Allies of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte have dominated a mid-term Senate election according to unofficial results on Tuesday, indicating growing support for the maverick leader and broad public endorsement of his controversial rule.

Polls close in Philippines vote seen as referendum on Duterte

Two explosions rocked the majority Muslim area of the southern Philippines on Monday, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-votes-in-polls-expected-to-strengthen-dutertes-grip-on-power-218221">few hours before elections began in the country</a>.

No casualties were reported in the incidents.

The first blast took place around 1 am on Monday in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao province, according to local media reports.

Another blast was reported some 500 meters away from a polling centre - an hour and a half before voting was to begin - at around 4.30 am.

Armed Forces spokesperson, Noel Detoyato, said that fragments of the explosives are being investigated to determine the type used and added that tanks have been deployed in the area to reinforce security during election day.

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The national police chief, Oscar Albayalde, said that the motive behind blast was to create fear among the voters but not to cause victims.

According to witnesses, a little before the second explosion occurred, a group of men in t-shirts that read MNLF - Moro National Liberation Front, an Islamic separatist organization - entered the voting centre and caused minor damage.

Two explosions also occurred in the nearby city of Cortabato on Sunday, in which no casualties were reported.

These blasts have not yet been reported to be linked to the elections as the investigations are ongoing.

Violence during election process in the country is common where dozens of candidates and supporters are killed in every election as political corruption in a country with deep pockets of poverty becomes a source of income.

According to the Election Commission, during the pre-campaign and campaign, 43 violent incidents related to elections were recorded which left 20 dead and 24 injured.

Some 200 people have been detained for attempting to buy votes - at a price of around $19 but in some cases for as low as 20 pesos, the Commission reported.

Some, 61.8 million Filipinos are eligible to vote in the local and legislative elections to decide between 43,000 candidates for 18,000 posts, including mayors, councillors, provincial governors and some 300 congress members.

Cotabato city and Maguindanao province - where the explosions too place - are part of Bangsamoro, a new autonomous Muslim region which is widely supported by the population and which seeks to end decades of separatist conflict in the southern Philippines. Some radical groups remain opposed to this solution.

Two explosions rocked the majority Muslim area of the southern Philippines on Monday, a few hours before elections began in the country. No casualties were reported in the incidents.

Two explosions rocked the majority Muslim area of the southern Philippines on Monday, a few hours before elections began in the country. No casualties were reported in the incidents. The first blast took place around 1 am on Monday in Datu Odin Sinsuat town in Maguindanao province, according to local media reports. Another blast was reported some 500 meters away from a polling centre - an hour and a half before voting was to begin - at around 4.30 am. Armed Forces spokesperson, Noel Detoyato, said that fragments of the explosives are being investigated to determine the type used and added that tanks have been deployed in the area to reinforce security during election day. The national police chief, Oscar Albayalde, said that the motive behind blast was to create fear among the voters but not to cause victims. According to witnesses, a little before the second explosion occurred, a group of men in t-shirts that read MNLF - Moro National Liberation Front, an Islamic separatist organization - entered the voting centre and caused minor damage. Two explosions also occurred in the nearby city of Cortabato on Sunday, in which no casualties were reported. These blasts have not yet been reported to be linked to the elections as the investigations are ongoing. Violence during election process in the country is common where dozens of candidates and supporters are killed in every election as political corruption in a country with deep pockets of poverty becomes a source of income. According to the Election Commission, during the pre-campaign and campaign, 43 violent incidents related to elections were recorded which left 20 dead and 24 injured. Some 200 people have been detained for attempting to buy votes - at a price of around $19 but in some cases for as low as 20 pesos, the Commission reported. Some, 61.8 million Filipinos are eligible to vote in the local and legislative elections to decide between 43,000 candidates for 18,000 posts, including mayors, councillors, provincial governors and some 300 congress members. Cotabato city and Maguindanao province - where the explosions too place - are part of Bangsamoro, a new autonomous Muslim region which is widely supported by the population and which seeks to end decades of separatist conflict in the southern Philippines. Some radical groups remain opposed to this solution.

Two explosions rock southern Philippines ahead of election

Over 60 million voters are going to the polls across the Philippines for midterm elections on Monday that are being seen as a bellwether for the popularity of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Philippines holds midterm polls seen as final step in Duterte consolidation

Two explosions rocked the majority Muslim area of the southern Philippines on Monday, few hours before elections were to begin in the country. No casualty was reported in the incident.

Two explosions rock southern Philippines ahead of election day

An earthquake of 6.5 magnitude struck the island of Samar in the Philippines on Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said.

The USGS said the earthquake hit near Tutubigan, which is hundreds of kilometres south of the quake that hit near Manila.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

This is the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-killed-dozens-feared-trapped-after-earthquake-hits-philippines-212721">second earthquake in the Philippines</a> this week.

A magnitude of 6.1 earthquake struck the Philippines' main island of Luzon on Monday killing eight people and injuring 20.

The quake hit 60 kilometres northwest of the capital, Manila, disrupting air, rail and road transport and causing some damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The Philippines is prone to natural disasters, located on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire", a horse-shoe shaped band of volcanoes and fault lines that circles the edges of the Pacific Ocean. It is also hit by an average 20 typhoons a year, bringing heavy rains that trigger deadly landslides.

An earthquake of 6.5 magnitude struck the island of Samar in the Philippines on Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said. The USGS said the earthquake hit near Tutubigan, which is hundreds of kilometres south of the quake that hit near Manila.

An earthquake of 6.5 magnitude struck the island of Samar in the Philippines on Tuesday, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said. The USGS said the earthquake hit near Tutubigan, which is hundreds of kilometres south of the quake that hit near Manila. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. This is the second earthquake in the Philippines this week. A magnitude of 6.1 earthquake struck the Philippines' main island of Luzon on Monday killing eight people and injuring 20. The quake hit 60 kilometres northwest of the capital, Manila, disrupting air, rail and road transport and causing some damage to buildings and infrastructure. The Philippines is prone to natural disasters, located on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire", a horse-shoe shaped band of volcanoes and fault lines that circles the edges of the Pacific Ocean. It is also hit by an average 20 typhoons a year, bringing heavy rains that trigger deadly landslides.

Strong 6.5-magnitude earthquake jolts Philippines: USGS

At least eight people were killed when a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-quake-sends-philippine-workers-fleeing-buildings-212576">magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the Philippines'</a> main island of Luzon on Monday and officials feared dozens could be trapped in the rubble of a collapsed commercial building.

The quake hit 60 kilometres northwest of the capital, Manila, disrupting air, rail and road transport and causing some damage to buildings and infrastructure.

The province of Pampanga was worst hit. Eight people were killed and about 20 injured, provincial governor Lilia Pineda said by telephone, citing information from disaster officials.

Rescuers were using heavy-duty equipment and search dogs to try to reach people trapped after a four-storey building went down, crushing the ground-floor supermarket, she said.

"They can be heard crying in pain," she said of those trapped. "It won't be easy to rescue them."

The quake was initially reported as being of 6.3 magnitude and later revised down to 6.1 magnitude, the US Geological Survey and Philippines seismology authorities said.

The Philippines is prone to natural disasters, located on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire", a horse-shoe shaped band of volcanoes and fault lines that circles the edges of the Pacific Ocean. It is also hit by an average 20 typhoons a year, bringing heavy rains that trigger deadly landslides.

Pampanga's international airport at Clark, a former US military base, was closed and scores of flights were cancelled after damage to parts of the facility including check-in areas.

Large cracks appeared on provincial roads and electricity poles were felled.

Rescue teams in Manila were preparing to reinforce efforts to reach people trapped in Pampanga. The government urged people to be calm as rumours of greater death and destruction gained traction online.

"We urge them to refrain from spreading disinformation in social media that may cause undue alarm, panic and stress," said presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo.

In Manila, the quake, shortly after 5 p.m., caused tall buildings to sway for several minutes in the main business districts.

"We got nervous, we got dizzy. I ran downstairs with three kids," said Arlene Puno, a domestic helper in a high-rise apartment in the Makati financial centre.

Elevated rail services were halted and workers were evacuated from offices and condominiums, sending a flood of people onto sidewalks and into bus queues and adding more chaos to roads that are among the world's most congested.

The quake was initially reported as being of 6.3 magnitude and later revised down to 6.1 magnitude, the US Geological Survey and Philippines seismology authorities said.

Mark Genesis Samodio, 23, a maintenance worker at a Makati condominium in the capital, said the quake's impact was unusual, even for a city that has grown used to them.

