National

Gold Prices Today May 5, 2026 - Thai Gold Association Announcement

The Thai Gold Association reported stable gold prices on May 5, 2026, with ornamental gold holding steady at 71,200 baht per baht weight. Gold bars were priced at 70,200-70,400 baht per baht weight, while global spot gold traded at $4,540.50 per ounce. Gold merchants anticipate prices could surge by 1,000-2,000 baht in the coming days.

5 May Khaosod

Gold prices remained flat on May 5, 2026, compared to May 4's closing prices, with ornamental gold (96.5%) selling at 71,200 baht per baht weight, according to the Thai Gold Association's announcement published at 9:06 AM. Gold bars had a buying price of 70,200 baht per baht weight and a selling price of 70,400 baht per baht weight under the first announcement. Ornamental gold (96.5%) was being bought at 68,796.08 baht per baht weight and sold at 71,200 baht per baht weight, while spot gold on the global market traded at $4,540.50 per ounce. Gold bar buying price: 70,200 baht per baht weight, selling price: 70,400 baht per baht weight. Ornamental gold buying price: 68,796.08 baht per baht weight, selling price: 71,200 baht per baht weight. Gold merchants predict the market will open tomorrow with prices potentially surging by 1,000-2,000 baht per baht weight, potentially breaking through 80,000 baht.

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National

Complex Regulations vs. Safety: Time to Balance and Elevate Thailand's Ride-Hailing System

Thailand is tightening ride-hailing regulations to boost safety, but faces a major implementation gap: only 2,000 vehicles have registered since January despite 39,000 driver applications, while systemic barriers like insurance costs and li

5 May Khaosod

Complex Regulations vs. Safety: Time to Balance and Elevate Thailand's Ride-Hailing System

Recent incidents affecting ride-hailing platform users have prompted the government to significantly strengthen regulation of the industry, particularly requiring drivers to register vehicles as public transport and obtain proper commercial driving licenses. Multiple key agencies including the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), and the Department of Land Transport have emphasized this direction, reflecting collective efforts to raise industry safety standards.

However, a critical question emerges beneath these safety goals: "Is the system ready for this level of transition?"

Since January 2025, over 39,000 drivers have applied for registration, but only approximately 2,000 vehicles have been successfully registered. Meanwhile, the total number of properly licensed public vehicles system-wide (both cars and motorcycles) stands at only around 19,000—minuscule compared to the hundreds of thousands of platform drivers. These figures starkly reveal a "structural gap" between policy and operational capacity.

Drivers Face a Challenging Transition

In practice, proper system registration depends on more than driver willingness. It involves multiple steps: vehicle registration, license applications, documentation requirements, and qualifications that demand both time and money. Though many apply, only some complete the process fully, reflecting an "adaptation gap" and systemic limitations that block many drivers. Premature strict enforcement without addressing these constraints could directly impact drivers actively working toward compliance.

While some measures have begun implementation—such as ETDA's online driver verification system (Driver Verify)—many critical issues remain under consideration: public transport insurance costs, hire-purchase and vehicle financing terms, fees and documentation requirements, and vehicle type and specification limitations.

These measures cannot yet be fully implemented, leaving drivers facing persistent constraints and unable to achieve registration targets.

Strict Rules Must Come with Real Implementation

The critical question is not merely "Are rules strict enough?" but "Can they actually be executed?"

Platforms play a crucial role in supporting driver compliance while upgrading screening and safety measures. Simultaneously, ride-hailing remains vital to Thailand's economy, with over 400,000 drivers generating 30,000–50,000 million baht annually. If regulation cannot translate to real practice or lacks uniform enforcement across platforms, it risks broad consequences: investor confidence, driver income opportunities, service continuity, and overall transport system efficiency.

Safety Must Come with Fairness

While the primary goal is raising safety standards, law enforcement must rest on principles of fairness. The critical question is whether regulations can be enforced equitably.

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National

Chompoo Araya Prepares for Cannes 2026 – Guarantees Durian Must Be Eaten at the Orchard, Reveals Why She Still Carries Abigail

Thai superstar Chompoo Araya has revealed she's nearly 100% prepared for her upcoming appearance at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, including planning all her daily looks. In a recent interview, she shared her passion for fresh durian from orchards in Chanthaburi province, explaining that she willingly cuts all carbohydrates to indulge in her favorite fruit since it must be eaten straight from the tree for optimal flavor. She also discussed why her young daughter Abigail constantly needs to be carried, describing it as the child's emotional safe zone.

