Firefighters continued their urgent efforts on Sunday to combat the raging wildfires that have caused widespread devastation across the Los Angeles area, destroying thousands of homes and claiming the lives of at least 24 people. The fires have also left 16 individuals missing, with that number expected to increase as authorities conduct further searches.

The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for the next few days, predicting extreme fire conditions with winds reaching sustained speeds of 50 mph (80 kph), and gusts of up to 70 mph (113 kph) in the mountainous areas. These gusty Santa Ana winds, coupled with a dry atmosphere and parched brush, are expected to exacerbate the situation, making Tuesday the most dangerous day for firefighting efforts.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone assured the public that additional resources, including 70 water trucks and fire retardant dropped from aircraft, were brought in to tackle the flames. However, officials expressed concerns that the return of high winds could spark new outbreaks and intensify existing fires.

The flames, which were initially ignited last week, have spread rapidly, with the Santa Ana winds fueling the fires. The blazes have particularly impacted neighborhoods in areas that haven't seen significant rainfall in over eight months, making conditions ripe for wildfires. The Eaton and Palisades Fires have accounted for much of the destruction, consuming more than 62 square miles of land.

The missing persons report now includes 12 people from the Eaton Fire zone and 4 from the Palisades Fire. Authorities are continuing to search neighborhoods with cadaver dogs, and officials anticipate that the death toll could rise further as these areas are combed for victims. There is a centralized location where people can report missing individuals, and an online database has been created for evacuees to check on the status of their properties.

The fires have forced nearly 150,000 people to evacuate, with more than 700 residents taking shelter in nine emergency facilities. As many evacuation orders remain in place, authorities indicated that repopulation efforts could begin as early as Thursday after the red flag warnings expire.

Despite efforts to contain the fires, looting has become a growing concern. Authorities reported several arrests, including individuals posing as firefighters to enter evacuated homes. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned looting and announced that National Guard troops had been deployed to protect properties.

The fires are now being recognized as one of the most destructive in U.S. history, with an early estimate of damages reaching between $135 billion and $150 billion, according to AccuWeather. Governor Newsom predicted that the wildfires could ultimately be the nation's costliest natural disaster, surpassing any previous disaster in terms of financial losses.

The fire response also involved inmates from California's prison system, with nearly 950 prisoners joining the fight to contain the flames. These inmates are paid a small daily wage for their efforts, but the practice has drawn controversy due to the high risk of the work and the low pay.

Meanwhile, volunteers have flooded donation centers to help victims, and many evacuees, like Altadena resident Jose Luis Godinez, are facing the heartbreaking loss of everything they own. Governor Newsom issued an executive order to expedite rebuilding efforts, offering support for displaced residents and fast-tracking property tax assessments to avoid additional burdens on affected communities.

Despite these efforts, criticisms have surfaced regarding the preparedness of city officials, especially concerning issues with water availability. Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley highlighted the lack of resources provided to the department, including inadequate hydrant pressure and the shutdown of key water reservoirs. Governor Newsom has ordered state officials to investigate the causes behind these failures.

The severity of this disaster continues to test the leadership of local and state officials as they coordinate firefighting and recovery efforts amidst the ongoing crisis.

Nguyen Hoai Thuong, the 39-year-old owner of the Lolita restaurant in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, was arrested on Saturday amid serious allegations related to prostitution. Thuong faces charges of procurement following a police raid that uncovered illicit activities at a nearby hotel on Cao Ba Quat Street. During the raid, officers discovered two couples engaged in what appeared to be prostitution activities.

The women involved identified themselves as employees of Lolita and stated they had been sent to the hotel to provide services for foreign clients. The investigation soon led to a search of the Lolita restaurant, which resulted in Thuong and five other staff members being detained for questioning.

In her statement, Thuong admitted that since the restaurant’s opening in May 2022, the venue had not only offered dining and unlicensed karaoke services but had also employed women who catered exclusively to international clientele. The goal was to avoid detection by local authorities. Thuong revealed that her employees were permitted to engage in sexual services both at the restaurant and at nearby accommodations. The rates for these services reached up to VND8 million ($315.33), with the women receiving a 60% commission.

Authorities have continued their investigation into the case, working to uncover the full scope of the illegal activities and any other potential individuals or establishments involved in similar operations. The arrest raises concerns about the regulation of businesses in high-traffic tourist areas and the ongoing issue of illicit activities within the hospitality sector.

