Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • What’s at stake as ICC judges hear charges against ex-Philippine president Duterte?

    What’s at stake as ICC judges hear charges against ex-Philippine president Duterte?

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) has commenced a pivotal four-day hearing to determine whether former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte should face trial for crimes against humanity, marking an unprecedented judicial reckoning for his brutal anti-narcotics campaign. Prosecutors allege Duterte orchestrated a systematic killing program that resulted in tens of thousands of extrajudicial executions during his tenure as mayor of Davao and later as president from 2016-2022.

    ICC prosecutor Mame Niang presented evidence alleging Duterte’s direct involvement in at least 76 murders, with charges encompassing murder, attempted murder, and crimes against humanity spanning November 2011 to March 2019. The court heard how Duterte’s ‘Operation Double Barrel’ allegedly utilized police officers and hired assassins to ‘neutralize’ individuals branded as criminals, primarily targeting urban poor communities while largely ignoring high-level drug traffickers.

    The 80-year-old former leader, who remains detained in The Hague since his dramatic arrest last March, waived his right to attend the proceedings, maintaining his innocence while rejecting the court’s jurisdiction. His lawyer cited health reasons and continued non-recognition of the ICC’s authority, echoing Duterte’s statement that the charges constitute ‘an outrageous lie.’

    This legal confrontation stems from a complex political unraveling between the Philippines’ two most powerful families. The once-formidable alliance between Duterte and current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.—forged during the 2022 elections that saw Marcos win the presidency with Duterte’s daughter Sara as vice-president—has deteriorated into open hostility. Analysts suggest Marcos’s reversal on ICC cooperation, after initially refusing collaboration, enabled Duterte’s extradition amid their escalating power struggle.

    The case represents the first ICC prosecution of an Asian former head of state and tests the court’s ability to hold leaders accountable for domestic policies when national judicial systems fail to act. Human rights monitors estimate up to 30,000 fatalities during Duterte’s drug war, though the precise death toll remains uncertain. The court must now decide within 60 days of the hearing’s conclusion whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to full trial, potentially setting a landmark precedent for international justice.

  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport records breaking travel rush

    Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport records breaking travel rush

    Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has achieved unprecedented operational milestones during the 2026 Spring Festival travel period, setting new benchmarks in passenger handling capacity. On Saturday, February 21st, the aviation hub recorded a historic high of 277,600 passenger transits alongside 1,676 aircraft movements, establishing itself as China’s first airport to surpass five million passengers during this year’s holiday migration.

    The airport authority reported significant year-over-year growth across all operational metrics. Passenger traffic demonstrated a robust 7.37 percent increase while flight operations expanded by 9.12 percent compared to the same period last year. Air cargo and mail volumes similarly trended upward, reaching 4,154.14 metric tons on the record-breaking day – a 9.1 percent enhancement from previous figures.

    Sustained high traffic volumes characterized the entire travel period beginning February 2nd. The airport maintained exceptional throughput with eleven consecutive days (February 5-15) exceeding 260,000 daily passenger trips, including three consecutive days (February 11-13) surpassing 270,000 transits. The post-festival return phase proved particularly remarkable, with February 20th recording 275,500 passengers followed by Saturday’s record-breaking 277,600 transits, successively breaking the airport’s single-day passenger flow records.

    The elevated operational tempo continued through Sunday and Monday as the Spring Festival holiday concluded, demonstrating the airport’s capacity to manage extended periods of high-density travel. These achievements highlight both the recovery of China’s transportation sector and the public’s renewed confidence in air travel following recent global challenges.

  • 4-day weekend for Eid Al Fitr in UAE: Likely dates revealed

    4-day weekend for Eid Al Fitr in UAE: Likely dates revealed

    United Arab Emirates residents are looking ahead to a substantial four-day weekend for Eid Al Fitr in March 2026, according to astronomical projections and official calendar calculations. The Islamic festival marking Ramadan’s conclusion will bring one of the longest public holidays of the year regardless of moon sighting outcomes.

    Islamic calendar experts indicate Ramadan’s ninth month will likely complete its full 30-day cycle based on celestial calculations. The UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee will conduct official observations on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (29th of Ramadan) to determine the holiday’s commencement.

