U.S. 7th Fleet flagship docks in Laem Chabang, strengthens Thai-U.S. military ties

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26 March 2026, 13:29

CHONBURI — The U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet flagship, USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), arrived at Laem Chabang Port on Thursday for a scheduled port visit, continuing efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Thai military partnership. The ship last visited Thailand in June 2024.

During the stop, Blue Ridge leadership met with Thai Navy officials and local authorities to discuss enhancing operational readiness, advancing future military capabilities, and reinforcing the U.S.-Thai alliance. The visit underscores ongoing cooperation through joint exercises such as Cobra Gold and CARAT, officials said.

Rear Adm. Kyle Gantt, deputy commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, said the visit highlights “over 190 years of friendly, formal relations” between the two countries. He added that engagements like staff talks and military exercises “steadily build our collective ability to ensure a prosperous, free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Sailors aboard Blue Ridge also took part in community events and ship tours, while the port served as a stop for refueling and resupply.

USS Blue Ridge, named after the Blue Ridge Mountains in the eastern United States, has been the command ship for the U.S. 7th Fleet since 1979. Over its decades of service, the ship has supported major operations including the evacuation of Saigon in 1975 and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990–91. The 18,500-ton ship remains forward-deployed from Yokosuka, Japan, and is equipped with advanced communications and command systems, allowing the 7th Fleet to conduct regional operations and host fleet commanders year-round.

The U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely operates with allies in the Indo-Pacific to promote stability, deter aggression, and maintain a free and open maritime environment.

Thailand waives motorway, expressway fees for Songkran

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 13:01

Thailand waives motorway, expressway fees for Songkran

BANGKOK — 26 March 2026, Thailand will waive toll fees on several motorways and expressways during the Songkran holiday period in April 2026, authorities said, as part of efforts to ease travel and reduce congestion.

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) will exempt tolls on the Burapha Withi and Kanchanaphisek (Bang Phli–Suksawat) expressways for seven days, from 00:01 on 10 April to 24:00 on 16 April 2026.

Tolls on the Udon Ratthaya and Chalerm Maha Nakhon expressways will be waived for three days, from 13 to 15 April.

The Department of Highways will also waive fees on three motorway routes:
Motorway No. 7 (Bangkok–Pattaya),
Motorway No. 9 (outer ring road: Bang Pa-in–Bang Phli and Phra Pradaeng–Bang Khae),
and Motorway No. 81 (Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi).

Special traffic measures will be introduced on Motorway No. 6 (Bang Pa-in–Nakhon Ratchasima), which will be fully opened. The Bang Pa-in–Pak Chong section will operate outbound only from 10 to 13 April, and inbound only from 14 to 19 April, while the Pak Chong–Nakhon Ratchasima section will remain open in both directions.

Motorway No. 82 will also open a 10-kilometre հատված between Bang Khun Thian and Ekachai.

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said all agencies have been instructed to ensure sufficient public transport services, prevent passenger backlogs and strictly prohibit fare overcharging.

He added that fuel supplies must remain adequate throughout the travel period, while additional lighting will be installed along routes to improve safety at night. Heavy trucks will be asked to suspend operations during peak travel days, and mobile service units will be deployed to assist motorists.

The Transport Ministry urged the public to plan journeys in advance, use energy efficiently and drive safely to ensure smooth travel during the Songkran festival.

Two foreigners seriously injured in high-speed hit in Phnom Penh

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 12:53

A young man has been arrested after allegedly crashing his motorcycle into two foreign tourists at high speed in Phnom Penh, leaving both seriously injured, according to Khmer Times.

The crash occurred at about 02:10 on Wednesday at a crossroads along Preah Sisowath Street in Daun Penh district. Police said the two foreigners were crossing the road when they were struck by the speeding motorcyclist.

Both victims sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Authorities later arrested the suspect and launched legal proceedings, police said

Thai PM calls special Cabinet meeting over fuel crisis

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 11:24

Thai PM calls special Cabinet meeting over fuel crisis

BANGKOK — 26 March 2026, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul called a special Cabinet meeting at 11:00 on Thursday at Government House to address a worsening energy crisis, after fuel prices surged by 6 baht per litre in a single increase.

The move followed a resolution by the Oil Fuel Fund Management Committee to adjust subsidies for diesel and petrol, resulting in a nationwide rise in retail fuel prices effective 26 March.

