Takaichi reported that “human and material damage is still being confirmed”, adding that “detailed reports” will be received and announced later.

The earthquake, measured at magnitude 7.4, occurred at 4:53 pm local time (07:53 GMT) on Monday, with its epicentre off the Sanriku coastal region of Honshu island.

The quake affected Aomori and Iwate prefectures, while seismic activity was also felt in Tokyo. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued tsunami warnings, stating that waves of up to three metres (10 feet) were possible.

The petitioner urged the court to direct authorities to take urgent steps to reduce the risk of catastrophic damage. 

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected the plea with a dose of dry humour: “So we should relocate everyone to the moon or where?” the judges asked, noting that such matters lie firmly within the government’s policy responsibilities, not the court’s.

When the petitioner pointed to a recent major earthquake in Japan as justification for intervention, the bench responded: “First we have to bring volcanoes into this country, then we can compare it with Japan,” implying that India’s geological conditions are fundamentally different.

The petitioner insisted that authorities should at least be required to prepare for potential disasters. The court disagreed. “That is for the government to take care of. This court cannot do it. Dismissed,” the bench said.

Attempts by the petitioner to rely on recent media reports were also brushed aside. 

“These are newspaper reports. We are not bothered about them,” the bench said, stressing once again that questions of seismic risk, infrastructure safety and disaster planning fall under executive decision-making, not judicial oversight.

The shallow quake struck at 9:59 p.m. local time, with the epicenter recorded off the coast of Bogo City at a depth of about 5 to 10 kilometres, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said. 

Authorities confirmed dozens of casualties in northern Cebu towns, including San Remigio, where a sports complex partially collapsed during a basketball game. Other victims were reported trapped under debris in several municipalities, with children among those killed.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported major disruptions in communication and electricity across Bogo, Daanbantayan, and San Remigio. Hospitals in the affected areas were overwhelmed with patients, prompting the deployment of additional doctors, nurses, and supplies by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Department of Health.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a full-scale relief effort, directing cabinet officials to Cebu to oversee distribution of aid and assess damage. 

Emergency shelters were set up for displaced families as authorities appealed for food, water, and medical assistance in northern Cebu, where supply lines were cut by the quake.

Phivolcs reported that the earthquake generated a “destructive” Intensity 7 in several towns near the epicenter. No tsunami threat was detected, but nearly 800 aftershocks were recorded within the first 12 hours, including one at magnitude 6.

Local officials estimated that hundreds of homes and public structures were damaged or destroyed, including a 100-year-old church. 

Videos shared on social media showed residents rushing into the streets as buildings shook and crumbled. 

The earthquake disrupted daily life across Cebu, one of the country’s most important tourism and business hubs. 

Seismologists said the quake was likely triggered by a local fault line that had not generated a powerful tremor in more than 400 years. 

The Philippines sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active belt where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur frequently.

President Gustavo Petro has denounced recent US airstrikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean as an “act of tyranny,” warning that criminal proceedings could follow if Colombians were among the 17 reported dead. Speaking to the BBC in New York, Petro argued that stopping vessels does not require lethal force and accused Washington of humiliating South Americans. President Donald Trump defended the strikes as necessary to curb fentanyl smuggling, while Democratic lawmakers and UN experts have questioned their legality, calling them possible extrajudicial executions.

US delegation walks out of Petro’s UN speech

The United States delegation left the hall during Petro’s address at the United Nations, where he criticised the Trump administration for decertifying Colombia’s anti-narcotics record and for the Caribbean bombings. The Colombian leader accused Washington of spreading “lies” about drug seizures, stressing that his government extradited over 700 traffickers without resorting to missile strikes. The State Department responded briefly, saying its delegation’s actions “spoke for themselves”.

Peace talks with Clan del Golfo begin in Qatar

Colombia has opened peace negotiations with the Clan del Golfo, a powerful criminal group with roots in paramilitarism. The talks, held in Qatar, focus on disarmament in exchange for judicial benefits. Chief negotiator Álvaro Jiménez said the group’s main income now comes from illegal gold mining and stressed that leaders recognise they are at their “peak” and risk decline. The cartel, with 6,000–7,000 members, has already suffered major setbacks, including the arrest and extradition of former commander “Otoniel” in 2022.

Earthquake shakes Venezuela and Colombia

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck western Venezuela late Wednesday, September 24, rattling Colombian border cities including Cúcuta and Bucaramanga. The Colombian Geological Service confirmed the epicentre was in Mene Grande, Venezuela. No casualties or damages have been reported, and authorities ruled out tsunami risk for the Colombian coast. Residents across both countries reported alarm, though tremors are common in the region due to tectonic activity.

US investment in Colombia declines

Foreign direct investment (FDI) from the United States into Colombia has fallen for the second year in a row, reflecting strained relations and economic uncertainty. Central Bank figures show US investment dropped 15% in the first half of 2025, from US$2.66 billion to US$2.26 billion. While the United States remains Colombia’s top investor, accounting for 34.5% of inflows, the decline forms part of a broader 15.2% fall in total FDI last year, hitting mining, oil, and manufacturing sectors hardest.

What they said

Sharafat Zaman, spokesperson for Afghanistan’s health ministry, urged the international community to step in, “We need it because here lots of people lost their lives and houses.” Another health ministry spokesperson, Abdul Maten Qanee, said all government teams had been mobilised, “Comprehensive and full support is being provided, from security to food and health.” Survivors described harrowing scenes. Muhammad Aziz, a labourer from Kunar’s Nur Gul district, told the Guardian that he lost 10 relatives, including five children; “The poor people in this area have lost everything. There is death in every home, and beneath the rubble of each roof, there are dead bodies. The mud houses have been wiped away, and destruction is everywhere. People are desperately seeking help.”