"I was sitting down then it shook so strong I thought I was being rocked in a cradle," he said.

At least eight people were killed when a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the Philippines' main island of Luzon on Monday and officials feared dozens could be trapped in the rubble of a collapsed commercial building.

At least eight people were killed when a magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the Philippines' main island of Luzon on Monday and officials feared dozens could be trapped in the rubble of a collapsed commercial building. The quake hit 60 kilometres northwest of the capital, Manila, disrupting air, rail and road transport and causing some damage to buildings and infrastructure. The province of Pampanga was worst hit. Eight people were killed and about 20 injured, provincial governor Lilia Pineda said by telephone, citing information from disaster officials. Rescuers were using heavy-duty equipment and search dogs to try to reach people trapped after a four-storey building went down, crushing the ground-floor supermarket, she said. "They can be heard crying in pain," she said of those trapped. "It won't be easy to rescue them." The quake was initially reported as being of 6.3 magnitude and later revised down to 6.1 magnitude, the US Geological Survey and Philippines seismology authorities said. The Philippines is prone to natural disasters, located on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire", a horse-shoe shaped band of volcanoes and fault lines that circles the edges of the Pacific Ocean. It is also hit by an average 20 typhoons a year, bringing heavy rains that trigger deadly landslides. Pampanga's international airport at Clark, a former US military base, was closed and scores of flights were cancelled after damage to parts of the facility including check-in areas. Large cracks appeared on provincial roads and electricity poles were felled. Rescue teams in Manila were preparing to reinforce efforts to reach people trapped in Pampanga. The government urged people to be calm as rumours of greater death and destruction gained traction online. "We urge them to refrain from spreading disinformation in social media that may cause undue alarm, panic and stress," said presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo. In Manila, the quake, shortly after 5 p.m., caused tall buildings to sway for several minutes in the main business districts. "We got nervous, we got dizzy. I ran downstairs with three kids," said Arlene Puno, a domestic helper in a high-rise apartment in the Makati financial centre. Elevated rail services were halted and workers were evacuated from offices and condominiums, sending a flood of people onto sidewalks and into bus queues and adding more chaos to roads that are among the world's most congested. The quake was initially reported as being of 6.3 magnitude and later revised down to 6.1 magnitude, the US Geological Survey and Philippines seismology authorities said. Mark Genesis Samodio, 23, a maintenance worker at a Makati condominium in the capital, said the quake's impact was unusual, even for a city that has grown used to them. "I was sitting down then it shook so strong I thought I was being rocked in a cradle," he said.

Eight killed, dozens feared trapped after earthquake hits Philippines

A powerful earthquake struck the Philippines on Monday, sending thousands of people fleeing high-rises in Manila as buildings shook.

Office workers piled out onto the streets as emergency alarms blared, AFP reporters saw, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

Feliza Villanueva, 21, a business process outsourcing employee told AFP she and four colleagues were at work when the quake struck.

"This was the second strongest quake I've felt in my entire life," she told AFP as she joined hundreds of others in the courtyard of an office building, waiting for the all clear.

"We were worried but we did not panic," she said.

"We planned how to evacuate the building. There were too many people going down the stairs, so we waited for our turn. People looked in shock, but no one was shouting or anything like that," she said.

The quake was centred on the town of Castillejos, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) northwest of Manila, local geologists said.

Scientists from the US Geological Survey logged its magnitude at 6.3 and said its epicentre was 40 kilometres (25 miles) below the Earth's surface.

Dani Justo, a martial arts instructor, told AFP she was at her Manila home when the quake struck.

"The clothes hanging on our line were really swaying. My Shih Tzu (dog) dropped flat on the ground," she added.

The Philippines is part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from quake-prone Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

A powerful earthquake struck the Philippines on Monday, sending thousands of people fleeing high-rises in Manila as buildings shook. Office workers piled out onto the streets as emergency alarms blared, AFP reporters saw, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

A powerful earthquake struck the Philippines on Monday, sending thousands of people fleeing high-rises in Manila as buildings shook. Office workers piled out onto the streets as emergency alarms blared, AFP reporters saw, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. Feliza Villanueva, 21, a business process outsourcing employee told AFP she and four colleagues were at work when the quake struck. "This was the second strongest quake I've felt in my entire life," she told AFP as she joined hundreds of others in the courtyard of an office building, waiting for the all clear. "We were worried but we did not panic," she said. "We planned how to evacuate the building. There were too many people going down the stairs, so we waited for our turn. People looked in shock, but no one was shouting or anything like that," she said. The quake was centred on the town of Castillejos, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) northwest of Manila, local geologists said. Scientists from the US Geological Survey logged its magnitude at 6.3 and said its epicentre was 40 kilometres (25 miles) below the Earth's surface. Dani Justo, a martial arts instructor, told AFP she was at her Manila home when the quake struck. "The clothes hanging on our line were really swaying. My Shih Tzu (dog) dropped flat on the ground," she added. The Philippines is part of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", an arc of intense seismic activity that stretches from quake-prone Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

Strong earthquake sends Philippine workers fleeing buildings

&nbsp;The presence of hundreds of Chinese boats near an island occupied by Manila in the disputed South China Sea is illegal and a clear violation of Philippine sovereignty, the country's foreign ministry said on Thursday.

"Such actions when not repudiated by the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/hague-court-to-pass-a-ruling-on-july-12-in-south-china-sea-case-1457&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjy5pSg9bXhAhUzguYKHaPgD_oQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ZwPTLqaPedat8CSm9nQ8c">Chinese government</a> are deemed to have been adopted by it," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-declines-to-say-if-it-supports-philippine-fishing-ban-at-disputed-scarborough-shoal-9193&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjoq8u99bXhAhXEgeYKHeWoCRUQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Eb0WXbji6D3HtG4yhN2al">the Department of Foreign Affairs</a> said in a statement, days after the Philippines said it had lodged a diplomatic protest over the vessels.

The presence of the vessels in the vicinity of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/duterte-orders-philippine-troops-to-south-china-sea-reefs-14245&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj85uDO9bXhAhWCjeYKHRYtDZ0QFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0bQoZpAYj2mDAS9aeQn3WK">Thitu island</a> for sustained and recurring periods raised questions about their intent and concerns over their role "in support of coercive objectives," the ministry added.

Military data show the Philippines has monitored more than 200 Chinese boats near Thitu, or Pagasa, as it is known locally, from January to March this year.

Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the busy waterway, a conduit for goods in excess of $3.4 trillion every&nbsp;

are deemed to have been adopted by it," the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, days after the Philippines said it had lodged a diplomatic protest over the vessels.

The presence of the vessels in the vicinity of Thitu island for sustained and recurring periods raised questions about their intent and concerns over their role "in support of coercive objectives," the ministry added.

Military data show the Philippines has monitored more than 200 Chinese boats near Thitu, or Pagasa, as it is known locally, from January to March this year.

Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the busy waterway, a conduit for goods in excess of $3.4 trillion every year.

The presence of hundreds of Chinese boats near an island occupied by Manila in the disputed South China Sea is illegal and a clear violation of Philippine sovereignty, the country's foreign ministry said on Thursday.

The presence of hundreds of Chinese boats near an island occupied by Manila in the disputed South China Sea is illegal and a clear violation of Philippine sovereignty, the country's foreign ministry said on Thursday. "Such actions when not repudiated by the Chinese government are deemed to have been adopted by it," the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, days after the Philippines said it had lodged a diplomatic protest over the vessels. The presence of the vessels in the vicinity of Thitu island for sustained and recurring periods raised questions about their intent and concerns over their role "in support of coercive objectives," the ministry added. Military data show the Philippines has monitored more than 200 Chinese boats near Thitu, or Pagasa, as it is known locally, from January to March this year. Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the busy waterway, a conduit for goods in excess of $3.4 trillion every are deemed to have been adopted by it," the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, days after the Philippines said it had lodged a diplomatic protest over the vessels. The presence of the vessels in the vicinity of Thitu island for sustained and recurring periods raised questions about their intent and concerns over their role "in support of coercive objectives," the ministry added. Military data show the Philippines has monitored more than 200 Chinese boats near Thitu, or Pagasa, as it is known locally, from January to March this year. Besides the Philippines, Brunei, China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims of sovereignty in the busy waterway, a conduit for goods in excess of $3.4 trillion every year.

