World

The novel coronavirus has now exceeded the SARS pandemic's death toll, with 1,016 fatalities in mainland China and 42,000 confirmed infections worldwide. Health experts emphasize the importance of prevention and call for decisive measures to combat the rapidly spreading virus.

A devastating mass shooting in Thailand claimed 29 lives and injured 57 others when a 32-year-old soldier, Sgt. Major Jakrapanth Thomma, went on a killing spree from Saturday afternoon until Sunday dawn. Thousands gathered for a vigil, lighting candles and laying white flowers to remember the victims.

China agrees to receive international assistance from WHO and US experts to research and control the SARS-like coronavirus, after weeks of rejecting foreign aid. Experts with experience in infectious disease outbreaks will arrive this week to support containment efforts.

The Indian government has implemented stricter visa regulations in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Existing visas for Chinese nationals and individuals who have visited China in the past two weeks have been canceled. Travelers are advised to contact Indian embassies and consulates to reapply for visas.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies are holding an early meeting to address sharp oil price declines caused by coronavirus fears. With China's economic slowdown and global market uncertainty, the joint technical committee will evaluate potential production cuts to stabilize oil prices.

The Philippines recorded the first coronavirus death outside China, involving a 44-year-old Chinese man from Wuhan. The patient was hospitalized with fever, cough, and sore throat, and was found to have mixed pathogens including pneumonia and influenza B.

The Permanent Court of Arbitration determined that China illegally claimed jurisdiction over the Spratly Islands, interfering with Philippine fishing rights, petroleum exploration, and constructing artificial islands in the disputed West Philippine Sea region.

Global experts criticize China for failing to quickly share accurate coronavirus information, suggesting early virus release could have prevented widespread transmission and saved lives. Scientists argue that withholding virus samples impeded international efforts to control the pandemic.

Over 300 Chinese tourists were sent back from Kalibo, Aklan to Wuhan, China due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Originally scheduled to visit Boracay, the tourists were forcibly repatriated on January 25, before their planned January 30 return, following strict government protocols.

Basketball icon Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna were among nine victims in a fatal California helicopter crash. The sports community mourned his loss, with NBA teams honoring him through moments of silence and special tributes during games.