective national development and security objectives," President Kovind said.

The President recalled that the bilateral relationship between the two countries has `intensified` after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017.

"Our relations have grown from strength to strength. We have strong cooperation in political, defence and security, counter-terrorism, trade and investment as well as in agriculture, science and technology and health fields," he said.

Asserting that there is potential to further deepen the Philippines-India economic ties, the President said he is looking forward to addressing the India-Philippines Business Conclave and the 4th ASEAN-India Business Summit tomorrow.&nbsp;

India and the Philippines on Friday `strongly condemned` terrorism in all manifestations and expressed commitment to continue their cooperation in fighting the global menace.

India and the Philippines on Friday `strongly condemned` terrorism in all manifestations and expressed commitment to continue their cooperation in fighting the global menace. "India and Philippines strongly condemn terrorism and commit to continue their cooperation in fighting this global menace! Defence and Maritime security emerge as a new focus area!" External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Earlier in the day, President Ram Nath Kovind has said that India and Philippines have been victims of terrorism and both the countries were committed to working together closely to defeat it in all forms and manifestations. "Both our countries have been victims of terrorism. As you know, India has been the target of cross-border terrorism for decades. We are committed to working closely together to defeat and eliminate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," President Kovind said during his ongoing five-day visit to the Philippines. The President also emphasised that the "two vibrant democracies" believe in "rules-based international order." "As two vibrant democracies that believe in a rules-based international order, respect for international law and sovereign equality of nations, the Philippines and India are natural partners in the pursuit of their respective national development and security objectives," President Kovind said. The President recalled that the bilateral relationship between the two countries has `intensified` after the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2017. "Our relations have grown from strength to strength. We have strong cooperation in political, defence and security, counter-terrorism, trade and investment as well as in agriculture, science and technology and health fields," he said. Asserting that there is potential to further deepen the Philippines-India economic ties, the President said he is looking forward to addressing the India-Philippines Business Conclave and the 4th ASEAN-India Business Summit tomorrow.

India, Philippines to bolster cooperation for fighting terrorism

At least three people were killed and dozens injured when a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the southern Philippines late on Wednesday, authorities said on Thursday.

The earthquake knocked out power and communications and opened cracks in buildings in central Mindanao.

Two people were killed and 18 injured in a landslide in Magsaysay town in Davao del Sur province, national disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal said.

A seven-year-old girl was killed when a wall in her house collapsed, said Reuel Limbungan, mayor of Tulunan town in North Cotabato province.

The disaster agency said 27 people were injured and 15 buildings damaged, including shopping malls, schools and town halls.

The earthquake also shook Davao City, the home town of President Rodrigo Duterte and among the most populous cities in the country.

The quake struck 69 km north-northwest of the city of General Santos, Mindanao at 7:37 p.m., the United States Geological Survey said. The epicentre was about 80 km southwest of central Davao.

"We felt a very strong jolt and there was a blackout. I saw people rushing down. We were panicking, heading to the exit," said Naru Guarda Cabaddu, a hotel consultant visiting Kidapawan City between the epicentre of the quake and Davao.

The Philippines is on the geologically active Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences frequent earthquakes.

"I was driving back home when I felt a very powerful shake. I stopped and saw people and patients running out of the hospital," Raprap Rafael, a resident of Kidapawan City, told Reuters.

A community at the foot of a mountain had to evacuate because of more than 200 aftershocks, Palmer Bernalte, a Kidapawan city disaster official, told CNN Philippines channel.

At least three people were killed and dozens injured when a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the southern Philippines late on Wednesday, authorities said on Thursday.

At least three people were killed and dozens injured when a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the southern Philippines late on Wednesday, authorities said on Thursday. The earthquake knocked out power and communications and opened cracks in buildings in central Mindanao. Two people were killed and 18 injured in a landslide in Magsaysay town in Davao del Sur province, national disaster agency spokesman Mark Timbal said. A seven-year-old girl was killed when a wall in her house collapsed, said Reuel Limbungan, mayor of Tulunan town in North Cotabato province. The disaster agency said 27 people were injured and 15 buildings damaged, including shopping malls, schools and town halls. The earthquake also shook Davao City, the home town of President Rodrigo Duterte and among the most populous cities in the country. The quake struck 69 km north-northwest of the city of General Santos, Mindanao at 7:37 p.m., the United States Geological Survey said. The epicentre was about 80 km southwest of central Davao. "We felt a very strong jolt and there was a blackout. I saw people rushing down. We were panicking, heading to the exit," said Naru Guarda Cabaddu, a hotel consultant visiting Kidapawan City between the epicentre of the quake and Davao. The Philippines is on the geologically active Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences frequent earthquakes. "I was driving back home when I felt a very powerful shake. I stopped and saw people and patients running out of the hospital," Raprap Rafael, a resident of Kidapawan City, told Reuters. A community at the foot of a mountain had to evacuate because of more than 200 aftershocks, Palmer Bernalte, a Kidapawan city disaster official, told CNN Philippines channel.

