Manila in the news: Philippines-hit fuel crisis and coast guard tensions with China spike. City: capital, ~1.9M, on Manila Bay, historic hub.
Rising fuel prices in the Philippines, driven by the Iran war, have led to protests and strikes. The government declared a one-year energy emergency, providing subsidies and seeking alternative oil sources. Workers and transport groups demand action as costs soar, impacting daily life and the economy.
Since October, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pushed a rapid reorientation of Japan's postwar posture: her government has eased lethal-weapons export rules, the ruling party has opened formal talks on revising the pacifist constitution, and Tokyo has expanded defence ties and arms sales with partners including Australia and potential buyers such as the Philippines and Poland.
Labor unions, community groups and democratic organisations have been organising a nationwide May Day "economic blackout" for 1 May, calling for "no school, no work, no shopping". Organisers say events have more than doubled from last year and that city-wide actions are being planned in Los Angeles, Chicago and elsewhere to press immigration, voting and workers' rights.
The Self-Defense Forces have taken on a combat role in Balikatan exercises in the Philippines, deploying about 1,400 personnel, ships, aircraft and anti-ship missiles. The drills include live-fire demonstrations and cooperation with the AFP, US and other allies, signaling closer security ties and expanded cooperation.
A pregnant woman gave birth on a Brooklyn courtroom bench after being arrested on charges of drug possession and trespassing. Advocates say she lacked adequate medical care and privacy; prosecutors dispute the accounts. The case has sparked renewed scrutiny of custody practices amid New York City's carceral system.
A building has collapsed in Angeles City, Pampanga province, during a thunderstorm. Officials say 21 to 30 workers remain unaccounted for as rescuers search the rubble. Several evacuees have been injured; others have escaped. Authorities are reviewing construction history to determine the cause.