Top Chinese General Takes Harsh Line on Taiwan, Other Disputes at International Naval Gathering

In a display of assertiveness that underscores China's hardening stance on territorial and maritime disputes, a top Chinese general took a notably harsh line on Taiwan and other contentious issues during an international naval gathering.

This event, attended by military leaders from around the world, highlighted the escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region and China’s unwavering position on its core interests. The gathering, which brought together naval officials and defense experts to discuss maritime security and cooperation, saw the Chinese general delivering a stern message regarding Taiwan. He reiterated Beijing’s […]

Number of Chinese vessels surges in West Philippine Sea amid Balikatan

The West Philippine Sea has seen a significant increase in the presence of Chinese vessels, coinciding with the annual Balikatan exercises conducted by the United States and the Philippines.

This surge in maritime activity has heightened tensions in the region, drawing international attention to the ongoing territorial disputes in these contested waters. Balikatan, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, is a series of joint military exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability and strengthening the defense capabilities of the US and Philippine forces. This year’s exercises, involving […]

39th edition of ‘Balikatan’ exercises between PH, U.S. began

The 39th edition of the "Balikatan" military exercises, a hallmark of defense cooperation between the Philippines and the United States, has officially commenced, signaling the continued strength and importance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

This year’s iteration of Balikatan, which translates to “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, brings together thousands of troops from both countries to engage in a series of coordinated training operations aimed at enhancing interoperability and readiness. Balikatan 2024 is particularly significant as it reflects the evolving security dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. The exercises focus on a […]

Book Business Associations Abroad Slam New Hong Kong Security Law

The international book publishing community has voiced strong opposition to Hong Kong's newly enacted national security law, citing concerns over its potential to stifle freedom of expression and curb the operations of the publishing industry.

Book business associations from around the world have come together to denounce the legislation, arguing that it poses a significant threat to the autonomy and openness that have historically characterized Hong Kong’s literary and intellectual environment. The national security law, imposed by Beijing, aims to prevent and punish acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion […]

China expected to ‘behave well’ during WPS trilateral drills – PH Navy

As tensions simmer in the South China Sea, the Philippine Navy remains optimistic about China's conduct during the upcoming trilateral naval drills in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

These exercises, involving the Philippines, the United States, and Japan, are designed to enhance maritime security and cooperation among the participating nations. The trilateral drills come at a time of heightened scrutiny over China’s activities in the South China Sea, where it has been involved in territorial disputes with several Southeast Asian nations, including the […]

Tens of Thousands Evacuated from Massive China Floods

In a dramatic turn of events, tens of thousands of residents have been evacuated from several provinces in China due to massive floods that have wreaked havoc across large swathes of the country.

The relentless downpours have led to rivers overflowing their banks, submerging towns, and triggering landslides, prompting a massive response from emergency services. The flooding, described as some of the worst in decades, has primarily affected the central and southern regions of China. The provinces of Hunan, Jiangxi, and Sichuan are among the hardest hit, with […]

Battle of Yultong

On this day in 1951, the Philippines fought the Battle of Yultong against China during the Korean War. It was fought between approximately 40,000 soldiers from the Chinese People's Volunteer Army (PVA) 34th Division and 900 Filipino soldiers of the 10th Battalion Combat Team (BCT), north of Yeoncheon. The battle was part of the Chinese Spring Offensive.

The Philippines’ 10th Battalion Combat Team reported 12 killed, 38 wounded, and six (6) missing in action while China’s PVA losses were reported to be more than 500 killed and two (2) captured. The 10th BCT survived to join the British 29th Brigade Group as a reserve force on 24 April 1951, and later participated […]

What to Know About Chinese Olympic Swimmers’ Doping Scandal

The world of competitive swimming has been rocked by a doping scandal involving Chinese Olympic swimmers, casting a shadow over the sport and raising serious concerns about the integrity of competition.

This scandal has not only tarnished the reputations of the athletes involved but also sparked widespread debate about doping controls and enforcement within the sport. Here is what you need to know about this unfolding controversy. The doping scandal came to light when several high-profile Chinese swimmers tested positive for banned substances in the lead-up […]

Philippines Celebrates Second Mango Shipment to Australia

The Philippines, renowned for its delectable mangoes, has marked another milestone in its agricultural exports with the second shipment of mangoes to Australia.

This significant achievement not only highlights the quality and appeal of Philippine mangoes but also underscores the growing trade relations between the two nations. The recent shipment of mangoes to Australia represents a continuation of the successful partnership between Filipino mango growers and Australian importers. The fruits, known for their exquisite sweetness and vibrant flavor […]

US and Britain Accuse China of Cyber Espionage Campaign

Recent headlines have been dominated by accusations leveled by the United States and Britain against China, alleging involvement in a widespread cyberespionage campaign targeting various sectors and entities. This development underscores the escalating tensions in the realm of cybersecurity and highlights the growing concern over state-sponsored cyber activities. The accusations, made in tandem by Washington […]