Why these countries are volcano hotspots

1.  Indonesia (59 active volcanoes)

Indonesia sits directly on the Ring of Fire, where the Indo-Australian Plate meets the Eurasian and Pacific Plates. The country has more active volcanoes than any other because it spans multiple tectonic subduction zones , particularly in Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi.

2.  Japan (44)

Japan's volcanoes also exist due to its location on the Ring of Fire, with four tectonic plates colliding beneath it (Pacific, Philippine Sea, Eurasian, and North American). This results in frequent seismic and volcanic activity.

3.  United States (42)

Most of the USA's volcanoes are located in Alaska, where the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the North American Plate. The famous Hawaiian volcanoes are caused by a hotspot, where magma rises through the mantle in the middle of a tectonic plate.

4.  Russia (33)

Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the world’s most volcanically active regions, lying along the Pacific Plate boundary — another part of the Ring of Fire.

5.  Chile (19)

Chile lies along the Nazca Plate, which is subducting beneath the South American Plate, forming the Andean Volcanic Belt. This explains its high number of volcanoes.

6.  Papua New Guinea (15)

Papua New Guinea's volcanoes are located at the convergence of the Pacific and Indo-Australian Plates, leading to explosive eruptions and continuous volcanic activity.

7.  Ecuador (12)

Ecuador, part of the Andes, also sits atop the Nazca and South American plates. The Galápagos Islands, a hotspot volcanic region, also contribute to Ecuador's total.

8.  Iceland (10)

Uniquely located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland is one of the few places where a divergent boundary is visible above sea level. The country is split between the North American and Eurasian plates, creating constant geothermal activity.

9.  Tonga (10)

Tonga lies in the southwest Pacific, part of a highly active subduction zone where the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the Indo-Australian Plate. This results in frequent underwater volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

10.  Philippines (7)

The Philippines is also on the Ring of Fire, where the Philippine Sea Plate subducts under the Eurasian Plate. Iconic volcanoes like Mount Mayon and Taal highlight the country’s volatile landscape.

What is the Ring of Fire?

The Ring of Fire is a horseshoe-shaped zone that encircles the Pacific Ocean. About 75% of the world's active and dormant volcanoes are found here. It’s where most tectonic plate boundaries collide or slide beneath each other, causing earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

Following closely behind Mexico, Indonesia experienced 1,872 earthquakes, while Japan, known for its tectonic volatility, recorded 1,563. The Philippines and Chile featured prominently with 997 and 875 earthquakes, respectively.

Guatemala and Taiwan round out the list with 704 and 665 recorded quakes, each grappling with its own challenges of infrastructure resilience and disaster preparedness.

The chart highlights how natural disasters, particularly earthquakes, continue to pose significant risks to nations located along major tectonic fault lines such as the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Experts warn that with urban populations growing and climate conditions shifting, the socioeconomic impacts of seismic events could intensify unless substantial mitigation measures are adopted.

While the raw number of earthquakes doesn't reflect magnitude or destruction, such frequency is an urgent call for strengthening early warning systems, investing in earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and expanding public safety education in vulnerable regions.

The second quarter of 2025 has just begun, but as of April 23, 2025, several significant earthquakes have occurred globally, resulting in varying degrees of damage and casualties.

Earthquakes in 2025 so far:

Tibet/Nepal Border – January 7

Magnitude: 7.1

A powerful earthquake struck Tibet's holy city of Shigatse , resulting in at least 95 deaths and 130 injuries. The earthquake affected the high-altitude region of western China, Nepal, and parts of India. It caused significant damage to 1,000 houses and led to the closure of the Mount Qomolangma (Everest) Scenic Area. ​

Myanmar – March 28

Magnitude: 7.7

This earthquake devastated central Myanmar, particularly Mandalay. The death toll has risen to 1,644, with over 2,200 injured and 200 people still missing . Infrastructure damage, including roads, bridges, and communication systems, has hindered rescue and relief operations. International aid has been mobilised, with countries like China, Russia, India, and Malaysia assisting. The UN has allocated $5 million for immediate relief.

Istanbul, Turkey – April 23

Magnitude: 6.2

Impact: A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck Istanbul, Turkey, causing over 150 injuries but no immediate reports of severe damage. The quake, centred in the Sea of Marmara about 40 km southwest of Istanbul, had a shallow depth of 10 km and was followed by over 50 aftershocks.

Panic quickly spread as shoppers realised what was happening. “Everyone was screaming and running, so I started screaming as well,” Gus recalled.

The sudden tremor left tourists and locals in shock, with many fleeing buildings in fear. 

Khin Aung, a 40-year-old survivor, is among those desperately searching for missing relatives. His brother was working inside the building when it crumbled, and he clings to the hope that he may still be found alive.

"When I went outside, I saw dust everywhere, and I just ran to escape from the collapsing building," Khin Aung told AFP. "I video-called my brother and my friends, but only one picked up the phone. I couldn’t see his face, but I heard him running. At the time, the building was shaking and had not yet fallen, but while I was on the call with him, I lost the connection - and then the building collapsed."

Emergency responders have transported at least 20 injured workers to the hospital, but Khin Aung remains uncertain whether his brother and friends are among them.

"I hope my brother and friends are in the hospital," he said. "But if they are trapped under the rubble, time is running out. If we don’t find them immediately, by tomorrow morning, there will be no hope left."

