FILE - Ships sail through the Arabian Gulf toward the Strait of Hormuz as the sun sets in the United Arab Emirates Monday, March 23, 2026. (AP Photo, File)
MANILA — The Philippines has secured assurances from Iran on the safe passage of its vessels and seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz following high-level talks between the two countries, officials said on April 2.
The Philippines’ Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro held a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, during which both sides discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple areas.
During the call, Araghchi assured the Philippines that Iranian authorities would allow the safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage of Philippine-flagged vessels through the strategic waterway. The assurance also covers energy shipments and Filipino seafarers operating in the region.
Lazaro welcomed the development, noting that it is crucial for the Philippines’ national interest. She said the guarantee would help protect Filipino maritime workers while ensuring the continued flow of vital energy supplies into the country.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, particularly for oil and gas. The Philippines relies heavily on imports from the Middle East to meet its energy needs, making stability and security in the region a key concern.
Officials said the assurance from Iran would help facilitate the steady delivery of oil and fertiliser shipments, both essential to the country’s economy and food security.
The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic relations and promoting peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation.
Fans were shocked after YouTuber and actress Ploy Ploypailin, known for her travel channel Pigkaploy, shared images showing her face covered in cuts and bruises following her recent Antarctic trip.
On 31 March, Ploy posted a video explaining the cause of her injuries. She said the bruises were souvenirs from her adventure, not photo filters. “I’m now in Ushuaia, Argentina, the first port for our voyage to Antarctica,” she said. “We sailed on the historic 100-year-old barque Europa, navigating one of the world’s most dangerous waters with massive waves and strong winds. I even climbed the ship’s tall masts—it was thrilling!”
Despite the harsh conditions at sea, Ploy clarified that her facial injuries did not occur during the Antarctic leg of the journey. “They happened after we returned to shore, during a party with the crew. We were dancing, spinning, jumping—and I accidentally hit my head on the concrete,” she said.
Ploy reflected on the experience with humor and humility. “It taught me that no matter how far you travel, how adventurous your trip, sometimes life’s little accidents happen right at home. Even after climbing the masts and sailing through icy waters, my biggest mishap was falling on solid ground. But it’s all part of the adventure—I made incredible memories, saw breathtaking sights, and learned a lot about myself along the way.”
Fans quickly sent messages of concern and encouragement, praising Ploy for her adventurous spirit and positivity despite the mishap.
BANGKOK — KFC outlets in Thailand have updated their in-store service by placing a notice informing customers that spoons, forks, and knives are no longer self-serve. Instead, diners are asked to request utensils at the counter.
A sign displayed in stores reads: “KFC apologizes for any inconvenience. You can request spoons, forks, and knives at the counter, or enjoy your fried chicken with your hands. Thank you for helping reduce plastic use for the environment.”
The move has sparked discussion online, with social media users speculating about the reasons behind the change. Some questioned whether it was due to rising plastic costs, concerns about hygiene, or excessive utensil use by customers.
This is not the first time KFC Thailand has attempted to promote sustainable dining. The fast-food chain previously introduced the “Spork,” a hybrid spoon-and-fork utensil, citing environmental benefits. However, the initiative received widespread criticism from customers who found it inconvenient to use.
In response to complaints, KFC Thailand officially discontinued the Spork in late 2025 and reverted to separate spoons, forks, and knives to improve the dining experience while continuing to emphasize sustainability.
The latest sign reflects KFC’s ongoing effort to balance customer convenience with environmental responsibility, encouraging diners to help reduce single-use plastic whenever possible.
Lisa Lalisa Manobal marked her 29th birthday on 30 March with a private beachside celebration alongside her family and close friends.
The pop sensation stunned in a pearl- and crystal-studded bikini, showing off her signature style and charisma. Her mother, Jitthip, shared family photos on social media with a heartfelt message: “Happy birthday, my dear daughter. Wishing you lots of happiness. Love you.”
