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At least 62 dead, 2 crew rescued in fiery South Korea airliner crash

Venus L Peñaflor
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At least 62 dead, 2 crew rescued in fiery South Korea airliner crash

SEOUL. At least 62 people lost their lives when a Jeju Air flight veered off the runway and burst into flames at South Korea’s Muan International Airport on Sunday morning, according to the National Fire Agency. The tragic incident occurred as the Boeing 737-800 jet attempted to land, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand.

Two Survivors Rescued

Officials confirmed that two crew members were rescued from the wreckage. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities focusing on the tail section of the aircraft, where more passengers could potentially be trapped. “We are doing our best to locate and rescue any survivors,” a Muan fire official stated. Local media outlet Yonhap reported that three individuals had been pulled from the debris alive.

Details of the Crash

During the plane’s landing attempt, the crash occurred at approximately 9 a.m. local time (0000 GMT). Video footage shared by South Korean media showed the twin-engine aircraft skidding down the runway without apparent landing gear before colliding with a wall, resulting in a massive explosion of flames and debris. Photos from the scene showed smoke and fire engulfing large sections of the plane.

Authorities reported that 58 bodies had been recovered as of Sunday afternoon, but officials emphasized that the casualty numbers could rise as the rescue efforts continue. Most passengers onboard were South Korean nationals, along with two Thai nationals, according to the South Korean Ministry of Transportation.

Flight Suspensions and Investigation

Yonhap news agency reported that all domestic and international flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended indefinitely in the wake of the incident. Jeju Air confirmed the aircraft’s model as a Boeing 737-800 and stated it is cooperating with authorities to determine the cause of the crash.

Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration have not yet commented on the incident. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and officials are working to determine why the aircraft’s landing gear failed.

Government Response

South Korean acting President Choi Sang-mok, who assumed leadership only days earlier following the impeachment of his predecessor, has ordered an “all-out rescue effort” and directed emergency responders to prioritize saving lives. His chief of staff convened an emergency meeting to coordinate the government’s response to the disaster.

“We are mobilizing all available resources to rescue the victims and support the families affected by this tragedy,” Choi’s office said in a statement.

Global Attention

This tragedy has drawn international attention as South Korea mourns the devastating loss of lives. The crash marks one of the deadliest aviation accidents in the country’s history, and it has raised concerns about flight safety and emergency preparedness.

Further updates will be provided as more details emerge about the ongoing rescue operations and the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Gift-giving before the courts and celebrating Christmas Day every day

DC Alviar
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Gift-giving before the courts and celebrating Christmas Day every day

A rule that is old but gold, the Presidential Decree (PD) No. 46 “making it punishable for public officials and employees to receive, and for private persons to give, gifts on any occasion, including Christmas” was “done in the City of Manila, this 10th day of November, in the year of Our Lord, nineteen hundred and seventy-two.”

Make no mistake about the Marcos Sr. decree, says Atty. Nilo Divina, “giving modest gifts to a public official per se is not wrong.” Writing for the Daily Tribune (2019), the law dean adds: “It can be noble, thoughtful and kind as long as it is not by reason of, or in connection with his public office and within the parameters set by law. Just make sure that your acts and intentions are consistent with those parameters.”

Five years thereafter, the Supreme Court (SC) found the top lawyer guilty of Simple Misconduct under the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA) for “committing impropriety when he sponsored the trips of Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Central Luzon officers.”

The decision that included the fine of Php 100,000 on Attorney Divina is appealable. He would supply additional context, saying: “I sincerely hope that by providing (it), the Supreme Court will appreciate my perspective… My commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct remains unwavering and I reaffirm my dedication to ethical practices in all my professional dealing and interactions.” There has been no news about his motion for reconsideration since that statement was made four months ago; the decided case that arose from an “Anonymous Letter” stays.

Nobody knew who Santa is – Divina might just be one-half or one-fourth of Santa. Someone equally unknown won the litigation, nonetheless. You may read it at https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/23-04-05-sc-re-illegal-campaign-and-activities-in-integrated-bar-of-the-philippines-central-luzon-allegedly-perpetrated-by-atty-nilo-divina-2/.