As night falls, distressed families gather at the disaster site, desperate for any sign of life. Among them is Chanpen Kaewnoi, who is awaiting news of her missing mother and sister.

"Yesterday, I heard the building collapsed. I worried about my sister and kept trying to call her, but there was no signal," Chanpen said. "Their colleague called me and said she couldn’t find my mum and my sister, who were with her on the fifth floor."

Officials reported that the earthquake had a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, with its epicentre in neighbouring Myanmar. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed the quake measured 7.7 in magnitude and was followed by a strong aftershock.

The World Risk Report 2024 has identified the top 10 countries most vulnerable to natural disasters, considering exposure, vulnerability, and susceptibility to extreme natural events like earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, and drought.

According to the report, the top 10 countries with the highest disaster risk are:​

Philippines : With a WorldRiskIndex (WRI) score of 46.91, the Philippines faces significant exposure to natural hazards such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The country's archipelagic nature and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to its high disaster risk. ​

Indonesia : With a WRI score of 41.13, Indonesia's position along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it susceptible to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity. The country's high population density in hazard-prone areas amplifies the risk. ​

India : With a WRI of 40.96, India is vulnerable to diverse natural hazards, including floods, cyclones, and earthquakes. Rapid urbanisation and socio-economic disparities add to its vulnerability. ​

Colombia : With a WRI of 37.81, Colombia is prone to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. Its varied topography and socio-political factors influence its vulnerability. ​

Mexico : Mexico's WRI score of 35.93 reflects its exposure to earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic activity. Urbanization in high-risk zones and socio-economic challenges contribute to its disaster risk. ​

Myanmar : Scoring 35.85 on the WRI, Myanmar faces risks from cyclones, floods, and earthquakes. Limited infrastructure and socio-economic challenges heighten its susceptibility. ​

Mozambique : With a WRI of 34.44, Mozambique is vulnerable to cyclones, floods, and droughts. Socio-economic factors and inadequate infrastructure contribute to its high disaster risk. ​

From 1990 to 2024, several countries have experienced a high number of major earthquakes , according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Here are the eight countries with the highest number of major earthquakes during this period:

China

China leads the list with 186 major earthquakes. The country's vast land area and location along major fault lines, such as the Tibetan Plateau, contribute to its high seismic activity. Cities like Chengdu and Kunming frequently experience tremors.

Indonesia

Indonesia, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, ranks second with 166 major earthquakes. The archipelagic nation is highly prone to seismic activity due to its position on multiple tectonic plate boundaries.

Iran

Iran has experienced 109 major earthquakes. The country's location along the collision zone between the Eurasian and Arabian plates makes it susceptible to frequent and intense seismic events.

Japan

Japan, known for its advanced earthquake preparedness, has recorded 98 major earthquakes. The country's position along the Pacific Ring of Fire and its numerous fault lines contribute to its high earthquake frequency.

United States

The United States has seen 78 major earthquakes. The western part of the country, particularly California, is highly seismically active due to the San Andreas Fault and other fault lines.

Turkey

Turkey has experienced 62 major earthquakes. The country lies on the boundary between the Eurasian and Arabian plates, making it prone to significant seismic activity.

India

India has recorded 58 major earthquakes. The collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates, particularly in the Himalayan region, results in frequent seismic events.

Philippines

The Philippines rounds out the list with 55 major earthquakes. Its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and numerous active fault lines contribute to its high earthquake frequency.

South Africa leads list of African countries with highest crime rates

South Africa has been ranked as the African country with the highest crime rate, according to the Numbeo Crime Index. The country scored 74.7 on the index, placing it at the top of the list for 2024. Read more here .

How Kenya police cover-up killings of anti-government protesters

Kenyan police are facing allegations of covering up their role in the deaths of protesters during anti-government demonstrations in June and July. According to autopsy reports, 19-year-old Charles Owino and 21-year-old Shaquille Obienge were killed by gunshot wounds, but police recorded their deaths as road accidents. Read more here .

Ethiopia evacuates thousands after series of earthquakes from volcanic activity

Over 20,000 people were relocated to safer zones in Ethiopia on December 5, following a spate of earthquakes in the Afar and Oromia regions. According to authorities, more than 51,000 residents remain vulnerable due to heightened seismic activity in the region over the past two months. Read more here .

Asia

Indonesia launches $4.3 billion free-meal programme to target stunting: Video

Indonesia launched a landmark free-meal program on January 6, allocating $4.3 billion to tackle malnutrition and prevent stunted growth among its citizens. Read more here .

China market blaze kills eight, 15 hurt

A devastating fire swept through a vegetable market in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, China, on Saturday, leaving eight people dead and 15 others injured. According to state broadcaster CCTV, the blaze was brought under control within an hour of breaking out at approximately 8:40 a.m. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Read more here .

Malaysia PM denies hiding document on ex-premier Najib's home detention

Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government did not conceal any document relating to jailed former premier Najib Razak's home detention, state media reported. Read more here .

Latin America

Venezuela, Paraguay break relations over Pena's support for opposition

Venezuela severed diplomatic ties with Paraguay on Monday, prompting Paraguay to expel Venezuelan diplomats from the country. This move came after Paraguayan President Santiago Peña publicly backed Venezuela's opposition, sparking tensions between the two nations. In response, Venezuela withdrew its diplomatic personnel from Paraguay, exercising its sovereignty. Read more here .

Ecuador's Noboa names acting president so he can campaign

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa said in a decree on Tuesday, January 7 that interim vice-president Cynthia Natalie Gellibert will serve as acting president from Thursday, January 9 to Sunday, January 10 so he can participate in campaigning for his re-election. Read more here .