Presence of Chinese vessels in South China Sea illegal: Philippines

A bomb blast outside a restaurant on Wednesday wounded at least 13 people, including children, in the insurgency-plagued&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-claims-southern-philippine-blast-that-killed-11-156040&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjNqIbe7rPhAhWMr48KHT3kBTkQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2d6Ka_BLjgpmy5ptFGAEdf">southern Philippines</a>, authorities said.

The explosion shattered a window at the front of the eatery, striking family members gathered for an event in the town of Isulan on Mindanao island, Mayor Marites Pallasigue told AFP.

The southern Philippines is plagued by multiple armed groups ranging from communist insurgents to Islamic State-aligned jihadists, which leave the area mired in poverty and violence.

Police cordoned off the area outside the shattered facade of the restaurant as a probe began into who was responsible.&nbsp;

"The bomb was placed at the back of the air conditioner," said Pallasigue, putting the number of wounded at 13.&nbsp;

"Most the victims are related to each other," she added.

Police confirmed the explosion but said the number of wounded could be as high as 18. No deaths have been reported.&nbsp;

On a neighbouring island to the south of Mindanao, an IS-claimed attack in January on a cathedral during Sunday mass killed 21 and wounded about a hundred others.

The bombing cast a shadow over a vote less than a week earlier to give Muslims in the south of the Catholic majority Philippines greater resources and control over their affairs.

The explosion Wednesday in Isulan happened just a few meters from the site of a deadly blast which occurred last year and was believed to have been carried out by Islamist militants.&nbsp;

A bomb blast outside a restaurant on Wednesday wounded at least 13 people, including children, in the insurgency-plagued southern Philippines, authorities said. The explosion shattered a window at the front of the eatery, striking family members gathered for an event in the town of Isulan on Mindanao island, Mayor Marites Pallasigue told AFP.

A bomb blast outside a restaurant on Wednesday wounded at least 13 people, including children, in the insurgency-plagued southern Philippines, authorities said. The explosion shattered a window at the front of the eatery, striking family members gathered for an event in the town of Isulan on Mindanao island, Mayor Marites Pallasigue told AFP. The southern Philippines is plagued by multiple armed groups ranging from communist insurgents to Islamic State-aligned jihadists, which leave the area mired in poverty and violence. Police cordoned off the area outside the shattered facade of the restaurant as a probe began into who was responsible. "The bomb was placed at the back of the air conditioner," said Pallasigue, putting the number of wounded at 13. "Most the victims are related to each other," she added. Police confirmed the explosion but said the number of wounded could be as high as 18. No deaths have been reported. On a neighbouring island to the south of Mindanao, an IS-claimed attack in January on a cathedral during Sunday mass killed 21 and wounded about a hundred others. The bombing cast a shadow over a vote less than a week earlier to give Muslims in the south of the Catholic majority Philippines greater resources and control over their affairs. The explosion Wednesday in Isulan happened just a few meters from the site of a deadly blast which occurred last year and was believed to have been carried out by Islamist militants.

Restaurant blast in southern Philippines wounds at least 13

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 19th, 2019

The Philippines is poised to officially quit the International Criminal Court on Sunday, though the beleaguered tribunal has pledged to pursue its examination of possible crimes in the government's deadly drug war.

Manila's withdrawal is to become final a year after it told the United Nations that it was quitting the world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, the second nation to do so.

"The Secretary-General... informed all concerned states that the withdrawal will take effect for the Philippines on 17 March," UN spokesperson Eri Kaneko told AFP.

The departure of the Philippines follows the court being hit in recent years by high-profile acquittals and moves by several nations to drop out.&nbsp;

Manila moved to quit after the body launched a preliminary examination in 2018 of President Rodrigo Duterte's drug crackdown that has killed thousands and drawn international censure.&nbsp;

Duterte's drug war is his signature policy initiative and he defends it fiercely, especially from international critics like Western leaders and institutions which he says don't care about his country.

However, court officials have said the preliminary probe launched by ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda in February 2018 into possible crimes against humanity in the drug war would continue.

Under the court's rules, any matter under consideration before a nation leaves the court is still under its jurisdiction.

String of setbacks

Duterte has made it clear his government will not cooperate with the ICC in any way.

"The court "can never acquire jurisdiction over my person. Not in a million years," he said in a speech on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The examination, which is one step before a full-blown probe, zeroes in on allegations the government has been involved in illegal killings as part of the crackdown Duterte launched in mid-2016.

Police say they have killed 5,176 users or pushers who resisted arrest, but rights groups say the actual number of dead is at least triple that number.&nbsp;

Critics have alleged the crackdown amounts to a war on the poor that feeds an undercurrent of impunity and lawlessness in the nation of 106 million.

The Philippines' move to exit follows a string of setbacks for the ICC, including the January acquittal of former Ivory Coast leader Laurent Gbagbo and the June 2018 not guilty verdict for former DR Congo vice-president Jean-Pierre Bemba.

Burundi in 2017 became the first-ever nation to leave the court, which was founded in 2002.

In a wave of unprecedented defections, other African nations -- Zambia, South Africa, Kenya and Gambia -- have also made moves to quit or expressed interest in withdrawing as they accused the court of being biased against Africans.

However, earlier in March, the court got a boost when Malaysia officially joined, making it one of just a handful of Asian members.

The Philippines is poised to officially quit the International Criminal Court on Sunday, though the beleaguered tribunal has pledged to pursue its examination of possible crimes in the government's deadly drug war.

The Philippines is poised to officially quit the International Criminal Court on Sunday, though the beleaguered tribunal has pledged to pursue its examination of possible crimes in the government's deadly drug war. Manila's withdrawal is to become final a year after it told the United Nations that it was quitting the world's only permanent war crimes tribunal, the second nation to do so. "The Secretary-General... informed all concerned states that the withdrawal will take effect for the Philippines on 17 March," UN spokesperson Eri Kaneko told AFP. The departure of the Philippines follows the court being hit in recent years by high-profile acquittals and moves by several nations to drop out. Manila moved to quit after the body launched a preliminary examination in 2018 of President Rodrigo Duterte's drug crackdown that has killed thousands and drawn international censure. Duterte's drug war is his signature policy initiative and he defends it fiercely, especially from international critics like Western leaders and institutions which he says don't care about his country. However, court officials have said the preliminary probe launched by ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda in February 2018 into possible crimes against humanity in the drug war would continue. Under the court's rules, any matter under consideration before a nation leaves the court is still under its jurisdiction. String of setbacks Duterte has made it clear his government will not cooperate with the ICC in any way. "The court "can never acquire jurisdiction over my person. Not in a million years," he said in a speech on Wednesday. The examination, which is one step before a full-blown probe, zeroes in on allegations the government has been involved in illegal killings as part of the crackdown Duterte launched in mid-2016. Police say they have killed 5,176 users or pushers who resisted arrest, but rights groups say the actual number of dead is at least triple that number. Critics have alleged the crackdown amounts to a war on the poor that feeds an undercurrent of impunity and lawlessness in the nation of 106 million. The Philippines' move to exit follows a string of setbacks for the ICC, including the January acquittal of former Ivory Coast leader Laurent Gbagbo and the June 2018 not guilty verdict for former DR Congo vice-president Jean-Pierre Bemba. Burundi in 2017 became the first-ever nation to leave the court, which was founded in 2002. In a wave of unprecedented defections, other African nations -- Zambia, South Africa, Kenya and Gambia -- have also made moves to quit or expressed interest in withdrawing as they accused the court of being biased against Africans. However, earlier in March, the court got a boost when Malaysia officially joined, making it one of just a handful of Asian members.

Philippines set to leave International Criminal Court over drug war inquiry

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel next week to the Philippines, the State Department said Friday, as the former US colony increasingly flirts with regional giant China.

Pompeo will travel to Manila on February 28 and March 1 for talks with President Rodrigo Duterte, State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said.

The top US diplomat will be paying the visit on his way back from Hanoi where he is joining President Donald Trump for his closely watched second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

After winning the presidency in 2016, the brash Philippine leader threatened to split with the United States and patch up with China by ending a long-running sea dispute.

President Xi Jinping visited Manila in November er, offering trade and investment incentives.

Duterte has bristled at all criticism over his sweeping crackdown on drugs and crime, which has killed thousands of people since mid-2016 despite criticism of lack of due process.

But Trump has hailed Duterte's actions as a sign of toughness -- a marked contrast with previous US president Barack Obama, who Duterte branded the "son of a whore."

