Around the Globe

PCG keeps close watch on 2 Chinese vessels off Panatag

The Philippine Coast Guard shadowed two China Coast Guard vessels near Panatag Shoal in the West Philippine Sea during a routine maritime patrol on [date of incident]. PCG personnel monitored the movements and positions of the foreign ships within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and followed standard operating procedures throughout the operation. No collision, confrontation, or damage was reported during the encounter. The incident will form part of official PCG reports submitted to national security and maritime agencies for further assessment, as regular patrols continue in the West Philippine Sea.

Read more

23 Chinese nationals sent home amid cyberfraud, POGO investigation

The Bureau of Immigration deported 23 Chinese nationals to China on November 22, 2025, for alleged involvement in cyberfraud schemes and POGO-like activities and for multiple violations of Philippine immigration laws. BI deportation and implementation units chief Alexi Val Arciaga said the Chinese nationals were subjects of deportation orders and identified as wanted criminals in their home country. Immigration officers arrested, processed, and escorted the deportees, coordinated with Chinese authorities, and placed the 23 individuals on the Philippine immigration blacklist.

Read more

Philippines, Singapore strengthen ties in bilateral talks

The Philippines and Singapore held the 7th Informal Consultations on the Philippines-Singapore Action Plan (IC-PSAP) in Singapore last week to discuss expanded bilateral relations and new areas of economic cooperation. Officials from both countries reviewed existing initiatives, explored possible projects in priority sectors, and agreed to continue technical-level work and follow-up engagements. Delegations confirmed that they will use the IC-PSAP as a platform for regular review of cooperation, align proposed projects with national priorities, and schedule the next round of consultations at a later date.

Read more

Philippines denies reports of secret Palestinian flights

The Philippine government has denied reports of clandestine flights bringing Palestinians into the country, stating that all international arrivals follow standard immigration and aviation procedures. Philippine authorities report no records of secret flights or irregular Palestinian entries and confirm coordination among the Department of Foreign Affairs, immigration, and aviation agencies. Palestinian authorities have launched their own investigation into alleged flight operations involving Palestinian passengers, and Manila says it is prepared to cooperate through official channels if formally requested.

Read more

Philippines, Palestine ink landmark deal for regular political talks

The Philippines and Palestine signed an agreement establishing regular political consultations between their governments and opened talks on a possible visa waiver for diplomats. The deal creates a structured mechanism for periodic dialogue on bilateral and regional issues, with foreign ministries leading implementation and preparations. Both sides plan to alternate hosting duties for the consultations and to define the agenda, frequency, and level of participation through diplomatic channels. Officials also began exploratory discussions on a reciprocal visa waiver for accredited diplomats, which will require further legal and technical review before any implementation.

Read more

King Charles sends condolences to typhoon, earthquake victims in Philippines

King Charles and Queen Camilla conveyed their condolences to the victims of recent natural disasters in the Philippines. In a statement released by the UK’s Embassy, they expressed deep concern and sadness over the loss of lives caused by a series of typhoons and earthquakes. The message aims to show solidarity and support for the affected communities as international aid continues to assist recovery efforts.

Read more