Colombia bans child marriage in landmark move

Colombia has passed a historic law banning child marriage, raising the minimum age to 18 with no exceptions. This law ends a 137-year-old rule that allowed children as young as 14 to marry with parental consent. Read more here .

The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission said on January 4, that 13,000 people from the Afar and Oromia regions have already been moved. In the Fentale district of Oromia, where over 16,000 residents are at risk, 7,000 people have been relocated.

“These earthquakes are increasing in both size and frequency,” the government said in a statement , adding that experts are working to assess the damage.

The earthquake on Saturday morning had a magnitude of 5.8 and was centred near Abomsa, less than 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Fentale district. Evacuations and relocation plans are ongoing to protect those at risk.

In August 2024, Indonesia recorded 1.34 million foreign tourist arrivals, marking an 18.3% increase from the previous year. The cumulative total for January-August 2024 reached 9.09 million, illustrating a 20.83% rise compared to the same timeframe last year. This surge in arrivals represents the highest statistic since 2020, albeit short of pre-pandemic figures. Malaysian tourists constituted 14.09% of the August arrivals, followed closely by Australia at 11.47% and China at 9.41%. Furthermore, there was a notable increase of 25.09% in African tourist arrivals, contrasted with a 39.77% decline in visitors from the Middle East, state agency Antara News reports.

New legislative year

The opening of Indonesia's new legislative year saw the swearing-in of 732 lawmakers, including 360 first-time members, by Chief Justice M. Syarifuddin. This group comprises 580 elected representatives and 152 senators, emerging from elections conducted in February. The House of Representatives has now expanded to accommodate 580 members, while the Senate consists of 152 members. 25 of these legislators hail from celebrity backgrounds. Chief Justice Syarifuddin underscored the lawmakers' obligation to serve the nation with dedication and sincerity. Incoming President Prabowo Subianto is poised to assume office, with his inauguration scheduled for October 20.

Strong earthquake strikes

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off the coast of Indonesia's Sulawesi province, as reported by the US Geological Survey. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 588 kilometres in the Banda Sea, around 262 kilometres from the city of Baubau. Fortunately, no immediate losses or tsunami alerts followed.

Two ministers resign to join new parliament

Indonesian President Joko Widodo approved the resignations of two ministers, Abdul Halim Iskandar (Minister of Villages) and Ida Fauziyah (Minister of Manpower), to take up roles in the new parliament for the 2024–2029 term. Their departures are part of a broader trend as they follow the resignation of Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini and Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, both of whom plan to compete in upcoming gubernatorial elections, according to the Indonesian state agency . Acting responsibilities are set to be redistributed to Coordinating Ministers Muhadjir Effendy and Airlangga Hartarto. The current cabinet's tenure will conclude on October 20, coinciding with the inauguration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto and Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Run for UN Security Council non-permanent seat

Indonesia is pursuing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2029-2030 term, signalling its dedication to global peace and security matters. Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi asserted the nation's previous contributions to the Council and stressed that peace, justice, and humanity constitute core tenets of its foreign policy. The Minister voiced strong criticism against the current Security Council leadership for neglecting critical global issues, including the Palestine conflict, and advocated for reforms to foster a more democratic decision-making approach, Antara reports.

The Japanese government, through its disaster management minister Yoshifumi Matsumura, announced that no abnormalities in seismic activity or crustal deformation had been detected, leading to the decision to end the special alert.

"We have been asking for special precautions, such as sleeping while being prepared to evacuate immediately. But we will no longer ask for these steps, and the people of Japan are free to go back to normal lifestyles," Matsumura stated.

The initial warning prompted many Japanese citizens to cancel holidays, and stock up on essentials, and even led to some high-speed rail services reducing their speeds as a precaution.

Despite the lifting of the warning, experts caution that the risk of a major earthquake has not been eliminated. The Nankai Trough, which runs parallel to Japan's Pacific coast, has a history of producing devastating earthquakes approximately every 90 to 200 years, with the last significant event occurring in 1946.

"But it doesn't mean the risk (of a major earthquake) has been eliminated," Matsumura told reporters.

The anticipation of a megaquake has led to widespread concern among Japanese citizens. Many are worried about the potential devastation such an event could bring, recalling the catastrophic impact of past earthquakes like the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

In response to the warnings, there has been a noticeable surge in the purchase of disaster preparedness kits and daily necessities. Stores across the country have reported increased sales of emergency supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, portable radios and tissues. Authorities have, however, urged the public to avoid hoarding, emphasising the importance of ensuring that everyone has access to essential items.

The psychological toll of living under the constant threat of a megaquake cannot be understated. Many citizens have expressed feelings of anxiety and helplessness.

According to a female Japanese who spoke on anonymity with AFP, she is "70 percent worried but on the other hand, I have known all along that a megaquake will happen at some point, so I would say I am relatively well prepared."

Tatsuji Noguchi, a company worker also said "I am a hiker myself so I’ve got maybe two weeks' worth of food and gas although I’m a bit short on water. I at least have a tent as well, so I’m optimistic we can manage as long as we have a safe place to evacuate to."

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida cancelled a trip to Central Asia and Mongolia due to the higher earthquake risk on the country's Pacific coast. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued its first-ever advisory for a potentially massive earthquake, according to the US & World Report News. The government may hold meetings with regional leaders online instead. The alert system was established in 2019 to warn the public about potential earthquakes.

Torrential rains

China has activated a Level-IV emergency response to flooding in Inner Mongolia. Torrential rain is expected in several regions over the next four days. The Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched personnel and equipment for flood control and rescue operations in several provinces, CGTN reports.

