The China Coast Guard intercepted two Philippine vessels near the Nanshan Islands. China claimed that the ships entered its waters without permission and attempted to land and conduct some sampling.

South China Sea dispute: Tensions rise as China intercepts Philippine vessels near Tiexian Reef

The Philippines has raised an alarm over China's increasing aggression in the disputed South China Sea. It says it is keeping all options open, including the potential for new international lawsuits. Watch in for more details!

Philippines alarmed over China's ship moving closer to land

For the first time since World War 2, Japan's military forces might step foot on Philippine soil. Signalling Japan’s intention to build a robust defence framework amid rising tensions in the region.

Japanese troops to be in Philippines soon? | Gravitas

The Philippines is upgrading its facilities on Thitu Island, the only inhabited outpost it holds in the contested Spratly Islands, according to a report by the South China Morning Post.
The country&rsquo;s latest annual budget has allocated 1.65 billion pesos ($27.96 million) to improve the airport on Thitu, alongside an additional 300 million pesos ($5 million) for constructing a sheltered port. Separately, over 1 billion pesos has been set aside for a sheltered port facility on Nanshan Island, located approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) east of Thitu.
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<h2>Upgrades to enhance the Philippines&rsquo; limited military capacity</h2>
While these upgrades are unlikely to significantly shift the regional balance of power, analysts believe they will enhance the Philippines&rsquo; limited military capacity amid increasing pressure from Beijing in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explainer-india-indonesia-the-maritime-neighbours-firming-up-ties-8608014">South China Sea</a>. According to the report, the funding will support extending the island&rsquo;s sole airstrip to 1.5 kilometres, making it suitable for certain F-16 fighter variants&nbsp;as well as light combat and transport aircraft.
Analysts suggest Beijing would likely be alarmed if the facilities on Thitu Island were made available to US forces. Such a move might be viewed as Washington inserting itself into the territorial dispute between the Philippines and China.
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<h2>Philippines plays catch up with regional rivals</h2>
The Philippines, long criticised for its slow pace in upgrading infrastructure in the Spratlys, appears to be catching up with its regional rivals. Although Manila was one of the first claimants to occupy disputed reefs, decades of neglect and underinvestment have eroded any strategic advantages gained from its early actions. In contrast, China completed an extensive island-building programme over a decade ago and has consistently improved its facilities in the region.
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Known as Pag-asa in the Philippines and Zhongye in China, Thitu Island is the largest feature occupied by Manila in the area. It hosts a coastguard station equipped with radar and other monitoring systems, as well as a civilian population of around 200 people. The island, also claimed by Vietnam, is located roughly 500 kilometres (310 miles) west of Palawan and holds strategic significance in the disputed waters.
In the past year, clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels have intensified near disputed areas, including incidents involving ship collisions and the use of water cannons by the Chinese coastguard. 
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Philippines, long criticised for its slow pace in upgrading infrastructure in the Spratlys, appears to be catching up with its regional rivals.

The Philippines is upgrading its facilities on Thitu Island, the only inhabited outpost it holds in the contested Spratly Islands, according to a report by the South China Morning Post. The country’s latest annual budget has allocated 1.65 billion pesos ($27.96 million) to improve the airport on Thitu, alongside an additional 300 million pesos ($5 million) for constructing a sheltered port. Separately, over 1 billion pesos has been set aside for a sheltered port facility on Nanshan Island, located approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) east of Thitu. Also read: India, Indonesia working on BrahMos missile deal Upgrades to enhance the Philippines’ limited military capacity While these upgrades are unlikely to significantly shift the regional balance of power, analysts believe they will enhance the Philippines’ limited military capacity amid increasing pressure from Beijing in the South China Sea. According to the report, the funding will support extending the island’s sole airstrip to 1.5 kilometres, making it suitable for certain F-16 fighter variants as well as light combat and transport aircraft. Analysts suggest Beijing would likely be alarmed if the facilities on Thitu Island were made available to US forces. Such a move might be viewed as Washington inserting itself into the territorial dispute between the Philippines and China. Also read: Philippines says China Coast Guard fired water cannon, 'sideswiped' govt vessel Philippines plays catch up with regional rivals The Philippines, long criticised for its slow pace in upgrading infrastructure in the Spratlys, appears to be catching up with its regional rivals. Although Manila was one of the first claimants to occupy disputed reefs, decades of neglect and underinvestment have eroded any strategic advantages gained from its early actions. In contrast, China completed an extensive island-building programme over a decade ago and has consistently improved its facilities in the region. Also read: Three dead, dozens hospitalised after eating toxic sea turtle in Philippines Known as Pag-asa in the Philippines and Zhongye in China, Thitu Island is the largest feature occupied by Manila in the area. It hosts a coastguard station equipped with radar and other monitoring systems, as well as a civilian population of around 200 people. The island, also claimed by Vietnam, is located roughly 500 kilometres (310 miles) west of Palawan and holds strategic significance in the disputed waters. In the past year, clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels have intensified near disputed areas, including incidents involving ship collisions and the use of water cannons by the Chinese coastguard. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines ramps up Spratly Islands upgrades to enhance military capacity amid tension with China