5 May Khaosod

Chompoo Araya is preparing for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, declaring her looks are nearly 100% ready and guaranteeing that durian must be eaten fresh from the orchard. She's willing to cut carbs entirely to make room for her favorite fruit, and price is no object if she loves it. The superstar, who recently appeared at a LEGO Certified Store opening at Siam Paragon, shared a delightful moment from her visit to a durian orchard in Chanthaburi province, where she enjoyed fresh durian straight from the tree and is willing to eliminate all carbohydrates to savor her favorite treat. She also updated her readiness before heading to the Cannes Film Festival red carpet this year, acknowledging that audiences have high expectations annually, but focusing on maintaining her own standards. She shared the adorable moment about her daughter Abigail, who still clings to her mother so much that she needs to be carried constantly, as it serves as her daughter's emotional safe zone.

When asked why one must go to the orchard to buy durian from Chanthaburi: "From early morning, I'll tell you it's different. When we pick and eat straight from the tree compared to when it has to travel, be transported, and sit somewhere – it's just not the same." She explained how she discovered this farm through connections and has since become close with the farm owner, visiting whenever possible because everyone in their group loves durian.

Regarding the texture and taste: "It's delicious because it ripens on the tree. Believe me, it has to be good." She describes the texture as "shredded chicken-like – soft and shreddy, not crispy."

When asked about favorite varieties, she mentioned she hasn't tried all of them this year but loves varieties like "Gob Chai Nam" (a local favorite), Monthong, and Musang King. She noted that some are originally Thai varieties that were replanted elsewhere and given new names.

Regarding family consumption: "It's just me and Auntie Jeb (the farm owner) who eat together. The kids have tried it, and Sai is starting to encourage them to eat it, but we don't force them." When asked about her intake, she emphasized that if it's not delicious, she won't eat it, but if it is, she goes all out – cutting rice and other carbohydrates entirely to make room for durian, given its high calorie content.

On the highest price she's paid: "I'm not sure – you'd have to ask Auntie Jeb since she handles the money. But I've heard premium varieties like Monthong are expensive. If I love it though, price isn't the issue."

With her Cannes trip approaching in about a week, her preparations include planning outfits, accessories, and sponsor arrangements. She maintains her regular lifestyle and self-care routine. When asked if the excitement has worn off: "If you prepare well, the actual event is quite chaotic with many sponsorship obligations to deliver. But if we plan and organize properly, it's less stressful. I'm already 100% prepared with my daily looks for each day."

Regarding communication with her mother Pom Vinij, who was heavily discussed last year: "We'll probably have a meeting before the flight. We already see each other through work, but haven't updated yet because the costume just got finalized."

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Breaking

Mayon Volcano Continues to Erupt! Pyroclastic Flows Cascade Down—Affecting 200,000 People

Mayon Volcano in the Philippines unleashed a pyroclastic flow down its southwestern slope, affecting nearly 200,000 people across 124 villages with thick ashfall and forcing over 5,450 evacuations.

5 May Khaosod

Mayon Volcano continues erupting—AP reported on May 5 that nearly 200,000 people in 124 villages in the northeastern Philippines have been affected after Mayon Volcano erupted, spewing ash and smoke since last weekend. There was no explosive eruption from Mayon, which has been erupting mildly on and off since January, but huge deposits of lava on its southwestern slope suddenly cascaded down in a pyroclastic flow—an avalanche of hot rocks, ash and gas—before nightfall on Saturday, said Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. No deaths or injuries were reported, but massive clouds of ash scattered over 120 villages, mostly in Albay province, catching many by surprise and slowing down motorists due to poor visibility. "The ashfall was just so thick and there was zero visibility even in our national road," said Caloy Baldo, mayor of Camalig town, which lies near the volcano's foothills. Agricultural areas suffered damage from the volcanic ash, with reports of 4 buffalo and 1 cow dying in Camalig town. The Department of Social Welfare and Development revealed that more than 5,450 people have been evacuated to emergency shelters in Camalig, Malilipot, Ligao, and Tabaco towns.