Decisions on these depend on the appreciation of facts; otherwise, when is a bribe a bribe, and when is a gift a gift? When is a foul a foul, and when is a fumble a fumble? Thanks to veteran sports journalist Al Mendoza for these contentious but portentous questions. In the basketball court or court of law, if in the Philippines, everything is possible.

Manila Clasico as a special gift

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has a sibling rivalry composed of Scottie Thompson (Perpetual), rookie RJ Abarrientos (FEU), Troy Rosario (NU), Justin Brownlee, coach Tim Cone, and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Kings versus Mark Barroca (FEU), Zav Lucero (UP), Jerrick Balanza (Letran), rookie Jerom Lastimosa (Adamson), Calvin Abueva (San Sebastian), center Ian Sangalang (San Sebastian), and Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots (formerly Purefoods).

In the latest Manila Clasico on December 25, 2024, the never-say-die spirit of the Kings, especially the fans, hacked into the Smart Araneta Coliseum anew, this time in a very special way. Bawal kumarap. It was decided via a buzzer-beating corner triple.

The Kings were caught hardworkingly asleep as they trailed 52-72 in the third quarter, mainly due to the high-percentage three- and four-point field goal shots of coach Chito Victolero’s Hotshots.

The NSD spirit cannot be denied, however. The tale of “The Living Legend,” Sonny Jaworski, was to be relived. Coach Tim woke the sleeping giant Barangay and asked what they—the darlings of the crowd—were for.

The Kings walloped the Hotshots defensively and their setup plays proved effective, including the Triangle offense. Its sign could be seen numerous times in the hand gesture of LA Tenorio’s heir apparent Thompson who, earlier in the game, was honored for dishing off 2,000 career assists (becoming the 32nd PBA player to do so). Oh, heir apparent… Would it be Abarrientos? Hard question in the hardcourt, but Magnolia was suffering in the hands of the Ginebra stabilizers anyway.

As the two SMC sister teams scored 92 points apiece, would it be another Brownlee moment? The answer was in the affirmative but with a twist. He and Abarrientos, at the prodding of winningest Coach Tim, set up a back-and-forth passing of the ball while Thompson was left wide open at the corner in front of the Ginebra benches. Receiving the sharp assist and warding off the outstretched arms of a half-a-second late opponent, he knocked down a triple to give Ginebra a special Manila Clasico win, 95-92, as time expired to the delight of 12,198 (paying) fans.

Celebrating Christmas Day every day

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace, there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45)

Thank you, Jesus.

Movie Review: Nicole Kidman commands in erotic office thriller “Babygirl”

Paraluman P. Funtanilla
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Movie Review: Nicole Kidman commands in erotic office thriller “Babygirl”

Halina Reijn’s latest film, Babygirl, combines dark comedy with erotic tension in a modern-day thriller that explores power dynamics, control, and raw human desire against the backdrop of corporate life in the Amazon era. Starring Nicole Kidman as Romy Mathis, the chief executive of Tensile, a robotics company specializing in automated warehouses, the film is a tantalizing and sometimes absurd update to the erotic dramas of the 1990s, like Basic Instinct and 9 ½ Weeks.

The opening credits immerse viewers in a high-tech world, showcasing a maze of conveyor belts and robots, symbolizing the dehumanized efficiency of Tensile. Romy, much like her company, appears robotic in her pursuit of perfection—juggling corporate power, Botox injections, and her dual life between a chic New York apartment and a suburban mansion. Yet, beneath this controlled exterior lies a woman grappling with her suppressed desires, a theme that Babygirl delves into unapologetically.

The film begins with a striking scene: Kidman in close-up, seemingly at the peak of intimacy with her husband (Antonio Banderas). However, moments later, she retreats to watch transgressive internet pornography in solitude, setting the tone for a story that oscillates between control and submission.