China's massive coast guard vessel, dubbed the "Monster Ship," has been patrolling the West Philippine Sea, prompting the Philippines to deploy military and coast guard air and sea assets. The vessel reportedly went dark while navigating waters near Zambales, heightening regional tensions. Watch to know more!

China-Philippines Tensions: Beijing's 'Monster Ship' Patrols Near Luzon Coast, Manila Responds

The Philippines has recovered a Chinese spy drone that was reportedly found near its territory. The incident raises concerns about espionage and tensions in the South China Sea, where both countries have ongoing territorial disputes.

China's aggression escalates in contested waters

Philippines recovers chinese spy drone

A suspected Chinese submarine drone was recovered in waters near the central <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-philippines-conflict-manila-to-deploy-us-made-typhon-missile-system-786282">Philippines</a>, authorities said Thursday (January 2). While the drone was unarmed, the discovery raises concerns over &ldquo;potential national security implications,&rdquo; the police statement said.
As per the police report, the discovery was made by three fishermen on Monday, approximately nine kilometres (six miles) off the coast of San Pascual in Masbate province.
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<h2>What's the function of the suspected Chinese submarine drone?</h2>
The drone, painted yellow and marked with &ldquo;HY-119,&rdquo; was found floating at sea. Regional police director Andre Dizon said the fishermen handed it over to the authorities. The drone was about two metres (six feet) long and shaped like a torpedo with fins.
"After fishermen handed the object over to our local police, we dispatched our Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel and K-9 units to assess whether it was safe or contained explosives. The object has a total length of 359 cm and has a circumference of 79.2 cm," Dizon said, as per media reports. 
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Dizon added, &ldquo;We need to strengthen our communication with fishermen. If they encounter or discover any unusual items in our waters, they should inform the police. It is important not to hide these things or interfere with them for their safety."
"Based on our open-source research in the internet ... HY-119 refers to a Chinese underwater navigation and communication system. It has an antenna and an eye that can be used for viewing. Based on our research, this can be used for monitoring and reconnaissance," Dizon said.
As per Dizon, the drone's application could include submarine communication, underwater surveillance, oceanographic research, and naval operations.
"It likely utilises secure encryption methods, frequency hopping, and low probability of intercept technology to avoid detection," Dizon added.
The device was handed over to the Philippine Navy on Tuesday for further investigation.
The Philippines and China have long been at odds over territorial claims in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-accuses-china-of-blocking-probe-of-ship-linked-to-cut-baltic-sea-cables-786274">South China Sea</a>. Despite an international ruling invalidating&nbsp;China's claims over most of the sea, Beijing has continued to consider the area a part of its territory.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The drone, painted yellow and marked with “HY-119,” was found floating at sea. Regional police director Andre Dizon said the fishermen handed it over to the authorities.

A suspected Chinese submarine drone was recovered in waters near the central Philippines, authorities said Thursday (January 2). While the drone was unarmed, the discovery raises concerns over “potential national security implications,” the police statement said. As per the police report, the discovery was made by three fishermen on Monday, approximately nine kilometres (six miles) off the coast of San Pascual in Masbate province. Also read: Explainer: India pushes the pedal on Brahmos export What's the function of the suspected Chinese submarine drone? The drone, painted yellow and marked with “HY-119,” was found floating at sea. Regional police director Andre Dizon said the fishermen handed it over to the authorities. The drone was about two metres (six feet) long and shaped like a torpedo with fins. "After fishermen handed the object over to our local police, we dispatched our Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel and K-9 units to assess whether it was safe or contained explosives. The object has a total length of 359 cm and has a circumference of 79.2 cm," Dizon said, as per media reports. Also read: ‘US is breaking down’: Trump blames open borders, Democrats after deadly New Orleans attack kills 15 Dizon added, “We need to strengthen our communication with fishermen. If they encounter or discover any unusual items in our waters, they should inform the police. It is important not to hide these things or interfere with them for their safety." "Based on our open-source research in the internet ... HY-119 refers to a Chinese underwater navigation and communication system. It has an antenna and an eye that can be used for viewing. Based on our research, this can be used for monitoring and reconnaissance," Dizon said. As per Dizon, the drone's application could include submarine communication, underwater surveillance, oceanographic research, and naval operations. "It likely utilises secure encryption methods, frequency hopping, and low probability of intercept technology to avoid detection," Dizon added. The device was handed over to the Philippine Navy on Tuesday for further investigation. The Philippines and China have long been at odds over territorial claims in the South China Sea. Despite an international ruling invalidating China's claims over most of the sea, Beijing has continued to consider the area a part of its territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese HY-119 drone meant for 'underwater surveillance' recovered in Philippines waters