The opportunity for Vietnamese apprentices in Germany is indeed substantial, especially given the country's increasing demand for skilled workers, particularly in sectors like healthcare, nursing, dental assistance, hospitality, and industrial electrical engineering. With Germany experiencing a significant labor shortage, particularly in healthcare and other critical sectors, the potential for Vietnamese workers to establish themselves in Germany through apprenticeship programs is evident.

Despite the clear benefits, such as competitive wages and the promise of stable employment post-graduation, the number of Vietnamese apprentices enrolling in these programs remains surprisingly low. As highlighted by Luu Thi Ngoc Tuy, the chairwoman of Vilaco International Human Resources, Vietnam’s apprenticeship enrollment in Germany is far below that of countries like India and China, which see tens of thousands of students participating in these programs each year. This is perplexing, especially considering the opportunities for career growth and financial stability that are available in Germany.

One of the reasons for this disparity could be the language barrier. As Tuy pointed out, German can be a challenging language to master, and while a B1-level proficiency is required to enter the apprenticeship programs, this level may still be insufficient for effective communication in the workplace. Vietnamese apprentices who are not fluent in German may struggle to adapt to the professional environment in Germany, especially given the country’s emphasis on precision and communication in work settings. The language barrier could deter many potential candidates who might otherwise be interested in the program but are concerned about the language requirement.

In addition to the language challenge, there are cultural differences that may make some Vietnamese workers hesitant to pursue these apprenticeships. Germany's work culture, including its emphasis on punctuality, independence, and direct communication, can be quite different from the work culture in Vietnam. Furthermore, the bureaucratic processes in Germany can be slow and complex, which might dissuade some people from pursuing the opportunities, even with the streamlined application procedures introduced in recent years.

Despite these challenges, there are clear steps that could be taken to encourage more Vietnamese apprentices to consider Germany as a destination for their careers. One of the most crucial steps would be improving career guidance for Vietnamese students before they leave. Many potential apprentices may lack a clear understanding of what the programs entail, the cultural and professional expectations in Germany, or how to navigate the visa and documentation process. By providing more detailed guidance and support, especially regarding language preparation and cultural adaptation, more Vietnamese workers could be prepared for the transition to Germany.

Another important measure would be strengthening the language training programs for apprentices before they leave Vietnam. While B1-level German proficiency is the requirement, additional intensive language courses could be offered to ensure that apprentices are better equipped to handle the linguistic demands of their jobs. This could include more immersive learning experiences, such as virtual exchanges with German speakers or a more comprehensive pre-departure training program that focuses on workplace communication in German.

Moreover, strengthening partnerships between Vietnamese vocational schools, German companies, and organizations like Vilaco could help bridge the gap between demand and supply. These partnerships could offer mentorship programs, internships, and networking opportunities that help Vietnamese apprentices build a stronger connection to their future employers in Germany. By actively engaging with the Vietnamese community before they arrive in Germany, these apprentices could feel more supported throughout their journey, improving their chances of success.

Ultimately, as the demand for skilled workers in Germany continues to grow, there is a tremendous opportunity for Vietnamese workers to take advantage of this gap. With the right guidance, preparation, and language support, more Vietnamese apprentices could begin to enroll in these programs, allowing them to contribute to Germany’s economy while securing stable and rewarding careers for themselves.

Gua sha, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to enhance circulation and provide various health benefits. It is typically performed on areas such as the back, buttocks, arms, and legs, with a more delicate approach on the face and neck. Practitioners often use oil or serum to ensure the tool glides smoothly across the skin.

This technique is believed to clear stagnant energy (or chi) in the body, which is thought to contribute to inflammation. By scraping the skin in specific patterns, gua sha is said to enhance blood flow and relieve pain.

A 2007 study found that gua sha could boost circulation in micro-vessels for up to 25 minutes post-treatment. Participants also reported immediate relief from muscle pain, and these benefits persisted in follow-up visits.

According to Medical News Today, applying pressure to specific points on the face and neck during gua sha can help reduce puffiness by promoting lymphatic drainage and muscle relaxation.

A 2022 article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggested that short-term use of gua sha can reduce puffiness through improved lymphatic drainage. Regular sessions may also lead to better vascular dilation responses.

While gua sha is generally safe, there are some potential side effects to consider:

Bruising
The technique may cause small capillaries near the skin's surface to burst, resulting in red or purple bruises (known as sha). These bruises are typically tender but heal within a week. They can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, and gentle heat may help reduce inflammation.

Skin Damage
There is a slight risk that the practice could cause the skin to break, increasing the possibility of infection. Practitioners must ensure their tools are properly sterilized between sessions.

