Philippines

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre put the magnitude at 7.4 and at a depth of 58 km

Typhoon Matmo strikes northern Philippines amid earthquake recovery, forcing evacuations

Typhoon Matmo hit northern Philippines with 130 kph winds, complicating disaster response to a recent 6.9-magnitude earthquake in Cebu and following storms Bualoi and Super Typhoon Ragasa. Evacuations and school closures followed.

Philippines earthquake kills nearly 69, hospitals overwhelmed as aftershocks rock Cebu

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck northern Cebu, Philippines, killing nearly 60 people, injuring over 140, damaging buildings, and overwhelming hospitals, as hundreds of aftershocks hampered overnight rescue and recovery efforts.

Strong earthquake of magnitude of 6.7 strikes central Philippines

The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, is often hit by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an arc of seismic faults around the ocean.

Philippines Protests China’s ‘Nature Reserve’ Plan At Scarborough Shoal | South China Sea Tensions

China has announced plans to designate Scarborough Shoal as a national “nature reserve,” drawing sharp protests from the Philippines. Manila calls the move a pretext for occupation, while Washington warns it is another attempt by Beijing to expand control in the South China Sea. The shoal, just 200 kilometers from the Philippines, lies inside Manila’s exclusive economic zone, but China has maintained its presence there since 2012 despite a 2016 arbitration ruling rejecting Beijing’s sweeping claims. Filipino fishermen say Chinese vessels are blocking their access and fear harassment will worsen if construction begins. The Philippine foreign ministry has issued a formal diplomatic protest, calling the move illegitimate and unlawful. With the U.S. backing the Philippines, the dispute has escalated into another flashpoint in the South China Sea. Stay tuned for more updates on global conflicts and diplomacy.

Philippines' Canlaon Reopens Tourism Sites After Kanlaon Volcano Alert Downgrade – All You Need to Know

Canlaon City in Negros Oriental has reopened its tourist sites following the downgrade of Kanlaon Volcano alert to Level 2. Visitors can now safely explore waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic volcano vistas in this Philippine city.

China Crashes Into Own Warship Near Scarborough Shoal While Chasing Philippines Boat

China Philippines tensions in the South China Sea have escalated after two Chinese ships collided while chasing a Philippine patrol boat near Scarborough Shoal. The Philippine Coast Guard says the BRP Suluan was escorting supply boats for fishermen on August 11 when a Chinese Coast Guard vessel cut too close to a Chinese Navy warship, causing a collision that left the coastguard ship badly damaged. Manila says it offered medical assistance to the Chinese crew, but China has not addressed the crash. Hours later, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. defended his recent remarks on Taiwan after Beijing accused him of “playing with fire.” Scarborough Shoal has been under Chinese control since 2012 but lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. This incident adds to a series of confrontations in disputed waters.

From BrahMos to China: All eyes on Philippines President's meeting with PM Modi

According to reports, two sets of the India-Russia jointly developed missile systems will arrive in the Philippines in the next few years.

India, Philippines launch first joint naval drills in disputed South China Sea: A clear message to Beijing?

Indian warships are already in the Philippines, conducting what is being called a “maritime cooperative activity” -- a label underscoring both political diplomacy and strategic military collaboration.

Trump announces US-Philippines trade deal: Tariffs to drop to 19%, 'open market' secured

US-Philippines Trade Deal: As part of the deal, the US will reduce tariffs on imports from the Southeast Asian nation to 19 percent.

'I think we will': Trump confident of inking trade deal with Philippines as he meets Ferdinand Marcos

The United States had a deficit of nearly $5 billion with the Philippines last year on bilateral goods trade of $23.5 billion.

India eyes Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines to give a boost to basmati exports

India exported basmati worth $5.9 billion in 2024-25, a growth of only 1.73% from the previous year and significantly lower than the 22.05% rise in FY24

Earthquake of magnitude 6.0 jolts Philippines

The earthquake occurred in Mindanao at 4:37 hours (Indian Standard Time) at a depth of 105 kilometres.

