National

Disaster Agency Assesses Damage as Severe Storm Batters Lat Krabang Housing Estate, Destroying 17 Roofs

A severe thunderstorm devastated a Lat Krabang housing estate on May 4, destroying 17 roofs and prompting disaster officials to deploy drones for damage assessment and relief coordination.

5 May Khaosod

The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation confirmed that a severe thunderstorm struck Bangkok on the evening of May 4, 2569, leaving extensive damage across multiple locations including fallen trees and damaged billboards. The Lat Krabang district was among the hardest hit areas, with one housing estate particularly devastated by the powerful winds, resulting in 17 homes with collapsed roofs, fallen ceilings, and structural damage. Fire and rescue personnel from the Lat Krabang station immediately mobilized to provide relief, deploying canvas tarps to cover damaged roofs and coordinating closely with district authorities.

On May 5, Deputy Director Anuwatn Annam of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation led an assessment team to the site, accompanied by the Lat Krabang fire station and the department's drone operations team. The drone team conducted aerial surveys of the affected area, capturing photographs and collecting damage data to enable district officials to evaluate the situation and accelerate relief and rehabilitation efforts for affected residents.

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National

Dr. Chadchart, People's Party Candidate for Bangkok Governor, Unveils Vision of 'Simple Bangkok' with Four Key Pillars

Chadchart Suwanrüjitr, the People's Party's Bangkok gubernatorial candidate, unveiled a "Simple Bangkok" platform focused on easing transportation, childcare costs, and job creation for ordinary workers struggling with the city's high cost

5 May Khaosod

At 5:35 PM on May 5, 2025, Chadchart Suwanrüjitr, list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party, presented his vision as the party's candidate for Bangkok Governor. He argued that while Bangkok is often portrayed as the most comfortable city for those with sufficient wealth, ordinary workers such as street food vendors, delivery riders, and office employees face a much harder reality. Chadchart emphasized that life in Bangkok is genuinely difficult due to transportation challenges, the costs of raising children and elderly parents, and increasing job losses in an era of AI technology displacement.

Chadchart spoke from personal experience, growing up in the old riverside neighborhoods of Bangkok and commuting long distances by multiple buses and boats for work. He challenged Bangkokians to question whether the capital should settle for its current state or whether it can offer better quality of life.

He highlighted the People's Party's commitment to addressing structural problems and outlined four policy packages to make life easier: (1) easier family support through assistance with childcare, (2) streamlined commerce, (3) job creation for the unemployed, (4) developing a walkable city with improved transportation. Chadchart emphasized that Bangkok is fundamentally about its people, not just infrastructure, and that the city should return time to residents currently wasted on daily commutes and administrative tasks. He stated that Bangkok should aspire to be a world-class capital that provides opportunities and support during difficult times, viewing citizens as the city's greatest resource rather than merely as administrative subjects.

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National

May 5, 2025 Football Schedule: Arsenal Host Atlético Madrid in Champions League Semi-Final Second Leg

Arsenal host Atlético Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg at Emirates Stadium on May 5, with the teams level after a 1-1 first-leg draw in Madrid.

5 May Khaosod

Football Schedule - May 5, 2025 UEFA Champions League Semi-Final Second Leg Arsenal vs. Atlético Madrid will kick off at 2:00 AM and be broadcast live on BeIN Sports 1. "The Gunners" Arsenal from England will host at Emirates Stadium against the Spanish visitors "The Mattress Makers" Atlético Madrid.

From the league phase, Arsenal won eight consecutive matches, collecting 24 points and advancing as the top seed, while Atlético Madrid recorded four wins, one draw, and three losses for 13 points, advancing as the 14th seed.

In the knockout rounds, Arsenal defeated Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 in the last 16, then Sporting Lisbon 1-0 in the quarter-finals. Atlético Madrid won their playoff knockout match against Club Brugge 7-4, then beat Tottenham Hotspur 7-5 in the last 16, and defeated Barcelona 3-2 in the quarter-finals.

The two teams have faced each other four times in European competitions, with each side winning once and drawing twice. Their first meeting in this round ended in a 1-1 draw at Atlético Madrid's home.