Bacterial Infection
Although rare, bacterial infections can occur if the skin is torn or bleeds. To minimize this risk, it’s essential to sterilize tools properly or select a provider who follows strict hygiene practices.

Additionally, gua sha should not be performed on open wounds or irritated skin. Individuals who take blood thinners or have clotting disorders should consult healthcare professionals before starting gua sha treatments.

Cathay Pacific issued an apology on Friday to passengers of two flights from Nepal to Hong Kong after an outbreak of food poisoning affected 36 individuals earlier in the week.

The affected passengers were on flights CX640, which operated on Tuesday and Wednesday. They experienced symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain shortly after their meals. According to the South China Morning Post, 16 passengers on the Wednesday flight fell ill within 10-30 minutes after consuming sandwiches, leading authorities to identify these as a potential source of contamination. Additionally, 20 passengers on the Tuesday flight reported similar symptoms, with the in-flight meals serving as the common link.

A spokesperson for Cathay Pacific clarified that the contamination came from outside the airline's direct operations. The carrier has vowed to take corrective measures if the meals are indeed confirmed as the cause of the outbreak. The Bangkok Post reported that the airline would cooperate fully with the investigation.

The Center for Health Protection has launched an investigation to determine whether there is an epidemiological connection among the affected passengers.

Delta Air Lines reported better-than-expected earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024, driven by strong demand for travel that it expects to continue into 2025. For the October to December period, the airline posted operating revenue of $15.6 billion and net income of $843 million.

Adjusted earnings per share came in at $1.85, surpassing the $1.75 expected by analysts. As a result, Delta's shares rose 9.0% on Friday.

Ed Bastian, Delta's CEO, expressed optimism about the future, stating, “2025 is off to a great start, and we are on track to deliver the best financial year in our history.” He highlighted the financial health of U.S. consumers, noting that many continue to prioritize spending on experiences, which benefits the airline industry.

Looking ahead to 2025, Delta expects strong demand to persist, particularly for its premium products and services. The airline forecasts a 7-9% revenue increase in the first quarter of 2025 and expects earnings per share to range between 70 cents to $1. For the entire year, Delta anticipates annual adjusted earnings of more than $7.35 per share and free cash flow of over $4 billion.

In total, for 2024, Delta posted $61.6 billion in revenue and adjusted earnings per share of $6.16. The company also reported $3.4 billion in free cash flow.

However, Delta's third-quarter results were impacted by a global computer outage in July and the effects of Hurricane Helene in the U.S. Despite these challenges, Delta's president Glen Hauenstein stated that the company "built momentum as we closed out 2024," noting that demand trends accelerated through the quarter.

In November and December, the airline achieved four of its top ten revenue days in history, experiencing double-digit growth in cash bookings from both leisure and corporate travelers.

In addition to strong financial performance, Delta reinvested nearly $5 billion into its business and reduced its net debt by $3.6 billion to $18 billion in 2024. The airline also announced $1.4 billion in profit-sharing payments to employees, which will be distributed next month.

Germany confirmed its first cases of foot-and-mouth disease in over three decades on Friday, following an outbreak on a farm near Berlin. The disease, which affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals like sheep and pigs, was found in three water buffalo on a farm in the eastern state of Brandenburg, surrounding Berlin.

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause fever and blisters in the mouth and around the hooves of affected animals, though it is not dangerous to humans.

According to the Institute for Animal Health, the outbreak involved a group of 14 animals, three of which had died. In response, Brandenburg's environment ministry has ordered the culling of the remaining water buffalo in the herd to prevent the virus from spreading further.

The outbreak marks Germany's first reported cases of foot-and-mouth disease since 1988. In response, the country has set up exclusion zones within a three-kilometer radius and surveillance zones extending 10 kilometers.

Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Ozdemir has convened a crisis meeting for Tuesday with state officials to discuss measures and track the source of the virus. The virus's route to Germany remains unknown at this point, and it is uncertain whether other livestock have been infected.

To control the outbreak, Brandenburg has imposed a 72-hour ban on the movement of livestock, including cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and camelids, as well as animal carcasses and manure. The ban will come into effect on Saturday.

Water buffalo have been farmed in Germany since the 1990s for their milk, meat, and use in grassland management. The outbreak in Brandenburg has raised concerns, as previous European outbreaks have resulted in significant culling to control the disease.

Traffic police in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) have collected a staggering VND42.5 billion ($1.67 million) in fines during the first week of January, following the enforcement of stricter penalties for traffic violations.

