At 9:00 AM on May 22, 2026, at the Parliament building, Parliament Speaker Sopon Sarom issued new policies to parliamentary police, security officers, and vehicle and finance department staff. Sopon stated that parliamentary civil servants deserve equal honor and dignity as other government officials, but he perceives them as somewhat sidelined, treated more like support staff rather than recognized as professionals equivalent to prosecutors. He emphasized that parliamentary staff must conduct themselves properly to earn respect, and as the institution undergoes development, they must be ready to change and break old patterns. Security personnel must protect both the parliament building and individuals within it, while also exploring how to make the facility more accessible to the public beyond just parliamentary sessions.

Sopon noted that when the first parliamentary civil service committee meeting convened, he established a committee to review outdated regulations to enhance work efficiency and enable staff to work with dignity and satisfaction. While changing the behavior of parliament members is challenging, he as speaker will work to improve inappropriate conduct and promote capable individuals.

"Parliamentary police must conduct themselves like real police. If we diminish our own honor, our dignity diminishes with it. The public must find us trustworthy. We must continuously train for our duties and not wait until problems arise. We prioritize security in all aspects and must be ready for any situation," Sopon said.

He cited examples from his time as a parliament member to the present, noting that whenever the speaker has instructed members to leave the chamber, no parliamentary police officer has ever dared physically remove a member. Therefore, parliamentary police must be commanding and serve as role models, particularly in handling drug-related matters.

After the policy announcement, parliamentary police underwent urine testing. Sopon reiterated that this was not about catching wrongdoing or punishment, but about solving problems. Inviting officials from the Narcotics Control Board, an external agency, confirmed parliament's genuine commitment to addressing drug issues as an example to the nation.

Sopon further stated that today's testing included parliamentary police and parliament drivers due to current circumstances involving drug epidemics and security concerns. His principle is developing the efficiency of all civil servants here, starting with police through physical fitness improvements and discipline enhancement. The priority is ensuring no involvement with drugs. Parliamentary police discipline must match that of regular police to prepare for potential unrest situations. This location, being vital to the nation, requires parliamentary police to be vigilant in protecting both the premises and personnel.

MAE HONG SON — 22 May 2026, Security forces have tightened restrictions at the Huai Phueng border crossing, allowing pedestrian travel while suspending cargo exports and cross-border vehicle traffic amid efforts to curb drug trafficking and the movement of precursor chemicals.

On Friday, more than 20 border traders from Ban Huai Phueng in Huay Pha Sub-district, Mueang Mae Hong Son District, gathered at the Huay Pha Sub-district Administrative Organization office to protest the restrictions. The traders submitted a formal petition requesting coordination with the Mae Hong Son Governor and security agencies, saying the suspension of cargo transport to Myanmar had severely disrupted local businesses and halted daily shipments.

The operators called on authorities to reopen the temporary checkpoint for normal goods transport, arguing that the restrictions were causing significant economic hardship for border communities reliant on cross-border trade.

In response, security officials said the Huai Phueng crossing remains open for pedestrians, disputing claims that it had been completely shut down. However, all outbound goods transport and vehicle crossings into Myanmar have been temporarily suspended due to security concerns and revised inspection measures aimed at intercepting contraband and chemical precursors allegedly linked to illicit drug production.

Officials said the tightened inspections followed the recent seizure of suspicious chemical shipments allegedly destined for illegal drug manufacturing across the border. Authorities also alleged that some operators had submitted inaccurate customs declarations, prompting a temporary suspension of cargo movements while inspection and documentation procedures are reviewed.

Security officials said the measures are intended to strengthen oversight of cross-border trade and prevent illicit materials from being transported through the checkpoint.

Meanwhile, the Mae Hong Son Governor, alongside officials from the Singhanat Special Task Force, provincial commerce and customs offices, and other relevant agencies, is scheduled to visit the Ban Huai Phueng temporary border checkpoint in Huay Pha Sub-district on 25 May to inspect the situation and meet with local stakeholders.

The site visit is expected to focus on assessing transport disruptions and hearing concerns raised by local businesses as authorities seek to balance economic activity with border security measures.

Provincial authorities have also scheduled a joint committee meeting on 27 May to discuss long-term management of the crossing and possible adjustments to inspection procedures aimed at allowing legitimate trade to resume under tighter controls.

The Football Association has officially announced the appointment of 'Coach X' Wasapon Kaewphalaek as head coach of the Thai national men's under-17 football team. Coach X currently holds an AFC 'Pro' License and was selected by the association's technical department through a formal recruitment process aimed at elevating Thailand's U-17 team for all international football competitions moving forward.

Coach X brings extensive experience in Thai football across multiple roles. His club coaching background includes assistant coaching positions at Army United (2013-2014), Suphanburi FC (2014), True Bangkok United (2015-2020), and Thai League All-Stars (assistant coach). He also served as team manager at Port Authority FC (2025) and head coach at Phloengjchai FC (2026).

With Thailand's national team, Coach X previously worked as a team interpreter under Brian Robson (2009-2011) and Winfried Schäfer (2012-2013), and as an assistant coach under Mano Polking (2021-2023).

The coaching staff includes assistant coach Mika Chunwonsri (currently in AFC Pro License training), Natt Wetchabun (in AFC Pro License training), analyst Phan Winijjakul (with Thai League experience at Phloengjchai United and Siringhraj United), fitness coach Kritsana Kamutasen (with Phloengjchai FC background), and goalkeeper coach Vorawut Tipsaktworakul (pursuing AFC 'A' Diploma Goalkeeping Coaching Course).