Arsenal will be without Miguel Merino and Jurrien Timber due to injury, while Kai Havertz and Martín Ødegaard are fitness concerns. Atlético Madrid will miss Pablo Barrios and Nicolás González due to injuries, with Julián Álvarez, Simeone, Alexander Sørloth, and José María Giménez as fitness doubts.

Arsenal are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation: David Raya; Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Piero Inguanzo; Martín Zubimendi, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Leandro Trossard; Víctor Osimhen.

Atlético Madrid are likely to use a 4-4-2: Jan Oblak; Marcos Llorente, Mats Hummels, Davi Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri; Julián Álvarez, Johnny Cardoso, Koke, Ademolaer Lukman; Julián Álvarez, Antoine Griezmann.

This match promises to be equally challenging for both sides, with the game expected to be intense and tight like their previous encounter, with a strong possibility the match could extend beyond 90 minutes.

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National

Democrats Announce All 50 Bangkok Assembly Candidates, Bangkok Governor Hopeful Revealed Mid-May by 'Mark'

The Democrat Party has finalized all 50 Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly candidates and selected a governor hopeful, with party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva set to announce both in mid-May.

5 May Khaosod

The Democrat Party has approved all 50 Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly (BMA) candidates along with its Bangkok governor candidate. The party is preparing for Abhisit Vejjajiva, the party's list MP and leader, to announce the candidates in mid-May.

On May 5, 2569, reporters confirmed that the Democrat Party's executive committee approved the complete list of 50 BMA candidates across all Bangkok districts. The approved candidates include candidates from Dusit (Sriram Phumijai), Phra Nakhon (Natchathanya Saspyankorn), Bang Sue (Thanvat Satitolapreecha), and other districts throughout Bangkok, spanning all 50 electoral zones.

While the party's executive committee has already approved the Bangkok governor candidate, the identity cannot yet be disclosed. Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva will make the official announcement unveiling both the assembly candidates and the governor candidate in mid-May.

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National

Thai MMA Association Ready to Support 'Rodtang' if He Seriously Pursues Mixed Martial Arts

The Thai MMA Association is ready to support Muay Thai star Rodtang's potential transition to mixed martial arts if he commits seriously to the sport, offering training with the national team and workshops.

5 May Khaosod

The Thai MMA Association, led by Dr. Sirichaiset Poolthipayannont, president of the Mixed Martial Arts Association of Thailand, stands ready to provide comprehensive guidance to renowned Muay Thai fighter Rodtang Jitmuangnon should he wish to seriously transition to MMA.

Reports indicate that Rodtang Jitmuangnon has announced his goal of becoming an MMA world champion, with two potential career paths available to him: either continuing with ONE Championship or moving to the UFC.

In response, Dr. Sirichaiset Poolthipayannont disclosed that the association is eager to offer Rodtang full support if he commits seriously to an MMA career. "If you want to be a champion, you need to join our workshops and train with the national team," he said. "At TAMMA, we have the 'Heal The Hero' program, and we're ready to support you with new experiences. There will be a seminar on May 9th at Prasarnmit University. We cordially invite Rodtang, his team, and all interested parties to attend starting at 9:00 a.m. Dr. Pichit Muangnaphot, a sports psychologist, will be the keynote speaker for this seminar."

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Breaking

Worst Storm in a Century Strikes Residents With Ferocity Throughout the Night—Power Poles Topple, Roofs and Walls Torn Away

A rare century-old storm struck Wiang Sa District in Nan Province on May 5, devastating over 150 homes, toppling power poles, and hurling a school pavilion 50 meters across the landscape with destructive winds.

5 May Khaosod

A severe storm pounded Wiang Sa District in Nan Province on May 5, 2569, devastating two communities with widespread destruction affecting more than 150 homes, downed power poles, uprooted trees, and a school pavilion blown 50 meters away. District officials led by Prasit Nota, Nan provincial representative for District 2, Thanasorn Pimsarn, Mae Sa subdistrict chief, and Chalerm Muanchai, village headman of Wang Yao, along with relevant agencies, conducted a damage assessment of the thunderstorm and powerful windstorm that struck Wiang Sa District the previous night. Preliminary inspection found over 150 affected homes, with Ban Oen Village 5 sustaining damage to 70 houses and Ban Wang Yao Village 7 suffering damage to 64 houses, with severe destruction where the wind stripped away roofs and walls from more than 50 homes, causing considerable distress to residents.