The Trump administration has downplayed human rights except when pressing adversaries and has set an overall priority of reducing the global influence of China and Russia.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel next week to the Philippines, the State Department said Friday, as the former US colony increasingly flirts with regional giant China.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will travel next week to the Philippines, the State Department said Friday, as the former US colony increasingly flirts with regional giant China. Pompeo will travel to Manila on February 28 and March 1 for talks with President Rodrigo Duterte, State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said. The top US diplomat will be paying the visit on his way back from Hanoi where he is joining President Donald Trump for his closely watched second summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. After winning the presidency in 2016, the brash Philippine leader threatened to split with the United States and patch up with China by ending a long-running sea dispute. President Xi Jinping visited Manila in November er, offering trade and investment incentives. Duterte has bristled at all criticism over his sweeping crackdown on drugs and crime, which has killed thousands of people since mid-2016 despite criticism of lack of due process. But Trump has hailed Duterte's actions as a sign of toughness -- a marked contrast with previous US president Barack Obama, who Duterte branded the "son of a whore." The Trump administration has downplayed human rights except when pressing adversaries and has set an overall priority of reducing the global influence of China and Russia.

US Secretary Pompeo to visit Philippines amid China flirtation

Sri Lanka's president said Wednesday that a 42-year moratorium on capital punishment will end within two months <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/activists-decry-sri-lankan-presidents-praise-for-dutertes-drugs-war-191336">with the hanging of drug convicts.</a>

Maithripala Sirisena told parliament he was committed to bringing back the death penalty for drug offenders, months after vowing a tougher line on spiralling narcotics-related crime inspired by a similar crackdown in the Philippines.

"I hope to carry out the first hanging within a month or two," he said. "I appeal to human rights organisations not to try to pressure us on this decision."

Criminals in Sri Lanka are regularly given death sentences for murder, rape and drug-related crimes but until now their punishments have been commuted to life jail.

Following a visit to the Philippines last month, Sirisena said he wanted to copy President Rodrigo Duterte's strongarm tactics in dealing with illegal drugs.

Justice Minister Thalatha Athukorale said Tuesday that administrative procedures for the execution of five drug convicts had been completed and Sirisena now only had to sign death warrants.

The president did not say how many would be involved in the first hangings.

But prison officials said Tuesday that authorities were still trying to fill a vacancy for a hangman, despite placing advertisements for the position last year offering a salary of 35,000 rupees ($200) a month.

While Sri Lanka's last execution was more than four decades ago, an executioner was in the post until his retirement in 2014. Three replacements since have quit after short stints at the unused gallows.

Sri Lanka's president said Wednesday that a 42-year moratorium on capital punishment will end within two months with the hanging of drug convicts. Maithripala Sirisena told parliament he was committed to bringing back the death penalty for drug offenders, months after vowing a tougher line on spiralling narcotics-related crime inspired by a similar crackdown in the Philippines.

Sri Lanka's president said Wednesday that a 42-year moratorium on capital punishment will end within two months with the hanging of drug convicts. Maithripala Sirisena told parliament he was committed to bringing back the death penalty for drug offenders, months after vowing a tougher line on spiralling narcotics-related crime inspired by a similar crackdown in the Philippines. "I hope to carry out the first hanging within a month or two," he said. "I appeal to human rights organisations not to try to pressure us on this decision." Criminals in Sri Lanka are regularly given death sentences for murder, rape and drug-related crimes but until now their punishments have been commuted to life jail. Following a visit to the Philippines last month, Sirisena said he wanted to copy President Rodrigo Duterte's strongarm tactics in dealing with illegal drugs. Justice Minister Thalatha Athukorale said Tuesday that administrative procedures for the execution of five drug convicts had been completed and Sirisena now only had to sign death warrants. The president did not say how many would be involved in the first hangings. But prison officials said Tuesday that authorities were still trying to fill a vacancy for a hangman, despite placing advertisements for the position last year offering a salary of 35,000 rupees ($200) a month. While Sri Lanka's last execution was more than four decades ago, an executioner was in the post until his retirement in 2014. Three replacements since have quit after short stints at the unused gallows.

Sri Lanka to resume executions within two months: Sirisena

Duplicate accounts in Facebook grew over three times to more than 250 million during the last three years when it comes to Monthly Active Users are concerned, according to the numbers supplied by the social networking site in it's latest annual report.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, Facebook estimated that duplicate accounts may have represented approximately 11 per cent of its MAUs while the figure was 5 per cent in 2015.

Monthly active users (MAUs) were 1.59 billion as of December 31, 2015 while it grew to 2.32 billion as of December 31, 2018, it said.

A MAU is defined as a registered Facebook user who logged in and visited the site through website or a mobile device, or used Messenger application in the last 30 days as of the date of measurement.

"In the fourth quarter of 2018, we estimate that duplicate accounts may have represented approximately 11 per cent of our worldwide MAUs. We believe the percentage of duplicate accounts is meaningfully higher in developing markets such as the Philippines and Vietnam, as compared to more developed markets," Facebook said it's 2018 annual report.

"In the fourth quarter of 2018, we estimate that false accounts may have represented approximately 5 per cent of our worldwide MAUs. Our estimation of false accounts can vary as a result of episodic spikes in the creation, it said.

The estimates of duplicate and false accounts are based on an internal review of a limited sample of accounts, and the site applies significant judgement in making this determination, it said.

A duplicate account is one that a user maintains in addition to his or her principal account while 'false' accounts are divided into two categories.

The false accounts are categorised into user-misclassified accounts, where users have created personal profiles for a business, organisation, or non-human entity such as a pet (such entities are permitted on Facebook using a page rather than a personal profile under terms of service). The second is undesirable accounts, which represent user profiles that were determined as intended to be used for purposes that violate our terms of service, such as spamming.

Worldwide Daily Active Users increased by 9 per cent to 1.52 billion on average during December 2018 from 1. 40 billion during December 2017.

"Users in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines represented key sources of growth in DAUs during December 2018, relative to the same period in 2017," Facebook said.

Duplicate accounts in Facebook grew over three times to more than 250 million during the last three years when it comes to Monthly Active Users are concerned, according to the numbers supplied by the social networking site in it's latest annual report.

Duplicate accounts in Facebook grew over three times to more than 250 million during the last three years when it comes to Monthly Active Users are concerned, according to the numbers supplied by the social networking site in it's latest annual report. In the fourth quarter of 2018, Facebook estimated that duplicate accounts may have represented approximately 11 per cent of its MAUs while the figure was 5 per cent in 2015. Monthly active users (MAUs) were 1.59 billion as of December 31, 2015 while it grew to 2.32 billion as of December 31, 2018, it said. A MAU is defined as a registered Facebook user who logged in and visited the site through website or a mobile device, or used Messenger application in the last 30 days as of the date of measurement. "In the fourth quarter of 2018, we estimate that duplicate accounts may have represented approximately 11 per cent of our worldwide MAUs. We believe the percentage of duplicate accounts is meaningfully higher in developing markets such as the Philippines and Vietnam, as compared to more developed markets," Facebook said it's 2018 annual report. "In the fourth quarter of 2018, we estimate that false accounts may have represented approximately 5 per cent of our worldwide MAUs. Our estimation of false accounts can vary as a result of episodic spikes in the creation, it said. The estimates of duplicate and false accounts are based on an internal review of a limited sample of accounts, and the site applies significant judgement in making this determination, it said. A duplicate account is one that a user maintains in addition to his or her principal account while 'false' accounts are divided into two categories. The false accounts are categorised into user-misclassified accounts, where users have created personal profiles for a business, organisation, or non-human entity such as a pet (such entities are permitted on Facebook using a page rather than a personal profile under terms of service). The second is undesirable accounts, which represent user profiles that were determined as intended to be used for purposes that violate our terms of service, such as spamming. Worldwide Daily Active Users increased by 9 per cent to 1.52 billion on average during December 2018 from 1. 40 billion during December 2017. "Users in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines represented key sources of growth in DAUs during December 2018, relative to the same period in 2017," Facebook said.

Duplicate Facebook accounts tripled in three years at 250 million

The Philippines vowed to destroy those behind twin bombings that killed 20 people during a Sunday church service in the country's restive south, six days after a referendum on autonomy for the mainly Muslim region returned an overwhelming "yes" vote.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/7-dead-as-bombs-hit-church-in-southern-philippines-193061">attack wounded</a> more than 100 people and was one of the deadliest in recent years in a region long plagued by instability. It came amid hope and excitement about the ratification of a devolution plan that aims to bring development, jobs and peace to one of Asia's poorest and most volatile places.&nbsp;

The first explosion went off inside the cathedral on Jolo island, in Sulu province, and was followed by a second blast outside, which was detonated as security forces raced to the scene, officials said.