Regional and human development

The Mongolian government discussed a draft of its 2024-2028 Action Program, which will be based on a Joint Government Agreement and include 15 specific mega projects for regional development. The program also focuses on human development, intersectoral coordination, inclusive economy, and streamlined government. The draft will be submitted to Parliament for approval, a Mongolia National News Agency report has disclosed.

Youth Olympic Games petition

Mongolia has submitted its candidacy to host the Youth Olympic Games. The International Olympic Committee held a meeting with representatives from over ten countries, including Mongolia. The Youth Olympic Games, for athletes aged 15 to 18, prioritise sustainable development and personal growth. According to Akipress , the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics will be held in Dakar, Senegal, the first Olympic Games in Africa.

International Children's Sports Games

The 10th International Children's Sports Games began in Ulaanbaatar on August 5, 2024, featuring 460 athletes from Mongolia, Russia, and China competing in nine sports. The event, paused due to the pandemic, marks the fourth time Mongolia has hosted. Notable past participants include world champions and Olympic participants, reports Mongolia National News Agency.

Mexican synchronised divers Osmar Olvera Ibarra and Juan Manuel Celaya won the silver medal in the synchronised 3-meter springboard event at the Paris Olympics. They narrowly missed gold, but their performance was praised for its power and elegance. Coached by Ma Jin, the duo made history by becoming the first Mexicans to win a medal in this competition. According to Mexico News Daily , the president Andrés Manuel López Obrador and the Defense Ministry (Sedena) congratulated them, and their silver medal marked Mexico's 76th medal in the history of the Summer Olympics.

Oxxo store chain reopens branches

Mexico's largest convenience store chain, Oxxo, will reopen 191 stores in Nuevo Laredo after closing due to drug cartel threats. The company reached an agreement with authorities for increased police presence and panic buttons in the stores. The closures highlight the impact of gang demands on businesses, as cartels increasingly try to control sales and pricing of goods. It was forced to close the stores after gang members abducted two employees and demanded information. The problem is not limited to smaller businesses, as larger corporations are also being targeted. The American Chamber of Commerce reported that 12% of its members have experienced organised crime taking control of their sales and distribution. The head of a business federation in Tamaulipas state was shot to death after speaking out about cartel extortion. Oxxo stores are targeted due to their widespread presence in Mexico. AP News reports that in 2022, gangs set fire to about two dozen Oxxo stores in Guanajuato to protest the arrest of a cartel leader. In 2009, severed heads were found in Styrofoam coolers with the Oxxo logo in Jalisco.

Rainfall boosts water capacity

July rains have boosted low water levels in Mexico City's reservoirs, especially in the Cutzamala system, which provides a quarter of the city's water. The system's reservoirs received above average rainfall in July, leading to a significant recovery in water levels. The main reservoirs in the system have seen an increase in their storage capacity, with some reaching their highest levels since 2016. Other reservoirs across Mexico have also seen improvements in their storage capacity, Mexico News Dail y reports. Additionally, efforts are being made to clean and de-silt the Cutzamala system to facilitate drainage and reduce flooding risks.

Drone attacks

Drug cartels in Mexico are using bomb-dropping drones to attack the army, causing casualties and creating a warzone in the region of Michoacan. According to Fox News , these attacks, carried out by cartels like Jalisco, have resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. The army is now adding anti-drone systems to combat these threats. In addition to drone attacks, the cartels are also flooding major U.S. cities with meth and fentanyl, contributing to the worst drug crisis in U.S. history. Former President Trump has stated that strikes against the Mexican drug cartels are still on the table.

False earthquake alarm

Mexico City residents were startled by a false earthquake alarm that was activated by mistake. The Center for Seismic Instrumentation and Registry (CIRES) admitted to the error, attributing it to preparations for a National Drill. Social media reactions ranged from humorous to critical. The earthquake alarm is designed to give residents enough time to evacuate buildings before a quake hits. Mexico News Daily reports that the last major earthquake in Mexico City occurred in 2017, killing 370 people and injuring over 6,000.

A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck the Panama-Costa Rica border region, with a depth of 10 km. No immediate damages were reported, English Alarabiy a reports. The epicentre was located southeast of Puerto Armuelles.

Decline in agricultural production

Costa Rica's agricultural sector is experiencing a decline in production, particularly in coffee and bananas. The depreciation of the colon, climatic factors, and exchange rate fluctuations are the main causes, according to The Tico Times . The Central Bank expects a recovery in the second half of the year, but the impact on exports is significant. The coffee sector is also suffering from a decrease in income due to the exchange rate differential.

Costa Rica soccer team wins

Jamaica's Under-20 soccer team lost 3-0 to Costa Rica, ending their hopes of advancing from the Concacaf Championships Group A. They played with 10 men for the final 19 minutes and have lost back-to-back games in the tournament. Costa Rica now leads the group with four points, Jamaica Observer reports.

Anti-Drug coalition program

Costa Rica will implement the U.S.-backed Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America strategy in several districts to address drug risks. The program will start in Oreamuno, Tibás, and Mora and aims to strengthen community safety and prevention efforts. The initiative is expected to extend to the entire country with the support of the U.S. Embassy, The Tico Times reports.

Company relocations

According to the Tire Business , Goodyear is relocating 175 positions from its Akron headquarters to a new location in Costa Rica as part of its Goodyear Forward transformation plan.

A magnitude 4.0 quake hit 38 km northeast of Al Hoceima, Morocco early morning on May 27, 2024. The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 20 km and may have been felt in nearby towns. The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) subsequently released a second study in which they classified the earthquake's magnitude as 3.9.

