Author: Jim Gomez

A powerful explosion from Mount Kanlaon in the central Philippines sent more than 700 people fleeing to evacuation camps as the volcano belched ash and steam into the night sky. The eruption triggered sirens in Canlaon, a city south of the volcano, prompting residents to evacuate to safety. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. Authorities raised the alert level to two out of five, indicating a “moderate level of volcanic unrest.” President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed that 796 people from 170 families were moved to evacuation centers around the volcano, with government aircraft on standby if needed. In response to the…

Philippines accuses Chinese fishermen of devastating giant clams in disputed waters The Philippine coast guard has accused Chinese fishermen of decimating giant clams in a lagoon at Scarborough Shoal, sparking environmental concerns. Surveillance photos showed Chinese fishermen harvesting large numbers of clams until March 2019. The Philippines has called for an international inquiry into the damage. Territorial tensions have escalated in the South China Sea, with the US pledging to defend the Philippines if attacked by China. China has claimed sovereignty over much of the area, leading to conflicts with neighboring countries. The Philippines has sought international support by publicizing…