Viral Video Shows Ferris Wheel Spinning Wildly Amid Typhoon Uwan in Tagaytay

A dramatic video posted on TikTok revealed the immense power of the winds brought by former Super Typhoon Uwan (internationally known as Fung-wong) in Tagaytay City earlier this month. The footage, shared by user @veranganiiii on November 9, showed a Ferris wheel’s cabins spinning uncontrollably against a backdrop of thick storm clouds. From a distance, three cabins of the amusement ride rotated violently, driven by the storm’s strong gusts, creating a striking and tense scene capturing viewers’ attention online. The clip has since amassed over 1.1 million views, 75,000 likes, upwards of 1,000 comments, and more than 3,200 shares. Many social media users expressed disbelief, questioning whether the video had been sped up due to the apparent rapid movement of the clouds and the ride. One commenter asked, "Wait hindi to naka fast forward?? Bakit ambilis ng ulap??" ("Wait, is this video sped up? Why are the clouds moving so fast?"). Another user responded, clarifying that "185 kph ang wind ng bagyong Uwan mabilis talaga" ("The wind from Typhoon Uwan reached 185 kph, so it really was that fast"). Other viewers humorously compared the Ferris wheel to a rollercoaster, noting the danger implied by the storm’s intensity. Comments included remarks such as "Imbes na ferris wheel naging rollercoaster" ("Instead of a Ferris wheel, it turned into a rollercoaster") and expressions of fear from imagining being inside the ride under such conditions. The video captures a dramatic moment illustrating the extreme weather conditions experienced during Typhoon Uwan, highlighting both the natural power of the storm and its impact on local recreational facilities. The TikTok post was shared with hashtags including #bagyouwan, #bagyoupdate, and #tagaytay, urging viewers to stay safe amid severe weather events.

Mediterranean's First Dolphin Sanctuary to Open Off Italy in 2026

The Mediterranean region is preparing to welcome its first sanctuary dedicated to dolphins that have lived in captivity, with plans to open the facility off the coast of southern Italy in 2026. This initiative responds to the increasing need for proper dolphin re-homing as several European marine parks shut down due to animal welfare concerns. Carmelo Fanizza, director of the San Paolo Dolphin Refuge, emphasized the importance of establishing "a new model for managing dolphins in a natural but supervised environment." Located near Taranto in Puglia, the sanctuary is awaiting final government approval but is expected to be operational by May or June 2026. Governments in countries such as Canada and France have recently imposed bans on capturing dolphins, porpoises, and whales, intensifying the urgency to find suitable sanctuaries for captive cetaceans who cannot be safely released into the wild. In 2023, Italy authorized the use of a seven-hectare area in the Gulf of Taranto, close to San Paolo island, for the sanctuary's development. Although the site is near Taranto, an industrial city known for its large steelworks and pollution challenges, measures have been taken to ensure a safe environment for the animals. Fanizza assured that "improvements have been made to the facilities, so that the quality of the breathable air, the water column and the sediments in the area currently pose no risk to animal health." Situated roughly four kilometers offshore, the sanctuary features a primary enclosure covering 1,600 square meters, alongside smaller areas designed for animal transfers and quarantine. The complex includes a floating lab, staff accommodations for continuous monitoring, a food preparation zone, and an advanced surveillance system that operates both above and underwater. Real-time environmental data are transmitted to a control room in Taranto for ongoing assessment. Funding for the sanctuary has predominantly come from the Jonian Dolphin Conservation organization, complemented by private donations and European Union public funds. Operating expenses are estimated between €350,000 and €500,000 annually. While authorized to house up to 17 dolphins, Fanizza stressed that the sanctuary aims to accommodate only a select few, carefully chosen based on medical condition, behavior, and social compatibility. "Our goal at this stage is not to take in a large number of animals but to identify a group that… could be ideal for initiating such a project," he stated. Muriel Arnal, head of the French animal rights group One Voice, praised the sanctuary initiative and highlighted Europe’s captive dolphin population of approximately 60 individuals. She expressed hope that the San Paolo Refuge would eventually serve as a sanctuary for French dolphins as well, noting that "once you have a model that works well, you can replicate it."

Philippine Women’s Football Team Reaches SEA Games Final After Thrilling Win Over Thailand

CHONBURI — In a historic moment for Philippine football, the women’s national team secured their first-ever berth in the Southeast Asian Games final following a dramatic semifinal victory over host nation Thailand on Sunday night, December 14, 2025. The Filipinas overcame a 0-1 deficit to force extra time and eventually triumphed 4-2 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout at the Chonburi Daikin Stadium, stunning the home crowd and etching a new chapter in the country’s football legacy. Thailand initially took the lead in the 53rd minute through Mongkoldee Jiraporn after a defensive error, igniting a fervent reaction from local fans and putting the Philippines under severe pressure. However, exhibiting remarkable resilience, the Filipinas equalized late in regulation when Jael Marie Guy calmly converted a penalty in the 86th minute, awarded for a handball inside the box. This crucial goal extended the match into extra time, but neither team could break the deadlock during the additional 30 minutes. The showdown was ultimately decided by penalties. The Philippine team displayed remarkable composure, with Guy, Alessandra Carpio, Sara Eggesvik, and captain Hali Long all confidently scoring their spot-kicks. The turning point came when Thai player Pluemjai Sontisawat’s penalty struck the post. After Long sealed the win with a successful fourth penalty, the Filipinas erupted in celebration as Orapin Waenngoen’s final attempt sailed over the crossbar, ending the contest. With this landmark victory, the Philippines will face defending champions Vietnam in the SEA Games final on December 17. The upcoming match is highly anticipated, especially after the Filipinas edged Vietnam 1-0 in the group stage. Vietnam secured their finals spot earlier by decisively defeating Indonesia 5-0. This achievement adds to a series of historic milestones for the Philippine women’s football program, following their impressive run in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and their breakthrough ASEAN championship at home. Now, the team stands just one win away from claiming their inaugural SEA Games gold medal."

