Top News Headlines In Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore & Vietnam: Dec 30, 2025
LAOS
1.ROBUST FARM PRODUCT EXPORTS -- VIENTIANE TIMES
Agricultural exports reached RM7 billion (US$1.6 billion) in 2025. The growth was largely due to private sector involvement, a shift towards group-based production models and the emergence of cooperatives.
2.AFFORDABLE TOURIST DESTINATION -- VIENTIANE TIMES
Laos has been rated as one of the world’s most affordable travel destinations for 2026 by Indie Traveller magazine. It reinforces Laos' growing reputation as a budget-friendly destination.
MYANMAR
1.MOSCOW READY TO DEEPEN TIES -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
Russia is prepared to enhance its bilateral ties with Nay Pyi Taw once new lawmakers are elected following the elections. Both countries will focus on defence, economy, education, science and technology.
2.JUSTICE ACCESSIBLE TO ALL -- THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
The Supreme Court will continue to implement its Judicial Strategic Plan (2023- 2027) by promoting five core strategies, which include expanding public access to court services.
PHILIPPINES
1. PALACE STARTS 2026 BUDGET REVIEW, VOWS INTEGRITY, PROPER SPENDING -- PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto on Tuesday said the Executive Branch is conducting a thorough review of the ratified 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) to ensure that public funds are properly allocated and responsive to the needs of the Filipino people.
2. MARCOS TO FILIPINOS ON RIZAL DAY: CHOOSE COUNTRY OVER SELF-INTEREST-- PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to place compassion and national interest above personal gain, invoking the legacy of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal amid renewed public calls for integrity and accountability in government.
SINGAPORE
1. 2026 OUTLOOK: WHAT’S NEXT FOR POLITICS – AND THE TOP STORIES OF 2025-- THE STRAITS TIMES
From an eventful general election that saw the PAP returned to power with a higher vote share, to the conclusion of a high-profile court case involving Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh, 2025 was a standout year for Singapore politics.
2. THE LONGTIME TIONG BAHRU RESIDENTS IN FORMER SIT FLATS WHO WON'T BUDGE, EVEN FOR S$1 MILLION -- CNA
Most original residents in Tiong Bahru's post-war HDB flats have moved out, but those who remain are fiercely committed to the idea of staying in the historic neighbourhood for the long haul.
VIETNAM
1.FAKE NEWS ON SPRING FAIR 2026 - - VIETNAMPLUS
The Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency has cautioned about false information regarding the Spring Fair 2026 scheduled to take place from February 4 to 8 next year. The agency identified social media platforms disseminating unverified and misleading information.
2.MULTIPLE NEW YEAR POLICIES -- VIETNAMPLUS
The government will introduce a wide range of new economic policies next month, which include taxation, land use, minimum wage, public finance, railways and technology transfer.
-- BERNAMA