"The enemies of the state have boldly challenged the capability of the government to secure the safety of the citizenry in that region," said Salvador Panelo, spokesman of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

"The armed forces of the Philippines will rise to the challenge and crush these godless criminals."

Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack via the militant group's Amaq news agency, describing it as twin suicide bombings that it said killed 120 people.&nbsp;

Police are investigating but suspect it was the work of Abu Sayyaf, a domestic militant group that has pledged allegiance to Islamic State and is notorious for its bombings and brutality.

"They want to show force and sow chaos," national police chief Oscar Albayalde told DZMM radio, suggesting Abu Sayyaf was the prime suspect.

Civilians bore the brunt of the attack, which also killed five soldiers. Police lowered the death toll from 27 to 20, after discovering duplications in initial records.

Jolo is a stronghold of the group, which runs a lucrative piracy and kidnapping operation that successive governments have failed to break up. The group, which operates in the waters and islands of western Mindanao, has beheaded numerous foreign captives when ransom demands were not met.

Images of the inside of the Jolo church showed several rows of wooden pews destroyed, with debris strewn across a blackened floor.

Speaking in Panama, Pope Francis condemned what he called a "terrorist attack" and during a prayer for the dead and wounded said: "May the Lord, Prince of peace, convert the hearts of the violent ones."

'DASTARDLY ACT'

The attack followed Friday's announcement that the region, a mainly Muslim part of the predominantly Catholic Philippines, had ratified the creation of an autonomous area called Bangsamoro, with 85 per cent of voters behind it.

Although Sulu was among only a few areas that rejected autonomy, it will still be part of the new entity when it is fully formed in 2022.

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana called the attack a "dastardly act" and urged the local population to cooperate and "deny terrorism any victory".

National Security Adviser, Hermogenes Esperon, called those responsible "mass murderers" and "extremist criminals".

"We will not allow them to spoil the preference of the people for peace," he added.

The referendum came amid concerns about the presence of extremists in the Philippines and the possibility that foreign radicals will join those of Indonesia and Malaysia in gravitating to Mindanao to capitalize on porous borders, jungles and mountains, and an abundance of arms.

The Philippine military in mid-2017 encountered its biggest and longest battle since World War Two when an alliance of extremists loyal to Islamic State, among them foreigners and children, overran Marawi City and tried to establish a caliphate.

Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf faction leader anointed as Islamic State's Southeast Asian "emir" and wanted by the United States, was killed during that battle.

The Philippines vowed to destroy those behind twin bombings that killed 20 people during a Sunday church service in the country's restive south, six days after a referendum on autonomy for the mainly Muslim region returned an overwhelming "yes" vote.

The Philippines vowed to destroy those behind twin bombings that killed 20 people during a Sunday church service in the country's restive south, six days after a referendum on autonomy for the mainly Muslim region returned an overwhelming "yes" vote. The attack wounded more than 100 people and was one of the deadliest in recent years in a region long plagued by instability. It came amid hope and excitement about the ratification of a devolution plan that aims to bring development, jobs and peace to one of Asia's poorest and most volatile places. The first explosion went off inside the cathedral on Jolo island, in Sulu province, and was followed by a second blast outside, which was detonated as security forces raced to the scene, officials said. "The enemies of the state have boldly challenged the capability of the government to secure the safety of the citizenry in that region," said Salvador Panelo, spokesman of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. "The armed forces of the Philippines will rise to the challenge and crush these godless criminals." Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack via the militant group's Amaq news agency, describing it as twin suicide bombings that it said killed 120 people. Police are investigating but suspect it was the work of Abu Sayyaf, a domestic militant group that has pledged allegiance to Islamic State and is notorious for its bombings and brutality. "They want to show force and sow chaos," national police chief Oscar Albayalde told DZMM radio, suggesting Abu Sayyaf was the prime suspect. Civilians bore the brunt of the attack, which also killed five soldiers. Police lowered the death toll from 27 to 20, after discovering duplications in initial records. Jolo is a stronghold of the group, which runs a lucrative piracy and kidnapping operation that successive governments have failed to break up. The group, which operates in the waters and islands of western Mindanao, has beheaded numerous foreign captives when ransom demands were not met. Images of the inside of the Jolo church showed several rows of wooden pews destroyed, with debris strewn across a blackened floor. Speaking in Panama, Pope Francis condemned what he called a "terrorist attack" and during a prayer for the dead and wounded said: "May the Lord, Prince of peace, convert the hearts of the violent ones." 'DASTARDLY ACT' The attack followed Friday's announcement that the region, a mainly Muslim part of the predominantly Catholic Philippines, had ratified the creation of an autonomous area called Bangsamoro, with 85 per cent of voters behind it. Although Sulu was among only a few areas that rejected autonomy, it will still be part of the new entity when it is fully formed in 2022. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana called the attack a "dastardly act" and urged the local population to cooperate and "deny terrorism any victory". National Security Adviser, Hermogenes Esperon, called those responsible "mass murderers" and "extremist criminals". "We will not allow them to spoil the preference of the people for peace," he added. The referendum came amid concerns about the presence of extremists in the Philippines and the possibility that foreign radicals will join those of Indonesia and Malaysia in gravitating to Mindanao to capitalize on porous borders, jungles and mountains, and an abundance of arms. The Philippine military in mid-2017 encountered its biggest and longest battle since World War Two when an alliance of extremists loyal to Islamic State, among them foreigners and children, overran Marawi City and tried to establish a caliphate. Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf faction leader anointed as Islamic State's Southeast Asian "emir" and wanted by the United States, was killed during that battle.

Philippines vows to crush 'terrorists' after church bombs kill 20

Philippines: 27 killed, 77 injured as twin blasts hit church during mass

At least 17 people were killed as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-catholic-church-comes-out-against-dutertes-war-on-drugs-12519">two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine island</a> that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, just days after a regional vote for a new Muslim autonomous region.&nbsp;

The first blast occurred inside the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-church-hasnt-known-how-to-listen-193036">Catholic church</a> on war-torn Jolo on Sunday morning as mass was being celebrated, and was followed by a second explosion in the parking lot as troops responded, regional military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Besana told AFP.&nbsp;

Photos issued by the regional police showed debris scattered near the church's entrance and a damaged military truck with a broken windshield.&nbsp;

"The motive is surely... terrorism. These are people who do not want peace," Besana said.

Five soldiers and 12 civilians were killed while 57 others were wounded, he added.&nbsp;

However, the national police chief Oscar Albayalde put the death toll at 19, with 48 people wounded.&nbsp;

"We will use the full force of the law to bring to justice the perpetrators behind this incident," Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement.

The military said it airlifted some of the wounded to the nearby city of Zamboanga for medical treatment.&nbsp;

Jolo lies in the proposed Bangsamoro Muslim-majority autonomous region, which local voters overwhelmingly approved last week.

The island is also a base of the Islamist militant group Abu Sayyaf, which is blamed for deadly bombings, including an attack on a ferry in Manila Bay in 2014 that claimed 116 lives in the country's deadliest terror assault.

Last week voters decisively approved a more powerful autonomous region in the Philippines' south, which is hoped will bring peace and development after decades of fighting that have killed thousands and mired the area in poverty.

Sulu province -- which includes Jolo -- voted against the creation of the new region, with its governor questioning the law establishing the area before the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

Despite Sulu's vote, legislation provides that the province will still be included in the new political entity as voters from across the current autonomous region voted in favour of it on the whole.

Sunday's bombing comes after a New Year's eve blast in the southern Philippine city of Cotabato killed two people and wounded 35 others.&nbsp;

Cotabato last week voted to be included in the new autonomous region.

At least 17 people were killed as two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine island that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, just days after a regional vote for a new Muslim autonomous region.