The village headman of Wang Yao stated that the storm was extremely violent, with exceptionally powerful winds that even lifted a wooden pavilion used by students at Mae Sa School and hurled it across a fence, landing on the road outside over 50 meters from its original location. Additionally, more than 10 power poles collapsed and large trees were snapped and blocked roadways, prompting the provincial electricity authority to cut power for safety reasons.

"Residents spent the entire night in darkness without telephone or internet signals to communicate with each other, and they remain concerned about further rainfall. This storm event is considered the most severe in 100 years, something no living resident has previously experienced," the headman said.

Provinicial representative Prasit stated he has urgently coordinated with relevant agencies including district administration, local government organizations, and disaster management units to provide immediate assistance to affected residents, including home repairs, temporary shelter arrangements, and government relief compensation.

Meanwhile, Chainrong Vongying, Nan Province Governor, has ordered the provincial disaster prevention and mitigation office and Wiang Sa District officials to expedite relief efforts for disaster victims. Relevant agencies continue surveying additional damage in hard-to-reach areas and have urged residents to closely monitor weather updates.

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Regional

Phatthalung Provincial Administration Waives 90-Day Fuel Tax to Ease Cost of Living

Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization has announced a 90-day suspension of fuel tax, reducing the rate from 4.54 satang per liter to zero. The measure, effective from May 6th through August 3rd, 2026, is intended to alleviate the burden of rising energy costs on residents and support the local economy during periods of energy price volatility.

5 May Khaosod

Phatthalung residents can expect relief as the Provincial Administrative Organization announces a 90-day suspension of fuel tax collection to ease the cost of living burden. Following an approved resolution, the organization will waive the previous tax rate of 4.54 satang per liter starting immediately.

At 10:30 AM on May 5th, 2026, Wisut Thammaphet, Governor of Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization, announced the suspension of the provincial fuel tax at the Provincial Administrative Organization meeting hall. The announcement was joined by Kuldida Petchwongse, President of the Provincial Administrative Council, Kamphu Petchtamrong, Phatthalung Energy Officer, alongside gas station operators, media representatives, and relevant agencies.

Wisut Thammaphet explained that instability in the Middle East has caused global and domestic energy prices to rise continuously, impacting production and transportation costs and driving up consumer prices, which broadly affects the public's cost of living. The Federation of Provincial Administrative Organizations from 14 Southern Thailand provinces held discussions to find relief measures and submitted proposals to the Association of Provincial Administrative Organizations of Thailand. The association voted to allow each province to implement assistance measures appropriate to its circumstances.

For Phatthalung, the Provincial Administrative Organization amended its fuel business tax collection regulations, reducing the tax rate from 4.54 satang per liter to 0.00 satang for 90 days to alleviate the public's financial burden.

The measure takes effect from May 6th, 2026 at 5:00 AM through August 3rd, 2026, with normal tax collection resuming from August 4th, 2026 onwards.

Wisut further stated that this measure represents collaborative effort from all sectors to reduce energy costs for the public and hopes to mitigate the impact of volatile energy prices to some degree.

Other officials present agreed that the measure will help reduce energy costs in the province and benefit the provincial economy, particularly in transportation and retail commerce sectors. The Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization hopes this tax suspension will be an important mechanism to assist citizens and build confidence in government management during economic volatility.

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National

Government Savings Bank Rewards Responsible Borrowers with 0.5% Interest Rate Reduction Through Year-End

Government Savings Bank offers responsible home loan borrowers a 0.5% interest rate reduction for up to eight months through its new "Good Home Payment GSB Discount" program, available for enrollment until December 31, 2025.