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Police

CCTV Reveals New Angle in Sticky Rice Tragedy: Vendor's Stabbing Death Found to Be Self-Defense

CCTV footage from a fatal stabbing at a Chiang Mai intersection reveals the sticky rice vendor acted in self-defense after being attacked by the deceased and his grandmother, who initiated the assault with a chair and physical violence.

5 May Khaosod

New CCTV footage has emerged in the fatal sticky rice vendor stabbing case at Wat Phan On intersection in Muang District, Chiang Mai, showing the incident was an act of self-defense. The case stems from a recurring dispute between a sticky rice vendor and her relatives, resulting in a fatal stabbing.

At 12:20 AM on May 5, 2025, police brought the knife-wielding vendor to a police holding facility for questioning. The deceased's relatives arrived at the facility and attempted to attack the vendor while hurling insults. Officers intervened to prevent harm to the suspect. The vendor claimed the deceased and the grandmother had attacked her first, forcing her to use the knife defensively, but her account went unheeded amid continued verbal assault.

Police Major Prachaya Thisula, commander of Muang District Police, ordered investigators to review CCTV footage again to clarify the circumstances. The footage revealed that the deceased was called by the 63-year-old grandmother—the mango sticky rice vendor's relative—to assist her. In the video, the deceased grabbed a plastic chair to strike the vendor, who held a knife. Rather than lowering the chair, he positioned himself behind the vendor and attempted to restrain her. The grandmother then pulled the vendor's hair forcefully, causing her to fall, and kicked her repeatedly while the deceased joined in the assault.

With the knife already in hand, the vendor thrust it toward the man's chest. The deceased pulled the knife from his chest and threw it back at the vendor. The CCTV footage demonstrates that the initial assault came from the grandmother and deceased, with the vendor's stabbing representing defensive action taken while being overwhelmed.

Police will proceed with charges of intentional homicide in self-defense against the vendor and conspiracy charges against both the grandmother and the knife-wielder.

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National

Fortune Teller Issues Dire Disaster Warning, Alerts Public to Danger Signs This Month and Economic Hardship Ahead

A prominent fortune teller has issued warnings of impending disasters and epidemic-like phenomena starting this month, predicting the economy will worsen before recovery and oil prices will face increased pressure. He cautioned that central Thailand is the safest region and emphasized that this year presents combined water and fire hazards that Thais must prepare for, while also forecasting gold prices will eventually reach six figures.

5 May Khaosod

Fortune teller Mor Plai Phraai Krasip unveiled his latest predictions on the television program "Celebrity Sitting Clear DEEP TALK" on Channel 8, discussing the nation's economic outlook and natural disasters.

Regarding economic recovery, Mor Plai stated: "We haven't reached the bottom yet. The economy is currently in decline, so you need patience and endurance. Things are already difficult, but they'll get worse. Oil prices will face tougher times. Be cautious from next month onwards. There's a turning point, but whether authorities allow it to happen is another question. Today, the respected figure mentioned we haven't reached a state of conflict yet—we're around level 50. If we reach that level, the situation could escalate to 62."

On gold prices, Mor Plai said: "For long-term investment, it's still worthwhile. Currently, prices are high and stable. It's a time where if you're brave, you win—like gambling. But eventually, gold will reach six figures. That's the truth."

Mor Plai warned of frightening disasters and epidemic-like signals starting this month, saying: "Water is coming 2-3 months earlier than normal. We need to prepare soon. There are signs of floods, mud, and dangerous conditions coming from higher elevations."

"There are also signs resembling epidemics happening in certain areas—quite frightening. The warning is to be cautious from May onwards. Heavy rains after Songkran will cause water retention issues. It depends on how quickly authorities can manage drainage, but it will take time. Some areas will suffer subsidence, and both water and mud will surge together in dark, cold torrents. This year's water and fire hazards are what everyone must watch for."

On safe locations, Mor Plai advised: "The central regions of the country are safest right now."

He also noted: "This year water and fire come together. Water should extinguish fire, but deteriorating infrastructure causes fires, which occur after floods. Thai citizens should check their home electrical systems while authorities assist. Water systems depend on rain and drainage, which isn't working well. It's like every year but more intense. With a weak economy, we lack funds for repairs. That's the most serious problem."

Mor Plai added another warning: "There's also concern about high areas and limestone issues that haven't been resolved."

