The Latest Breaking News from The News Lens

The Philippines’ decision not to rejoin the International Criminal Court sets a precedent for other countries to leave multilateral institutions whenever state leaders feel intimidated or uncomfortable.

Japan is planning for a massive increase in defense spending driven by the threat from China, breaking a decades-long taboo over the build-up of armed forces following its defeat in 1945.

Several days of activity have disrupted shipping and air travel, with Taiwan saying the move amounts to a blockade.

Analysts say China may be losing the narrative on the “One China” policy because visits such as Pelosi’s bring more international exposure and recognition of Taiwan.

If Southeast Asia really needs to have official languages, choosing all the national languages of the ASEAN countries would be a prudent move.

China has a long-standing culture of degrading vocational graduates and discouraging parents from sending their children to vocational institutes.

Most ASEAN countries want a united front on a code of conduct for the South China Sea, but critics claim Beijing, which wants to handle negotiations on a country-by-country basis, has used Cambodia to thwart progress on an agreement and to block diplomatic opposition to its maritime claims.

The Myanmar junta’s National Defense and Security Council gave unanimous approval for the decision, according to state media.

Japan’s whaling industry is struggling to stay afloat as government subsidies dwindle and consumers are less interested in what used to be a staple food on Japanese dinner tables.

‘Shalom Taiwan’ doesn’t amount to much. But it is, amid its unrelenting mediocrity, thought-provoking.

China’s economy shrunk from April to June compared to the first three months of the year.