While tensions are rising between China and the Philippines, Manila has announced its plans to deploy mid-range missiles to strengthen defenses in the South China Sea. China has called the move provocative, warning that it could aggravate regional stability. Watch in for more details!

China-Philippines Conflict: Manila To Deploy U.S-made Typhon Missile System

In Philippines, weeks after the widening power struggle between Vice President Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, an influential church in the country known for its disciplined bloc voting that can swing elections, has reportedly decided to oppose impeachment efforts against Duterte. Watch this video to find out more.

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In a milestone for bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and China, the authorities in the Philippines have deported a group of 190 Chinese nationals linked to offshore gambling. Watch in for more details!

Philippines Deport 190 Chinese Nationals Linked To Offshore Gambling

Nearly 90,000 residents on the island of Negros were ordered to evacuate after Mount Kanlaon erupted, spewing deadly ash and lava. The eruption prompted authorities to issue urgent shelter directives as the volcanic activity posed a significant threat to lives and property.

Evacuations Underway In Philippines As Volcano At Mt Kanlaon Erupts | WION Climate Tracker

The Philippines said the China Coast Guard fired water cannon and "sideswiped" a government vessel Wednesday during a maritime patrol near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, after Beijing said it had "exercised control" over the ship.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims from other countries -- including the Philippines -- and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Video released by Manila on Wednesday appeared to show a China coast guard ship hitting the right side of the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, a fisheries department vessel, with the crew shouting, "Collision! Collision!".

The Chinese ship "fired a water cannon... aiming directly at the vessel's navigational antennas", Philippine coast guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a statement.

The Chinese vessel then "intentionally sideswiped" the ship before launching a second water cannon attack, Tarriela added.

China's coast guard said in a statement that Philippine ships "came dangerously close" and that its actions had been "in accordance with the law", without giving further details.

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"On December 4, Philippine Coast Guard ships... attempted to intrude into China's territorial waters around Huangyan Island," coast guard spokesperson Liu Dejun said, using the Chinese name for Scarborough Shoal.

The Philippine ships "came dangerously close to regular law enforcement patrol vessels of the China Coast Guard", Liu said, without giving more information on the manoeuvres used by Beijing.

Scarborough Shoal -- a triangular chain of reefs and rocks -- has been a flashpoint between the countries since China seized it from the Philippines in 2012.

Since then, Beijing has deployed patrol boats that Manila says harass Philippine vessels and prevent Filipino fishermen from accessing a fish-rich lagoon there.

The shoal lies 240 kilometres (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometres from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Philippines said the China Coast Guard fired water cannon and "sideswiped" a government vessel Wednesday during a maritime patrol near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, after Beijing said it had "exercised control" over the ship.

The Philippines said the China Coast Guard fired water cannon and "sideswiped" a government vessel Wednesday during a maritime patrol near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, after Beijing said it had "exercised control" over the ship. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims from other countries -- including the Philippines -- and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. Video released by Manila on Wednesday appeared to show a China coast guard ship hitting the right side of the BRP Datu Pagbuaya, a fisheries department vessel, with the crew shouting, "Collision! Collision!". The Chinese ship "fired a water cannon... aiming directly at the vessel's navigational antennas", Philippine coast guard spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said in a statement. The Chinese vessel then "intentionally sideswiped" the ship before launching a second water cannon attack, Tarriela added. China's coast guard said in a statement that Philippine ships "came dangerously close" and that its actions had been "in accordance with the law", without giving further details. Also read: S Korean opposition vows to impeach president as his aides offer to step down "On December 4, Philippine Coast Guard ships... attempted to intrude into China's territorial waters around Huangyan Island," coast guard spokesperson Liu Dejun said, using the Chinese name for Scarborough Shoal. The Philippine ships "came dangerously close to regular law enforcement patrol vessels of the China Coast Guard", Liu said, without giving more information on the manoeuvres used by Beijing. Scarborough Shoal -- a triangular chain of reefs and rocks -- has been a flashpoint between the countries since China seized it from the Philippines in 2012. Since then, Beijing has deployed patrol boats that Manila says harass Philippine vessels and prevent Filipino fishermen from accessing a fish-rich lagoon there. The shoal lies 240 kilometres (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometres from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Philippines says China Coast Guard fired water cannon, 'sideswiped' govt vessel