Lisa, now serving as Amazing Thailand Ambassador for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), continues to represent her country on the global stage. Known globally as a rapper, dancer, and singer, she has played a key role in BLACKPINK’s worldwide success, influencing both music and pop culture. Beyond music, she is a prominent figure in fashion and advertising, regularly collaborating with luxury brands and attending international events. Her social media posts continue to draw massive attention from fans around the world.
BANGKOK — 2 April 2026, Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM) has apologised for inconvenience caused by concerns over an insufficient supply of EMV Mangmoom cards at MRT stations, assuring passengers that replacements will be available nationwide.
In a statement, BEM said passengers can request new cards at all MRT Blue and Purple Line stations from 8 April 2026 onwards.
Holders of MRT stored-value cards and MRT Plus cards can continue using their existing cards until 31 May 2026.
Passengers with credit or debit cards can tap and travel immediately without needing to obtain a new EMV Mangmoom card.
Students and senior citizens are advised to exchange their cards at ticket offices at any station to retain eligibility for concession fares.
BEM reiterated its apology and asked for passengers’ understanding over the disruption.
The EMV Mangmoom card or “spider card” for public transport was first announced back in 2016. It was designed to replace older, system-specific MRT cards with only one card intended to work across multiple transport systems (MRT, buses, potentially BTS and others in the future), instead of separate cards for each.
NAKHON RATCHASIMA — Rising fuel costs have hit local tourism hard, leaving once-busy attractions deserted, according to reports from Phimai Historical Park in Mueang Phimai district.
On Thursday, the park’s parking lot was nearly empty, a sharp contrast to the usual crowds visiting the ancient Khmer ruins. Gift shops outside the park also saw no customers, leaving vendors struggling to make sales.
Chuleeporn Chokka, 70, a souvenir seller at the park, said the high fuel prices have kept both locals and tourists away. “We invested our savings and even borrowed money to stock our shops, but now we can’t sell anything. The fuel costs make it too expensive for people to travel,” she said. Chuleeporn urged the government to address the problem quickly to help local businesses survive.
TRAT — Thai authorities intercepted three Cambodian fishing boats in Khlong Yai district early Wednesday, seizing nearly two tonnes of frozen crab and detaining six crew members, officials said.
The operation unfolded at Khlong Yai Multipurpose Pier around 08:30, after naval patrols stopped the vessels between 21:00 and 22:00 on Tuesday night. One 15-metre boat was found carrying 66 foam boxes of frozen crab meat, weighing a total of 1,650–1,980 kilogrammes, while two other vessels, each about 45 gross tonnes, were preparing to collect goods from the Thai shore for transport back to Cambodia.
The suspects, aged 48 and 63, admitted to being hired for 1,000 baht per trip. The 48-year-old operator said he followed light signals from the Thai shore to navigate and cited financial hardship and his child’s schooling as reasons for taking part in the smuggling. The 63-year-old admitted making similar trips 4–5 times, transporting construction materials and clothing under cover of night due to limited employment opportunities.
Rear Adm. Wuttichat Ratcharattanarak, deputy director of the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre in Trat, said patrols have been intensified within 12 nautical miles of the coast following the permanent closure of border checkpoints. Authorities used advanced tracking technology to identify and intercept the vessels, preventing illegal shipments of food, fuel, and other supplies from crossing the maritime border.
He urged local operators to prioritise national security over personal gain, warning that supporting illegal cross-border activities could ultimately harm the country.
BANGKOK — 2 April 2026, A Thai actress has accused a former rescue volunteer of sexually assaulting her while she was in a weakened state awaiting medical help, with police confirming the suspect has been arrested and has confessed to parts of the offence.
Christine Gulasatree Michalsky told police the incident occurred in her condominium room, during the early hours of 31 March. She said she had suffered breathing difficulties and a panic episode after taking medication, leaving her drowsy and unable to defend herself.
