Philippines

Philippines' Francisca Susano, the world's "oldest person", passed away at 124, on November 22. Reportedly, Susano aka Lola Iska died peacefully at home in the country's Negros Occidental province's Kabankalan city. The cause of her death is yet to be determined. ''Lola Iska will always remain as our inspiration and pride,'' said Pedro Zayco, the city mayor. Notably, the Guinness World Record is still trying to validate her documents. 

Boxer Manny Pacquiao announced his retirement on September 29 after a spectacular decades-long career in the ring. In the 2022 elections, the Filipino superstar intends to run for president. He expressed special gratitude to Freddie Roach, his long-time trainer, whom he regarded as "a brother and a friend". "It is difficult for me to accept that my time for me as a boxer is over," said Pacquiao.

Amid surging COVID-19 cases, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga canceled his India and Philippines visit on April 21. Reportedly, Japan will start an extended holiday beginning in late April as a COVID countermeasure. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said PM will not travel overseas during the Golden Week. Suga's trip to India would have allowed him to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi face to face for the first time.

India and the Philippines have signed an agreement to facilitate government-to-government deals on military equipment. The Philippines Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana stated the deal includes the potential supply of BrahMos cruise missiles but, no further details were released. Delfin added that the agreement would be a guide for India and the Philippines on “policies in the defence procurement”. However, there was no statement from the… read-more