Officials said the sharp increase was intended to tackle fuel hoarding and smuggling, as domestic prices had previously been lower than in neighbouring countries, encouraging illegal exports. The adjustment is also aimed at reflecting market mechanisms more accurately.

Authorities are expected to introduce support measures for vulnerable groups in the near future.

At 10:10, Anutin arrived at Government House driving a grey BYD Sealion 7 with a Bangkok licence plate, marking the second consecutive day he had driven himself to work. When questioned by reporters about the fuel price hike, he did not respond, instead greeting the media before entering the Thai Khu Fah building.

Shortly afterwards, several ministers and senior officials attended the meeting, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyan Chidchob, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Pharadorn Prisananantakul, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council Danucha Pichayanan, and Secretary-General of the Council of State Pakorn Nilprapunt.

Diesel price cap removal explained by ASEAN economics expert

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 10:19

BANGKOK — 26 March 2026, The phased removal of diesel price caps this month has triggered a sharp rise in fuel costs, with industry and transport sectors expected to bear the heaviest burden, according to an independent economic analyst.

Arth Pisalwanich, an expert in international and ASEAN economics, said the government lifted diesel price controls in two stages on 18 March and 25 March, accelerating price increases.

Diesel prices stood at 29.94 baht per litre on 27 February, supported by a subsidy of 0.74 baht per litre until 3 March. Subsidies were then increased significantly from 4 March, reaching 26.99 baht per litre by 25 March.

Authorities had previously capped diesel at 29.94 baht and 33 baht per litre. The lower cap was removed on 18 March, followed by the higher cap on 25 March.

The resulting 6-baht-per-litre increase is expected to affect all users, but particularly diesel-intensive sectors.

The transport sector, which accounts for about 62% of diesel consumption, is forecast to see operating costs rise by around 1,200 baht per day. The industrial sector, consuming roughly 12%, is expected to face increases of about 3,000 baht per day. Agriculture, which uses around 10% of diesel supply, is also likely to experience higher costs.

The analysis indicates that while all diesel-dependent sectors will face rising expenses, industry and transport will absorb the most significant impact.

Philippine president declares national energy emergency to respond to impact of Middle East war

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Associated Press

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25 March 2026, 18:46

Filipino President Marcos Holds Press Conference — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks during a press conference at Malacanang Palace Wednesday, March 25, 2026 in Manila, Philippines. (Ezra Acayan/Pool Photo via AP)

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday declared a state of national energy emergency to respond to the impact of the Middle East war, which his administration said posed “an imminent danger of a critically low energy supply.”

Under the declaration, which will initially last for a year, Marcos will lead a contingency committee that will ensure the availability and orderly distribution of fuel, food, medicines, agricultural products and other basic goods.

Authorities were ordered to take action against the hoarding, profiteering and manipulation of the supply of petroleum products. The Department of Migrant Workers, meanwhile, was asked to brace for the possible rescue and evacuation of Filipinos in the Middle East.

The government has started to provide 5,000 pesos ($83) each to large numbers of motorcycle taxi drivers and other public transport workers nationwide to help them cope with soaring gasoline and diesel prices. Free bus rides have also been provided to students and workers in selected cities.

About 2.4 million Filipinos live and work in the Middle East, including about 31,000 in Israel and 800 in Iran. Most have opted, however, to stay and work in the region, with only several hundreds being flown home so far with government help since the Middle East hostilities began.

A Filipina caregiver, Mary Ann de Vera, was killed in Tel Aviv, Israel, in an Iranian missile strike on Feb. 28 while helping bring her elderly charge to a bomb shelter, Philippine officials said.

Nestlé water project in Ayutthaya wins global awards, earns conservation status

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Contributor

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25 March 2026, 18:28

A water restoration project led by Nestlé (Thai) Ltd. in Ayutthaya has won two international sustainability awards and been officially recognised as a conservation site in Thailand, the company said.

The “Nestlé Waters Cares for Water” project at Khanom Jeen Canal in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province received an award in the Water, Waste and Resource Efficiency category at the edie Awards, a major sustainability programme in the United Kingdom. It also earned a Highly Commended distinction in the SDG Pioneer Award category at the Reuters Global Sustainability Awards 2025.