The narrative takes a turn when Romy encounters Samuel (Harris Dickinson), a young intern at Tensile, whose calm demeanor and disarming candor intrigue her. Their first meeting reveals the film’s central tension: Samuel boldly states, “I think you like to be told what to do,” to which Romy does not disagree. Their relationship evolves into an electrifying affair, with Kidman masterfully portraying a woman both in control and utterly powerless against her desires.

Reijn, who also wrote the screenplay, crafts a story that reflects shifting gender and power dynamics, making Babygirl an engaging, if occasionally over-the-top, exploration of post-# #MeToo workplace relationships. One particularly memorable scene features Samuel feeding Romy saucers of milk while George Michael’s Father Figure plays—a visual that is both absurd and symbolic.

The chemistry between Kidman and Dickinson is magnetic. Kidman revisits the theme of female desire with the same intensity she displayed in Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut, while Dickinson brings a quiet intensity to Samuel’s calculated dominance. Despite their age gap, their connection feels visceral and authentic.

Adding complexity to the narrative is Esme (Sophie Wilde), Romy’s ambitious executive assistant, who adds another layer to the power dynamics within the corporate setting. As the affair escalates, Samuel’s control grows, and he begins to manipulate Romy, even threatening a call to HR. This subtle commentary on workplace politics and consent adds depth to the otherwise steamy storyline.

While Babygirl is rich in character exploration, some of its themes—such as automation and corporate dehumanization—feel underdeveloped. The film’s focus remains on the primal and often ludicrous aspects of desire. Samuel describes their relationship as “two children playing,” encapsulating the mix of tenderness and game-playing that defines their dynamic.

Shot in the actual New York headquarters of A24, the film’s setting adds an ironic twist to its themes of control and submission. However, the story’s occasional detours, like the saucers of milk, may distract from its core narrative.

Babygirl rated R for strong sexual content, nudity, and language, runs for 114 minutes and is a provocative addition to A24’s lineup. With Nicole Kidman delivering yet another commanding performance, the film earns three out of four stars, offering an intriguing look at the complexities of human desire in the digital age.

Sundalo natagpuang patay sa Rizal: Bangkay may tama ng bala sa ulo

Arman B. Cambe
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Sundalo natagpuang patay sa Rizal: Bangkay may tama ng bala sa ulo

SAN MATEO, Rizal. Natagpuang patay at may tama ng bala sa ulo ang isang sundalo sa Timberland Avenue, Barangay Malanday, San Mateo, Rizal, noong Miyerkules ng umaga.

Kinilala ang biktima na si Corporal Christian Bataller Tapia, 30, miyembro ng Philippine Army at intel operative ng 80th Infantry Brigade (IB). Residente siya ng Saint Joseph Street, Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal.

Ayon sa ulat ng San Mateo Municipal Police, bandang alas-10:00 ng umaga nang madiskubre ang bangkay ni Tapia. Huli umano siyang nakitang buhay habang sakay ng kanyang kulay gray na Raider 150 motorcycle at pumapasok sa Base 2 gate ng Timberland Heights.

Maya-maya, narinig umano ng security guard na si Federico Silloga Jr., OIC ng Steelhawk Security Agency, ang isang putok ng baril. Nang puntahan niya ang lugar, natagpuan niya ang biktima na nakabulagta sa kalsada at may tama ng bala sa ulo. Agad niya itong inireport sa mga awtoridad.

Ayon sa paunang imbestigasyon, hinihinalang mga miyembro ng Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) ang nasa likod ng pamamaslang. Ang insidente ay naganap kasabay ng ika-56 na anibersaryo ng CPP-NPA.

Patuloy na nagsasagawa ng masusing imbestigasyon ang mga awtoridad upang makumpirma ang pagkakakilanlan ng mga suspek at matukoy ang tunay na motibo sa likod ng krimen.

Explosive claims from survivors: Azerbaijan airlines plane crash linked to loud bangs

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Explosive claims from survivors: Azerbaijan airlines plane crash linked to loud bangs

AKTAU, Kazakhstan. Survivors of the Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243, which tragically crashed near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan, have revealed harrowing details about their experience. The crash, which claimed the lives of at least 38 people and left 29 others injured, occurred after the flight was diverted from its original destination of Grozny, southern Russia, due to adverse weather conditions and regional conflict risks.