According to Le Van Hai, deputy head of the city's traffic police department, this figure marks a 35% increase compared to the same period last year, with fines rising by VND11 billion due to the new decree that came into effect on January 1.

From January 1 to 7, HCMC traffic police recorded 11,830 violations and confiscated over 4,300 vehicles, including 11 cars and 4,220 motorbikes. In addition, around 2,100 driving licenses were revoked, and an average of VND6 billion ($236,400) in fines was issued daily.

Common violations included driving under the influence, speeding, traveling in the wrong lane, and ignoring traffic signals.

Under the new decree, penalties for traffic offenses have been significantly increased:

Car drivers now face fines of up to VND20 million for certain violations, nearly three times the previous maximum fine.
Motorbike riders can be fined up to VND6 million for running red lights and up to VND10 million for reckless driving.
In addition to HCMC, Hanoi also ramped up enforcement, collecting over VND14 billion ($550,000) in fines and addressing over 5,600 cases of traffic violations in the same period, reflecting a nationwide crackdown.

HCMC, with its population of more than 10 million residents, managed over 9.5 million vehicles as of late 2024, including over 1 million cars and 8.5 million motorbikes. The city’s stricter measures aim to improve road safety and curb the rising number of traffic infractions.

A commune chairman in central Nghe An Province was arrested on Thursday for allegedly transporting over 35 kilograms of drugs.

Mua Ba Vu, the chairman of Na Ngoi Commune, was detained alongside an accomplice by Nghe An police on charges of illegal narcotics transportation. Vu had been serving as the chairman of the Na Ngoi People’s Committee for two years prior to his arrest.



The arrest occurred during an ambush operation where police stopped a pickup truck that Vu was traveling in, suspecting it of carrying illegal goods. When approached, Vu and his accomplice attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended by officers.

A search of the vehicle revealed over 35 kilograms of synthetic drugs and four packages of heroin, hidden in various compartments. Authorities are now processing Vu’s suspension from his official duties as part of the ongoing investigation.

A VinFast VF 3 in Ho Chi Minh City caught fire after being fitted with non-standard headlights, reportedly with double the capacity of the original ones.

The car’s owner, Hoai An, said she received the vehicle in late November last year. While waiting for its license plate, she upgraded it with several accessories, including new headlights.

The incident happened one night in January while An was driving in District 1. She noticed a burning plastic smell but hesitated to stop due to heavy traffic. After about 15 minutes, smoke began to rise from the car’s hood, quickly followed by flames.

An managed to exit the vehicle safely, and bystanders attempted to put out the fire. Unfortunately, the blaze consumed the car, leaving only its metal frame behind.

An investigation is underway to identify the exact cause of the fire. However, An suspects the issue was caused by the aftermarket headlights. Technicians have suggested that the increased power capacity of the new headlights might have overloaded the vehicle’s wiring.

An explained that the original headlights had a power capacity of 55 watts, whereas the replacements were 90 watts, nearly double. She noted that she rarely used the new headlights since she mostly drove during the day, but they were in use the night of the incident.

The fire reportedly began in the car’s hood, ruling out the possibility of a battery-related issue, An added.

China's top anti-corruption agency, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), reported on Friday that it filed more than 4,000 disciplinary cases against officials in 2024 as part of its intensified efforts to combat corruption.

President Xi Jinping emphasized during the opening of a three-day CCDI congress on Monday that corruption remains the biggest threat to China's Communist Party and has been on the rise.

Last year, several high-profile corruption investigations shook the nation, including probes into a deputy central bank governor and a former chairman of China's largest oil and gas company.

In 2024, the CCDI initiated cases against 73 provincial- and ministerial-level officials and 4,348 department- and bureau-level officials, according to its statement.

Overall, 889,000 individuals faced punishment, with 680,000 penalized for violating Communist Party discipline and 270,000 subjected to administrative sanctions, the CCDI revealed.

This ongoing anti-corruption campaign highlights the Party's commitment to addressing governance challenges and maintaining control amid growing concerns about corruption within its ranks.

The world has just experienced its first full year with global temperatures exceeding 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, scientists confirmed on Friday. The milestone, reported by the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S), underscores how climate change is driving temperatures to unprecedented levels.

“The trajectory is just incredible,” said Carlo Buontempo, director of C3S, highlighting that every month in 2024 was either the warmest or second-warmest for that respective month since records began. According to C3S, the planet’s average temperature for the year was 1.6°C higher than during the pre-industrial period (1850–1900), a time before widespread fossil fuel use.

