
Philippines (MNN) — Super Typhoon Rai, known locally as Odette, claimed over 375 lives in the Philippines this weekend, and the death toll keeps rising. More details emerge as parts of the archipelago restore communication.

International (MNN) — The Omicron surge stops international travel in its tracks. More about that here. Currently traveling in Europe, Joe Handley of A3 constantly checks for updates and new requirements.

Nepal (MNN) — Several days of nonstop monsoon rains have triggered floods and landslides throughout India and Nepal. So far, the deluge has claimed at least 150 victims in both countries.

Southeast Asia (MNN) — Does a calling to ministry mean no full-time career? That’s a question many young professionals in Southeast Asia are asking.

Southeast Asia (MNN) — One Southeast Asian country has taken a positive step towards more religious freedom. A recent decree outlined a path for religious minority groups to be recognized by the state.

Myanmar (MNN) — The United Nations will decide this week which government gets to represent Myanmar at the General Assembly. The military seized power from Myanmar’s elected officials in a February coup. But several of those officials have formed a shadow government, known as the National Unity Government.

Myanmar (MNN) — On Sunday, fresh protests broke out against Myanmar’s military rule. They coincided with the anniversary of 1988 pro-democracy protests. Read more here.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has appointed a special envoy to Myanmar to deal with the post-coup violence wracking the country.

Japan (MNN) — The 2020 Tokyo Olympics are officially underway following today’s Opening Ceremony. Delayed by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Games will run through August 8th. See a full schedule here. The Tokyo Paralympics begin August 24th.

Indonesia (MNN) — Indonesia has surpassed Brazil and India as the country with most new COVID-19 cases per day. Indonesia reported over 56,000 new cases on Thursday. However, a lack of adequate testing means the true numbers may be much higher.

Malaysia (MNN) — White flags are going up all across Malaysia as COVID-19 cases rise. They signal despair at a lockdown that began on June 1.
Since July 1st, people can’t leave their houses except to get basic supplies, and a curfew starts at 8 pm. Most businesses have to close, meaning no income for many people.

Japan (MNN) — Will there be any fans in the stands at next month’s Tokyo Olympics? Event organizers could announce their decision as early as today.

Japan (MNN) — Playbooks released yesterday introduce new COVID-19 restrictions and requirements ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The guidelines limit participants’ movement and require more testing.
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