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Regional

Tragic: Deranged Son Attacks Father Over Money, Father Dies in Home Struggle

A 74-year-old man in Phatthalung Province died after a violent struggle with his 44-year-old son over 90,000 baht; the son, with a history of drug addiction, fled before police arrived.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2569, Sorote Chanapon, an investigator with Muang Phatthalung Police Station, disclosed that at 10:00 PM on May 4, officers responded to reports of a shooting at a home in Phayakhan Subdistrict, Muang District, Phatthalung Province. Upon arrival with paramedics from Phatthalung Hospital, they found a severely injured 74-year-old man named Wiang (name withheld) lying unconscious outside his home. Despite resuscitation efforts, he died in the emergency room. Officers found scattered belongings and signs of struggle inside the kitchen.

According to questioning, Prakong (name withheld), 64, the victim's wife, stated that before the incident, Wiang was with his 44-year-old son, Weeruyut (name withheld), over a dispute regarding 90,000 baht from the sale of cattle that the father had kept in his account, intending to transfer it the next day. The father needed the money before his scheduled dialysis appointment at the hospital.

During the altercation, Wiang attempted to leave the house to avoid confrontation, but his son prevented him from leaving. A violent struggle ensued in the kitchen, and due to the father's weak condition and multiple chronic illnesses, he sustained injuries and collapsed unconscious outside. Relatives called for emergency assistance, and Weeruyut followed them to the hospital but disappeared when police arrived.

Prakong revealed that her son had a history of drug addiction and erratic behavior, frequently quarreling with family members. He had previously harmed himself, been referred for treatment twice by police, but resumed drug use after discharge. Police have documented the crime scene and are actively searching for Weeruyut to press charges. The victim's body has been taken for merit-making at a nearby temple.

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Police

Monster Truck Brakes Fail During Show, Crashes Into Barrier and Spectators; 3 Dead, Multiple Injured

A monster truck's brake failure during an exhibition in Popayán, Colombia on May 2nd caused it to crash into spectators, killing three people including a 10-year-old girl and injuring 38 others.

5 May Khaosod

BBC reports on a tragic incident during a monster truck exhibition in Popayán, Cauca province in southern Colombia on May 2nd, where the vehicle lost control due to suspected brake failure. Three people were killed, including a 10-year-old girl, and 38 others were injured. Video footage shows spectators panicking and fleeing as the monster truck crashed through a barrier and plowed into the crowd before colliding with an electrical pole. Juan Carlos Muñoz Bravo, mayor of Popayán, stated that authorities will conduct a thorough investigation. Octavio Guzmán, governor of Cauca province, expressed deep condolences to the families affected by this tragic accident.

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National

Biu Khing Shocked by JJ and Ta Neng Downgrading Status, Respects Their Decision and Sends Encouragement

Thai actor Biu Khing expressed shock upon learning that couple JJ Gritchnapon and Ta Neng Kanyavee ended their 10-year relationship, but respected their decision and sent them encouragement as former company colleagues.

5 May Khaosod

Fans were shocked when the couple JJ Gritchnapon and Ta Neng Kanyavee announced they were downgrading their relationship status to just close friends, ending a romance spanning over 10 years, amid support from those around them and countless fans.

Recently, Biu Khing Puttipong, a close junior from Nada Daow, encountered the news at the LEGO Certified Store opening event at Siam Paragon's Fashion Hall on the first floor. He opened up to Sawad Baan Entertainment about being quite shocked by the news, as he shared memories with them dating back to when they were in the same company. He sent encouragement to the couple and respected their best decision. He also updated on fan meet moments from the past and discussed the drama involving ticket scalpers.

How was the two-day fan meet recently? Did you give fans plenty of cool moments?

"It was good. I haven't organized a fan meet in almost two years, so every fan meet feels like updating life with fans who've grown up with me. Some have been coming for 10 years since I was in school. We chat and update each other like friends, giving each other encouragement. I remember almost everyone who came."

What was the most common message fans asked you about?

"Mostly like meeting friends after a long time not talking. They'd share how long they've been following, which performance impressed them, or what moment we shared together. Some were nurses who just came off their shift to see us, and they'd make jokes we never expected."

Asking about the ticket scalping issue at fan meets?

"Yes, there was the issue of impersonators or people illegally reselling tickets. It's something that shouldn't happen. We have to credit the team for planning good preventive measures and checking constantly. Some only got caught after entering, so we had to delete clips or revoke their pass. In later rounds, we became stricter."

Did you feel bad about this happening?

