Strong earthquake strikes southern Philippines

Despite announcing his retirement last month, outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte has indicated that he will not be bowing out of politics after all.

Two Philippine boats carrying food supplies for soldiers to the disputed Second Thomas shoal were blocked by the Chinese coast guard, who allegedly fired water cannons on them. No injuries were reported in the incident.

Philippine Senator Christopher "Bong" Go was President Rodrigo Duterte's choice for the presidency. For now, the withdrawal leaves Duterte's administration without a candidate.

As an investigative journalist in the Philippines, Maria Ressa has seen firsthand the impact of the gradual erosion of journalistic freedoms in her country. Under President Rodrigo Duterte, press freedom rankings have fallen to a record low.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has withdrawn his candidacy for the Senate in the country's May 2022 elections, according to the election commission. He reaches term limit as president in 2022.

Authorities have said at least 208 people have died in the Philippines, with thousands of others losing their homes. Rescue operations continue around the clock.

Local officials are informing the public through social media posts about the extent of damage in their own regions, with one official saying at least 63 died in his province. Emergency rescue operations are under way.

Philippine authorities now say at least 388 people have been killed by Typhoon Rai, which hit the country nearly two weeks ago. Disease outbreaks are adding to the woes of local residents.

Campaigning has kicked off for presidential elections in the Philippines in May. We take a look at how fake news has become a particularly prevalent phenomenon in the country since the election of Rodrigo Duterte. The president is banned from seeking re-election, but the son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos is currently leading in the polls.

Authorities have asked people living near the volcano to evacuate as a precaution, warning that more eruptions are possible.

Floods and landslides triggered by the tropical storm battered the island country earlier in the week, with rescue efforts ongoing. Dozens remain missing.

Former dictator's son Ferdinand Marcos Jr., also known as "Bongbong," is widely expected to defeat current Vice President Leni Robredo in the presidential race. Grenade attacks were reported at two polling booths.