Death toll rises to three from Philippines earthquake

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday departed for an official seven-day visit to the Philippines and Japan with an aim to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The highlights of the visit would be the President attending the enthronement ceremony of new Japanese Emperor Naruhito and unveiling the bust of Mahatama Gandhi at the Center of peace education at a college in Philippines'&nbsp;capital Manila.

Kovind will arrive in Manila on the first leg of the tour. The five-day-long visit has been organised at the invitation of Philippines President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and will carry forward the high-level engagements between the two countries.

The relations of New Delhi with Manila have been friendly. The economic relationship between the two countries has been growing and trade stands at USD 2.3 billion dollars.

Kovind will receive a ceremonial guard of honour at Malacanang Palace. The President will lay a wreath at a memorial of Jose Rizal, who is the national hero of the Philippines.

The one-to-one talks between Kovind and Duterte will be followed by delegation-level talks.

The President will address the plenary meetings of Indo-Philippine business conclave and fourth ASEAN India business summit.

Kovind will also unveil the bust of Mahatama Gandhi at the Centre of peace education at Marian College in Manila. He will interact with the Indian community on the penultimate day of his visit to the Philippines.

The President will head to Tokyo on October 21. He will attend various ceremonies related to the Emperor Naruhito's enthronement and also take part in a banquet hosted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The ceremony will be attended by leaders from all parts of the world. Along with participating in a community event, the President will visit a Buddhist temple and plant a sapling from the sacred Bodhi Tree in Gaya to highlight India and Japan's historical and cultural linkages based on Buddhism.

Kovind will take one of the superfast trains to visit the Kakegawa city on the forenoon of October 23. He will participate in the foundation laying ceremony of 'shoni seto'&nbsp;which is to be developed as a temple and a place for meditation and yoga to highlight Indian culture.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday departed for an official seven-day visit to the Philippines and Japan with an aim to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday departed for an official seven-day visit to the Philippines and Japan with an aim to expand the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The highlights of the visit would be the President attending the enthronement ceremony of new Japanese Emperor Naruhito and unveiling the bust of Mahatama Gandhi at the Center of peace education at a college in Philippines' capital Manila. Kovind will arrive in Manila on the first leg of the tour. The five-day-long visit has been organised at the invitation of Philippines President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and will carry forward the high-level engagements between the two countries. The relations of New Delhi with Manila have been friendly. The economic relationship between the two countries has been growing and trade stands at USD 2.3 billion dollars. Kovind will receive a ceremonial guard of honour at Malacanang Palace. The President will lay a wreath at a memorial of Jose Rizal, who is the national hero of the Philippines. The one-to-one talks between Kovind and Duterte will be followed by delegation-level talks. The President will address the plenary meetings of Indo-Philippine business conclave and fourth ASEAN India business summit. Kovind will also unveil the bust of Mahatama Gandhi at the Centre of peace education at Marian College in Manila. He will interact with the Indian community on the penultimate day of his visit to the Philippines. The President will head to Tokyo on October 21. He will attend various ceremonies related to the Emperor Naruhito's enthronement and also take part in a banquet hosted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The ceremony will be attended by leaders from all parts of the world. Along with participating in a community event, the President will visit a Buddhist temple and plant a sapling from the sacred Bodhi Tree in Gaya to highlight India and Japan's historical and cultural linkages based on Buddhism. Kovind will take one of the superfast trains to visit the Kakegawa city on the forenoon of October 23. He will participate in the foundation laying ceremony of 'shoni seto' which is to be developed as a temple and a place for meditation and yoga to highlight Indian culture.

President Kovind embarks on 7-day visit to Philippines, Japan

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