Merry Gel Sigui
A multimedia journalist focused on producing articles about controversial global issues specifically on business, economy, politics, and technology. A strong believer in freedom of the press and exposing the wrong. only through engagement and communications can we as humans evolve.
An accredited member of a leading local broadcast media organization.
Vietnam cuts gold prices due to decline in demand
Vietnam's gold prices dropped by VN₫300,000 to VN₫400,000 this week, with leading manufacturers like SJC selling at VN₫47.3 million per tael. The reduction aims to stimulate investor interest during a period of low demand in the domestic market.
Italy closes majority of businesses as coronavirus cases mount
The Italian government has mandated a nationwide quarantine, closing all non-essential businesses including restaurants and bars. Only supermarkets, food stores, and pharmacies remain open. With over 12,000 confirmed cases and 827 deaths, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte calls for national responsibility in combating the coronavirus pandemic.
Singapore to grant $10 million to San Diego pharmaceutical company for...
Singapore's government has awarded San Diego-based Arcturus Therapeutics a $10 million grant to develop a potential COVID-19 vaccine. The company's unique self-replicating RNA platform aims to create a single-shot solution with significantly improved dosing compared to existing RNA-based medicines.
Grab PH suspends thousands of users over fraudulent activities
Ride-hailing platform Grab Philippines has banned 125,000 users for creating multiple accounts, making frequent cancellations, and giving unwarranted poor ratings. Country head Brian Cu revealed the company is actively monitoring user behavior to maintain service integrity and protect drivers from misconduct.
Tesla eyes building a Cybertruck factory in central USA
Tesla CEO Elon Musk is scouting locations in central USA for a new Gigafactory to manufacture the Cybertruck. First unveiled in 2019, the electric pickup is expected to start production soon with an initial price of $40,000.
Philippine government releases list of coronavirus-related travel bans affecting the country
The Philippine government has imposed travel bans on mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau to control coronavirus spread. Only Filipino nationals and permanent residents are allowed entry, subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
Dutch brewer Heineken invests US$183 million for Brazil plant expansion
Dutch brewer Heineken is investing 865 million reais (US$183.14 million) to expand its Ponta Grossa brewery in Brazil, increasing manufacturing capacity by 75%. Despite economic challenges, the company views Brazil as a crucial market for sales, accelerating its strategic investment plan.
Philippines declares health emergency, cancels public events amid coronavirus
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte declared a state of public health emergency as coronavirus cases increased to 33 in Manila and neighboring areas. The emergency proclamation allows financial assistance to local governments and eases procurement of health resources to combat the spreading outbreak.
Founder of India’s Yes Bank faces money laundering charges
Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor was arrested by financial crime investigators over allegations of money laundering and criminal conspiracy. Accused of cheating amounting to $581 million, Kapoor claims he is willing to cooperate fully with the probe, despite the serious charges against him.
Oil price plunges as Saudi Arabia retaliates with Russia
Saudi Arabia slashes oil prices by up to $8 after Russia rejects OPEC's proposed production cuts, triggering a global market turmoil and causing oil prices to drop 48% this year.
