Philippines

"The focus of our efforts is to help the government tackle the immediate health and economic challenges posed by the pandemic. AIIB's support will contribute to building economic resilience and ensuring quick recovery," said AIIB Vice President, Investment Operations, D.J. Pandian. … [Read more...] about AIIB approves 750 mln U.S. dollars loan to Philippines for COVID-19 response

Cases of online child sex abuse in the Philippines have tripled under coronavirus, the government said, with campaigners warning that the country’s lockdown has left more children vulnerable to exploitation by human traffickers and cash-strapped relatives. … [Read more...] about Online child sex abuse cases triple under lockdown in Philippines

But she's worried about venturing out when some transport services resume in the capital Manila from Monday, and feels the threat of the new coronavirus still lingers.The Philippines saw its highest daily spike in coronavirus cases on Thursday, but that didn't stop President Rodrigo Duterte from easing one of the world's toughest and longest lockdowns."I'm still nervous because the virus is still out there but glad that the taxi drivers and I can go back to work," she said.Those drivers will now be separated from passengers by a plastic barrier and sanitizers and disinfectants will also be provided to them, she said.Though taxis, trains, buses and ride hailing services are allowed to reopen, the country's iconic jeepneys - the crowded and colourful budget passenger trucks - must remain off the road.Their drivers are dismayed."It is difficult and painful not knowing when we can go back to work," said Jude Recio, a Manila jeepney driver."Trying to take care of ourselves is difficult … [Read more...] about Relief, disappointment as Philippines restarts some transport services

The ships visited Kochi on May 6 for repatriation of stranded Philippine nationals from India and collection of stores including face masks. But on May8, during the return passage, BRP Ramo Alcaraz had an incident of fire on board. A sailor who was injured was soon evacuated using a helicopter to the naval hospital, INHS Sanjivani. … [Read more...] about Philippine naval ships depart after eventful stay

New Zealand on Friday had all but eradicated the coronavirus from its shores with just one person in the nation of 5 million known to be still infected, but developments elsewhere were generally grim, with India reporting another record increase in cases and Pakistan a record number of deaths. … [Read more...] about New Zealand near eradication, but Covid-19 has grim hold on the planet