The project focuses on improving water quality, restoring biodiversity and supporting local communities. According to Nestlé, the canal has seen the return of more than 40 bird species, along with various native fish and invertebrates, following restoration efforts.

In addition to the awards, the canal has been certified by Thailand’s Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning as an Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) site, recognising its role in biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management.

Chaiyong Sakulborrirug, head of Nestlé’s water business unit in Thailand, said the achievements reflect long-term cooperation between the private sector, government agencies, academic institutions and local communities.

He said the project has significantly improved water quality in the canal, allowing residents to resume traditional activities such as fishing and aquatic farming, while supporting sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative also contributes to Nestlé’s broader goal of water regeneration, aiming to return water used in its operations back to nature and surrounding communities.

HYROX Bangkok draws 18,000 athletes as Singha Sparkling Water backs fitness push

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Khaosod English

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25 March 2026, 18:18

BANGKOK — More than 18,000 athletes from around the world took part in “BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026,” as the event returned for its second year and expanded into what organisers describe as ASEAN’s largest fitness competition.

Held from 20–22 March at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC), the race has seen strong global registration, reinforcing its role as a key Asia-Pacific stop in the HYROX World Series. The Bangkok event also serves as an important qualifying round for the 2026 PUMA HYROX World Championships in Stockholm, Sweden.

Singha Sparkling Water joined as the official sparkling water partner and co-host, providing hydration support for participants throughout the competition. The brand also introduced a dedicated recovery lounge, offering facilities such as ice baths, saunas, showers and massage services to help athletes recover after the race.

Titiporn Thammapimookkul, chief marketing officer of Boonrawd Trading Co., Ltd., said the company aims to support active lifestyles and enhance the overall experience for competitors. He expressed confidence that the event’s continued growth would further promote health and fitness trends in Thailand while strengthening Bangkok’s position as a destination for international sporting events.

HYROX is a rapidly growing global fitness race that combines endurance running with functional workout stations in a standardised format. Its popularity has surged worldwide in recent years, attracting both elite athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Organisers said the scale of this year’s event highlights Bangkok’s rising profile on the global fitness stage, with increasing international participation and strong local interest driving its expansion.

The world is your classroom”: Wells International School’s learning approach

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Contributor

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25 March 2026, 18:10

If you think a student’s success is measured solely by the grade point average on their academic transcript, you might need to think again! Because in this era, “world-class universities” and “leading organizations” are looking for “humans” who are ready to face the world, not just “robots” that are good at memorizing.

Wells International School is committed to creating a formula for future success through the philosophical concept that “the world is your classroom.” This is not just a beautiful rhetoric, but this drives students to build their profile proving they’re not just book-smart, but world-ready.

Dr. Chang Yao-Lang, Chairman of Wells International School, emphasized the importance of extracurricular activities, stating that they are essential to our philosophy of holistic education. Our diverse programs, from service and debate to athletics, and arts like photography and school publications, allow students to explore passions, build confidence, and develop vital life skills like teamwork, leadership, and resilience. These experiences complement classroom learning by applying concepts in real-world contexts—such as problem-solving in robotics or communication in debate—fostering well-rounded global citizens ready for future challenges. In today’s interconnected world, such activities are indispensable for nurturing open-minded, engaged learners who excel academically and personally.

“At Wells, extracurriculars focus on several areas: Athletics (i.e. football, volleyball, basketball), Visual & Performing Arts (i.e. dance, visual arts, photography), Academic Clubs (i.e. debate, Model United Nations, STEM Club), and Service Learning through our high school CAS Program and Service Clubs (i.e. Red Cross Club, Operation Smile Medical Missions, SerWIS, PAWS Club) etc. As for the outstanding activities at Wells, there are many, such as Seahawk Athletics, where our Seahawk teams build grit, teamwork, and school spirit through competitive football, volleyball, and basketball—celebrating victories and growth on the court and field. Model United Nations (MUN) prepares global thinkers via diplomacy simulations, boosting public speaking skills, research, and cultural awareness. These excel by linking directly to our IB/AP curriculum, producing award-winners, and preparing students for university and the real world.