5 May Khaosod

Government Savings Bank is promoting financial discipline by offering a 0.5% annual interest rate reduction for up to 8 months to responsible borrowers on home loans, with immediate eligibility confirmation through December 31, 2025. GSB Director Songpol Cheewapaññarot stated the bank aims to strengthen financial discipline among the public by encouraging borrowers to make responsible loan repayments according to contract terms, maintain good credit history, and avoid defaulting on loans that could negatively impact future borrowing and the broader economy. The "Good Home Payment GSB Discount" program targets home loan borrowers who have demonstrated consistent on-time payments over the past three years, with no missed payments in the last 12 months, and have not previously participated in other bank assistance programs. Eligible borrowers receive a 0.5% annual interest rate discount for up to 8 months without submitting new documents, and can verify their eligibility and enroll through the MyMo app from May 1 through December 31, 2025. Customers can contact GSB branches or the GSB Contact Center at 1115 for more information.

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National

Global PCB Manufacturers Unite to Position Thailand as World-Class AI-Ready Electronics Circuit Board Hub

Global PCB manufacturers gathered in Bangkok to unveil initiatives positioning Thailand as a world-class electronics circuit board manufacturing hub, with a focus on supporting AI infrastructure development. The 2026 Thailand PCB Industry Summit released a strategic report highlighting market opportunities amid global supply chain restructuring, with projections showing the global PCB market could reach $113.7 billion by 2030 driven by AI demand.

5 May Khaosod

Major global PCB manufacturers have announced their readiness to drive Thailand toward becoming a regional center for advanced-level PCB manufacturing capable of supporting world-class artificial intelligence infrastructure. As global supply chains undergo restructuring and demand for AI processing power continues to surge, Thailand is emerging as an important new manufacturing hub for the electronics PCB industry at advanced production levels.

On April 27 in Bangkok, the Taiwan Printed Circuit Association (TPCA) partnered with the Thailand Printed Circuit Board Association (THPCA) to host the "2026 Thailand PCB Industry Summit," alongside the release of a survey report titled "Opportunities for Thailand's PCB Industry Amid the AI Wave and Geopolitical Shifts." The summit focused on critical practical business issues in Thailand, including work permits, workforce development, infrastructure, and government policies.

This strategic-level leadership forum received support from the Hong Kong Printed Circuit Association (HKPCA) and the China Printed Circuit Association (CPCA), with over 60 executives and representatives from manufacturers in Taiwan, China, and Thailand in attendance. Thai government agencies also participated, including the Board of Investment (BOI), Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), National Science and Technology Policy Office (NXPD), and the Ministry of Labor, reflecting the Thai government's commitment to PCB industry development and international cooperation.

The cross-regional survey clearly indicates growth directions for the global PCB market and Thailand's potential. A key highlight was the launch of the industry survey report on "Opportunities for Thailand's PCB Industry Amid the AI Wave and Geopolitical Shifts," developed through collaboration between TPCA, THPCA, and HKPCA.

The report compiled survey data and gathered perspectives from industry players across regions, reflecting strategic issues commonly emphasized by PCB manufacturers in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Thailand, including investment strategy formulation for Thailand, supply chain strengthening in the region, and human resource development.

This not only elevates industry credibility and provides a genuine overview of the sector but also underscores that amid global industrial restructuring, Asia's PCB industry is moving toward closer regional cooperation integration.

AI is driving the global PCB market toward multi-billion-dollar growth, opening a window of opportunity for Thailand to advance into high-value manufacturing. The report indicates that the global PCB market continues to grow, benefiting from AI infrastructure investments. It is projected that the market will reach $92.4 billion USD in 2025 and is expected to grow to $113.7 billion USD by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 23.1 percent. The report shows that demand for AI processing capabilities is becoming the primary driver of global PCB industry growth, while also accelerating advanced manufacturing and supply chain restructuring, which will bring new waves of economic and industrial growth opportunities for Thailand.

To address human resource challenges, TPCA organized a "Thailand-Taiwan HR Network Meeting and Forum" in the afternoon of the same day.

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National

STEK Thailand Announces Major Expansion Across Thailand and ASEAN, Revolutionizing the Automotive Film Market for Premium Customers

STEK Thailand has officially launched in Thailand and ASEAN as the exclusive distributor of STEK automotive films, establishing its headquarters and first service center in Bangkok. The company is introducing five product lines targeting premium customers, from paint protection and color-change films to window films and marine vehicle protection products. This expansion represents a significant shift toward world-class standards in Thailand's automotive film industry.