Thailand's U-17 national team will compete in the AFC U-17 Asian Championship 2026 qualifiers scheduled for November 2025.

On May 22, 2569 at Sai Mai Road, Chaiyawat Sathavawichit, the Pheu Thai Party's candidate for Bangkok Governor, campaigned alongside former Bangkok Governor Pichet Rattakul and former campaign aide Chadchart Sittipunt, former Bangkok Governor. They helped campaign for Patraporn Kengrungruongchai, a Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly candidate from the Bang Sue district, with support from Picharoen Chaowapatanawong, Pheu Thai's secretary-general.

Picket explained his reasons for supporting Chaiyawat, noting he finds Chaiyawat interesting and worth supporting as Bangkok Governor. Chaiyawat has attractive qualities as a young professional engineer with experience at the Bank of Thailand. As an engineer, he thinks in terms of construction and design rather than mere repairs.

Picket continued that beyond Chaiyawat's background, he appreciates the Pheu Thai Party's belief in decentralized power and teamwork without a single protagonist. He views this as crucial since Bangkok is too large a city to rely on one white-knight hero. The party also believes in public participation and strengthening local governance.

"These ideas align with my thinking, which is why I volunteered to help Chaiyawat's campaign. I'm only assisting with politics and won't accept any position since I'm elderly. I can only offer advice and support. I'll help Chaiyawat campaign for Bangkok Governor, though I may also assist other assembly candidates in my working group, most of whom are from the Pheu Thai Party," Pichet said.

When asked whether Bangkok residents prefer independent candidates or party candidates for governor, Pichet noted both have worked well. Past independent governors like Pol. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang and Chadchart performed excellently. Even party-backed candidates have had freedom to work, with parties providing support rather than controlling them.

When asked if he had spoken with Chadchart, Pichet said no. In the previous election, he supported Chadchart because of his good intentions. Once Chadchart became governor, Pichet returned his campaign materials and ended his involvement.

When asked if he had analyzed the strengths and weaknesses between Chaiyawat and Chadchart, Pichet said the public must decide. He wouldn't presume to guide them, as voters are the best judges.

Chaiyawat expressed confidence in his bid as Bangkok Governor following Chadchart's announcement of re-running, saying he doesn't expect things to change and his position isn't about opposing anyone.

Bangkok United has announced contract extensions for key players headlined by legendary striker Muay Theerasil Dangda, while restructuring the club to boost its long-term sustainability. The club has announced adjustments to important personnel roles aimed at elevating the club and creating sustainable success, supporting head coach Ban Thachchatwan Sripan so he can focus fully on team management and on-field competition. With the Thai Football Association increasing foreign player quotas, the club recognizes the importance of strengthening technical management and has restructured key positions as follows: Appointing Danny Invincibile as Sporting Director. Drawing on his experience and commitment to building the club's youth football foundation, Danny will oversee overall technical policy, team direction, and strategy for player recruitment and transfers to align with the expanded foreign player quota. Danny will also retain his assistant coach position to work alongside Coach Ban in continuously strengthening the senior team. To establish a strong player development foundation and maintain team balance, the club has reached contract extensions with core players and signed permanent agreements with important players including: Everton Goncalves, team captain and defender; Muay Theerasil Dangda, world-class striker; Lee Ki-Je, South Korean national team defender; Nook Shinpong Raksa, experienced goalkeeper; and Ken Picha Uthorn, signed on a permanent basis. Bangkok United is confident that this restructuring and role reassignment represent another crucial step in maximizing club management efficiency and laying the foundation for the team to achieve its objectives.

One of Thailand's beloved entertainment couples, Lydia Saranrach and Matthew Dean, recently appeared together at the TCL Thailand New Product Grand Launch 2026 event at Impact Exhibition Hall 6 in Muang Thonburi on May 21st. Beyond sharing highlights from their romantic two-person trip to New Zealand, the couple also discussed the progress of their legal case against their former personal manager, which is currently in court proceedings. They acknowledged the case has affected their mental wellbeing and expressed their desire for it to conclude as quickly as possible, while maintaining faith in the justice system.

When asked if they had just returned from New Zealand as a couple, Lydia explained they're still adjusting to the time difference, waking at 4:30 AM daily due to the 5-6 hour difference. Matthew noted it was the longest they'd ever been apart from their child, an 8-day trip where he participated in a half-marathon in Hawke's Bay. Lydia shared she was pressured into running 10 kilometers after there was no kids' run category, though she enjoyed the supportive atmosphere of the event.

Regarding their romantic getaway, Lydia mentioned they've only recently started taking couples trips together, aiming for one annually. Matthew recommended New Zealand to all couples as a beautiful destination.

When asked about the legal case's progress, Lydia stated they're following court procedures and currently awaiting court dates, with no need to prepare additional evidence. She acknowledged the process is taking considerable time but understands it must follow proper steps. When asked if they'd spoken to the other party outside of court, Lydia confirmed they had tried but it didn't lead anywhere. She indicated they remain open to settlement if possible but past attempts at discussion have failed.

Asked how much the case troubles them, Lydia admitted it's inevitable that a lawsuit causes distress. She explained they normally don't have problems with anyone, but this dispute is clearly affecting their mental state and she wants it resolved quickly. The case already has a monetary claim and only the final stage remains. They're currently in the witness examination phase.

When asked if she discusses the matter with friends, Lydia acknowledged there is some stress involved, particularly given their busy lives with three children, work commitments, and personal activities like training for running and exercise. She emphasized she wants the case to end as soon as possible and trusts in the justice system to resolve it fairly.