Two passengers and a flight attendant told Reuters that loud bangs were heard before the Embraer jet’s fiery crash landing. Subhonkul Rakhimov, one of the survivors, recounted from his hospital bed: “After the bang… I thought the plane was going to fall apart. It was obvious that the plane had been damaged in some way. It was as if it was drunk—not the same plane anymore.”

Another survivor, passenger Vafa Shabanova, corroborated Rakhimov’s account, adding that she distinctly heard two loud bangs. “I was very scared,” she said, further explaining that a flight attendant directed her to move to the back of the aircraft shortly after the noise.

Flight attendant Zulfugar Asadov also described the sequence of events, saying the initial landing attempt in Grozny was denied due to fog. “The pilot had just lifted the plane up when I heard a bang from the left wing. There were three bangs,” Asadov stated. He added that something struck his arm during the incident, and the cabin lost pressure, forcing the crew to prepare for an emergency landing.

Asadov disclosed that the captain had been advised to attempt a sea landing but instead chose to head for Aktau for a ground landing. “He warned that there would be a hard landing and asked us to prepare the passengers,” Asadov shared.

Footage taken by passengers before the crash showed oxygen masks deployed and individuals wearing life vests. The aftermath revealed bloodied and bruised survivors climbing out of the wreckage, with silence turning into the groaning of the injured, according to Rakhimov.

Investigations and Allegations

Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended several flights to Russian cities and issued a statement suggesting that “physical and technical external interference” caused the crash. However, the airline stopped short of providing further details.

Four sources close to Azerbaijan’s preliminary investigation alleged that the crash may have been caused by Russian air defenses mistakenly shooting down the plane. Russian officials have neither confirmed nor denied the reports, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating, “We need to wait for the official investigation to conclude before making any assessments.”

Russia’s aviation watchdog noted that the flight diverted to Aktau after being denied landing in Grozny due to dense fog and a local alert over Ukrainian drones. It also reported that other nearby airports had been suggested to the pilot before the decision to proceed to Kazakhstan.

A Civilian Flight Amid a War Zone

The tragedy highlights the growing risks to civil aviation in regions impacted by ongoing drone warfare. Grozny, located over 850 km (530 miles) from Ukraine’s front lines, remains a frequent target of Ukrainian drone strikes. Russian air defenses and advanced electronic jamming systems, intended to counter such threats, may have inadvertently contributed to the disaster.

Andrew Nicholson, CEO of Osprey Flight Solutions, warned of the dangers of operating civilian flights in conflict zones. “The second you stick civilian aircraft in that same airspace, you massively increase the risk, particularly when a drone attack is ongoing and air defense activity is ongoing, as was the case in this scenario,” he explained.

The crash draws comparisons to other aviation disasters involving military conflict, including the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014 by a Russian BUK missile system and Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 in 2020, mistakenly shot down by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

Kazakh and Azerbaijani authorities, along with Russia’s aviation body, are collaborating to investigate the tragedy, which underscores the complex risks of operating passenger aircraft in regions embroiled in geopolitical tensions.

Exclusive by Reuters

VP Sara Duterte, handa sa impeachment; dating Pangulong Duterte, tatayong abogado

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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VP Sara Duterte, handa sa impeachment; dating Pangulong Duterte, tatayong abogado

MAYNILA. Tiniyak ni Vice President Sara Duterte na handa siyang harapin ang tatlong impeachment complaints na isinampa laban sa kanya kaugnay ng umano’y maling paggamit ng confidential funds ng Office of the Vice President (OVP).

Sa isang media interview, mariing sinabi ni VP Sara, “Well, I am confident that I did not break any law. I did not do anything illegal… Kapag nandiyan na ang kaso, haharapin pa rin namin.” Aniya pa, handa ang kanyang mga abogado upang idepensa siya laban sa mga reklamong kinakaharap.