Speaking after more than four hours of questioning at Khlong Tan Police Station on 1 April at 15:30, Christine said she remained conscious throughout the incident and could recall events clearly, but was too weak to fight back.
Christine arrives to meet investigators, submitting the nightwear she wore on the day of the incident as evidence.
She alleged that a man who arrived first to assist her, later identified as a former rescue worker, touched her inappropriately and partially undressed her while she lay on her bed. She also expressed concern that he may have taken photographs, though she stopped short of definitively confirming this.
“I could not believe someone who is supposed to save lives would do this,” she said, adding that she intends to pursue legal action to the fullest extent.
On 1 April, police said CCTV footage from the condominium showed the suspect, a 34-year-old man dressed in black, arriving at about 03:39 and later carrying the actress in and out of her room. At one point, he was seen using his mobile phone outside the room before friends and police arrived.
A former rescue worker carries Christine out of her room before taking her back inside again.
Investigators said the Bangkok South Criminal Court has approved an arrest warrant for the suspect, identified as Nikorn (surname withheld), on charges of committing an indecent act against a person over 15 by coercion while the victim was unable to resist.
Pol. Col. Phisit Meewiriyakul, superintendent of Khlong Tan Police Station, on 2 April, said the suspect has confessed to committing an indecent act and to taking photographs of the actress. He claimed the images had been deleted and were not shared.
The suspect is due to be taken for further questioning before being remanded in custody at the Bangkok South Criminal Court on 3 April.
Christine said she does not seek financial compensation and is determined to see the case through. She also urged authorities to close legal loopholes and called for greater accountability, while stressing that not all rescue workers should be judged by the actions of one individual.
“Nikorn”, a former rescue volunteer, has confessed to sexually assaulting and photographing actress Christine, claiming the images were not shared, as police prepare further questioning.
NASA's Artemis II moon rocket, with the Orion spacecraft aboard, lifts off from the Kennedy Space Center's launch pad 39-B Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Four astronauts embarked on a high-stakes flight around the moon Wednesday, humanity’s first lunar voyage in more than half a century and the thrilling leadoff in NASA’s push toward a landing in two years.
Carrying three Americans and one Canadian, the 32-story rocket rose from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center where tens of thousands gathered to witness the dawn of this new era. Crowds also jammed the surrounding roads and beaches, reminiscent of the Apollo moonshots in the 1960s and ’70s. It is NASA’s biggest step yet toward establishing a permanent lunar presence.
“On this historic mission, you take with you the heart of this Artemis team, the daring spirit of the American people and our partners across the globe, and the hopes and dreams of a new generation,” launch director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson told the crew right before liftoff. “Good luck, Godspeed Artemis II. Let’s go.”
Artemis II set sail from the same Florida launch site that sent Apollo’s explorers to the moon so long ago. The handful still alive cheered this next generation’s grand adventure as the Space Launch System rocket thundered into the early evening sky, a nearly full moon beckoning some 248,000 miles (400,000 kilometers) away.
Five minutes into the flight, Commander Reid Wiseman saw the team’s target: “We have a beautiful moonrise, we’re headed right at it,” he said from the capsule. On board with him are pilot Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Canada’s Jeremy Hansen. It is the most diverse lunar crew ever with the first woman, person of color and non-U. S. citizen riding in NASA’s new Orion capsule.
“NASA is back in the business of sending astronauts to the moon,” NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman told reporters following liftoff, calling the half-century hiatus a brief intermission.
Tensions high in the hours leading up to launch
Tensions were high earlier in the day as hydrogen fuel started flowing into the rocket. Dangerous hydrogen leaks erupted during a countdown test earlier this year, forcing a lengthy flight delay.
