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According to the meteorological department's report, the perceived temperature in many regions of the Philippines has exceeded a staggering 50 degrees. On April 30th, the Philippine government announced a nationwide 5-day school closure to address the severe impact of abnormally high temperatures on public health.

The scorching weather not only hampers agricultural production and disrupts water and electricity supply but also affects student learning. Children exposed to prolonged heat are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, vomiting, and fainting. Xerxes Castro, an education consultant from "Save the Children Philippines," stated, "We anticipate more school closures in May due to the heatwave, with an expected average (perceived) temperature exceeding 52 degrees Celsius. The stress on students can be immense."

To ensure public safety and well-being, the Philippine government has implemented emergency measures, including the 5-day school closure, to mitigate the risks associated with extreme high temperatures. This measure aims to prevent students and staff from going outdoors during sweltering weather and reduce the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related health issues.

Additionally, authorities have urged residents to take necessary precautions, such as minimizing outdoor activities during hot periods, ensuring indoor ventilation, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight. The Philippine government stated that they will closely monitor the latest reports from the meteorological bureau to take appropriate measures in response to any threats to public safety posed by the heatwave. They encourage residents to remain calm and follow official guidance to minimize the risks associated with high temperatures.

As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues, the death toll in Gaza continues to rise. Across more than 50 U.S. campuses, student protests in support of Palestine have erupted, including at Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale, and Columbia University. At least 600 people have been arrested during these campus demonstrations.

Student groups are demanding that universities divest from companies profiting from the conflict. The protests began at Columbia University on April 18 and have since spread from the East Coast to the West Coast. Some schools have canceled graduation ceremonies or shifted to online classes due to safety concerns. For instance, the University of Southern California (USC) saw nearly 100 arrests during a protest. Humboldt State University in Northern California even announced the closure of its campus until the end of the semester.

While some universities have cleared protest camps, law enforcement agencies have arrested demonstrators at various locations. In response to the protests, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned them as "anti-Semitism" and called for more action to stop such behavior.

The issue has sparked widespread attention and discussion on American campuses, with both supporters and critics expressing their views.

A recent report by the "Population Strategy Conference," composed of Japanese private experts, highlights Japan's population challenges. By 2050, the population of women aged 20 to 39—the prime childbearing age group—will decrease by half. Approximately 744 cities and towns across Japan, nearly 40% of all municipalities, are at risk of disappearing due to this demographic decline.

The report categorizes municipalities into four groups:
1. At-Risk Municipalities: These towns face the highest risk of disappearing due to the projected halving of young women's populations.
2. Black Hole-Type Municipalities: Although not at immediate risk, these areas have low birth rates and rely on external population inflows for growth.
3. Self-Sustaining Municipalities: These towns are projected to maintain nearly 50% of young women in their populations even 100 years from now.
4. Other Municipalities: The remaining local governments also face declining populations of young women.

Japan's declining birth rate—currently at 1.26 children per woman—poses a significant challenge. To maintain a stable population, the ideal figure should be around 2.07.

Despite an increase in foreign residents, the overall trend of population decline remains. Urgent measures are needed to address this demographic shift.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on June 19, 2023. This meeting marked the first time a U.S. Secretary of State visited China and met with the Chinese President since 2018.

Mohan Pieris, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN, left, rings the Bell of World Peace and Love as Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, President of the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL), looks on, at a gala dinner in New York, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (AP Images)

Teburoro Tito, Ambassador of Kiribati to the UN, right, delivers remarks, as Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, President of FOWPAL looks on at a conference at the U.N. headquarters. The summit celebrating the International Day of Conscience, served to amplify the power of hope for a better world.(AP Images)

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, Tai Ji Men's leader, receives President’s Lifetime Achievement Award issued by President Joe Biden on behalf of Madam Yu, Mei-Jung, vice president of Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy, and Tai Ji Men for its contribution of 610,000 hours of service to the US. (AP Images)

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, leader of Tai Ji Men, center, and distinguished guests from around the world, come together to celebrate the enduring legacy of his late wife, Madam Yu, Mei-Jung at the Concert of Gratitude and Blessings. (AP Images)

Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, leader of Tai Ji Men, rings the Bell of World Peace and Love at the celebration of the 5th International Day of Conscience in front of Pasadena City Hall, California, April 6, 2024.

On April 5th, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) hosts the World Leader Summit of Love and Peace to celebrate the 5th International Day of Conscience.