This confirmation cements 2024 as the hottest year since records began. Notably, each of the past ten years ranks among the ten warmest ever recorded. The UK’s Met Office corroborated this finding, estimating the average global temperature in 2024 at 1.53°C above pre-industrial levels. U.S. scientists are also expected to release their climate data shortly.

Under the 2015 Paris Agreement, governments pledged to limit global temperature increases to below 1.5°C to avoid catastrophic climate disasters. However, while breaching this threshold for a single year does not yet violate the Paris target—which measures long-term averages—the trend is alarming. Rising greenhouse gas emissions suggest the world is on track to exceed the 1.5°C threshold permanently in the near future.

"It's not a done deal. We have the power to change the trajectory from now on," Buontempo emphasized, urging countries to take urgent action to cut emissions. Without intervention, temperatures will continue rising to dangerous levels.

Global Climate Impacts in 2024
The devastating effects of climate change were evident across continents in 2024. In the U.S., wildfires in California claimed at least five lives and destroyed hundreds of homes. Elsewhere, Bolivia and Venezuela faced massive wildfires, while torrential floods caused havoc in Nepal, Sudan, and Spain. Heatwaves in Mexico and Saudi Arabia led to the deaths of thousands.

Experts attribute worsening storms and torrential rain to a hotter atmosphere, which can hold more water vapor. Indeed, the amount of water vapor in the planet’s atmosphere reached a record high in 2024.

Despite the spiraling costs of such disasters, political will to curb emissions has waned in some nations. In the U.S., President-elect Donald Trump has called climate change a hoax, contradicting the global scientific consensus that urgent action is needed to mitigate its severe consequences. In 2024 alone, the U.S. experienced 24 climate-related disasters costing over $1 billion each, including Hurricanes Milton and Helene, according to NOAA.

A Call to Action
Chukwumerije Okereke, a professor of global climate governance at the University of Bristol, described the 1.5°C milestone as a "rude awakening" for policymakers. "Despite all the warnings that scientists have given, nations… are continuing to fail to live up to their responsibilities," he said.

Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide—the primary driver of global warming—reached a record 422 parts per million in 2024, C3S reported. Zeke Hausfather, a research scientist at Berkeley Earth, predicted that 2025 will remain among the hottest years on record, though it may not surpass 2024. While human-caused emissions remain the primary factor, early 2024 temperatures were exacerbated by El Niño, a warming weather pattern now transitioning toward its cooler counterpart, La Niña.

The 1.5°C milestone is a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to address climate change. While challenges abound, scientists and policymakers emphasize that it is not too late to alter the planet’s trajectory and prevent further catastrophic warming.

The wildfires raging across Los Angeles continue to wreak havoc, with a new blaze, the Kenneth Fire, prompting fresh evacuations on Thursday. This fire erupted in the San Fernando Valley near the West Hills neighborhood and close to Ventura County. It adds to the devastation caused by earlier fires, including the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires, which have collectively destroyed over 10,000 structures and claimed at least seven lives.

The Eaton Fire, which started near Pasadena, has burned more than 5,000 structures, including homes and businesses. Meanwhile, the Pacific Palisades Fire has destroyed over 5,300 structures, leaving behind entire blocks of smoldering rubble. Iconic landmarks such as the Will Rogers’ Western Ranch House and Topanga Ranch Motel, along with schools, churches, and libraries, have been lost to the flames. In Malibu, once-scenic neighborhoods have been reduced to ash, with blackened palm strands standing as grim reminders of what was lost.

Among the fatalities are Anthony Mitchell (67) and his son, Justin, who were unable to evacuate in time as they waited for medical assistance. Another victim, Victor Shaw (66), was found clutching a garden hose, having stayed behind in a futile attempt to protect his home. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate, seeking shelter in temporary facilities like the El Camino Real Charter High School.

Despite the scale of destruction, firefighters have made some progress in containing smaller fires, such as the blaze in the Hollywood Hills. This fire had threatened landmarks like the Hollywood Bowl but was brought under control with the help of aerial water drops. Crews from neighboring states and Canada have joined the battle, taking advantage of calmer winds to push back against the flames. However, officials warn that stronger winds expected later this week could worsen the situation and reignite dormant embers.

The economic toll of these wildfires is staggering. AccuWeather estimates the total damage and economic loss at $135-$150 billion, far surpassing previous wildfire disasters. This includes the destruction of thousands of homes, businesses, and community landmarks. Local officials describe the extent of the devastation as "total," with some areas reduced to little more than dirt and ash.