    Two scenarios emerge for the holiday structure:

    If the crescent moon is sighted on March 18th, Eid Al Fitr would begin Thursday, March 19th, with public holidays extending through Saturday, March 21st. Combined with the regular Sunday weekend, this creates a four-day break.

    If the moon isn’t sighted on March 18th, Ramadan would complete 30 days with Eid Al Fitr beginning Friday, March 20th. Under updated regulations, the 30th day of Ramadan also qualifies as a holiday, creating a four-day break from Thursday, March 19th through Sunday, March 22nd.

    Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at Dubai Astronomy Group, confirms astronomical projections suggest Ramadan will span 30 days, positioning Eid Al Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026. These calculations align with prayer timings published by the UAE’s Islamic affairs authority, which similarly indicates a 30-day Ramadan period.

    The consistency in holiday duration regardless of moon sighting reflects the UAE’s thoughtful approach to public holiday planning, ensuring residents can make firm arrangements for the important religious celebration.

  • At least 18 killed after bus carrying over 35 passengers plunges into Nepal river

    At least 18 killed after bus carrying over 35 passengers plunges into Nepal river

    A devastating bus accident in central Nepal has resulted in at least 18 fatalities and 25 injuries after the vehicle plunged into the Trishuli River during overnight hours. The tragedy occurred near Chinadhara, close to Charaundi in the Benighat Rorang Rural Municipality, at approximately 1:15 AM local time on Monday.

    The bus, transporting more than 35 passengers on the route from Pokhara to Kathmandu, veered off the roadway and into the treacherous waters. The remote location and darkness significantly hampered initial rescue efforts, according to authorities on the scene.

    Emergency response teams comprising personnel from the Nepali Army, Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, and local volunteers immediately launched a complex rescue operation. District Traffic Police Office Chief Shishir Thapa confirmed the death toll, while Rajkumar Thakuri, Chair of the Highway Rescue Management Committee, reported that all injured survivors have been transported to medical facilities for treatment.

    This incident highlights the persistent challenges of road safety in Nepal’s mountainous regions, where difficult terrain and infrastructure limitations frequently contribute to transportation accidents. The Trishuli River area has witnessed similar tragedies in the past, raising concerns about highway safety measures and emergency response capabilities in remote areas.

    Investigation into the precise cause of the accident remains ongoing, with authorities examining factors including driver fatigue, road conditions, and potential mechanical failure. The nighttime timing of the incident presents additional challenges for investigators working to determine the sequence of events that led to this catastrophic outcome.

  • ICC to begin pre-trial hearing for Philippines’ Duterte

    ICC to begin pre-trial hearing for Philippines’ Duterte

    The International Criminal Court has initiated a pivotal four-day judicial proceeding to examine evidence against former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, marking a significant development in one of the court’s most high-profile cases. The confirmation of charges hearing, which commenced Monday in The Hague, will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with a full trial for crimes against humanity allegedly committed during Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign.

    The 80-year-old former leader, currently detained at Scheveningen Prison following his arrest in Manila and subsequent transfer to the Netherlands in March 2025, will not physically attend the proceedings. The court granted a defense request to waive his appearance despite judicial findings that he remains medically fit to participate.

    Prosecutors have leveled three distinct charges against Duterte, encompassing his alleged involvement in at least 76 murders between 2013 and 2018. The first charge pertains to 19 murders allegedly orchestrated during his tenure as mayor of Davao City. The second involves 14 killings of designated ‘high-value targets’ during the initial phase of his presidency, while the third charge addresses 43 murders occurring during nationwide anti-drug operations.

    Human Rights Watch has characterized these proceedings as a crucial advancement toward accountability for victims of the Philippines’ drug war, which independent estimates suggest resulted in thousands of fatalities. Legal representatives for victims anticipate that a formal trial could empower additional families to come forward with testimony.

    The case unfolds amid significant geopolitical tensions, with the ICC facing two rounds of US sanctions implemented since June 2025. Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019 under Duterte’s directive, the court maintains jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed between 2011 and 2019. A defense appeal challenging this jurisdiction remains pending.

    Duterte, who maintains popularity in the Philippines for his tough stance on crime, becomes the first Asian former head of state to appear before the ICC. The hearing has sparked polarized reactions, with simultaneous demonstrations both supporting Duterte and advocating for victims registered outside the courthouse.