Booming online abortion pill market

Moroccan women are turning to the thriving online market for abortion pills due to the country's strict abortion laws. The illegal pills are sold on social media platforms, with sellers offering no guarantees on the medication or proper usage. According to reports, many women are seeking the help of organisations that provide free abortion pills imported from abroad. Amnesty International has called for the decriminalisation of abortion in Morocco, but the conservative society and lack of political will remain barriers.

Morocco, Senegal forge stronger partnership

Morocco and Senegal are strengthening their partnership, aiming to serve as a model for inter-African cooperation. Both countries emphasised the importance of solidarity and working together for the development of the African continent, as well as the role of the private sector in promoting investment opportunities, according to APA News . They also agreed to support each other's candidacies within regional and international organisations and continue collaborative efforts in promoting peace and development across Africa.

US, Morocco nuclear response demonstration

US and Moroccan forces conducted a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear response demonstration during the exercise African Lion 2024. The joint training involved the 53rd Ordnance Company and the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, according to the U.S. Army . The exercise aims to enhance readiness and strengthen partnerships between the US military, African armed forces, and NATO allies. This is the 20th anniversary of the exercise, with over 8,100 participants from 27 nations. The exercise focuses on strengthening interoperability and setting the theatre for strategic access.

UK parliamentarians support Morocco’s control over Western Sahara

British parliamentarians, mainly from the Conservative Party, have urged the UK government to support Morocco's control over the disputed Western Sahara region. They believe Morocco's autonomy plan offers a practical and pragmatic path to stability and is supported by many Western allies. "The autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco for Western Sahara, balanced with respect for local traditions and democratic aspirations, offers a viable path toward lasting peace and stability," they wrote in a letter. However, the Polisario Front and Sahrawis argue that the plan undermines their right to self-determination, according to the Middle East Eye . The US and France support the Moroccan plan, while the Polisario Front demands the UN follow through on its promise for a referendum on self-determination.

The White House will host the first trilateral summit between the Philippines, Japan, and the United States on April 11, aiming to strengthen ties based on historical friendship, economic relations, democratic values, and a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders will also reaffirm the ironclad alliances between the United States and the Philippines, and the United States and Japan, local media Money Control reports.

Gaming market

The Philippines is expected to become the second largest gaming market in the ASEAN region, after Macau, with PAGCOR Chairman, Alejandro H Tengco, predicting gaming revenue to reach a new high of $6.1 billion this year. News outlet AGB reports that the privatisation and regulatory reforms are expected to attract more integrated resorts and boost the electronic gaming sector.

Wildlife award

The Wildlife Sentinel Award (WiSe) Philippines has been launched to recognise outstanding achievements in combating wildlife crime in the country. Nominations are open until May 31, 2024, and open to individuals, units, and groups in investigation and law enforcement agencies and prosecution services. The award aims to honour those who contributed excellently to protecting the Philippines' biodiversity, reports local media Traffic .

Earthquake

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of at least 7.5 struck Mindanao in the southern Philippines, triggering tsunami warnings that were later lifted. The earthquake resulted in at least one death and caused evacuation orders in both the Philippines and Japan, reports media agency Aljazeera .

Free trade

The EU and the Philippines have announced the restart of free trade talks after a seven-year halt, with the EU being the fifth largest trade partner for the Philippines in 2023. Talks were previously halted in 2017 during Rodrigo Duterte's presidency. Media agency Bloomberg reports that the trade deal will ensure mutual market access and diversify supply chains, offering more opportunities for professionals and service providers.

Tunisia’s Foreign Ministry is working on a digital platform to communicate with Tunisians abroad. According to Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar, the platform forms part of a new vision for the modernization of consular services. The platform is aimed at strengthening cultural ties between Tunisia and Tunisians in the diaspora, to promote Tunisian skills towards investment in the country, local news outlet Le Temps reports. During a working session at the ministry’s headquarters on February 7, the Minister emphasized the importance of Tunisian skills abroad to the development of the nation on a regional and international front.

Hajj Pilgrimage

Tunisian authorities are working to reduce the cost of the pilgrimage to Mecca. According to La Presse , the Religious Affairs Minister Brahim Chaïbi said on February 7 that the move is ahead of a set cost for this year’s Hajj. The cost of pilgrimage according to him includes a plane ticket and services provided by the Company of National Services and Residences “Montazah Gammarth” such as accommodation and transportation to the holy places. Over two hundred thousand pilgrims have registered for this year’s Hajj. Meanwhile, the quota reserved by Saudi Arabia for Tunisians is Ten thousand, nine hundred and eighty-two according to the minister.

Protests against Biometric IDs

Concerns have been raised over data privacy following Tunisia’s push for biometric IDs, The National News reports. The country’s parliament is discussing a bill to introduce identification documents including passports and citizenship cards with personal data captured electronically but concerns have been raised about the country’s ability to safeguard the privacy of individuals if this is implemented. According to the report, the bill which was introduced by the Interior Ministry after an initial proposal in 2015 has since been opposed by activists and civil society organisations which say the bill fails to provide adequate legal and technical measures to safeguard people’s privacy and personal data.

Earthquakes

The National Institute of Meteorology in Tunisia has explained the frequency of earthquakes in the country in January. According to local news platform Tunisie Numérique , head of the Applied Geophysics Department at the National Institute of Meteorology, Hassan Hamdi explained that seismic activity in the country is classified as weak to moderate while assuring the public that the occurrence of these tremors is normal. The country recorded about six ground quakes with magnitudes of over three on the Richter scale.