Samantala, inihayag ng Bise Presidente na nagboluntaryo ang kanyang ama, dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, na tumayong abogado sa kanyang impeachment cases. Ayon kay VP Sara, ito ang sinabi sa kanya ng dating pangulo noong Noche Buena.

“Sabi niya na, since hindi ko tatanggapin ‘yung pera, mag-lawyer siya para sa akin. So sinabi niya, he will be a collaborating counsel for all cases,” ani VP Sara.

Binigyang-diin din ng Bise Presidente na kasalukuyan nang pinag-aaralan ng kanyang legal team, kasama ang dating pangulo, ang mga kasong isinampa laban sa kanya. Sinabi rin niyang hinihintay na nila ang articles of impeachment mula sa House of Representatives.

“Gumawa kami ng mga inventory of cases base sa mga nabasa namin sa media based on interviews sa agencies of government, House of Representatives, Department of Justice, NBI, and PNP. And then each case may assigned lawyer to handle the case,” dagdag pa niya.

Bukod dito, nanindigan si VP Sara na wala siyang nilabag na batas, at handa siyang patunayan ito sa harap ng Kongreso at publiko.

Patuloy na inaabangan ang magiging takbo ng mga impeachment complaints laban kay VP Sara, at ang papel ng dating Pangulong Duterte bilang isa sa kanyang mga abogado ay nagdadagdag ng interes sa publiko.

Syria’s new leadership cracks down on security threats as sectarian tensions brew

Venus L Peñaflor
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Syria’s new leadership cracks down on security threats as sectarian tensions brew

DAMASCUS. Syria’s new authorities launched a sweeping security operation on Thursday in Tartous province following a deadly attack that left 14 policemen dead. The government, which took power on December 8, has vowed to eliminate “remnants” of the ousted Bashar al-Assad regime allegedly responsible for the violence.

State news agency SANA reported that security forces initiated the operation to “control security, stability, and civil peace, and to pursue the remnants of Assad’s militias in the woods and hills” of the coastal province, which is predominantly home to members of Assad’s Alawite sect.

The attack represents the most significant challenge yet to the Sunni Islamist-led government that ousted Assad. During his rule, Alawites, an offshoot of Shi’ite Islam, held powerful positions in Syria’s security forces, which were accused of suppressing dissent during decades of authoritarian rule and the subsequent 13-year civil war.

Warnings Against Sectarian Violence

The crackdown coincided with efforts by Damascus authorities to prevent the incitement of sectarian strife. A video, reportedly showing a fire inside an Alawite shrine in Aleppo, circulated on social media earlier this week. The Ministry of Interior stated that “unknown groups” were responsible for the incident and that security forces were working “night and day” to protect religious sites.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the former al-Qaeda affiliate that led the campaign to overthrow Assad, has pledged to protect Syria’s minority groups. However, concerns persist among Alawites, Christians, and other minorities about potential sectarian violence under the new leadership.

In a predominantly Alawite neighborhood of Damascus, Sheikh Ali Dareer condemned incidents of vandalism and physical assaults targeting members of his community. He attributed these acts to “a third party” seeking to incite discord.

“This is a matter of sedition, and we don’t want to be dragged into it,” Dareer said in an interview. He urged peace, stating, “Thousands of people are filled with resentment, anxiety, and their dignity is offended. However, we must remain committed to peace.”

One HTS fighter confirmed reports of an incident in which Alawites were taken off a bus and beaten but denied the group’s involvement.

Calls for Civil Peace and Unity

Mohammed Othman, the newly appointed governor of Latakia province, held meetings with Alawite leaders to “encourage community cohesion and civil peace,” according to SANA. The Ministry of Information has since banned the circulation of media content with a sectarian tone, warning against any attempts to spread division.

In Tartous, protesters were seen chanting “Oh Ali!” outside local government offices, referencing Ali ibn Abi Talib, a revered figure in Alawite and Shi’ite traditions.

Meanwhile, Iran, Assad’s long-time ally, has expressed discontent with recent developments in Syria. On Sunday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on Syrian youth to resist what he described as orchestrated insecurity.

