More than 17,600 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US military will participate in this year's Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) Exercises that will run from April 11 to 28.

Officials from the Philippines and China will meet in May to discuss the parameters and terms of reference of the two countries' possible joint oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea.

The Department of Health (DOH) is discouraging the public from doing self-flagellation and crucifixion amid the observance of Holy Week as these acts could lead to tetanus infection. DOH Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario Vergeire reiterated that they are not supporting these forms of sacrifices as these pose health risks.