The start of the holy season for Catholics and Muslims in 2026 falls at the same time on February 18. Filipino bishop calls for interreligious dialogue: “Walking together in faith.” An opportunity to “transform the heart and shape actions.” Looking at common “sacred tasks”: care for others, the environment, and peace.
The wife of the journalist who disappeared in 2010 has reported receiving further threats from a man who identified himself as a ‘retired army general’. She wrote to President Dissanayake, also recalling the continuous postponements of the trial against nine officers accused in the case.
In the city of Armavir, a thousand Armenians took to the streets wearing red armbands to support the bishops and priests imprisoned in the clash between Pashinyan and the Apostolic Church. Moscow views these initiatives with sympathy, concerned about the pro-Western initiatives of the current government in Yerevan that call into question Russia's role as traditional guardian.
In his message for the World Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking, the pontiff drew attention to the victims of online scams forced to work in Southeast Asian compounds, where thousands of migrants have been lured with false job offers, held against their will, and forced to commit online fraud. In Cambodia, the billion-dollar business also involves political leaders, while the victims, even if they are freed, are often unable to return home.
After five years, the landmark trial under the national security law ended. The founder of Apple Daily was charged with conspiracy and sedition. Chief Executive Lee praised the “severe” sentence that brings “relief to all”. Cardinal Zen was in the courtroom with Lay’s wife. Eight other defendants were also sentenced. Attention now turns to the trials of Chow Hang-tung, Lee Cheuk-yan, and Albert Ho.
Defying predictions, the Bhumjaithai Party is leading in the seat count by a wide margin. Outgoing Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a populist businessman who got a boost by the conflict with Cambodia, also won in Pheu Thai strongholds. The reformist People's Party, unable to reach beyond young voters and urban middle class, was defeated. A yes vote in the referendum opens to the way to changes to the military-imposed constitution.