Emergency responders continue to search through the rubble with cadaver dogs, as the death toll is expected to rise. Fire officials are still investigating the cause of the blazes, which were fueled earlier in the week by hurricane-force winds with gusts up to 80 mph. These winds carried embers that ignited Southern California’s dry hillsides, spreading destruction rapidly.

While Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger expressed hope that the tide might be turning, the situation remains dire. With another round of strong winds predicted, both residents and firefighters face an uphill battle in one of the most destructive fire seasons in Southern California's history.

Authorities in Manila arrested around 400 foreign nationals during a large-scale raid on a suspected online scam operation on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. The raid targeted a building where workers were allegedly involved in online scams aimed at defrauding victims abroad.

Such scam operations, often linked to human trafficking, have drawn growing international concern in recent years. Victims are typically lured or coerced into working for these syndicates, promoting fraudulent cryptocurrency investments and other scams.

Fortunato Manahan, the Bureau of Immigration's intelligence chief, described the operation as violating immigration laws and posing significant risks to the public. He emphasized the importance of cracking down on these illicit activities, which are increasingly associated with organized crime.

The raid comes amid President Ferdinand Marcos’ announcement of a ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) by the end of 2024. Authorities have found that these establishments are often exploited as fronts for human trafficking, money laundering, online fraud, and other serious crimes.

The foreign nationals arrested in the raid, many of whom are reportedly Chinese, are undergoing booking procedures and will be temporarily detained while awaiting deportation, said immigration bureau spokeswoman Dana Sandoval.

A report from the United States Institute of Peace in May 2024 highlighted the scale of online scams globally, estimating annual revenues of $64 billion for these operations. It noted that the industry employs around half a million workers, including 15,000 in the Philippines, many of whom are trafficked and forced into scams under the threat of violence or torture if they fail to meet quotas.

The Philippines' efforts to combat these criminal operations underscore a growing regional push to address the human and economic toll of online scam syndicates.

Hundreds of thousands of Catholic pilgrims filled the streets of Manila on Thursday in search of miracles, hoping to touch or glimpse a centuries-old statue of Jesus Christ known as the Black Nazarene. The annual procession, one of the most fervent religious events in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, began before dawn with an open-air mass and was expected to draw over two million participants.

Devotees, barefoot and dressed in maroon to match the robe of the wooden statue, pushed through the crowd to grasp the rope pulling the icon’s float. Many believed touching the statue or the rope would bring healing and blessings. Among them was Dong Lapira, 54, who recounted praying for his mother’s recovery from a heart attack in a previous procession. This year, he prayed for his wife’s recovery from gallstones, saying, "The Nazarene is very sacred. It has granted many prayers."

Other worshippers threw towels toward those guarding the float, hoping they would be wiped on the statue and returned as blessed items. Alvin Olicia, 38, one of the guardians, expressed the spiritual significance of his role, saying, “I feel like I am connecting them to their faith and to the Nazarene.”

Despite authorities banning the climbing of the carriage for safety reasons, some devotees still risked injury to be near the icon. Ester Espiritu, 76, traveled 35 kilometers to attend the procession. A devotee for 40 years, she said, "Even if I'm struggling to come here because of my age... I feel happy and well whenever I see the Nazarene," as she prayed for healing from a shoulder injury.

The Black Nazarene, a life-sized wooden statue brought to the Philippines in the early 1600s during Spanish colonial rule, is believed to have turned black after surviving a fire on the ship that carried it. Its history and perceived miraculous powers have inspired deep devotion among Filipinos.

The six-kilometer procession route was secured by approximately 14,500 police officers, with mobile phone signals blocked to prevent potential bomb threats. Emergency response teams, including the Red Cross, were on standby, treating over 100 participants in the early hours for cuts, dizziness, and other minor injuries.

The event, while chaotic and physically demanding, remains a testament to the unwavering faith of millions of Filipinos who find hope and strength in the Nazarene’s symbolic presence.

Sookmyung Women's University has issued a preliminary conclusion that South Korea's First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, plagiarized her master's thesis. According to the Korea Times, an internal review by the university's research ethics committee found that Kim engaged in plagiarism in her 1999 thesis for a master's degree in art education. The findings were reportedly sent to Kim in late December, giving her until the end of January to appeal the decision. If she denies the allegations, the committee will review her appeal before making a final determination.