    Following the hearing, ICC judges will have 60 days to issue a written decision determining whether the case will advance to trial.

  • ‘One Battle’ win best film at BAFTAs as local talent triumphs over American A-listers

    ‘One Battle’ win best film at BAFTAs as local talent triumphs over American A-listers

    The British Academy Film Awards ceremony on Sunday night evolved into a celebration of domestic cinematic achievement, with Paul Thomas Anderson’s political thriller ‘One Battle After Another’ securing the prestigious Best Film honor. The production dominated the evening with six total awards, including Best Director for Anderson, whose work resonated deeply through its portrayal of a fractured American political landscape.

    In a remarkable upset, British actor Robert Aramayo claimed the Best Actor trophy for his transformative performance in ‘I Swear,’ surpassing established Hollywood icons Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio. Aramayo’s portrayal of a man navigating life with Tourette syndrome generated one of the evening’s most emotional moments, with the visibly moved actor dedicating his win to raising awareness for misunderstood conditions.

    Irish actress Jessie Buckley made history as the first performer from her nation to win the Best Actress BAFTA for her heartbreaking depiction of Agnes Shakespeare in ‘Hamnet,’ which also earned Outstanding British Film honors. The adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel explores the Bard’s marriage and the couple’s grief following their son’s death during the Elizabethan plague.

    Further British recognition came through Nigerian-British actress Wunmi Mosaku’s Best Supporting Actress win for her role in the vampire period piece ‘Sinners,’ which collected three awards including Best Original Screenplay and Best Score. Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Frankenstein’ secured three technical awards, while ‘Marty Supreme’ – despite eleven nominations – departed empty-handed.

    The ceremony, attended by Prince William and Princess Catherine alongside Hollywood royalty, maintained its tradition as a key Oscar predictor while notably shifting focus toward British and Irish talent. Norwegian cinema also achieved a milestone as Joachim Trier’s ‘Sentimental Value’ became the first film from Norway to win the Foreign Language Film category, exploring themes of intergenerational trauma through intimate family dynamics.

  • Dubai properties with easier entry-exit points command premiums up to 20%, expert says

    Dubai properties with easier entry-exit points command premiums up to 20%, expert says

    A significant market shift is underway in Dubai’s real estate sector, where properties boasting superior accessibility and multiple entry-exit points are now commanding substantial price premiums. Industry experts report that strategic locations offering smoother connectivity and reduced commute times can attract premiums of 10% to 20% above market rates, a trend directly fueled by the emirate’s escalating traffic congestion.

    This growing demand has prompted developers to prioritize land plots with immediate access to major highways and enhanced internal road networks. According to Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Properties, location has become paramount for all market participants due to mounting traffic challenges. He highlighted a recent project in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), noting that while the area offers excellent amenities, its proximity to Al Khail Road provides a critical advantage for residents seeking quicker access to key transportation arteries.

    Supporting this trend, recent data from TomTom Traffic reveals a sharp increase in average commute times. In 2025, motorists required 19.1 minutes to travel 10 kilometers, up significantly from 13.7 minutes in 2024. This congestion has reduced average rush-hour speeds to 26.3 km/h, creating tangible pressure on residents’ daily routines.

    Tauseef Khan, Founder and Chairman of Dugasta Properties, emphasized that the classic real estate mantra of ‘location, location, location’ has evolved beyond mere prestige. “Location now directly influences stress levels, productivity and daily time lost in traffic,” Khan stated, noting that efficient movement has become a primary decision-making factor for both residents and businesses.

    Developers are responding by focusing on master-planned communities featuring multiple access points, proximity to arterial roads, and congestion-easing measures. Properties within a 10-minute radius of metro stations particularly demonstrate stronger absorption rates and rental performance, mirroring global trends where accessible luxury enclaves outperform congested urban centers.

    While the traffic situation presents challenges, it also reflects Dubai’s rapid population growth and economic expansion. The government continues to invest in infrastructure projects aimed at improving mobility, even as developers create more affordable housing options to help residents relocate closer to their workplaces and reduce cross-emirate commuting.

  • Briton among 19 killed in Nepal bus crash

    Briton among 19 killed in Nepal bus crash

    A tragic bus accident in Nepal’s central Dhading district has resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, including a 24-year-old British national, according to local authorities. The devastating incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning when the tourist vehicle lost control while en route to Kathmandu from the popular resort town of Pokhara.