China and the Philippines clash over the contested Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The Chinese Coast Guard accuses Philippine ships of entering its territorial waters. Watch to know more!

Philippines, China Trade Accusations Over Confrontation In South China Sea | World News | WION

China and the Philippines clash over the contested Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The Chinese Coast Guard accuses Philippine ships of entering its territorial waters.

South China Sea Tensions: Philippines, China Trade Accusations Over Confrontation

In a tragic incident in the Philippines, three people died, and at least 32 others were hospitalised after consuming stew made from an endangered sea turtle.

The incident took place in a seaside town in Maguindanao del Norte Province last week. The victims, mostly members of the Indigenous Teduray community, began experiencing severe symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal spasms shortly after eating the dish last week.&nbsp;

<h2>Toxicity from contaminated sea turtle meat</h2>

Sea turtles are protected by Philippine environmental laws but still, they are consumed as a traditional delicacy in some communities, despite the risks. Experts warn that sea turtles can become toxic if they consume contaminated algae, even if they appear healthy. This toxic meat, when consumed can lead to a rare and potentially life-threatening condition known as chelonitoxism.

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<h2>Rare and dangerous disease</h2>

Chelonitoxism is caused by toxins in the meat of certain sea turtles that consume toxic algae. While it is a rare condition, the disease can be fatal without proper treatment. People should avoid eating sea turtle meat to reduce the risk of poisoning.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by consuming wildlife, particularly endangered species like sea turtles, which are protected by law in the Philippines and many other countries.

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Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr, a local councillor, stressed the importance of enforcing wildlife protection laws in the region to prevent future food poisoning incidents as reported by BBC.

The victims who were hospitalised have since been discharged, while the deceased were buried by local customs. Although there is no known antidote for chelonitoxism, the disease can be prevented by avoiding the consumption of both raw and cooked sea turtle meat.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a tragic incident in the Philippines, three people died, and at least 32 others were hospitalised after consuming stew made from an endangered sea turtle. The incident took place in a seaside town in Maguindanao del Norte Province last week.

In a tragic incident in the Philippines, three people died, and at least 32 others were hospitalised after consuming stew made from an endangered sea turtle. The incident took place in a seaside town in Maguindanao del Norte Province last week. The victims, mostly members of the Indigenous Teduray community, began experiencing severe symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal spasms shortly after eating the dish last week. Toxicity from contaminated sea turtle meat Sea turtles are protected by Philippine environmental laws but still, they are consumed as a traditional delicacy in some communities, despite the risks. Experts warn that sea turtles can become toxic if they consume contaminated algae, even if they appear healthy. This toxic meat, when consumed can lead to a rare and potentially life-threatening condition known as chelonitoxism. Also read | 'Brain rot' emerges as Oxford word of the year. Are you suffering from it? Rare and dangerous disease Chelonitoxism is caused by toxins in the meat of certain sea turtles that consume toxic algae. While it is a rare condition, the disease can be fatal without proper treatment. People should avoid eating sea turtle meat to reduce the risk of poisoning. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by consuming wildlife, particularly endangered species like sea turtles, which are protected by law in the Philippines and many other countries. Also read | India's Chicken 65 ranks among world's best fried chicken dishes. Here's all about this delicacy Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr, a local councillor, stressed the importance of enforcing wildlife protection laws in the region to prevent future food poisoning incidents as reported by BBC. The victims who were hospitalised have since been discharged, while the deceased were buried by local customs. Although there is no known antidote for chelonitoxism, the disease can be prevented by avoiding the consumption of both raw and cooked sea turtle meat. (With inputs from agencies)

Three dead, dozens hospitalised after eating toxic sea turtle in Philippines

Philippines Vice President Sara Duterte has insisted that she has not schemed to kill the president, as investigators summoned her to testify.