At least 17 people were killed as two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine island that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, just days after a regional vote for a new Muslim autonomous region. The first blast occurred inside the Catholic church on war-torn Jolo on Sunday morning as mass was being celebrated, and was followed by a second explosion in the parking lot as troops responded, regional military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Besana told AFP. Photos issued by the regional police showed debris scattered near the church's entrance and a damaged military truck with a broken windshield. "The motive is surely... terrorism. These are people who do not want peace," Besana said. Five soldiers and 12 civilians were killed while 57 others were wounded, he added. However, the national police chief Oscar Albayalde put the death toll at 19, with 48 people wounded. "We will use the full force of the law to bring to justice the perpetrators behind this incident," Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement. The military said it airlifted some of the wounded to the nearby city of Zamboanga for medical treatment. Jolo lies in the proposed Bangsamoro Muslim-majority autonomous region, which local voters overwhelmingly approved last week. The island is also a base of the Islamist militant group Abu Sayyaf, which is blamed for deadly bombings, including an attack on a ferry in Manila Bay in 2014 that claimed 116 lives in the country's deadliest terror assault. Last week voters decisively approved a more powerful autonomous region in the Philippines' south, which is hoped will bring peace and development after decades of fighting that have killed thousands and mired the area in poverty. Sulu province -- which includes Jolo -- voted against the creation of the new region, with its governor questioning the law establishing the area before the Supreme Court. Despite Sulu's vote, legislation provides that the province will still be included in the new political entity as voters from across the current autonomous region voted in favour of it on the whole. Sunday's bombing comes after a New Year's eve blast in the southern Philippine city of Cotabato killed two people and wounded 35 others. Cotabato last week voted to be included in the new autonomous region.

17 dead as two bombs hit Philippines church

At least 18 people were killed when <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/7-dead-as-bombs-hit-church-in-southern-philippines-193061">two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine</a> island that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, days after voters backed the creation of a new Muslim autonomous region.

The first blast occurred inside the Catholic church on war-torn Jolo on Sunday morning as mass was being celebrated, and was followed by a second explosion outside as troops responded, the regional military spokesman said. &nbsp;

Most victims were churchgoers along with soldiers. The door, pews and glass windows of Mount Carmel Cathedral were blown off, military photos showed, with bodies strewn across the ground, according to an AFP photographer on the scene.&nbsp;

President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman condemned the incident as an "act of terrorism and murder".&nbsp;

"We will pursue to the ends of the earth the ruthless perpetrators behind this dastardly crime until every killer is brought to justice and put behind bars. The law will give them no mercy," Salvador Panelo said in a statement.&nbsp;

Five soldiers, a member of the coast guard and 12 civilians were killed while 83 others were wounded, said regional military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Besana.

However, the regional police chief Graciano Mijares put the death toll at 27, with 77 people wounded.&nbsp;

The second bomb was left in the utility box of a motorcycle in the parking area outside the church, a military report said.&nbsp;

The army said it airlifted some of the wounded to the nearby city of Zamboanga for medical treatment.&nbsp;

Authorities said the notorious Abu Sayyaf kidnap-for-ransom group could be behind the blasts.&nbsp;

"When you talk about terrorism in Sulu, the primary suspect is always the (Abu Sayyaf) but we are not discounting the possibility that there are other perpetrators," Besana told AFP.&nbsp;

Peace spoilers?

Jolo is a base of the Abu Sayyaf, which is blamed for deadly bombings, including an attack on a ferry in Manila Bay in 2004 that claimed 116 lives in the country's deadliest terror assault.

The Abu Sayyaf is a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network and has earned millions of dollars from banditry and kidnappings-for-ransom, often targetting foreigners.

It is among armed groups based in the strife-torn region of Mindanao, some of whose members have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.&nbsp;

Jolo also lies in the proposed Bangsamoro Muslim-majority autonomous region, which local voters overwhelmingly approved last week.

Voters ratified a law creating a new autonomous region in the Philippines' south, raising hopes that the move will bring peace and development to the impoverished area after decades of fighting left thousands dead.

Sulu province -- which includes Jolo -- voted against the creation of the new region, with its governor filing a petition in the Supreme Court to prevent its formation.&nbsp;

Despite Sulu's vote, the province is legally required to join Bangsamoro because voters from across the current autonomous region voted in favour of it on the whole.

Sunday's bombing comes after a New Year's Eve blast in the southern Philippine city of Cotabato killed two people and wounded 35 others.&nbsp;

Cotabato last week voted to be included in the new autonomous region.

The timing of Sunday's bombs raised questions on whether the attack was meant to derail the peace process.&nbsp;

Mujiv Hataman, governor of the current autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao, said the blasts highlighted the urgency of implementing the peace law.&nbsp;

"Terrorists want to make their presence known. I hope the (law) is implemented well so it could be a solution to stop the spread of terrorism," Hataman told AFP.

At least 18 people were killed when two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine island that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, days after voters backed the creation of a new Muslim autonomous region.

At least 18 people were killed when two bombs hit a church on a southern Philippine island that is a stronghold of Islamist militants, the military said Sunday, days after voters backed the creation of a new Muslim autonomous region. The first blast occurred inside the Catholic church on war-torn Jolo on Sunday morning as mass was being celebrated, and was followed by a second explosion outside as troops responded, the regional military spokesman said. Most victims were churchgoers along with soldiers. The door, pews and glass windows of Mount Carmel Cathedral were blown off, military photos showed, with bodies strewn across the ground, according to an AFP photographer on the scene. President Rodrigo Duterte's spokesman condemned the incident as an "act of terrorism and murder". "We will pursue to the ends of the earth the ruthless perpetrators behind this dastardly crime until every killer is brought to justice and put behind bars. The law will give them no mercy," Salvador Panelo said in a statement. Five soldiers, a member of the coast guard and 12 civilians were killed while 83 others were wounded, said regional military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Besana. However, the regional police chief Graciano Mijares put the death toll at 27, with 77 people wounded. The second bomb was left in the utility box of a motorcycle in the parking area outside the church, a military report said. The army said it airlifted some of the wounded to the nearby city of Zamboanga for medical treatment. Authorities said the notorious Abu Sayyaf kidnap-for-ransom group could be behind the blasts. "When you talk about terrorism in Sulu, the primary suspect is always the (Abu Sayyaf) but we are not discounting the possibility that there are other perpetrators," Besana told AFP. Peace spoilers? Jolo is a base of the Abu Sayyaf, which is blamed for deadly bombings, including an attack on a ferry in Manila Bay in 2004 that claimed 116 lives in the country's deadliest terror assault. The Abu Sayyaf is a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network and has earned millions of dollars from banditry and kidnappings-for-ransom, often targetting foreigners. It is among armed groups based in the strife-torn region of Mindanao, some of whose members have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group. Jolo also lies in the proposed Bangsamoro Muslim-majority autonomous region, which local voters overwhelmingly approved last week. Voters ratified a law creating a new autonomous region in the Philippines' south, raising hopes that the move will bring peace and development to the impoverished area after decades of fighting left thousands dead. Sulu province -- which includes Jolo -- voted against the creation of the new region, with its governor filing a petition in the Supreme Court to prevent its formation. Despite Sulu's vote, the province is legally required to join Bangsamoro because voters from across the current autonomous region voted in favour of it on the whole. Sunday's bombing comes after a New Year's Eve blast in the southern Philippine city of Cotabato killed two people and wounded 35 others. Cotabato last week voted to be included in the new autonomous region. The timing of Sunday's bombs raised questions on whether the attack was meant to derail the peace process. Mujiv Hataman, governor of the current autonomous region in Muslim Mindanao, said the blasts highlighted the urgency of implementing the peace law. "Terrorists want to make their presence known. I hope the (law) is implemented well so it could be a solution to stop the spread of terrorism," Hataman told AFP.

At least 18 dead in twin bomb attack on Philippines church

The death toll from landslides and<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/video-2-killed-32-injured-in-bombing-in-troubled-south-philippines-187563"> devastating floods in the central Philippines </a>triggered by a tropical depression climbed to 85, officials said on Wednesday, and 20 people were missing as rescuers slowly reached cut-off communities.

The casualties, including young children, were mostly killed when their <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/4-dead-as-storm-sweeps-through-central-philippines-over-12000-evacuated-187162">homes collapsed in landslides after days of heavy rain</a> in several provinces in the central Philippines, said Ricardo Jalad, executive director of the national disaster agency.

"If we don't recover the missing or we recover them dead, that is 105 deaths, which we hope not," Jalad said.

The tropical depression, which weakened into a low-pressure system before leaving the Philippines on Sunday, brought heavy rain that triggered landslides and flooding in the Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions.

Officials put three provinces under a "state of calamity" to give them access to emergency funds.

Bicol, with a population of 5.8 million, was the hardest hit, with 68 killed in intense rains and landslides. Damage to agriculture in Bicol, which produces rice and corn, was estimated at 342 million pesos ($6.5 million).

Rescuers, including the police and military, used heavy-lifting equipment to clear roads leading to landslide sites and entered flooded communities using rubber boats.

"The sun is already out, with occasional light rains. We hope floods will subside," Ronna Monzon, a member of the operations personnel at the disaster agency in Bicol, told Reuters.