Despite its tropical charm, this Southeast Asian paradise is the world’s most dangerous country to visit

Known for its beaches and warm hospitality, the Philippines has surprisingly been ranked the world’s most dangerous country for travelers in 2025. Here's why, according to HelloSafe’s Global Travel Safety Index.

Palau Announces 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian Travellers: What You Need to Know

Palau announces 30-day visa-free entry for Indian travellers. Discover how to visit this Pacific paradise with stunning beaches, marine life, and rich culture.

Philippines Welcomes Indian Tourists with New Visa-Free Entry Policy

The Philippines grants Indian tourists 14-day visa-free entry from June 2025, sparking a 28% jump in travel interest and a projected 20–30% surge soon.

Discover Hundred Islands National Park: A Hidden Philippine Gem

Discover Hundred Islands National Park in Pangasinan—home to 124 stunning islets, perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and off-the-grid adventures in the Philippines.

The Philippines Eases Visa Rules for Indians with New 14 and 30-Day Visa-Free Options – All You Need to Know

In May 2025, the Philippines introduced new visa-free entry rules for Indian travelers, offering two flexible options: a 14-day stay and a 30-day stay for eligible visitors. Discover everything you need to know about these simplified travel policies and start planning your dream getaway to this tropical paradise today!

China says it handled Philippine landing at disputed reef amid rising tensions

China’s coast guard said it "dealt with" six Filipinos who "illegally boarded" Tiexian Reef, amid ongoing tensions with the Philippines over disputed South China Sea territory and military drills.

Pete Hegseth to fly to Philippines, Japan in first visit to Asian treaty allies at odds with China

In the US, chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell later said Hegseth will visit Hawaii to meet civilian and military leaders in the Indo-Pacific Command then tour US military facilities in Guam and receive briefings on capabilities before flying to the Philippines and Japan.

Philippines defends Duterte’s ICC arrest in Senate inquiry amid backlash and legal challenge

Philippine officials defended Duterte’s ICC arrest before the Senate amid claims of an unlawful transfer. His supporters challenge the move in court, arguing the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines after its withdrawal.

Ex-Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte arrested by ICC | ‘Crimes Against Humanity’ | ICC | N18G

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 12 under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is investigating allegations of crimes against humanity related to his "war on drugs." The ICC has jurisdiction over crimes like genocide and war crimes and can intervene when countries fail to prosecute such offenses. Duterte's drug war, which led to the deaths of over 6,000 people during his presidency (2016-2022), has drawn widespread condemnation. A UN report revealed police abuses, including unlawful raids and forced confessions. Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC in 2019, but an investigation started in 2021. His arrest follows growing political tension with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Duterte, who is still popular in the Philippines, denies the charges. He now faces trial at the ICC, potentially becoming the first Asian former head of state to stand trial for crimes against humanity.

Former Philippines President Duterte in ICC custody, says he is ‘responsible’ for drug war crimes

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte was taken into ICC custody over drug war crimes. He acknowledged responsibility, while supporters protested and victims’ families welcomed the arrest as a step toward justice.

Philippines Accuses China of Aggressive Actions, Water Cannon Attack Near Scarborough Shoal

On December 4, Chinese coast guard vessels, backed by navy ships, aggressively confronted Philippine patrol vessels near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. The Philippine Coast Guard reported that the Chinese ships fired water cannons at the vessels, blocking and sideswiping them. The attack occurred while the Philippine vessels were on a routine patrol to protect local fishermen. Despite the aggressive actions, the Philippine authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding their maritime jurisdiction. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, where China’s claims overlap with those of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines.

China Exerts Pressure on Philippines to Cede Sovereign Rights in South China Sea | N18G

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has accused China of intensifying pressure on the Philippines to cede its sovereign rights in the South China Sea, labelling the country a "victim of Chinese aggression." This year, disputes have focused on contested areas like the Scarborough Shoal. Teodoro recently met with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles, reflecting closer security ties and shared concerns over Chinese actions. In response, China warned of retaliation if Manila continues what it views as "infringement and provocation." The Philippine Maritime Council condemned China’s baselines in the region, calling them a sovereignty violation and highlighting regional tensions over China’s influence.