This is not the first time Kim's academic qualifications have faced scrutiny. In 2022, after a lengthy investigation, Kookmin University in Seoul cleared her of plagiarism allegations regarding her doctoral dissertation, for which she earned a PhD in design in 2008.

The new allegations against Kim emerge as her husband, President Yoon Suk Yeol, faces increasing political challenges and controversies surrounding his administration. Yoon has been suspended following accusations of masterminding an insurrection with his Dec. 3 martial law declaration, which led to the first arrest warrant issued for a sitting president in South Korea. Despite repeated summons, Yoon has refused to cooperate with a separate criminal investigation and ignored requests to submit legal briefs to the Constitutional Court, which is hearing the impeachment case against him.

Yoon's lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, stated that the suspended president would accept the court's decision, even if it results in his removal from office. The Constitutional Court, whose rulings are final and cannot be appealed, is expected to rule on the case soon. Meanwhile, public criticism of Yoon's administration continues to grow amid controversies involving his allies and the First Lady.

AccuWeather has reported that the damage and economic losses from the ongoing California wildfire are preliminarily estimated to exceed $50 billion, potentially making it one of the most devastating wildfires in history. The fires, which began on Tuesday in Los Angeles, have already claimed at least two lives, destroyed hundreds of buildings, and stretched firefighting resources amid fierce winds that continue to fan the flames.

AccuWeather estimates the total loss to range between $52 billion and $57 billion. The forecaster cautioned that these figures might need to be revised upward if the fires spread to densely populated neighborhoods. Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter noted that, should more structures be destroyed in the coming days, this wildfire could surpass previous records for destruction and economic impact in modern California history.

For comparison, the total damage and economic loss from the 2023 Maui wildfires were estimated by AccuWeather at $13 billion to $16 billion.

J.P. Morgan has estimated that insured losses from the California wildfire could amount to approximately $10 billion, with most losses stemming from homeowners’ insurance policies, while commercial losses are expected to account for a smaller proportion.

According to property consultant CoreLogic, more than 456,000 homes in the Los Angeles and Riverside metropolitan areas are at moderate or greater risk from the wildfire. The reconstruction value of these homes is estimated at nearly $300 billion, underscoring the potential scale of destruction if the fires continue to spread.

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), "Age Tech" innovations are gaining attention, offering solutions to the challenges of aging. From robotic pets that provide comfort to high-tech gadgets that monitor health, these technologies aim to support seniors in maintaining their independence and improving their quality of life.

Patty David, vice president of consumer insights at AARP, highlighted the growing interest among older Americans in using technology to age comfortably in their homes. The U.S. market for senior-oriented tech is expected to reach $120 billion by 2030. AARP's presence at CES included showcasing entrepreneurs focused on senior care innovations.

Globally, the proportion of people over 65 is increasing faster than younger populations. This demographic shift has spurred the development of tools like the in-toilet device from Starling Medical, which detects urinary tract infections (UTIs). CEO Hannah McKenney noted that early detection of UTIs can prevent emergency care visits and help seniors stay at home longer.

Research from AARP and CES organizers shows that nearly 90% of older adults in the U.S. want to age at home, although many worry about their ability to do so. Technologies like fall detectors, medical alert devices, and medication reminders can empower seniors to live independently while ensuring their safety.

One standout innovation is the Tombot robotic dog, designed to provide companionship to seniors, particularly those with dementia. Inspired by his own experience with his mother, Tom Stevens created the lifelike robotic pup, which wags its tail, barks, and even falls asleep. Plans for a robotic cat are also in the works.

Brazilian beauty company Grupo Boticario introduced a prototype "Smart Lipstick" system, which uses artificial intelligence to help seniors apply lipstick precisely, addressing challenges like fading vision and unsteady hands. The system aims to enhance self-esteem, as users have expressed emotional responses to its effectiveness.

While these technologies hold great promise, adoption barriers remain. According to AARP research, seniors are often hesitant due to concerns about cost, ease of use, and data security. Efforts to address these issues are essential to ensuring that senior tech reaches and benefits the intended audience.

Attachment 2475423

The president-elect sought to blame the climate-change-exacerbated crisis in Southern California on the state’s water management. Experts disputed his claims.

By Hannah Knowles, Brianna Tuckerand and Marianne LeVine

President-elect Donald Trump and California Gov. Gavin Newsom clashed Wednesday over fires burning out of control in the Los Angeles area, injecting national politics into a growing crisis in the city that Vice President Kamala Harris calls home and that President Joe Biden was visiting for the birth of his great-grandson.