Philippines: Vice President Duterte Denies President Marcos Jr Assassination Plot

Army launched a search operation Tuesday after a 56-year-old man went missing after he went to work at the Leimakhong Military Station Monday. Watch in for more details!

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A massive fire broke out in Tondo, Manila on Sunday, displacing residents and prompting a swift response from authorities. Residents say they have lost everything as fire razed houses along the port area. Authorities have not announced cause of the fire, but past blazes have been related to faulty electrical wiring. Watch in for more details!

Manila Fire: Massive Blaze Leaves At Least 2,000 Families Homeless In Philippines | World DNA

Philippines' Vice President Sara Duterte threatened to have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. killed if she herself were to be killed. Following this, security agencies in the Philippines raised safety measures and dubbed it a 'national concern'. On Monday, the President vowed to fight back against what he called 'reckless and troubling threats'. Watch this video to find out more.

Philippines Vice Presidents' Death Threat Against President 'A Security Concern' | GRAVITAS

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte declared that if she were killed, she would have President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assassinated in retaliation. Her statement has sparked controversy and raised concerns over political tensions in the country.

Philippine Vice President Threatens Retaliation Against President Marcos If She Is Killed

Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte warned that if she were killed, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would be assassinated in retaliation. Her controversial statement has sparked widespread debate and raised concerns over political stability in the country.

Philippine Vice President Threatens Retaliation Against President Marcos Jr. If She Is Killed

Sara Duterte, the Philippines’ vice-president, set the cat among the pigeons on Saturday (Nov 23) by openly admitting she was in contact with an assassin to get President Ferdinand Marcos Jr killed if she herself were assassinated. In the Southeast Asian nation, vice presidents and presidents are elected separately and the two high-profile posts are currently held by two rival political families.

While addressing a press conference, Sara said she had instructed a killer to assassinate Marcos Jr, his wife and the speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives if she herself were killed.

“I have talked to a person. I said, if I get killed, go kill BBM [Marcos], [first lady] Liza Araneta and [speaker] Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke,” Duterte said. “I said, do not stop until you kill them, and then he said yes.”

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The statement prompted an urgent response from the presidential office, which vowed “proper action.”

“Acting on the vice-president’s clear and unequivocal statement that she had contracted an assassin to kill the president if an alleged plot against her succeeds, the executive secretary has referred this active threat to the presidential security command for immediate proper action.”

“Any threat to the life of the president must always be taken seriously, more so that this threat has been publicly revealed in clear and certain terms,” the statement added.

Watch:&nbsp;United States, Philippines Sign Military Intelligence-sharing Deal

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Duterte’s tirade against the president comes in a series of attacks that she has launched over the past months. In October, Duterte said she imagined cutting the president’s head off. The two families are at odds over differences on foreign policy as well as Sara’s father and former president Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly war on drugs, among others things.

In June, the political crisis deepened in the Philippines when Sara resigned from her cabinet posts but retained the vice-presidential chair, indicating that the political alliance between her and the president Marcos would come crashing down anytime now. The alliance struck in 2022 helped the two families secure victories.

Now, the Philippines is gearing up for mid-term elections in May and many are seeing them as a litmus test for Marcos’&nbsp;popularity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sara Duterte, the Philippines’ vice-president, set the cat among the pigeons on Saturday (Nov 23) by openly admitting she was in contact with an assassin to get President Ferdinand Marcos Jr killed if she herself were assassinated.

Sara Duterte, the Philippines’ vice-president, set the cat among the pigeons on Saturday (Nov 23) by openly admitting she was in contact with an assassin to get President Ferdinand Marcos Jr killed if she herself were assassinated. In the Southeast Asian nation, vice presidents and presidents are elected separately and the two high-profile posts are currently held by two rival political families. While addressing a press conference, Sara said she had instructed a killer to assassinate Marcos Jr, his wife and the speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives if she herself were killed. “I have talked to a person. I said, if I get killed, go kill BBM [Marcos], [first lady] Liza Araneta and [speaker] Martin Romualdez. No joke. No joke,” Duterte said. “I said, do not stop until you kill them, and then he said yes.” Also read: Over 250,000 flee as Super Typhoon Man-yi nears Philippines The statement prompted an urgent response from the presidential office, which vowed “proper action.” “Acting on the vice-president’s clear and unequivocal statement that she had contracted an assassin to kill the president if an alleged plot against her succeeds, the executive secretary has referred this active threat to the presidential security command for immediate proper action.” “Any threat to the life of the president must always be taken seriously, more so that this threat has been publicly revealed in clear and certain terms,” the statement added. Watch: United States, Philippines Sign Military Intelligence-sharing Deal × Duterte’s tirade against the president comes in a series of attacks that she has launched over the past months. In October, Duterte said she imagined cutting the president’s head off. The two families are at odds over differences on foreign policy as well as Sara’s father and former president Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly war on drugs, among others things. In June, the political crisis deepened in the Philippines when Sara resigned from her cabinet posts but retained the vice-presidential chair, indicating that the political alliance between her and the president Marcos would come crashing down anytime now. The alliance struck in 2022 helped the two families secure victories. Now, the Philippines is gearing up for mid-term elections in May and many are seeing them as a litmus test for Marcos’ popularity. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Have talked to assassin to kill you,’ Filipino vice president issues open threat to Prez Marcos