AFP and USINDOPACOM Complete 10th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Exercise in West Philippine Sea

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) recently executed their tenth Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the West Philippine Sea, specifically west of Zambales inside the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The exercise, held on Monday, involved the deployment of significant assets from both countries. The AFP contributed the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, three FA-50 fighter jets, and a Sokol search and rescue helicopter, highlighting the Philippines’ enhanced operational capabilities and seamless integration with allied forces during complex maritime operations. Meanwhile, USINDOPACOM provided the USS Robert Smalls (CG-62), an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter, and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. Operational activities during the exercise included Communication Checks, Maritime Domain Awareness Reporting, Raid Exercises, Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch Maneuvers accompanied by a Photo Exercise, and Low Pass/Fly-by drills. Additionally, the Naval Special Warfare Unit-9 conducted a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operation aboard the BRP Miguel Malvar. In a statement following the exercises, the AFP emphasized, \"The successful conduct of the 10th Bilateral MCA underscores the shared commitment of the Philippines and the United States to uphold a rules-based Indo-Pacific region in accordance with international law, while affirming support for the freedom of navigation and overflight, and contributing to maritime security, regional stability, and a free and open Indo-Pacific.\"

Russia Reaffirms Support for Venezuela Amid US Tensions

MOSCOW – The Russian Foreign Ministry reiterated its support for Venezuela on Thursday, calling for a resumption of constructive dialogue between Washington and Caracas. In an official statement, the ministry stressed the importance of easing tensions and resolving differences through peaceful, legally grounded means. "Russia consistently advocates for the normalization of dialogue between Washington and Caracas. We are convinced that steps are needed to de-escalate the situation and find solutions to existing problems and differences in a constructive manner, with respect for international legal norms," the ministry stated. Highlighting the significance of regional stability, the ministry underscored that Latin America and the Caribbean should remain a peaceful zone fostering independent and steady development. "We reaffirm our solidarity with the Venezuelan people in the face of trials they are experiencing, as well as our support for the course pursued by the President Nicolas Maduro government aimed at defending national interests and the sovereignty of the homeland," it added. These remarks come in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s announcement on Tuesday imposing a total blockade on oil tankers sanctioned by the US that are traveling to and from Venezuela. Trump also threatened Venezuela with severe repercussions, demanding the return of what he described as "stolen" oil, territory, and other assets. The US administration further plans to intensify its crackdown on narcotics trafficking near Central and South America by preparing to launch strikes against drug traffickers on land. In response, Venezuela’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Samuel Moncada, compared the current US policies to wartime aggression reminiscent of World War II, asserting that Washington’s actions are undermining international stability and diplomatic relations.

Libyan Army Chief Dies in Plane Crash Near Ankara After Official Visit

ANKARA — Libya’s Chief of Army Staff, Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad, died in a plane crash on Tuesday shortly after departing from Ankara, Turkey, according to Libya’s prime minister from the internationally recognized government. The prime minister confirmed four additional individuals were on board the jet. In an official statement, Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah described the incident as a "tragic and painful loss" for the nation, the military institution, and the Libyan people. Besides Al-Haddad, those aboard included the commander of Libya’s ground forces, the director of the military manufacturing authority, a senior adviser to the chief of staff, and a photographer from the chief of staff’s office. Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya provided details on social media, noting the aircraft took off from Ankara's Esenboga Airport at 17:10 GMT bound for Tripoli. Contact with the plane was lost at 17:52 GMT. The wreckage was later discovered near Kesikkavak village in Ankara's Haymana district. Yerlikaya stated the Dassault Falcon 50 jet had requested an emergency landing over Haymana but failed to establish further communication. The crash's cause remains under investigation. Turkey’s Defence Ministry had previously announced Al-Haddad’s visit, which included meetings with Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler, his Turkish military counterpart Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, and other officials. The tragedy transpired one day after the Turkish parliament extended the deployment of Turkish troops in Libya for an additional two years. Turkey, a NATO member, has provided military and political support to Libya’s Tripoli-based government, deploying personnel in 2020 to assist in training and operations. Turkey and Libya have also engaged in controversial agreements on maritime boundaries and energy exploration, both opposed by Egypt and Greece. Recently, Turkey has shifted its approach, escalating engagement with Libya’s eastern faction under its "One Libya" policy.