Astronauts, front row from left, Pilot Victor Glover and Commander Reid Wiseman, second row from left, Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen, of Canada,, and Mission Specialist Christina Koch leave the Operations and Checkout Building for a trip to Launch Pad 39-B and a planned liftoff on NASA’s Artemis II moon rocket at the Kennedy Space Center Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
To NASA’s relief, no significant hydrogen leaks occurred. The launch team loaded more than 700,000 gallons of fuel (2.6 million liters) into the 32-story Space Launch System rocket on the pad, a smooth operation that set the stage for the Artemis II crew to board.
Then NASA had to overcome a flurry of last-minute technical issues — bad battery sensors and an inability to get commands through to the rocket’s flight termination system. In both cases, the issues were quickly resolved, allowing the launch to proceed.
What’s on tap for 10-day test flight?
The astronauts will stick close to home for the first 25 hours of their 10-day test flight, checking out the capsule in orbit around Earth before firing the main engine that will propel them to the moon.
They won’t pause for a stopover or orbit the moon like Apollo 8’s first lunar visitors did so famously on Christmas Eve 1968, reading from Genesis. But they stand to become the most distant humans ever when their capsule zooms past the moon and continues another 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) beyond, before making a U-turn and tearing straight home to a splashdown in the Pacific.
Once settled in a high orbit around Earth, the astronauts assumed manual control and practiced steering their capsule around the rocket’s detached upper stage, venturing as close as 33 feet (10 meters). NASA wants to know how Orion handles in case the self-flying feature fails and the pilots need to take control.
Crew has an amazing sight in store
During Monday’s lunar flyby, the moon will appear to be the size of a basketball held at arm’s length. The astronauts will take turns peering through Orion’s windows with cameras. If the lighting is right, they should see features never before viewed through human eyes. They’ll also catch snippets of a total solar eclipse, donning eclipse glasses as the moon briefly blocks the sun from their perspective and the corona is revealed.
All of NASA’s moon plans — a surge in launches over the next several years leading to a sustainable moon base for astronauts assisted by robotic rovers and drones — hinge on Artemis II going well.
It’s been more than three years since Artemis I, the only other time NASA’s SLS rocket and Orion capsule have soared. With no one aboard, the Artemis I capsule lacked life-support equipment and other crew essentials like a water dispenser and toilet.
These systems are now making their space debut on Artemis II, ratcheting up the risk. That’s why NASA is waiting a full day before committing Wiseman and his crew to a four-day trip to the moon and four-day journey back.
The capsule’s toilet is already acting up. Koch informed Mission Control that it shut down seconds after she activated it. Mission Control advised her to to use a handheld bag-and-funnel system for now — CCU, short for Collapsible Contingency Urinal — while engineers pondered how to deal with the so-called lunar loo.
“There’s always been a lot riding on this mission,” NASA’s Lori Glaze said ahead of launch. But the teams are even more “energized” now that the space agency is finally accelerating the lunar launch pace and laser-focusing on surface operations — seismic changes recently announced by Isaacman.
Artemis offers a fresh beginning
With half the world’s population not yet born when NASA’s 12 moonwalkers left their boot prints in the gray lunar dust, Artemis offers a fresh beginning, NASA’s science mission chief Nicky Fox said earlier this week.
“There are a lot of people who don’t remember Apollo. There are generations who weren’t alive when Apollo launched. This is their Apollo,” said Fox, who was 4 when Apollo 17 closed out the era.
NASA is in it for the long haul this time. Unlike Apollo, which focused on fast flags and footprints in a breakneck race against the Soviet Union, Artemis is striving for a sustainable moon base elaborate enough to satisfy even the most hard-core science fiction fans. But make no mistake: Isaacman and the Trump Administration want the next boot prints to be made by Americans, not the Chinese.
Until Isaacman’s program makeover, Artemis III was crawling toward a moon landing no sooner than 2029. The billionaire spacewalker slid in a new Artemis III for 2027 so astronauts could practice docking their Orion capsule with a lunar lander in orbit around Earth. Astronauts’ momentous landing near the moon’s south pole shifted to Artemis IV in 2028 — two years before an anticipated Chinese crew’s arrival.
