Second-largest Philippine island; diverse regions and communities
The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte has begun in Manila. Police have deployed around the Senate as pro- and anti-Duterte demonstrators gather. Duterte denies wrongdoing and has appeared via counsel, with the outcome potentially barring her from future office and shaping the 2028 race.
Typhoon Bavi has made two landfalls in Zhejiang province and has weakened to a severe tropical storm while still carrying vast moisture. Authorities have evacuated more than 1.7 million people in Zhejiang and moved hundreds of thousands in neighbouring provinces; flights and train services have been cancelled and flooding, fallen trees and landslides have been reported.
Voters in BARMM have participated in a historic election to choose 80 parliamentary seats, with security deployments exceeding 20,000. Turnout is expected around 80% as officials report pockets of violence and logistical challenges, including ballot reprints for pre-shaded ballots. The region seeks greater autonomy after decades of conflict.
BARMM voters are casting ballots to elect the region’s first regular parliament in a high-stakes election that tests a long peace process after decades of conflict. Authorities say security is calm, amid pockets of violence and ongoing political maneuvering among rival factions.
Gunfire erupts at Banga National High School in South Cotabato, Mindanao. The incident has left multiple students dead and wounded; authorities are investigating and reviewing gun ownership safety amid rising school violence in the Philippines.