Bilateral ties

Tunisia’s Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar has received the South African Ambassador in Tunis as he ends his mandate in the country. The Minister received Siphosezwe Masango on February 8 at the department’s headquarters. He highlighted the strong ties between both countries while reiterating Tunisia’s commitment to further consolidate with them. The South African Ambassador also expressed gratitude to the Tunisian authorities for their support during his work in the country, Le Temps reports. 

Indonesia will import three million tonnes of rice this year to address its rice deficit caused by the El Nino weather pattern. Indonesia’s economic minister Airlangga Hartarto is quoted by the state news agency saying, "The government has decided to import three million tonnes of rice. Two million of these are being processed at the State Logistics Agency (Bulog). Last year, Indonesia imported around 3.5 million tonnes of rice. Three million tons had been received while 500 thousand tons of the imported rice are expected to arrive this month." According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the country would have a 2.83 million tonne rice shortage from January to February of 2024. It is anticipated that the shortfall will be 1.61 million tonnes in January and 1.22 million tonnes in February.

Houses for earthquake victims

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing plans to complete 190 more permanent houses for victims of the Cianjur earthquake in West Java by January 2024, Iwan Suprijanto, the ministry's Director General of Housing said on January 21. "The construction of permanent houses is one of the efforts to relocate people to a safer area. We are also using earthquake-resistant house construction technology to anticipate if natural disasters occur one day," said Suprijanto. The construction of the 190 houses is the third phase of the project, the first phase included the construction of 200 permanent homes, and the second phase included the construction of 151 units, Indonesia’s national news agency reports.

Candidates begin open election campaign

Open campaigning for candidates and political parties taking part in the 2024 Indonesia Election began on January 21.  According to the Indonesia General Election Commission (KPU) has established a schedule and stages for the public campaign rallies, which will take place over 21 days, from January 21 to February 7, 2024. The KPU has arranged public campaign rallies in three zones to prevent candidate collisions. Zone A, comprising 13 provinces, is where the first presidential and vice-presidential candidates Anies Rasyid Baswedan and Muhaimin Iskandar are expected to begin their open campaigns. Zone B, also with 13 provinces is where Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the second candidate for president and vice president, will begin. Zone C is where the third presidential and vice presidential candidate, Ganjar Pranowo and Mahfud MD will launch their open campaign in 12 provinces, the Kompas Indonesia reported.

Attracting Chinese tourists

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has set a target of attracting 1 million to 1.5 million Chinese tourists in 2024, aiming to provide equal distribution of tourism benefits in the country.  "Last year, we targeted 361,000 Chinese tourists, and we achieved 707,000. This year, we increase the target to 1 million-1.5 million," said the ministry's Regional I Director of Tourism Marketing Wisnu Sindhutrisno on January 20. 65% of Chinese travelling to Indonesia are young people with longer trips and prefer activities related to adventure, nature, and culture, the ministry disclosed. China is still rated fourth for the number of international visitors arriving in Indonesia, particularly in Bali, behind visitors from Australia and India, Antara news agency reports.

Possibility of coastal flooding

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Maritime Meteorological has warned residents of the northern coast of Jakarta about the possibility of coastal flooding from January 21 to January 27, 2024, the Indonesian state news agency reported. Head of the Jakarta Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) Isnawa AjiI said that the northern coastlines of Jakarta may experience coastal flooding as a result of the new moon phase's potential increase in the maximum sea tide height. According to him, the highest point of the high tide occurs between 7 am and 11 am Indonesia time.

The Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, announced that the Ministry has allocated 469 million dirhams (about $127 million) to address the water infrastructure damage caused by the Al Haouz earthquake. The funds include 117 million dirhams (about $31 million) for an emergency program focusing on repairing infrastructure, roads leading to dams, and administrative buildings. Additionally, 47 million dirhams (about $12 million) will go towards repairing hydrological stations in several provinces, reports local media Assahraa . The minister also discussed a broader program mobilizing 810 million dirhams (about $220 million) to aid Al Haouz earthquake victims, targeting road rehabilitation, machinery acquisition, and debris removal.

Moroccan automobile market

The Moroccan automobile market witnessed a 25.28% increase in sales of vehicles with electrified motorization in 2023 compared to the previous year. Despite overall vehicle sales in Morocco experiencing a slight 0.1% increase, reaching 145,292 private vehicles sold, the light commercial vehicle segment recorded an 11% decline. Dacia, Renault, and Hyundai were the top performers in passenger vehicles, while Renault led in light utility vehicles. The premium segment saw a 15% increase, with Audi leading, local media Lematin reported.

Cannabis processing

A budget of approximately 45 million DH (about $12 million) has been allocated to establish a dedicated economic zone for cannabis processing activities in Issaguen, within the province of Al Hoceima, Morroco. Spearheaded by the Regional Project Execution Agency (AREP) of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, the project aims to develop a 10-hectare area focused on the processing and valorization of cannabis for medical, cosmetic, and industrial purposes. The allocated funds will cover technical studies, development, and economic zone construction, divided into two sections of 5 hectares each, local media L'economiste reported. By the end of November 2023, the National Cannabis Regulatory Agency (ANRAC) had granted 430 authorizations for cannabis cultivation and production on 277 hectares.

VAT abolition

The Ministry of Health has implemented a substantial reduction in the prices of nearly 4,500 drugs, including originator, generic, and biosimilar medications in Morocco. This decision is a response to the abolition of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on medicines as outlined in the 2024 Finance Law and marks one of the most substantial reductions in the number of drugs affected, reports local media Lematin . This move reflects the government's commitment to making essential medicines more affordable and accessible to the public.