During a news conference Tuesday, Newsom had urged Trump not to “play any politics” during the “precious moments that we have to evacuate.”

But as the fires forced tens of thousands of people to leave their homes and left at least five dead Wednesday, Trump sought to pin the catastrophe on Democratic governance, blaming Newsom’s water management decisions for the fires — an idea that water experts strongly disputed — and noting that some fire hydrants had run dry amid huge demand.

“A true disaster!” Trump wrote in a post on his social network, Truth Social.

The president-elect’s attacks on Newsom echoed the feuds over disaster response that marked his first term and signaled that he will continue to eagerly criticize Democratic officials during natural disasters in their jurisdictions. Trump also blamed Newsom for wildfires during his first term, suggesting that California should have “raked” its forests better. At the time, Newsom criticized Trump’s skepticism of climate change, which has exacerbated the frequency and severity of many natural disasters, including wildfires.

On the campaign trail this year, Trump spread misinformation about the government response to Hurricane Helene and threatened to withhold federal aid from California unless the state changed how it manages water.

Trump’s comments Wednesday took a similar tone. He wrote on Truth Social that Newsom had refused to sign a “water restoration declaration” that would have diverted more water to the region. A Newsom spokesperson responded that no such document existed and said that the governor is “focused on protecting people, not playing politics, and making sure firefighters have all the resources they need.”

Asked to elaborate on Trump’s charges, Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt pointed to a 2020 memorandum he signed meant to direct more water to Southern and Central California. California sued to block that effort, arguing that it could harm endangered species and was not scientifically justified.

Trump’s contention that Newsom’s water management decisions were to blame for the severity of the fires is not supported by the facts, multiple water experts told The Washington Post.

“There is no relationship between federal and state water management and the intensity of these fires or the ability of people to fight these fires,” said Jeffrey Mount, a senior fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California, a nonpartisan think tank. Instead, he said, lack of rain and severe winds created dangerous conditions.

“Right now Southern California has ample water supplies, their reservoirs are full — they’re well above historical averages. They do a very good job of managing water. There is no shortage of water in Southern California, that’s just not true,” Mount added.

He said some hydrants are running dry not because the region ran out of water, but because pressure drops with high demand, making it harder to move water around.

Los Angeles’ vegetation, which is highly flammable, exacerbates the problems caused by dry conditions and high winds, said Matthew Hurteau, a forestry vegetation expert and professor at the University of New Mexico.

“It’s really unfortunate when these sorts of events get politicized because this isn’t politics,” Hurteau added.

Los Angeles officials have acknowledged that the four active blazes — two of which have grown to more than 10,000 acres — are overwhelming their resources.

The White House said in a statement Wednesday that the Biden administration “has been in constant communication” with Newsom and local officials about the fires and that the federal government was sending resources, including large air tankers that can carry up to 4,000 gallons of water. Biden also directed the Defense Department to help.

“We’re doing anything and everything and as long as it takes to contain these fires,” Biden said during an appearance in the Los Angeles area, where he and his family visited Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for the birth of granddaughter Naomi Biden’s child. He added later, “It’s going to be a hell of a long way.”

Harris, whose home in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles was under evacuation orders, was in Washington on Wednesday but released a statement saying she had been briefed on the fires and the efforts to contain them.

Trump wasn’t the only politician with harsh criticism of incumbent Democrats. Rick Caruso, the billionaire businessman and losing candidate in the November 2022 Los Angeles mayoral election, also denounced the lack of water in fire hydrants.

“This is an absolute mismanagement by the city. Not the firefighters’ fault, but the city,” Caruso told Fox 11 Los Angeles.

Trump’s allies also zeroed in on Democratic Mayor Karen Bass’s absence from the city when the fires broke out. Bass, who was part of a presidential delegation to Ghana but has since returned to California, said Wednesday that she spoke with Biden and “discussed an urgent path forward towards recovery for the thousands of families impacted.”

Many politicians stuck to expressing their concern for the people affected by the fires. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — a Republican who has sparred in the past with Newsom and criticized his blue-state policies — wrote on X that Florida had offered help and that “when disaster strikes, we must come together to help our fellow Americans in any way we can.”

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Indonesian Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin confirmed on Tuesday the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in the country but reassured the public that the virus is not dangerous.



In a statement on the ministry's official website, Sadikin reported that several children have been infected, and the situation is under close observation.

HMPV, which has been present in Indonesia since 2001, has not caused any significant impacts, according to the minister. He explained that the virus produces symptoms similar to the common flu and encouraged the public to maintain healthy and hygienic living conditions.