Christmas typhoon leaves three dead in Philippines

Officials in the Southeast Asian country have said that the former president died after being hospitalized.

Thousands protest in the Philippines capital Manila as they mark one year left in power for President Rodrigo Duterte. The groups -- from several different sectors -- are calling for Duterte to step down. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte hailed his signature drug war policy, but lamented there was a "long way" to go in the controversial crackdown that has killed thousands of people.

The quake's epicenter was at sea, at a depth of 65.6 km. Aftershocks are expected, but there is no risk of a tsunami for coastlines near or far.

Rodrigo Duterte is the ruling political party's vice-presidential nominee for next year's election. Critics say it's an attempt by the strongman to hold on to power after his presidential term ends.

Taiwan is urging residents to stay indoors and brace for torrential rain and heavy winds as Typhoon Chanthu approaches. Gusts of wind reached up to 250 kph (155 mph) over the Philippines.

President Duterte's legal counsel said the Hague-based war crimes court has no jurisdiction to probe the Philippines' anti-drug crackdown. He added that ICC investigators will not be allowed entry into the country.

Unlike most other countries, the Philippines has decided to keep schools closed for another year to contain COVID-19. Rights advocates warn millions of children without internet access are missing out on an education.

The often controversial president has said he will not take part in elections in June 2022, opting to step down at the end of his term.

Philippines' President Rodrigo Duterte has said he will prepare for his defence against an International Criminal Court probe into his deadly drug war after he retires from politics.

The son of the late Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos has announced his bid for the presidency in 2022. He joins a field of contenders seeking to replace the outgoing Rodrigo Duterte.

Advocates have praised the award for drawing global attention to the Philippines' struggle for press freedom and human rights. It also marks the first time the prize has been handed to a journalist.

It's been exactly four years since the Philippines government declared the end of a bloody siege in which over 1,000 people died. But the wounds are still raw for those whose loved ones disappeared amid the fighting.