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Philippines Gets Diesel from Japan Amid Fuel Shortage
Philippines Secures Diesel from Japan Amid Energy Crisis
The Philippines announced on Monday that it has received 142,000 barrels of diesel from Japan. This comes as the Philippine government declared a national energy emergency last week in response to a severe energy shortage. The nation relies on the Middle East for over 90% of its crude oil imports, and fuel prices have been rising since Israel's attacks on Iran. The Department of Energy stated that it plans to secure a combined total of around 1 million barrels of diesel through April from other sources including Malaysia, Singapore, and India.
Thailand's Fishing Industry and Australian Livestock Farmers Grapple with Soaring Fuel Costs
In Thailand, the surge in fuel prices is significantly impacting the fishing industry. More than 120 fishing vessels, over half of the fleet, at a port in Samut Sakhon Province have been forced to suspend operations. Fuel prices have more than doubled since February, causing many fishing businesses to operate at a loss. The government is scrambling to take action, including supplying fishermen with a blended fuel that includes 20% palm oil at a reduced price.
Meanwhile, in Australia, skyrocketing fuel costs are raising concerns about their effects on major exports like Australian beef. Livestock farmer John Lowe, who manages cattle, sheep, and cultivates wheat about 100 kilometers west of Sydney, has decided to cut this year's wheat crop by 30% due to rising diesel prices and supply uncertainties. He states that the viability of his farm is threatened by increasing costs for agricultural machinery and truck transport for animals and feed, warning of long-term consequences for consumers.
Australia to Probe Tech Giants Over Social Media Age Ban Compliance
The Australian government plans to investigate five major social media platforms—Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube—for non-compliance with its recent ban on social media use for children under 16 years old. This follows a report from the National eSafety Commissioner which indicated that many children were able to retain or create accounts on age-restricted platforms. Australian Communications Minister Anika Wells emphasized that all platforms must obey Australian laws, noting that 5 million underage accounts have been deactivated or removed since December.
*Source: YouTube: NHK World-Japan (2026-03-31)*