However, Syria’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani cautioned Iran against interference. “We warn them against spreading chaos in Syria, and we hold them accountable for the repercussions of the latest remarks,” he said.

As the new government seeks to consolidate power, fears of sectarian violence and unrest remain prominent, casting uncertainty over Syria’s path to stability.

Israel targets Houthi positions in Yemen: Six killed, Sanaa airport damaged

Venus L Peñaflor
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Israel targets Houthi positions in Yemen: Six killed, Sanaa airport damaged

JERUSALEM. Israel launched a series of airstrikes on multiple Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen on Thursday, including Sanaa International Airport, resulting in six fatalities and significant infrastructure damage, according to Houthi media reports.

The Israeli military confirmed strikes on the airport and military infrastructure at the ports of Hodeidah, Salif, and Ras Kanatib, as well as on power stations in Hezyaz and Ras Kanatib. The Houthi-controlled Saba news agency reported that three individuals were killed in the attack on Sanaa airport, with another three fatalities in Hodeidah. The strikes injured at least 40 people, according to the same report.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), revealed that he was at Sanaa International Airport when it came under attack.
“As we were about to board our flight from Sanaa … the airport came under aerial bombardment. One of our plane’s crew members was injured,” Tedros stated.
“The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge — just a few meters from where we were — and the runway were damaged,” he added, confirming that he and his colleagues were unharmed.

Following the attacks, the Houthi movement vowed swift retaliation. “We are ready to respond quickly to the attack and meet escalation with escalation,” stated Houthi-run Al Masirah TV.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking on Channel 14, indicated that this operation was only the beginning. “We are just getting started with them,” he said. Netanyahu’s government has been bolstered domestically by Israel’s military campaigns against Iran-backed Hezbollah forces in Lebanon and strategic actions against Syria.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the strikes “especially alarming,” emphasizing the potential risks to humanitarian operations.
“The airstrikes on Red Sea ports and Sanaa airport pose grave risks to humanitarian operations at a time when millions of people are in need of life-saving assistance,” a U.N. spokesperson said.

Despite the damage, Houthi transport officials announced that both the airport and Hodeidah port would resume normal operations starting Friday.

Israel’s airstrikes follow a year of escalating Houthi attacks, including the recent firing of drones and missiles toward Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Last Saturday, a missile from Yemen landed in the Tel Aviv-Jaffa area, injuring 14 people, after Israeli defenses failed to intercept it.

Houthi attacks on international shipping routes have disrupted global trade, forcing companies to reroute their ships, and contributing to higher costs and concerns over global inflation.

The U.N. Security Council is scheduled to convene on Monday to address the Houthi attacks and the ongoing escalation, according to Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon.

This incident underscores the growing tension in the region, with both sides preparing for further military actions amid rising humanitarian and global economic concerns.

Fuel price rollback to welcome motorists on New Year’s Eve

Carlo Juancho Funtanilla
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Fuel price rollback to welcome motorists on New Year’s Eve

MANILA. Motorists can expect some relief at the pump as fuel prices are set to roll back just in time for New Year’s Eve, according to industry estimates based on international trading trends over the past four days.

Expected Price Adjustments

Assistant Director Rodela Romero of the Department of Energy’s Oil Industry Management Bureau announced the anticipated reductions in fuel prices during a briefing:

  • Gasoline: A rollback of P0.30 to P0.65 per liter
  • Diesel: A rollback of P0.30 to P0.55 per liter
  • Kerosene: A rollback of P0.80 to P0.90 per liter

“This estimated adjustment is triggered by the IEA’s (International Energy Agency) continued expectation of an oversupplied oil market in 2025 even if OPEC+ (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries Plus) holds production steady or continues to delay the unwinding of its voluntary production cuts,” Romero explained.

Final Adjustments to be Announced

The final adjustments will depend on the results of Friday’s trading. Oil firms typically announce official price adjustments every Monday, which then take effect the following day.