    The vehicle plummeted approximately 200 meters onto the banks of the Trishuli River, carrying 44 people including the driver. Twenty-five passengers sustained various injuries and were transported to medical facilities in the capital for treatment. Among the injured were citizens of China and New Zealand, highlighting the international scope of the tragedy.

    Police spokesperson Abinarayan Kafle confirmed through BBC Nepali that 17 fatalities occurred at the accident scene, with two additional passengers succumbing to their injuries during emergency treatment efforts. Identification procedures remain ongoing, with only nine victims formally identified thus far.

    Nepalese authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances leading to the catastrophic accident. The UK Foreign Office has been notified and is expected to provide consular assistance to affected British nationals.

    This incident underscores the persistent transportation safety challenges in Nepal’s mountainous regions, where inadequate road maintenance and narrow passageways contribute to frequent accidents. The tragedy bears grim resemblance to a similar 2024 incident in Tanahun district, where 14 passengers died when a bus traveling the same Pokhara-Kathmandu route fell into the Marsyangdi River.

  • Pandas blending into daily life

    Pandas blending into daily life

    Across Chinese cities, the iconic panda has transcended its status as merely a national symbol to become an integral part of contemporary urban culture. Recent photographic documentation reveals how panda-themed elements have seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of citizens, creating a unique fusion of cultural identity and modern living.

    In Dujiangyan, Sichuan province—a region synonymous with panda conservation—a striking selfie panda sculpture installed at Yangtianwo Square in February 2025 exemplifies this trend. The artistic installation has become a popular gathering point where residents and tourists interact with the beloved symbol in innovative ways.

    The phenomenon extends beyond standalone sculptures to encompass various aspects of urban design. Panda motifs now appear on public infrastructure, consumer products, and architectural elements, creating unexpected moments of joy and cultural connection in ordinary settings. This integration represents a conscious effort to maintain cultural identity amid rapid urbanization.

    Urban planners and cultural experts note that this blending of wildlife symbolism with urban environments reflects a broader philosophical approach to city development. The presence of panda elements in public spaces serves as a constant reminder of nature conservation values while creating aesthetically pleasing environments that resonate with local cultural identity.

    The trend demonstrates how traditional symbols can adapt to contemporary contexts without losing their cultural significance, offering a model for other cities seeking to balance modernization with cultural preservation.

  • Sowing the seeds of shared farming

    Sowing the seeds of shared farming

    Amidst Beijing’s heaviest December snowfall, while most residents remained sheltered in heated apartments, Dai Wanli and her family embarked on their weekly pilgrimage to their suburban sanctuary. An hour’s drive from the urban core in Changping district, the family tends to their 1,000-square-meter greenhouse and surrounding plots—a growing phenomenon among Chinese city dwellers becoming ‘weekend farmers.’

    This urban exodus represents more than agricultural hobbyism; it’s a multifaceted response to modern urban pressures. Professionals like Dai, a human resources manager, and her media executive husband find solace kneeling in soil harvesting celery, radishes and broccoli while their eight-year-old son participates with his own miniature basket. ‘During weekdays, we confront complex, intangible problems in office environments,’ Dai reflects. ‘Despite the physical exertion, we achieve genuine relaxation and peace in the green, tranquil countryside.’

    The shared farming movement has gained remarkable momentum across China’s peri-urban areas, driven by triple motivations: pursuit of organic produce, escape from professional stress, and nostalgic yearning for rural connections. Commercial farms have responded by developing integrated agricultural experiences that combine gardening with educational tours and leisure activities, creating comprehensive rural retreats.

    Financial investment mirrors the trend’s significance. Families typically commit approximately 16,000 yuan ($2,300) annually for land access—a substantial sum indicating serious commitment to the lifestyle. The model has proven particularly successful in areas like Daxing (south of Beijing) and Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, where urban farming projects successfully merge food production with recreational and educational components.

    Beyond individual benefits, these shared farms foster unexpected community bonds among participants who share gardening techniques, harvest exchanges, and collective environmental stewardship. The movement represents a sophisticated urban-rural synthesis where technology professionals, executives, and service workers equally find common ground—literally and metaphorically—in their shared patches of earth.