NASA’s Artemis II moon rocket lifts off from the Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Like Apollo 13 — astronauts’ only moon landing miss — Artemis II will use a free-return, lunar flyby trajectory to get home with gravity’s tug and a minimum of gas. The gravity of both the moon and Earth will provide much if not most of the oomph to keep Orion on its out-and-back, figure-eight loop.
There are inherent dangers
The danger is right up there for Artemis II. NASA has refused to release its risk assessment for the mission. Managers contend it’s better than 50-50 — the usual odds for a new rocket — but how much more is murky.
The SLS rocket leaked flammable hydrogen fuel during ground tests, a recurring problem that engineers still do not completely understand. The hydrogen leaks and unrelated helium blockages stalled the flight for two months, coming on top of years of vexing delays and cost overruns. Both problems also thwarted Artemis I, whose capsule returned with excessive heat shield damage. To NASA’s relief, Wednesday’s countdown was leak-free.
Beating the Soviet Union to the moon made the huge risks acceptable for Apollo, said Charlie Duke, one of only four surviving moonwalkers.
“I’m cheering you on,” Duke said in a note to Wiseman and his crew before their flight.
During a weekend news conference, Koch stressed how humanity’s path to Mars goes through the moon, the proving ground for points beyond.
“It is our strong hope that this mission is the start of an era where everyone, every person on Earth, can look at the moon and think of it as also a destination,” she said.
Added Glover: “It’s the story of humanity. Not Black history, not women’s history, but that it becomes human history.”
AYUTTHAYA — 2 April 2026, Police in Phra In Racha district of Ayutthaya have dismantled a major motorcycle theft ring operating across several provinces, with suspects allegedly stealing bikes to sell in neighbouring countries and seeking cash ahead of the Songkran festival.
Pol. Col. Chanun Prempluemjit, superintendent of Phra In Racha Police Station, said the operation followed an investigation into a network responsible for multiple thefts nationwide. Chat messages recovered from suspects indicated they were targeting funds for Songkran spending, and a minor was also found to be involved.
The case began on 29 March 2026 at 06:00, when investigators were notified of the theft of two Honda Wave 110i motorcycles from a dormitory car park at Pratunam Phra In Market in Chiang Rak Noi, Bang Pa-in district. CCTV footage showed four suspects using two vehicles, with clearly assigned roles, committing the theft at around 04:11 before fleeing along Phahon Yothin Road towards Highway 9 and into Nonthaburi’s Bang Bua Thong district.
Later that day, police arrested the first suspect, Jiraphat, 26, also known as “Tee”, and seized clothing and a mobile phone containing evidence of communication with accomplices and money transfers linked to motorcycle sales.
Further investigation led to the arrest of two more suspects, Athiphan, 26, alias “Benz”, and a 16-year-old male, along with a pickup truck used in the crimes in Wang Noi district. Officers also recovered four stolen motorcycles hidden in Bangkok. The suspects admitted their role was to collect and store the vehicles before handing them over to financiers, earning about 3,000 baht per bike.
On 31 March 2026, police arrested a fourth suspect, Suthat, 26, alias “Long”, in Bang Bua Thong district while he was dismantling motorcycle parts. He confessed to being part of the network, which carried out thefts in multiple areas.
Mobile phone evidence revealed plans to intensify thefts during the Songkran period. Police said the network operated in several provinces, including Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi and Chonburi, and is believed to have stolen nearly 100 motorcycles. The vehicles were stored temporarily before being smuggled via border routes in Ubon Ratchathani province and sold for between 17,000 and 30,000 baht each.
The suspects face charges of joint theft at night using vehicles. Police have warned motorcycle owners to remain vigilant, particularly during Songkran, when thefts tend to rise. All suspects have been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings, while efforts continue to track down remaining members of the network.
