BIC Wins CSR-DIW Continuous Award for the Fourth Consecutive Year

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26 March 2026, 15:45

Bangkok (March 26, 2026) – Bangpa-in Cogeneration Limited (BIC), a subsidiary company of CK Power Public Company Limited (SET: CKP), has received the CSR-DIW Continuous Award 2025 from the Department of Industrial Works, Ministry of Industry, for the fourth consecutive year, reflecting its continued commitment to conducting business responsibly while creating tangible social, community, and environmental benefits. BIC received the award in recognition of its “Khlong Suay Nam Sai: Khlong Sai Community Cares for the Environment” project, in collaboration with the Ban Khlong Sai community, which focuses on environmental stewardship. The project involves the installation of solar-powered aeration systems for water treatment, enabling the community to utilize water for both domestic use and agriculture. It also promotes knowledge transfer on renewable energy, as well as the conservation and restoration of natural resources and the environment. On this occasion, Mr. Anuwat Sasakul, Operation Manager, represented the company in receiving the award from Ms. Araya Sailaphet, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Industrial Works (DIW), at the Royal Jubilee Ballroom, Challenger Hall, IMPACT Muang Thong Thani.

The CSR-DIW Continuous Award is presented to establishments that demonstrate systematic and continuous implementation of corporate social responsibility in line with the prescribed standards. The assessment covers seven key areas: corporate governance, human rights, labor practices, the environment, fair operating practices, consumer issues, and community involvement and development.This achievement is in line with CKPower’s CSR Strategy Framework (2022–2026), which aims to create shared value by balancing social, environmental, governance, and economic dimensions to support sustainable growth alongside communities.

Thailand rolls out seven measures to ease impact of rising fuel prices

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 15:29

BANGKOK — The Ministry of Finance has unveiled seven measures aimed at reducing the impact of rising fuel prices on vulnerable groups, transport operators, farmers, and small businesses, officials said Thursday.

Laworan Saengsanit, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, said the Cabinet approved the measures as urgent steps to protect citizens and stabilize key sectors.

Key measures include:

Excise tax review – The Ministry of Finance will reconsider adjustments to excise tax rates, including the extent and duration of reductions, to ease fuel costs.
Support for vulnerable groups – Beneficiaries of the state welfare card program will see monthly allowances rise from 300 baht per person to 400 baht for purchasing essential goods. Authorities said the program will be reassessed once a new government is in place.
Transport sector aid – Measures will target truck drivers, bus operators, and motorcycle taxi riders, with the Ministry of Transport overseeing support.
Agriculture support – Farmers will receive assistance through the “Green Flag” program, which subsidizes fertilizer costs. The initiative will promote the use of organic and alternative fertilizers to reduce import dependency, in tandem with the “Good Soil” program.
Fisheries support – Fishermen will be encouraged to switch to B20 diesel, which is 5–6 baht cheaper per litre, to lower operating costs.
Assistance for government contractors and industries – Construction and industrial projects affected by fuel shortages may receive extended deadlines for project completion and inspections, as authorities work to mitigate delivery delays.
Support for SMEs – The Ministry of Finance, through Government Savings Bank, will provide a 10-billion-baht soft loan facility to help small and medium-sized enterprises maintain liquidity. Further details will be announced by the bank.

Laworan Saengsanit said the measures aim to provide immediate relief while safeguarding economic stability and supporting key sectors affected by soaring energy costs.

Bus sinks in Bangladesh river, killing at least 18 people

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Associated Press

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26 March 2026, 14:47

TEST — Relatives of victims break down at Rajbari Government Hospital, the day after a passenger bus plunged into the Padma river while boarding a ferry in Rajbari district, about 84 kilometers (52 miles) from the capital Dhaka, Bangladesh, Thursday, March 26, 2026. (AP Photo)

DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — A bus carrying about 50 people plunged into a major river in central Bangladesh as it was driving onto a ferry, leaving at least 18 people dead, authorities said Thursday.

The bus plunged into the Padma River on Wednesday afternoon in Rajbari district, about 84 kilometers (52 miles) from the capital, Dhaka, said fire official Dewan Sohel Rana.

The bus was traveling to the capital from the southwestern district of Kushtia as people return to work after the Islamic festival of Eid al-Fitr.

Rana said many of the passengers swam to safety after the accident but others got trapped.

A rescue vessel joined the operation late Wednesday and lifted the bus, he said, and rescuers worked overnight to recover bodies, finding 18 by Thursday morning.

Strong currents and rains disrupted the rescue operations overnight, he said.

It was not clear if there was still anyone missing.

Ten women and two children were among the dead, according to the Fire Service and Civil Defense Department.

Phuket police arrest suspect in four indecent assaults

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Khaosod English

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26 March 2026, 14:42

Phuket police arrest suspect in four indecent assaults

PHUKET — 25 March 2026, Police in Chalong have arrested a man suspected of committing a series of indecent assaults against women, following four reported cases involving both Thai and foreign victims that caused public alarm throughout March.

Investigators at Chalong Police Station said multiple complaints were filed during March by female victims describing a short hair man of slim build with dark complexion. The suspect allegedly rode a black Honda Click 125 motorcycle and used force to carry out indecent assaults and physical attacks, leaving victims injured and frightened.

The suspect was identified as a 30-year-old man known as Boy (surname withheld). Investigators sought and obtained four arrest warrants from Phuket Provincial Court on 24 March 2026.

On 25 March 2026, police arrested the suspect. During questioning, he confessed to the offences, officers said. He was charged with committing indecent acts against persons over 15 years old by means of coercion and the use of force while the victims were unable to resist. He has been handed over to investigators at Chalong Police Station for legal proceedings.

A background check found the suspect had previously been arrested in a narcotics case in 2023.

Chalong police said they would continue strict measures to ensure public safety and urged residents to report incidents via the emergency number 191 or by calling 076-381247 at any time.

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

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Khaosod English

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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

By

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.

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