In a pastoral letter, the prelates mark the 40th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution, with a reference to today’s unresolved problems. In it they mention “three sacred duties: to remember, to repent, to respond” welcoming “the spirit of that miracle” that “bring us to a better future”. To this end, “Let us support honest and competent leaders, mindful of the common good. Let us continue the education for good citizenship”.
In 2025, municipal service rates increased by an average of 8-12%, and VAT also rose by 1.7% on January 1. This surge is leading to a sharp increase in the prices of consumer goods, including cucumbers, which are a staple on Russian tables. To stop this spiral, profound economic reforms would be needed, which are impossible with a state budget focused solely on military spending.
In the latest instalment of AsiaNews' reportage in the Vicariate of Northern Arabia, Fr Paulraj Devaraj shares his testimony. A “multicultural” community looks on with concern at regional tensions, from Gaza to Iran. There is “greater sensitivity” among the faithful, many of whom have “family and friends affected by the war”. The parish alone is the “centre” of activities, with numerous pastoral challenges.
In the past weeks, Myanmar’s junta continued its campaign against villages, markets, and monasteries, through digital surveillance as well. While the military claims that it is using “precision” weapons, medical staff and eyewitnesses report an increase in lethality. General Min Aung Hlaing visited the conflict zones in Sagaing, a sign that things might escalate soon.
After Generation Z’s anti-corruption demonstrations in September 2025 led to the fall of KP Sharma Oli's government, the Himalayan country is set for an election campaign with an unprecedented mix of old parties and young candidates seeking radical change. Former King Gyanendra is also running with a pro-monarchist party, presenting himself as a guarantor of stability.
The Israeli association that fights against the political use of urban planning in the West Bank to seize land from Palestinians explains the bad faith of the rule that requires proof of ownership in Area C. At stake is 58% of the land in a context where there was no land registry before 1967. Activists and NGOs speak of an ‘unprecedented measure’ since the Six-Day War. Michal Braier: “discriminatory” legal system, ‘systematic’ expropriation to favour settlements.