World

Philippines sees rice surplus by yearend

Any decision on a new round of rice importation may not be made until early next year, based on the procurement timetable, said Filipino Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala on October 9.
Any decision on a new round of rice importation may not be made untilearly next year, based on the procurement timetable, said FilipinoAgriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala on October 9.

At the sametime, the Secretary predicted a surplus of 2.24 million tonnes of riceby yearend, which can meet the entire country’s needs for over twomonths, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

According tothe agriculture senior official, as the country’s main harvest occurs inthe second half of the year, accounting for 60 percent of the year’soutput, decisions on whether to import and how much are usuallyfinalised at the start of the succeeding year.-VNA
Follow VietnamPlus

See more

Photo via Samut Sakhon News Society 2 Facebook page (Source : Thetiger.com)

Severe road subsidence reported in Bangkok

A section of Rama 2 Road leading into the Thai capital Bangkok suffered a serious subsidence on early January 17 morning, causing a pickup truck to overturn in the capital city-bound lane and leading to severe traffic congestion in the area.

Two fires occur in Thailand

Two fires occur in Thailand

Serious fires hit an electric vehicle (EV) research and development facility in Sa Si Mum commune, Kamphaeng Saen district, Nakhon Pathom province and an oil storage tank in Khlong Sam Prawet ward, Lat Krabang district, Bangkok on January 17.

Illustrative image (Photo: bangkokpost.com)

Thailand calls for stricter control over pollution sources

Deputy government spokeswoman Lalida Persvivatana said the Pollution Control Department (PCD)'s Air Pollution Situation Communication Centre has issued an alert on increases of PM2.5 concentrations, particularly in Bangkok, its surrounding provinces, the upper Central Plains and the Northeast.

Illustrative photo: www.pna.gov.ph

Philippines assesses security threats ahead of ASEAN Summit

AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Rommel Roldan said the military will provide full support to the PNP, which will take the lead in maintaining peace and order during the country’s hosting of ASEAN-related activities. Troops have been ordered to extend necessary assistance to the PNP in ensuring the safety and security of the events.

Indonesia to reform state-owned enterprises

Indonesia to reform state-owned enterprises

Positive signs have emerged from restructuring efforts at several large SOEs, including national airline Garuda Indonesia, Krakatau Steel (KRAS) and Timah Tbk (TINS), helping improve their performance and market standing, State asset fund Danantara Indonesia said.

Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Lazaro (L) and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu sign the Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) (Photo: pna.gov.ph)

Philippines, Japan sign new defence agreement

The Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) allows the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan's Self-Defence Forces to provide each other with fuel, food, ammunition, and other supplies during joint activities.

Cambodian soldiers are deployed alongside a BM-21 Grad multiple rocket launcher in a disputed border area with Thailand near Ta Moan Thom temple on July 25, 2025. (Source: Reuters/VNA)

Thailand, Cambodia hold talks to ensure ceasefire

Cambodia reaffirmed its firm, resolute, and sincere commitment to faithfully respect and implement the joint statement and other relevant documents, with the aim of seeking a peaceful, just, and lasting solution in accordance with international laws and existing treaties and agreements between the two countries.

The scene of a crane collapse in Samut Sakhon province, Thailand, on January 15, 2026. (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Another crane collapses in Thailand

The latest incident took place in Samut Sakhon province near the capital Bangkok, where a crane involved in the construction of an elevated highway fell onto the road beneath.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)

Cambodian PM declares crackdown on cyber scams

The Cambodian PM noted the strict measures against online scams in the past are a testament to the government's political commitment to combating this transnational crime, which is a common concern for Cambodia, the region, and the world.