China's Defence Minister Dong Jun (C) is surrounded by media and his delegation after a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin on the sidelines of the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue summit at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore on May 31, 2024. The US and Chinese defence chiefs held rare direct talks in Singapore on May 31, offering hopes for more military dialogue that could help prevent disputes over Taiwan and other flashpoint issues from spinning out of control. Photo by NHAC NGUYEN / AFP

China Accuses Philippines of Provocations Amid Rising Tensions

China’s defense minister highlights the need for renewed military communications with the United States amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific. He accuses the U.S. of causing friction by supporting Taiwan and the Philippines. The minister emphasized China’s commitment to regional stability and criticized external forces for creating chaos. The territorial disputes in the South China Sea, especially with the Philippines, have intensified, with the latter leaning more towards the U.S. since 2022. Learn more about these escalating tensions and geopolitical dynamics.

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Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. PHOTO BY MIKE ALQUINTO

Strengthening Defense Ties: Philippines and Lithuania Collaborate on Cybersecurity

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. held talks with defense ministers from Lithuania, Canada, and New Zealand at the 21st International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Key outcomes included Lithuania’s offer to train the Philippine military on cybersecurity and discussions on enhancing international defense alliances. Canada’s Defense Minister Bill Blair and New Zealand’s Defense Minister Judith Anne Collins emphasized the importance of strategic alliances and regional security. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed the significance of the West Philippine Sea for international trade, and the need for collaborative security measures.

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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Photo from PCO

Marcos and Lithuanian PM Advocate for International Rules-Based Order

Learn more about the agreement between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte to uphold a rules-based order aimed at promoting global peace and security. Discover the historical diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Lithuania and their collaborative efforts to address current global challenges, ensuring sustainable peace.

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Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. delivers a speech during the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore on May 31, 2024. (Photo by NHAC NGUYEN / AFP)

Highlights of President Marcos Jr.’s Productive Visits to Brunei and Singapore

Learn more about President Marcos Jr.’s productive visits to Brunei and Singapore. The trips focused on strengthening bilateral relations, including signing agreements on tourism, maritime standards, and agricultural cooperation. Key discussions with business sectors aimed at enhancing agribusiness, renewable energy, and halal development, promising increased trade and investment opportunities.

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The definition of divorce. CQF-AVOCAT PHOTO VIA PIXABAY

Senators Divided on Divorce Bill

Explore the current division among Philippine senators regarding the divorce bill. Some lawmakers, including Senate President Francis Escudero and Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, oppose the measure due to religious beliefs, while others like Robinhood Padilla and Grace Poe support it for practical reasons. Senate Pro Tempore Jose Estrada’s informal survey reveals a complex landscape of opinions, with some senators, such as JV Ejercito, still contemplating their stance. Delve into the intricacies of this significant legislative issue.

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CONVICTED Former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures as he arrives back at Trump Tower after being convicted in his criminal trial in New York City, on May 30, 2024. A panel of 12 New Yorkers was unanimous in their determination that Donald Trump is guilty as charged — but for the impact on his election prospects, the jury is still out. The Republican billionaire was convicted of all 34 charges in New York on May 30, 2024, and now finds himself bidding for a second presidential term, unsure if he’ll be spending 2025 in the Oval Office, on probation or in jail. TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP PHOTO

Trump Leverages Verdict to Energize Campaign

Learn more about how former US President Donald Trump is turning his recent conviction into a campaign strategy. Despite being found guilty of attempting to influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment, Trump remains defiant and is using the verdict as a catalyst for his 2024 campaign. Explore the implications for the upcoming election and how his legal troubles are shaping his strategy.

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