Super Typhoon Man-Yi has left a trail of devastation across the Philippines over the weekend. At least eight people have been killed, and many communities are in ruins after the powerful storm swept through the country. Watch in for more details!

Philippines Appeals For Aid After Man-Yi Wreaks Havoc

Super Typhoon Maner has left a trail of devastation across the Philippines over the weekend. At least eight people have been killed, and many communities are in ruins after the powerful storm swept through the country. Watch in for more details!

Philippines: Super Typhoon Man-Yi Claims Lives & Causes Devastation

Defense officials from the Philippines and the United States on Monday signed a military intelligence sharing deal in a further deepening of interoperability between the two nations. Watch this report for more details!

US and Philippines Strengthen Defence Alliance With New Deal

A powerful storm sweeping towards the Philippines intensified into a super typhoon on Saturday, the state weather forecaster said, warning of "significant to severe impacts" from the wind and "life-threatening" storm surges.

Around 255,000 people have fled their homes ahead of Super Typhoon Man-yi, which is expected to make landfall later Saturday or early Sunday, becoming the sixth major storm to pummel the archipelago nation in the past month.&nbsp;

With wind gusts of up to 230 kilometres per hour (about 140 miles per hour), Man-yi was on track to slam into the sparsely populated island province of Catanduanes as a super typhoon or "near peak intensity", the weather service warned.

Up to 14-metre (46-feet) high seas were expected around Catanduanes, while "significant to severe impacts from typhoon-force winds are possible" in the hardest hit areas, along with a "high risk of life-threatening storm surges" exceeding three metres, the forecaster said.&nbsp;

At least 163 people died in the five storms that pounded the Philippines in recent weeks that also left thousands homeless and wiped out crops and livestock.

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The government urged people Saturday to heed warnings to flee to safety.

"If preemptive evacuation is required, let us do so and not wait for the hour of peril before evacuating or seeking help, because if we did that we will be putting in danger not only our lives but also those of our rescuers,"&nbsp;Interior Undersecretary Marlo Iringan said.

In Albay province, Legazpi City grocer Myrna Perea was sheltering with her fruit vendor husband and their three children in a school classroom with nine other families after they were ordered to leave their shanty.&nbsp;

Conditions were hot and cramped -- the family spent Friday night sleeping together on a mat under the classroom's single ceiling fan -- but Perea said it was better to be safe.&nbsp;

"I think our house will be wrecked when we get back because it's made of light materials -- just two gusts are required to knock it down," Perea, 44, told AFP.

"That's why we evacua

ted. Even if the house is destroyed, the important thing is we do not lose a family member."

Scientists have warned climate change is increasing the intensity of storms, leading to heavier rains, flash floods and stronger gusts.

About 20 big storms and typhoons hit the Southeast Asian nation or its surrounding waters each year, killing scores of people, but it is rare for multiple such weather events to take place in a small window.

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<h2>Forced evacuations&nbsp;</h2>

Evacuation centres were filling up on Catanduanes island in the typhoon-prone Bicol region, with the state weather forecaster warning Saturday of "widespread incidents of severe flooding and landslides".

More than 400 people were squeezed into the provincial government building in the capital Virac, with new arrivals being sent to a gymnasium, provincial disaster officer Roberto Monterola told AFP.

Monterola said he had dispatched soldiers to force about 100 households in two coastal villages near Virac to move inland due to fears storm surges could swamp their homes.

"Regardless of the exact landfall point, heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surges may occur in areas outside the predicted landfall zone," the forecaster said.