The Chairman of Wells International School also recommended techniques for selecting “extracurricular activities” to help enhance a student’s profile to stand out for further education or job applications, stating, “We recommend that students choose activities that follow their passion, pick activities you genuinely love (i.e., MUN if you enjoy debate; Seahawk Athletics if competition drives you), demonstrate leadership and initiative. Show impact or quantify results, i.e. “Led PAWS Club to raise ฿20,000 for animal shelters” instead of “Member of service club.” Choose to do a diverse and balanced range of activities, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Balance 2–3 deep commitments across categories (athletics, arts, academics, service) rather than 10 shallow ones. And link activities to your future (i.e., STEM Club for engineering aspirations; debate for law careers). This builds a profile proving you’re not just book-smart, but world-ready.

Most recently, Wells International School organized an Operation Smile Medical Mission Trip in Mae Hong Son Province and a Middle School Overnight Camp with Mae Fah Luang in Chiang Rai Province. These created great excitement, fun, and knowledge, providing hands-on real-world experiences to the students who participated in both of these activities immensely.

Miss Ashmi, a Grade 10 student, spoke about the Operation Smile Medical Mission Trip in Mae Hong Son Province, stating that she joined this trip with a focus on biomedical sciences or biochemistry. She thought it was a great opportunity for people who want to become doctors or nurses because it is very useful. The activity was organized quite well and was educational. She felt good because she had always heard about this volunteer work but had never seen the actual practice. It was a memorable activity because we learned a lot about the patients and their stories, and got to see doctors and nurses working in reality.

“The most meaningful thing for me was decorating the children’s ward because it helped build good interactions. We blew up balloons, and they were willing to trust us. We felt closer to the patients than during the screening process, and during the operating room visits, we were able to build bonds and get to know them more easily,” said Miss Ashmi.

Miss Naya, a Grade 11 student, stated that she likes STEM, biology, and chemistry a lot because they relate to the various systems in our human body. This activity was a very interesting experience that allowed her to learn a great deal. It was truly worth it to go learn and observe the work of the doctors and nurses there. This was her first time seeing people with cleft lip. When talking to the patients or their parents, it made us understand more that it might be very difficult for them to live a normal life. She felt very glad that they received the opportunity for surgery.

“It really inspired me to be a doctor in the future and I need to study really hard to be in medical school and it can be my passion to study harder.” Naya said

Miss Sakura, Mari & Alice, 6th Grade students, recounted the fun and experiences gained from attending the Mae Fah Luang Foundation camp in Chiang Rai Province, stating that we learned a lot about nature. The views were very beautiful, and the weather was good because it was in the countryside. We got to go to the local market and tried bargaining with them too. We cooked food together and made ‘Khai Pam’ (grilled eggs in banana leaves). we like DIY crafts and got to try making tie-dye shirts with patterns we designed ourself. We made recycled plastic cap keychains and yarn keychains made from resin. And we also experienced teamwork when we made pizza for the workers. It is a matter of experiences that we get to touch upon in real life.

“This trip connected to what we are learning in science subjects. We learned about insects on the first day. In the afternoon, we learned about insects and we preserved the insects, mounting them on plastic and using pins to pin down the wings of the insects. Coming to this camp made me appreciate nature even more and enjoy it. We should enjoy being outside more.”

Songkran hotel bookings in Hat Yai hit 60% amid fuel worries

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Khaosod English

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25 March 2026, 17:59

HAT YAI — Hotel bookings in Hat Yai for the upcoming Songkran festival have reached around 50–60 percent, driven largely by visitors from Malaysia and Singapore, though concerns over potential fuel shortages are prompting some cancellations.

Sompol Cheewattapong, adviser to the Songkhla Tourism Industry Council, said Songkran celebrations in Hat Yai from 10–14 April are expected to draw tens of thousands of tourists each year, generating 400–500 million baht in revenue. Key venues include Hat Yai, Dan Nok in Sadao district, and Muang Songkhla, with activities ranging from water splashing and merit-making to stage performances.

He said bookings have already exceeded 50 percent and called on the Tourism Authority of Thailand to step up international promotion, as the festival is seen as a crucial opportunity to revive the local economy following severe flooding late last year.

Sittipong Sittiyakrapapha, president of the Hat Yai–Songkhla Hotel Association, said foreign bookings have reached 50–60 percent but remain unstable due to concerns linked to the Middle East conflict, particularly fears of fuel shortages and price volatility in Thailand.

Some tourists have reportedly cancelled reservations amid uncertainty, prompting operators to urge the government to reassure visitors that fuel supplies remain sufficient during the Songkran period.

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