Housing Assistance

Since its launch on January 2, 2024, the digital platform for direct housing assistance has garnered enthusiasm, with a total of 16,302 registration requests, as announced by the Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and Urban Policy, Fatima Zahra Mansouri. She said that 89% of the registered individuals are eligible to receive this aid. Mansouri also provided insights into the demographics, stating that the average age of applicants is 39 years, with 66% being men and 44% women. The initiative has seen widespread participation, starting with initial requests from provinces like Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, Berrechid, and Tangier, with subsequent nationwide engagement, reports local media Lematin .

“There is a contingency plan for Brava Island, and there is also an evacuation plan, this plan was drawn up in 2016, following the recorded seismic crisis, but it is updated and provides for a set of actions for situations of this kind, actions that are being broken right now, and which we have been observing,” he is quoted by local media Expresso das Ilhas .

“We have been discussing the measures for the next few days which will involve convening the National Civil Protection Council. We are cautious, but there is no reason to be overly concerned, it is just prevention. We are also activating the entire National Civil Protection System which presupposes, under the terms of the Basic Civil Protection Law, that a Civil Protection contingency situation is declared,” he added.

Authorities have been monitoring the seismic activity around the island after tremors were recorded between November 19 and 20, local media Infor Press reported.

The West African nation has recorded cases of volcanic eruptions in the past. In 2014, a volcanic eruption near Fogo Island destroyed houses, roads, and farmlands, among others.

A joint operation by the security services of Dakla and the General Directorate of National Territorial Surveillance led to the arrest of an extremist described to be a member of the terrorist group ISIS. A report by the General Directorate of National Territorial Surveillance indicated that the suspect aged 23 is a native of Al-Hajeb and has allegedly pledged allegiance to the emir of ISIS, Assabah.com reports. The report further indicated his active participation in an alleged terrorist scheme to disturb the safety and peace of the Kingdom of Morocco. The suspect will remain in custody to assist the Central Office for Judicial Research to assist in the investigation.

Independence Day  

The Moroccan people celebrated their 68 th independence anniversary on November 18 which marks a milestone in the country’s struggle for independence and unity with the throne. A post by the official handle of the kingdom read, “The Moroccan people commemorate, this 18th of November, 2023, the 68th anniversary of Independence Day, an occasion to commemorate the symbolism of a historic national epic and the great sacrifices in the defense of the country’s unity and sacred values.”

Earthquake assessment

Japanese experts invited by the Moroccan government to assess the effectiveness and extent of damage to highway infrastructure following the Al Haouz earthquake say no substantive damage was done to the national highway infrastructure, local media Le Matin reports. “In continuation of the actions undertaken by ADM following the earthquake of September 8, the company welcomed experts from the Japanese company Hanshin Expressway, which has more than half a century of experience in the field of management and highway maintenance, for a post-earthquake inspection mission of the engineering structures of the Marrakech-Agadir highway,” the National motorway company of Morocco in a statement said. According to Le Matin, the two parties also engaged on the most recent technologies and anti-seismic devices applied to international highway infrastructures, with a specific focus on Japan, where the earthquake risk is among the highest globally.

Migrants surge

Approximately 5,000 individuals on November 13 made their way across the border from Morocco into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta, marking a record for a single day, according to reports by Spanish officials. This influx coincided with Morocco expressing dissatisfaction with Spain for providing medical treatment to a rebel leader, local media Aujourdhui La Maroc reported. Dozens of young migrants either swam or walked around the heavily fortified land border, while others utilized inflatable dinghies or swimming rings to traverse. The Spanish government also said that by November 14, the count of border crossings into Ceuta had reached around 6,000 people, with an estimated 1,500 believed to be teenagers.

Airport traffic

Morocco’s airport traffic between January to October 2023 hit a staggering 21 million passengers marking a significant boost compared to previous years. The statistics this year show a 31% increase concerning 2022 and a 3% growth rate from the numbers in 2019, L’economiste reports. The National Airports Office say that the growth recorded affects at least seven airports in the country, including Tetouan Airport, Essaouira, Tangier, Nador, Oujda, Fez and Agadir. The office says the growth continues to increase as compared to previous years.

Nepal's National Seismological Centre recorded the earthquake as having a magnitude of 6.4, while the U.S. Geological Survey registered it at 5.6. This event stands as the deadliest in Nepal since 2015 when two earthquakes claimed the lives of approximately 9,000 people and reduced entire towns and ancient temples to rubble, along with over a million homes, at an estimated cost of $6 billion to the nation's $40 billion economy.

Following the earthquake on Friday, numerous buildings in Jajarkot and the adjacent Rukum West district either collapsed or developed structural damage, rendering them uninhabitable.

The government in Kathmandu announced immediate plans to provide shelter, food, and safety to displaced families. It also pledged to offer $1,500 in immediate relief to the families of each deceased victim.

Survivors in Chiuri, who belong to the "untouchable" Dalit community based on Nepal's Hindu customs, reported that no government representatives had visited or offered assistance. They recounted the terrifying sounds of buildings collapsing shortly after the earthquake struck.

In Khalanga, the capital of Jajarkot district, survivors took refuge on the streets near damaged homes, wrapped in blankets to ward off the cold. They conducted funeral pyres for each body, adhering to their cultural and traditional practices.

No immediate reports of casualties, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). Aftershock are expected.

The Philippines is situated in the "Ring of Fire," a region characterized by a circle of volcanoes around the Pacific Ocean that is susceptible to seismic activity, including earthquakes.