Helicopter Crash on Mount Kilimanjaro Claims Five Lives During Medical Rescue Mission

Dar es Salaam – A helicopter accident occurred on Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of five people, according to the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority. The aircraft was reportedly engaged in a medical rescue operation at the time of the crash. The victims identified include a Tanzanian doctor and a mountain guide, the Zimbabwean pilot, and two tourists from the Czech Republic, as confirmed by Tanzania National Parks in an official statement. The crash site was located near Barafu Camp, at an altitude between 4,670 and 4,700 meters on Africa’s highest peak, which stands close to 6,000 meters (approximately 20,000 feet) above sea level. Local media outlets, referencing the Kilimanjaro regional police chief, reported that the helicopter was on a medical evacuation mission when the accident occurred. Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular destination, attracting around 50,000 climbers each year. The incident underscores the risks faced during high-altitude rescue operations on the mountain.

Trump and Zelenskyy Report Substantial Progress Toward Russia-Ukraine Peace Deal

ISTANBUL — US President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that considerable progress has been made in efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict following his recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "We covered somebody would say 95%. I don’t know what percent, but we have made a lot of progress on ending that war, which is really certainly the most deadly war since World War Two, probably the biggest war since World War Two," Trump stated. Trump indicated that the remaining aspects of the peace agreement could be finalized within weeks if negotiations continue smoothly. However, he acknowledged that one or two challenging issues remain, including disputes over territory seized during the conflict. Additionally, Trump discussed Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that Moscow is prepared to assist by providing energy, electricity, and other support at reduced costs. "Russia wants to see Ukraine succeed. President Putin was very generous in his feeling toward Ukraine succeeding," Trump said. The US president expressed willingness to address Ukraine’s parliament if it would help accelerate the peace process, stating, "If it would help save 25,000 lives a month... I would certainly be willing to do that." He also suggested a trilateral summit involving himself, Zelenskyy, and Putin could occur when appropriate, saying, "I see that happening at the right time." Regarding security guarantees for Ukraine, Trump mentioned cooperation with Europe, noting that European nations will lead much of the support effort with assistance from the US. When asked about Putin’s stance on a ceasefire allowing a referendum in Ukraine, Trump explained that Putin opposes temporary halts in fighting that could lead to renewed conflict, though he said alternative solutions are being explored. President Zelenskyy described the discussions as "really great" and reported that 90% of a 20-point peace plan has been agreed upon. He underscored that US-Ukraine security guarantees have been fully agreed, while US-Europe-Ukraine security agreements are nearing completion. Zelenskyy added that the military component of the plan is settled, with a prosperity plan in progress. "We also discussed the sequencing of the following actions, and we agree that security guarantees are a key milestone in achieving lasting peace," Zelenskyy remarked, acknowledging the difficult decisions that will face Ukrainian society. "If the plan will be very difficult for our society...our society has to choose...because it’s their land, not of one person." Following talks with Trump and European leaders, Zelenskyy confirmed that teams from all sides will reconvene in the coming weeks to finalize the peace arrangements. He also announced that Trump will host Ukrainian and European leaders in Washington in January. The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy took place at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, where the US peace plan was a primary topic. Zelenskyy arrived in the United States on Sunday after visiting Canada.

Mayon Volcano Elevated to Alert Level 2 Amid Rising Activity

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has raised the alert status of Mayon Volcano to Alert Level 2 as indicators of volcanic unrest intensify. This escalation reflects a moderate state of activity, which may precede an eruption should the situation progress. Officials noted that the volcano has shown signs of increased internal activity over recent months. Monitoring instruments recorded frequent rockfall occurrences along Mayon’s upper slopes toward the end of 2025, with hundreds of such events reported and activity peaking in late December. Phivolcs explained that this pattern of surface activity closely resembles that observed prior to previous eruptions in recent years. Additionally, ground deformation measurements confirmed ongoing swelling of the volcanic structure, indicative of rising subterranean pressure. In response to these developments, Phivolcs strongly advised the public to avoid the six-kilometer permanent danger zone surrounding Mayon. The agency also recommended that aircraft steer clear of airspace near the volcano to ensure safety. "The public’s safety remains our top priority, and we urge strict adherence to the no-entry zone to prevent any casualties," a spokesperson emphasized. The situation continues to be closely monitored as authorities remain alert to any further signs of volcanic activity.

Drone Strikes in Kherson Kill 24, Injure Over 50 Amid New Year Celebrations

Local authorities reported that a deadly drone attack in Kherson on the night of December 31, 2025, claimed at least 24 lives and injured more than 50 individuals. The assault involved three Ukrainian drones striking a cafe and a hotel where civilians had gathered to celebrate the upcoming New Year.\n\nVladimir Saldo, head of the Kherson region, described the scene in a statement on Telegram, stating that "many people were burned alive" due to one drone carrying an incendiary substance that sparked a large fire. The flames were ultimately brought under control by firefighters by early morning on January 1.\n\nMedical personnel are currently working to save the wounded, while regional officials have pledged full support to those affected and to the families of the deceased. This incident underscores the continuing volatility and civilian risks amid ongoing hostilities in the region.