About 20 tropical cyclones hit the Philippines every year, with destroyed crops and infrastructure taking a toll on human lives and weighing down one of the fastest growing economies in Asia.

'If we don't recover the missing or we recover them dead, that is 105 deaths, which we hope not,' said Ricardo Jalad, executive director of the national disaster agency.

The death toll from landslides and devastating floods in the central Philippines triggered by a tropical depression climbed to 85, officials said on Wednesday, and 20 people were missing as rescuers slowly reached cut-off communities. The casualties, including young children, were mostly killed when their homes collapsed in landslides after days of heavy rain in several provinces in the central Philippines, said Ricardo Jalad, executive director of the national disaster agency. "If we don't recover the missing or we recover them dead, that is 105 deaths, which we hope not," Jalad said. The tropical depression, which weakened into a low-pressure system before leaving the Philippines on Sunday, brought heavy rain that triggered landslides and flooding in the Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions. Officials put three provinces under a "state of calamity" to give them access to emergency funds. Bicol, with a population of 5.8 million, was the hardest hit, with 68 killed in intense rains and landslides. Damage to agriculture in Bicol, which produces rice and corn, was estimated at 342 million pesos ($6.5 million). Rescuers, including the police and military, used heavy-lifting equipment to clear roads leading to landslide sites and entered flooded communities using rubber boats. "The sun is already out, with occasional light rains. We hope floods will subside," Ronna Monzon, a member of the operations personnel at the disaster agency in Bicol, told Reuters. About 20 tropical cyclones hit the Philippines every year, with destroyed crops and infrastructure taking a toll on human lives and weighing down one of the fastest growing economies in Asia.

Storm death toll in Philippines rises to 85

Four people were killed in landslides and thousands of others evacuated from their homes after a storm swept through the central Philippine islands on Saturday, officials said.

Three members of a family were buried in a landslide in Legazpi City southeast of Manila while a woman was crushed by another landslide in Bulan town as heavy rains brought by the storm loosened the earth, the government's office of civil defence said.

Almost 12,000 people were also evacuated from their homes in the Bicol region after the low pressure area, locally named "Usman", hit the eastern side of the country on Saturday, the office said.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-69-strikes-off-philippines-tsunami-waves-possible-centre-187107">Strong quake strikes off Philippines, tsunami warning withdrawn</a>

The weather disturbance, packing maximum winds of 65 kilometres (40 miles) per hour, was charted as moving west across the central islands at 10 kilometres per hour and was expected to be over the South China Sea by Sunday, the government weather station said.

Although Usman's winds were not too powerful, it still brought heavy rains that caused landslides and flooding in areas it traversed, the civil defence office said.

An average of 20 typhoons and storms lash the Philippines each year, killing hundreds of people.

The country's deadliest storm on record is Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,350 people dead or missing across the central Philippines in November 2013.

An average of 20 typhoons and storms lash the Philippines each year, killing hundreds of people.

Four people were killed in landslides and thousands of others evacuated from their homes after a storm swept through the central Philippine islands on Saturday, officials said. Three members of a family were buried in a landslide in Legazpi City southeast of Manila while a woman was crushed by another landslide in Bulan town as heavy rains brought by the storm loosened the earth, the government's office of civil defence said. Almost 12,000 people were also evacuated from their homes in the Bicol region after the low pressure area, locally named "Usman", hit the eastern side of the country on Saturday, the office said. Also read: Strong quake strikes off Philippines, tsunami warning withdrawn The weather disturbance, packing maximum winds of 65 kilometres (40 miles) per hour, was charted as moving west across the central islands at 10 kilometres per hour and was expected to be over the South China Sea by Sunday, the government weather station said. Although Usman's winds were not too powerful, it still brought heavy rains that caused landslides and flooding in areas it traversed, the civil defence office said. An average of 20 typhoons and storms lash the Philippines each year, killing hundreds of people. The country's deadliest storm on record is Super Typhoon Haiyan, which left more than 7,350 people dead or missing across the central Philippines in November 2013.

Storm sweeps through central Philippines; 4 killed, over 12,000 evacuated

Philippines' Catriona Elisa Gray wins Miss Universe 2018

Three Philippine policemen were sentenced on Thursday to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first conviction of officers carrying out President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

Duterte has vowed to pardon authorities involved in his bloody crackdown, but even he refused to defend the 2017 killing of Kian Delos Santos in a dank Manila alley -- which helped spark rare protests against the campaign.

Police said the 17-year-old was a drug courier who fired at them while resisting arrest. However, CCTV footage showed two of the policemen dragging the unarmed boy moments before he was shot dead.

Delos Santos' family erupted in tears in the cramped northern Manila courtroom after the men were convicted of murder and sentenced to reclusion perpetua, which carries a minimum of 20 years behind bars.

"I feel so happy because this proves that my son was innocent and was never involved in drugs," Delos Santos' mother, Lorenza, told reporters.&nbsp;

"(Policemen) can be jailed for life if they do not stop their abusive practices," she added.&nbsp;

Drug war critics hailed the conviction as an example of justice and accountability, which they said have been rare since Duterte unleashed the campaign to rid the Philippines of narcotics in 2016.

Since then police say they have killed nearly 5,000 alleged drug users and pushers who fought against arrest, while rights groups say the true toll is at least triple that and may amount to crimes against humanity.

'Who gave the orders?'

Carlos Conde, a Philippines researcher for Human Rights Watch, told AFP: "This is a warning to the Philippine National Police that they better follow due process and respect the rights of suspects."

However, Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo also welcomed the ruling as he gave assurances the president opposed "intentional killing".

"It shows that this country has a robust judicial system," he added.

Duterte's government has argued a preliminary probe of the drug war killings launched by the International Criminal Court is unjustified because the nation's justice system is functioning.&nbsp;

Rights advocates agreed the decision was important but noted that it only involved low-ranking policemen.&nbsp;

"Who gave the orders? Was this part of a policy? These questions remain unanswered," rights lawyer Romel Bagares told AFP.&nbsp;

Duterte and his drug war are backed by many Filipinos fed up with high crime rates and a slow-moving judicial system.

But the death of Delos Santos, as well as of two other Manila teenagers accused of robbing a taxi driver, triggered rare street protests in 2017 and highlighted concerns about police abuse.

Days after the killing Duterte said in a speech: "It was really bad. That was really not the performance of duty. Do not commit a crime".&nbsp;

It led to Duterte briefly suspending police participation in the drug crackdown for a second time.

The first occasion was in January last year after narcotics police officers were arrested for the kidnapping and murder of a South Korean businessman in 2016.

However, in both instances, the police were reinstated in the campaign without major reforms.

Three Philippine policemen were sentenced on Thursday to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first conviction of officers carrying out President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

Three Philippine policemen were sentenced on Thursday to decades in prison for murdering a teenager during an anti-narcotics sweep, the first conviction of officers carrying out President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. Duterte has vowed to pardon authorities involved in his bloody crackdown, but even he refused to defend the 2017 killing of Kian Delos Santos in a dank Manila alley -- which helped spark rare protests against the campaign. Police said the 17-year-old was a drug courier who fired at them while resisting arrest. However, CCTV footage showed two of the policemen dragging the unarmed boy moments before he was shot dead. Delos Santos' family erupted in tears in the cramped northern Manila courtroom after the men were convicted of murder and sentenced to reclusion perpetua, which carries a minimum of 20 years behind bars. "I feel so happy because this proves that my son was innocent and was never involved in drugs," Delos Santos' mother, Lorenza, told reporters. "(Policemen) can be jailed for life if they do not stop their abusive practices," she added. Drug war critics hailed the conviction as an example of justice and accountability, which they said have been rare since Duterte unleashed the campaign to rid the Philippines of narcotics in 2016. Since then police say they have killed nearly 5,000 alleged drug users and pushers who fought against arrest, while rights groups say the true toll is at least triple that and may amount to crimes against humanity. 'Who gave the orders?' Carlos Conde, a Philippines researcher for Human Rights Watch, told AFP: "This is a warning to the Philippine National Police that they better follow due process and respect the rights of suspects." However, Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo also welcomed the ruling as he gave assurances the president opposed "intentional killing". "It shows that this country has a robust judicial system," he added. Duterte's government has argued a preliminary probe of the drug war killings launched by the International Criminal Court is unjustified because the nation's justice system is functioning. Rights advocates agreed the decision was important but noted that it only involved low-ranking policemen. "Who gave the orders? Was this part of a policy? These questions remain unanswered," rights lawyer Romel Bagares told AFP. Duterte and his drug war are backed by many Filipinos fed up with high crime rates and a slow-moving judicial system. But the death of Delos Santos, as well as of two other Manila teenagers accused of robbing a taxi driver, triggered rare street protests in 2017 and highlighted concerns about police abuse. Days after the killing Duterte said in a speech: "It was really bad. That was really not the performance of duty. Do not commit a crime". It led to Duterte briefly suspending police participation in the drug crackdown for a second time. The first occasion was in January last year after narcotics police officers were arrested for the kidnapping and murder of a South Korean businessman in 2016. However, in both instances, the police were reinstated in the campaign without major reforms.