"I wasn't upset. When I saw them getting caught, I kind of smiled secretly (laughs). I was happy justice was served."

One more thing—how was P's (a friend's) birthday this year? What did you wish for them?

"I wish them well every day, not just on birthdays. I wish they encounter only good things and good people, because they already have everything. I don't know what else to wish for them."

Did you give them a gift?

"I'm not saying."

Asking about the JJ and Ta Neng news a bit—were you shocked when you saw the news?

"I was shocked, quite a lot actually, because we share a lot of experiences and memories from the Nada Daow days. The last time we met was probably at an older sister's wedding in March."

Do you feel sad about their 10-year relationship?

"I don't feel sad about it. I think it's a matter between the two of them. Since they ended it with emotional connection, I'm happy for them. They must have made the best decision for both of them. No matter how it ended, we're still siblings like always. And I want to be an encouragement to both of them."

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Community

Mor Chang Reveals Top 5 Zodiac Signs with the Best Fortune in May—Time for Success and Positive Change

Astrologer Mor Chang has identified the five zodiac signs with the best fortune for May 2569, with Cancer topping the list due to Jupiter's favorable influence. The forecast predicts success, positive change, and outstanding luck for these signs, with May 5, 15, and 22 identified as the most auspicious dates in the month.

4 May Khaosod

It's time for good fortune. Astrologer Mor Chang Thatsaphorn has posted about the five luckiest zodiac signs for May 2569.

Top 5 Luckiest Zodiac Signs for May:

Rank 1: Cancer Jupiter is entering, accompanied by other supportive celestial bodies, bringing success and positive change in the right direction.

Rank 2: Dragon Luck is strong across the board—everything stands out remarkably well, especially fortune and prosperity.

Rank 3: Libra Financial matters are shifting in a positive direction.

Rank 4: Gemini

Rank 5: Taurus

Mor Chang also revealed the three auspicious dates in May: May 5 May 15 May 22

Source: Astrologer Mor Chang Thatsaphorn Sritula Sad News Team, May 5, 2569

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National

Today's Gas Prices May 5, 2026: Latest Update from 5 Service Stations

Fuel prices across five major service stations remain mostly aligned on May 5, with regular gasohol 95 holding at 43.30 baht per liter at PTT, Bangchak, PT, and Caltex, while Shell charges slightly higher at 43.80 baht.

4 May Khaosod

Gas prices for May 5, 2026 became effective at 5:00 AM with updates from five service stations. The Energy Policy and Planning Office under the Ministry of Energy reported the latest fuel prices from PTT, Bangchak, PT, Caltex, and Shell.

PTT Station (May 5, 2026): Gasohol 95: 43.30 baht/liter Gasohol E20: 36.30 baht/liter Gasohol E85: 32.24 baht/liter Gasohol 91: 42.93 baht/liter Gasohol 95 Premium: 52.39 baht/liter Benzin 95: 52.89 baht/liter Diesel: 40.80 baht/liter Diesel B20: 33.80 baht/liter Diesel Premium: 62.10 baht/liter

Bangchak Station (May 5, 2026): Gasohol 95: 43.30 baht/liter Gasohol E20: 36.30 baht/liter Gasohol E85: 32.24 baht/liter Gasohol 91: 42.93 baht/liter Gasohol 95 Premium: 56.04 baht/liter Diesel: 40.80 baht/liter Diesel B20: 33.80 baht/liter Diesel Premium: 62.10 baht/liter

PT Station (May 5, 2026): Gasohol 95: 43.30 baht/liter Gasohol E20: 36.30 baht/liter Gasohol 91: 42.93 baht/liter Benzin 95: 53.39 baht/liter Diesel: 40.80 baht/liter Diesel B20: 33.80 baht/liter

Shell Station (May 5, 2026): Gasohol 95: 43.80 baht/liter Gasohol E20: 36.80 baht/liter Gasohol 91: 43.18 baht/liter Gasohol 95 Premium: 49.84 baht/liter Diesel: 40.80 baht/liter Diesel Premium: 49.84 baht/liter

Caltex Station (May 5, 2026): Gasohol 95: 43.30 baht/liter Gasohol E20: 36.30 baht/liter Gasohol 91: 42.93 baht/liter Benzin 95: 56.01 baht/liter Diesel: 40.80 baht/liter Diesel Premium: 62.10 baht/liter

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