Stories from Manila · Philippines

Senator Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada reportedly fled into the Senate chamber yesterday after chaotic scenes unfolded. Estrada had been missing from Senate proceedings for months, amid rumors of a potential arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court.

Japan's Self-Defense Forces participated in a military exercise, launching 880 anti-ship missiles overseas for the first time since World War II.

The Cyber Security Summit Philippines 2026 has been announced, signaling a commitment to addressing digital threats. Details on the exact dates and location within the Philippines are forthcoming. Discussions will likely focus on emerging cyber threats and defense strategies.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has unsealed an arrest warrant for Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police chief. The International Criminal Court is examining crimes committed during detention in Libya.

The Karate One – Youth League Manila is scheduled to take place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines, from May 14th to 17th.

The 30th edition of the Cyber Security Summit Philippines 2026 has been announced. The event is organized by RH - ISAC in partnership with the Retail Council of Canada, focusing on retail cybersecurity. The event aims to address threats, governance, and strategy related to agentic AI and cybersecurity. This event brings together experts to discuss the evolving threat landscape. Exito Media Concepts is organizing the event.

Filipinos living abroad sent $35 billion back to the Philippines in 2025. This amount is equal to over 7% of the country's GDP. Approximately 2 million Filipinos live abroad, according to the source.

Typhoon Hagupit is currently located approximately 1730 kilometers southeast of Manila, moving northwest at a speed of about 15 kilometers per hour across the Northwest Pacific. A strong easterly airstream is affecting Guangdong, causing temperatures across Hong Kong to be 4 to 6 degrees Celsius lower than yesterday. Hong Kong's temperatures are generally 4 to 6 degrees lower than yesterday due to a strong easterly air current affecting Guangdong. Tropical cyclone Hagupit is centered approximately 1730 kilometers east-southeast of Manila.

The State Council expressed gratitude to the Philippines for its warm reception and congratulated the country on its chairmanship.

Heads of state from Malaysia and Thailand met in Manila, Philippines, and committed to expanding bilateral relations, particularly in economic construction and mobility. The meeting between Malaysia and Thailand's leaders took place in Manila, Philippines.