<h2>Back 'to square one'&nbsp;</h2>

In Northern Samar province, disaster officer Rei Josiah Echano lamented that damage caused by typhoons was the root cause of poverty in the region.&nbsp;

"Whenever there's a typhoon like this, it brings us back to the mediaeval era, we go (back) to square one," Echano told AFP, as the province prepared for the onslaught of Man-yi.

All vessels -- from fishing boats to oil tankers -- have been ordered to stay in port or return to shore.

The volcanology agency also warned heavy rain dumped by Man-yi could trigger flows of volcanic sediment, or lahars, from three volcanos, including Taal, south of Manila.&nbsp;

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Man-yi will hit the Philippines late in the typhoon season -- most cyclones develop between July and October.

Earlier this month, four storms were clustered simultaneously in the Pacific basin, which the Japan Meteorological Agency told AFP on Saturday was the first time such an occurrence had been observed in November since its records began in 1951.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A powerful storm sweeping towards the Philippines intensified into a super typhoon on Saturday, the state weather forecaster said, warning of "significant to severe impacts" from the wind and "life-threatening" storm surges.

A powerful storm sweeping towards the Philippines intensified into a super typhoon on Saturday, the state weather forecaster said, warning of "significant to severe impacts" from the wind and "life-threatening" storm surges. Around 255,000 people have fled their homes ahead of Super Typhoon Man-yi, which is expected to make landfall later Saturday or early Sunday, becoming the sixth major storm to pummel the archipelago nation in the past month. With wind gusts of up to 230 kilometres per hour (about 140 miles per hour), Man-yi was on track to slam into the sparsely populated island province of Catanduanes as a super typhoon or "near peak intensity", the weather service warned. Up to 14-metre (46-feet) high seas were expected around Catanduanes, while "significant to severe impacts from typhoon-force winds are possible" in the hardest hit areas, along with a "high risk of life-threatening storm surges" exceeding three metres, the forecaster said. At least 163 people died in the five storms that pounded the Philippines in recent weeks that also left thousands homeless and wiped out crops and livestock. Also read | Video shows passengers flying off their seats after severe turbulence hit Miami-bound Flight The government urged people Saturday to heed warnings to flee to safety. "If preemptive evacuation is required, let us do so and not wait for the hour of peril before evacuating or seeking help, because if we did that we will be putting in danger not only our lives but also those of our rescuers," Interior Undersecretary Marlo Iringan said. In Albay province, Legazpi City grocer Myrna Perea was sheltering with her fruit vendor husband and their three children in a school classroom with nine other families after they were ordered to leave their shanty. Conditions were hot and cramped -- the family spent Friday night sleeping together on a mat under the classroom's single ceiling fan -- but Perea said it was better to be safe. "I think our house will be wrecked when we get back because it's made of light materials -- just two gusts are required to knock it down," Perea, 44, told AFP. "That's why we evacua ted. Even if the house is destroyed, the important thing is we do not lose a family member." Scientists have warned climate change is increasing the intensity of storms, leading to heavier rains, flash floods and stronger gusts. About 20 big storms and typhoons hit the Southeast Asian nation or its surrounding waters each year, killing scores of people, but it is rare for multiple such weather events to take place in a small window. Also read | Mentally ill son allegedly kills millionaire dad at Irish resort. He was there to help him Forced evacuations Evacuation centres were filling up on Catanduanes island in the typhoon-prone Bicol region, with the state weather forecaster warning Saturday of "widespread incidents of severe flooding and landslides". More than 400 people were squeezed into the provincial government building in the capital Virac, with new arrivals being sent to a gymnasium, provincial disaster officer Roberto Monterola told AFP. Monterola said he had dispatched soldiers to force about 100 households in two coastal villages near Virac to move inland due to fears storm surges could swamp their homes. "Regardless of the exact landfall point, heavy rainfall, severe winds, and storm surges may occur in areas outside the predicted landfall zone," the forecaster said. Back 'to square one' In Northern Samar province, disaster officer Rei Josiah Echano lamented that damage caused by typhoons was the root cause of poverty in the region. "Whenever there's a typhoon like this, it brings us back to the mediaeval era, we go (back) to square one," Echano told AFP, as the province prepared for the onslaught of Man-yi. All vessels -- from fishing boats to oil tankers -- have been ordered to stay in port or return to shore. The volcanology agency also warned heavy rain dumped by Man-yi could trigger flows of volcanic sediment, or lahars, from three volcanos, including Taal, south of Manila. Also read | Donald Trump's attorney general pick Matt Gaetz had sex with minor: Report Man-yi will hit the Philippines late in the typhoon season -- most cyclones develop between July and October. Earlier this month, four storms were clustered simultaneously in the Pacific basin, which the Japan Meteorological Agency told AFP on Saturday was the first time such an occurrence had been observed in November since its records began in 1951. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Over 250,000 flee as Super Typhoon Man-yi nears Philippines

Typhoon Usagi slammed into the Philippines' already disaster-ravaged north,--- As authorities rushed to evacuate thousands of people from flood-prone areas...The fifth storm to strike the country in just three weeks, --- Usagi made landfall in the town of Baggao in Cagayan province... Watch in for more details!