First police convictions in Philippine drug war killings

An Australian nun who angered President Rodrigo Duterte departed the Philippines on Saturday following a lengthy legal fight against the government's efforts to expel her.

Sister Patricia Fox was escorted to the airport by about 200 human rights activists who praised her years of service in the impoverished Southeast Asian nation and condemned the administration for forcing her to leave.

"Duterte, expel him, Sister Pat, bring her back," some of the rallyists chanted.

Fox -- who has spent almost three decades working with Philippine labourers, farmers and urban poor -- said she was leaving with sadness but urged her sympathisers to continue helping the disadvantaged.

"I hope (Duterte) listens to the voice of the little people, not just the military, not just the businessmen, but the farmers, the workers, the tribal folk," she said in a pre-departure press conference.

Fox apparently angered the fiery president by joining a fact-finding mission in April to investigate alleged abuses against farmers, including killings and evictions by soldiers fighting guerrillas in the southern Philippines.

She was arrested briefly on charges of violating her visa's terms against activism and the slow turning wheels of the Philippine bureaucracy began moving to strip her of her papers.

Immigration authorities earlier this week refused to extend her tourist visa and ordered the 71-year-old out by Saturday.&nbsp;

She decided to return to Australia rather than risk being forcibly removed.

The country's Catholic leadership, which counts about 80 per cent of Filipinos as followers, bemoaned her scheduled departure, saying "Sister Patricia Fox’s deportation is a blow to the missionary spirit of the church".

"The faith she proclaims is not detrimental to the life of Filipinos. In fact, it is a source of hope and consolation to our suffering countrymen," said Father Jerome Secillano, executive director of the bishops' media affairs office.

However, Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo said: "The departure of Sister Patricia Fox is a timely reminder to all foreigners who stay or sojourn in this country that they are not entitled to all the rights and privileges granted to the citizens of the Philippines".

Church figures have previously criticised Duterte's policies particularly his signature anti-drug campaign that the government has left almost 5,000 people dead since Duterte took office in 2016.

Human rights groups charge that the actual death toll is about five times that total.&nbsp;

Duterte, in turn, has deeply resented criticism from the Church, particularly outsiders, attacking Fox and others in a speech in June, saying "those foreigners who have no reason to meddle, they come here, those sons of whores, you priests... you nuns".

An Australian nun who angered President Rodrigo Duterte departed the Philippines on Saturday following a lengthy legal fight against the government's efforts to expel her.

An Australian nun who angered President Rodrigo Duterte departed the Philippines on Saturday following a lengthy legal fight against the government's efforts to expel her. Sister Patricia Fox was escorted to the airport by about 200 human rights activists who praised her years of service in the impoverished Southeast Asian nation and condemned the administration for forcing her to leave. "Duterte, expel him, Sister Pat, bring her back," some of the rallyists chanted. Fox -- who has spent almost three decades working with Philippine labourers, farmers and urban poor -- said she was leaving with sadness but urged her sympathisers to continue helping the disadvantaged. "I hope (Duterte) listens to the voice of the little people, not just the military, not just the businessmen, but the farmers, the workers, the tribal folk," she said in a pre-departure press conference. Fox apparently angered the fiery president by joining a fact-finding mission in April to investigate alleged abuses against farmers, including killings and evictions by soldiers fighting guerrillas in the southern Philippines. She was arrested briefly on charges of violating her visa's terms against activism and the slow turning wheels of the Philippine bureaucracy began moving to strip her of her papers. Immigration authorities earlier this week refused to extend her tourist visa and ordered the 71-year-old out by Saturday. She decided to return to Australia rather than risk being forcibly removed. The country's Catholic leadership, which counts about 80 per cent of Filipinos as followers, bemoaned her scheduled departure, saying "Sister Patricia Fox’s deportation is a blow to the missionary spirit of the church". "The faith she proclaims is not detrimental to the life of Filipinos. In fact, it is a source of hope and consolation to our suffering countrymen," said Father Jerome Secillano, executive director of the bishops' media affairs office. However, Duterte's spokesman Salvador Panelo said: "The departure of Sister Patricia Fox is a timely reminder to all foreigners who stay or sojourn in this country that they are not entitled to all the rights and privileges granted to the citizens of the Philippines". Church figures have previously criticised Duterte's policies particularly his signature anti-drug campaign that the government has left almost 5,000 people dead since Duterte took office in 2016. Human rights groups charge that the actual death toll is about five times that total. Duterte, in turn, has deeply resented criticism from the Church, particularly outsiders, attacking Fox and others in a speech in June, saying "those foreigners who have no reason to meddle, they come here, those sons of whores, you priests... you nuns".

Australian nun Patricia who angered Duterte leaves Philippines

The Philippines raised tropical cyclone warnings levels for nine provinces and put a mountainous region on high alert for possible landslides on Monday ahead of a typhoon that threatened storm surges and floods triggered by heavy winds and rain.

Typhoon Yutu, which caused havoc last week with a direct hit on the US&nbsp;Northern Mariana islands, was set to make landfall on Tuesday morning and move across the main island of Luzon before exiting the Philippines 24 hours later, the state weather agency PAGASA said.

Yutu was a category 3 storm on Monday, with sustained winds reaching 170 km per hour (106 mph) and gusts of up to 210 kph.

That was less intense than four days ago, when as a super typhoon it barrelled through the Marianas, a US&nbsp;Western Pacific archipelago of 52,000 people, tearing off roofs, overturning vehicles and cutting off power and water.

Nine provinces in north Luzon were elevated to warning signal 2 on the severity scale of 5, and 20 more were put on the earliest warning of 1, with strong winds and rains expected later on Monday. The mountainous Cordillera region was put on red alert for landslides.

Known locally as Rosita, the typhoon will be the 18th to hit the Philippines this year and comes six weeks after super typhoon Mangkhut tore across Luzon, triggering landslides that killed dozens of people and damaged about $180 million of crops.

Classes were suspended in at least five provinces and fishermen in Luzon and the eastern seaboard advised not to go to sea. All boat services in the port city of Batangas, about 83 km (52 miles) south of Manila, were suspended on Monday.

About half of the Philippines' 105 million population live in the Luzon region. The country is hit by an average 20 typhoons each year.

The Philippines raised tropical cyclone warnings levels for nine provinces and put a mountainous region on high alert for possible landslides on Monday ahead of a typhoon that threatened storm surges and floods triggered by heavy winds and rain.

The Philippines raised tropical cyclone warnings levels for nine provinces and put a mountainous region on high alert for possible landslides on Monday ahead of a typhoon that threatened storm surges and floods triggered by heavy winds and rain. Typhoon Yutu, which caused havoc last week with a direct hit on the US Northern Mariana islands, was set to make landfall on Tuesday morning and move across the main island of Luzon before exiting the Philippines 24 hours later, the state weather agency PAGASA said. Yutu was a category 3 storm on Monday, with sustained winds reaching 170 km per hour (106 mph) and gusts of up to 210 kph. That was less intense than four days ago, when as a super typhoon it barrelled through the Marianas, a US Western Pacific archipelago of 52,000 people, tearing off roofs, overturning vehicles and cutting off power and water. Nine provinces in north Luzon were elevated to warning signal 2 on the severity scale of 5, and 20 more were put on the earliest warning of 1, with strong winds and rains expected later on Monday. The mountainous Cordillera region was put on red alert for landslides. Known locally as Rosita, the typhoon will be the 18th to hit the Philippines this year and comes six weeks after super typhoon Mangkhut tore across Luzon, triggering landslides that killed dozens of people and damaged about $180 million of crops. Classes were suspended in at least five provinces and fishermen in Luzon and the eastern seaboard advised not to go to sea. All boat services in the port city of Batangas, about 83 km (52 miles) south of Manila, were suspended on Monday. About half of the Philippines' 105 million population live in the Luzon region. The country is hit by an average 20 typhoons each year.

Philippines issues storm warnings ahead of destructive typhoon Yutu

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