Previous Price Movements

On December 24, 2024, oil companies implemented price hikes:

  • Gasoline: +P0.50 per liter
  • Diesel: +P1.45 per liter
  • Kerosene: +P0.75 per liter

These adjustments contributed to the year-to-date net changes:

  • Gasoline: +P13.05 per liter
  • Diesel: +P11.30 per liter
  • Kerosene: -P1.80 per liter

Prevailing Fuel Prices in Metro Manila

As of the latest data from the DOE’s price monitoring, fuel prices in Metro Manila are as follows:

  • Gasoline: P51.35 to P74.42 per liter
  • Diesel: P49 to P65.79 per liter
  • Kerosene: P61.98 to P80.94 per liter

The rollback comes as a welcome development for motorists, providing some financial relief amid fluctuating fuel prices throughout the year. Stay tuned for the final price adjustments to be announced on Monday.

Russian air defense suspected in Azerbaijan plane crash that claimed 38 lives

EDGARDO HERNAL
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Russian air defense suspected in Azerbaijan plane crash that claimed 38 lives

BAKU. Preliminary findings suggest that a Russian air defense system may have been responsible for downing an Azerbaijan Airlines plane that crashed in Kazakhstan, killing 38 people. The revelations come from four sources familiar with Azerbaijan’s investigation into the incident, which occurred on Wednesday near the city of Aktau, Kazakhstan.

Flight J2-8243, an Embraer passenger jet, had departed from Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, en route to Grozny in Russia’s Chechnya region. However, the aircraft unexpectedly veered off course, crossing the Caspian Sea before crashing in a ball of fire on the Kazakh shore. Russia’s aviation watchdog initially suggested a bird strike as the cause of the emergency but did not explain why the plane deviated from its planned route. Notably, Makhachkala Airport, the nearest Russian airport on the flight path, was closed that morning.

According to one Azerbaijani source, the investigation’s preliminary findings indicate that a Russian Pantsir-S air defense system struck the plane. Additionally, the source claimed electronic warfare systems disrupted the jet’s communications as it approached Grozny.

“No one claims that it was done on purpose. However, taking into account the established facts, Baku expects the Russian side to confess to the shooting down of the Azerbaijani aircraft,” the source told Reuters.

Three other sources confirmed similar conclusions. However, Russia’s Defense Ministry has yet to respond to requests for comment.

A U.S. official also indicated early evidence pointing to a Russian anti-aircraft system as the cause. Canada expressed deep concern, calling for “an open and transparent investigation into the incident and for Russia to accept its findings.”

Meanwhile, Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Qanat Bozymbaev declined to confirm or deny the theory of Russian involvement, and the Kazakh transport prosecutor stated that the investigation had not yet reached a definitive conclusion.

When asked about the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, “It is wrong to build hypotheses before the conclusions of the investigation.”

Footage captured by passengers before the crash showed oxygen masks deployed and passengers wearing life vests. The crash left 29 survivors, some of whom were bloodied and bruised but managed to escape the wreckage.

Images of the debris revealed apparent shrapnel damage to the plane’s tail section. Aviation security firm Osprey Flight Solutions noted that the wreckage and the circumstances in the region’s airspace suggest the possibility of anti-aircraft fire.

Context of Regional Conflict

The crash occurred amid heightened tensions in southern Russia, where Ukrainian military drones have frequently targeted infrastructure, prompting Russia to deploy air defense systems. On the day of the crash, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported shooting down 59 Ukrainian drones in multiple regions, some in closed airspace near the Sea of Azov. Flight operations were temporarily suspended at Russia’s Kazan Airport as a result.

Publicly available ADS-B flight tracking data revealed that the Azerbaijani aircraft experienced GPS jamming throughout its flight over southwest Russia. Experts believe Russia’s advanced electronic warfare systems, designed to counter Ukrainian drones, may have inadvertently interfered with the civilian flight.

Awaiting Final Investigation Results

The international aviation community awaits the final investigation results, which will likely shed light on whether the tragic crash was an accident caused by military operations or other factors. Until then, calls for transparency and accountability continue to mount.

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