Asia

Surging fuel and electricity costs caused by the Iran war have accelerated the adoption of solar power and electric vehicles in the Philippines as households seek long-term savings and energy independence.

The Philippines earthquake toll has risen to 55 deaths following a major tremor off Mindanao. Rescue efforts are severely hampered by persistent rain and aftershocks. Rescuers continue clearing roads and searching for the missing, though finding survivors remains challenging.

Thailand's Princess Bajrakitiyabha, the King’s eldest daughter, has passed away at age 47. She had been in a coma for nearly four years following a collapse from heart conditions and multiple infections in late 2022.

China sanctioned Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro over remarks regarding the South China Sea dispute, banning him and his family from entry. Teodoro responded defiantly, asserting he was penalized for upholding Philippine sovereignty against Chinese actions.

The Thai-Cambodian border remains fragile but under control, officials stated. Despite reports of China delivering T-59D tanks to Cambodia, authorities downplayed concerns. They assured that the new equipment does not directly affect Thailand's security interests or stability.

A powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck southern Philippines near Mindanao, causing significant damage and casualties. Authorities ordered immediate evacuations in coastal areas of the Philippines and Indonesia. Tsunami warnings were issued across the Asia-Pacific region following the quake.

A powerful magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Mindanao, Philippines, triggering tsunami warnings. The disaster has resulted in at least 35 deaths and over 100 injuries. Authorities are coordinating relief efforts as search operations continue for the missing.

While rate hikes stabilized the Rupiah temporarily, analysts stress that lasting investor trust requires more than monetary fixes. The government must address deep fiscal concerns and improve governance for sustained, long-term economic stability.

A container vessel sank off Batam's coast. All nine crew members were safely rescued by Indonesian authorities. Singapore's MPA advises caution and monitoring for adrift containers in the area.

Indonesia proposes a US Hercules maintenance hub at Kertajati Airport. While promising economic gains and regional MRO status, experts warn it risks compromising Indonesia's non-aligned foreign policy due to geopolitical concerns and lack of transparency regarding the agreement details.

Australia has extended the quarantine for repatriated cruise ship passengers affected by hantavirus. The period is now set for 42 days total, until June 23. This measure keeps Australian citizens and residents isolated near Perth following health advice.

Rescue efforts continue for seven divers trapped in a flooded cave in Laos. Although at least five have been found alive, none have been rescued yet. Rescuers urgently require additional oxygen tanks to sustain life support and complete the complex extraction mission.