5 May Khaosod

STEK Thailand, partnering with The TPS Group—a leader in automotive care products—has officially entered the Thai and ASEAN markets with the establishment of STEK Thailand. The company is opening its headquarters and first service center in the country, ready to revolutionize the automotive film market under "The Revolution" concept, offering five product lines for premium customers.

Chairman Chaichan Uppaphan of The TPS Group revealed that the company has been officially appointed as the exclusive distributor of STEK's global-standard paint protection films, paint replacement wraps, and window films in Thailand, while also serving as the Strategic Hub for STEK across the Asia-Pacific region. This role includes distribution, dealer network development, and installation standards improvement.

"The market for premium paint protection films, color-change films, and window films has significant growth potential," Chaichan explained. "Modern vehicle owners seek products that protect both their health and their vehicles' aesthetics and safety, while environmental and weather changes drive consumers to seek high-quality, long-lasting, and value-for-money products."

STEK Thailand has opened its flagship headquarters and first standard service center on Pradipat-Manutham Road in Bangkok, following "The New STEK 2026" concept. This emphasizes comprehensive service across all dimensions—from consultation and product selection to precise installation in proper conditions—ensuring the best results and experience for every customer.

Nicha Uppaphan, Director and Marketing Manager of STEK Thailand, stated the company will focus on communicating with customers and distributors through "The Revolution" concept, reflecting the Thai automotive film industry's significant transition to global standards in product technology, data transparency, and installation quality. The goal is to provide Thai consumers with confident access to world-class brands.

STEK Thailand's product strategy covers all market segments, from general users to the rapidly growing EV market and ultra-luxury buyers seeking cutting-edge technology and perfection. Five main product innovations will be launched:

1. DYNO Series—a new definition of world-class paint protection and color-change films 2. FORCESHIELD—a new option for the mass premium market, emphasizing value and real-world performance 3. LUNARAY—a window film with practical performance using advanced manufacturing technology 4. STEK Formula—a vehicle care product line designed specifically to work with all film types 5. STEK Marine—a marine vehicle protection line, launching in Thailand for the first time, targeting premium boat and yacht markets

The company also enhances consumer confidence through the STEK ONE system, developed to provide comprehensive product verification and service assurance.

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National

Honda Big Bike Showcases Custom Motorcycles at Bangkok Hot Rod Custom Show

Honda Big Bike will showcase custom Honda GB350C motorcycles at the Bangkok Hot Rod Custom Show 2026, Thailand's largest custom motorcycle event, held May 16-17 at IMPACT Exhibition Center. Attendees can participate in test rides, try to win a one-of-a-kind Honda GB350C Limited Edition by FatBoy Design through lucky draws, and enjoy exclusive activities and prizes including t-shirts and stickers.

5 May Khaosod

Honda Big Bike invites motorcycle enthusiasts to experience the charm of classic bikes at Bangkok Hot Rod Custom Show 2026, Thailand's largest custom motorcycle event. Held May 16-17, 2026 at IMPACT Exhibition Center Halls 11-12 (12:00-22:00), the show will feature Honda GB350C Custom models from top customization shops in diverse styles. Event attendees have the chance to win a Honda GB350C Limited Edition by FatBoy Design—an exclusive, one-of-a-kind custom bike available only at this event.

Visitors can experience test rides of Honda's classic big bikes and participate in activities to win special prizes including Bangkok Hot Rod 2026 t-shirts and limited edition Honda GB350C stickers. To participate, simply download the My Honda Moto app, take a photo with your favorite Honda GB350C at the Honda BigBike booth, and post it on Facebook or Instagram with designated hashtags.

The first 30 Honda GB350C owners who ride their bikes to the event receive exclusive parking, a complimentary Bangkok Hot Rod 2026 t-shirt, and a free one-day event pass (limited availability for early arrivals). Join the celebration of classic motorcycle charm Honda-style and draw inspiration from Thailand's premier custom motorcycle showcase.

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