Philippines:  Storm Man-yi Is Forecast To Strike On Sunday

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands.

While Toraji caused relatively limited deaths and no reported deaths as per the national weather agency, Typhoon Toraji is gaining strength just two days away from the Philippines' largest and most populous island, Luzon.

<h2>Evacuations imminent?</h2>

So far, the government has not called for evacuations ahead of Typhoon Usagi's arrival.

However, the weather agency warned that “Areas in northern Luzon are at risk of heavy rainfall, severe wind, and, possibly, storm surge inundation from (Usagi) which may cause considerable impacts”.

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In a weather bulletin, it added that Usagi has wind speed of&nbsp;85 kilometres (52.82 miles) an hour and may hit the region late in the day. The storm will likely reach Typhoon category by Wednesday ahead of landfall.

Coastal waters will be rough and "mariners of small seacraft… are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions", it added.

After Usagi, another storm, Tropical Storm Man-yi might also threaten the Philippines next week, it added. The tropical storm is currently near the Northern Mariana Islands.

<h2>Typhoon Toraji</h2>

While the government is yet to report any casualties from Typhoon Toraji, around 15,000 people are still sheltering at government-run evacuation centres.

The typhoon did not trigger any significant flooding, however, on Tuesday, utility workers, were fixing damaged bridges, restoring electricity and&nbsp;clearing road blockages caused by landslides, fallen trees etc, reported the civil defence office.

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While the full extent of damage to private homes was not known, as per AFP , 29 towns and cities were still without power.

"A small number of people were preemptively evacuated but they have since returned home. Classes at the collegiate level have resumed," said civil defence official Randy Nicolas of Ilocos Norte province on Luzon's South China Sea coast while talking to the news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands.

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands. While Toraji caused relatively limited deaths and no reported deaths as per the national weather agency, Typhoon Toraji is gaining strength just two days away from the Philippines' largest and most populous island, Luzon. Evacuations imminent? So far, the government has not called for evacuations ahead of Typhoon Usagi's arrival. However, the weather agency warned that “Areas in northern Luzon are at risk of heavy rainfall, severe wind, and, possibly, storm surge inundation from (Usagi) which may cause considerable impacts”. Also read | New storm Kong-rey bears down on Philippines after deadly Trami In a weather bulletin, it added that Usagi has wind speed of 85 kilometres (52.82 miles) an hour and may hit the region late in the day. The storm will likely reach Typhoon category by Wednesday ahead of landfall. Coastal waters will be rough and "mariners of small seacraft… are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions", it added. After Usagi, another storm, Tropical Storm Man-yi might also threaten the Philippines next week, it added. The tropical storm is currently near the Northern Mariana Islands. Typhoon Toraji While the government is yet to report any casualties from Typhoon Toraji, around 15,000 people are still sheltering at government-run evacuation centres. The typhoon did not trigger any significant flooding, however, on Tuesday, utility workers, were fixing damaged bridges, restoring electricity and clearing road blockages caused by landslides, fallen trees etc, reported the civil defence office. Also read | Typhoon Gaemi forces Taiwan to close schools, stock market after curtailed wargames While the full extent of damage to private homes was not known, as per AFP , 29 towns and cities were still without power. "A small number of people were preemptively evacuated but they have since returned home. Classes at the collegiate level have resumed," said civil defence official Randy Nicolas of Ilocos Norte province on Luzon's South China Sea coast while talking to the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines readies to face fifth storm in one month; Typhoon Usagi to make landfall soon

Thousands of people sought shelter, ports were shut down, and landslides blocked mountain roads as the disaster-prone nation was struck by a fourth cyclone in less than a month. A fifth tropical storm, Usagi, is now just two days away from the country's northeast coast. Watch in for more details!

Philippines: Typhoon Toraji Brings Heavy Rains And Storm Damage | WION Climate Tracker

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