National

Rangsun Dons Blue to Compete for Bangkok Councilor Seat in Laksai District, Vows to Try Again After Narrowly Missing Victory by Just 198 Votes

Rangsun Kiyapatch announced his third campaign bid for a Bangkok Metropolitan Council seat representing Laksai District, running on the Democratic Party ticket. He lost the previous election by just 198 votes and is seeking another opportunity, emphasizing his nearly 20-year commitment to improving residents' quality of life through better infrastructure, utilities, and public services. Rangsun argues that the BMC position is closest to people's daily needs and can ensure Bangkok's substantial budget is used to address Laksai's persistent problems effectively.

6d ago Khaosod

Rangsun Kiyapatch, running on the Democratic Party (DP) ticket, is campaigning for the Bangkok Metropolitan Council seat in Laksai District and has announced his intention to run again after losing by just 198 votes. He emphasized that Laksai residents are not simply a voting base but a community he feels genuinely committed to.

On May 13, 2569, Rangsun Kiyapatch, the DP candidate for the Laksai BMC seat, revealed that elections will be held on June 28. He stressed that the BMC position is the closest to people's daily lives and is crucial for improving the quality of life in Laksai. The everyday problems residents face—including road conditions, drainage systems, sidewalks, bridges, street lighting, waste management, cleanliness, garbage collection, canals, public parks, health centers, childcare facilities, schools, athletic fields, and elderly care—all fall directly under BMC responsibility.

Rangsun stated that Bangkok has an annual budget of nearly 100 billion baht, and the BMC has a duty to scrutinize, filter, and ensure every baht of city funds is used to address Laksai residents' problems effectively. If Bangkok's budget is allocated more seriously and consistently to tackle existing, recurring problems in the area, many issues residents endure daily could genuinely change.

"I believe the BMC seat is the closest position to the community and can solve problems in concrete, tangible ways. This is why I am determined to run for the Laksai BMC seat again. Previously, I ran twice and lost by only 198 votes, and today I am asking for another opportunity," Rangsun said.

Rangsun noted that over nearly 20 years, he has accumulated experience working intensively in the area through both government and private sector roles, caring for Laksai residents directly or indirectly during every crisis. He has always believed that Laksai is not merely a voting base but a community he is genuinely committed to, and he wants to see a real improvement in residents' quality of life.

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Police

Region 2 Army Releases Photo of 'Uncle Yotchon' After Cambodian Arrest, Explains Timeline of Border Forest Entry

A 58-year-old man from Surin Province was arrested by Cambodian authorities after illegally crossing the Thai-Cambodian border near Kabchoeng District in late April and is now detained in Cambodia facing charges of illegal border crossing.

6d ago Khaosod

On May 13, 2025, the Region 2 Army Command released details about the disappearance of Yotchon Sainoi, a 58-year-old resident from Moo 7, Kantrajramuan Subdistrict, Prasart District, Surin Province. He had reported a missing persons case to Kabchoeng Police Station after venturing into a forest near Huay Samriang, close to Nontong village in Kokkachian Subdistrict, Kabchoeng District, which sits near the Thai-Cambodian border. Contact with him was lost starting April 25, 2025. Officers discovered his motorcycle parked at the forest edge, prompting urgent coordination with security agencies and local administration for immediate investigation and assistance.

Following coordination with Cambodian authorities through Lt. Col. Pow Peng, border liaison chief for the Orotsamed area, Thai officials were informed that Yotchon Sainoi had illegally crossed into the Kingdom of Cambodia and was arrested by Cambodian officials. He was subsequently prosecuted in Udon Mueang Province on charges of illegal border crossing and military area trespassing, and is currently detained at Udon Mueang Prison.

The Region 2 Army Command has coordinated closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the Thai Consulate General in Siemreap monitoring the situation and providing ongoing consular assistance to ensure his treatment adheres to humanitarian principles and relevant legal processes. Yotchon is reported to be in good health and safety while in custody.

The Region 2 Army Command urges border residents to know that military units have increased security measures including patrols, inspections, and checkpoint operations along the entire border to prevent similar incidents and ensure public safety. The command also requests cooperation from those needing to forage or conduct activities near the border to exercise caution and coordinate in advance with military or local officials to ensure proper safety for life and property, thereby reducing risks of getting lost or engaging in activities that could violate neighboring country laws.

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Police

Former Mobile Operator Executive Involved in Hit-and-Run Reports to Police

A former mobile operator executive reported to police on hit-and-run charges in Bangkok's Ladphrao area, allegedly hitting a car while intoxicated in January and fleeing the scene after exchanging insurance details.

6d ago Khaosod

A former mobile operator executive accused of hitting and fleeing from a vehicle in the Ladphrao area arrived at Ladphrao Police Station on May 13 at 1:49 p.m. to meet with investigating officers and hear the charges against him. The victim, Saai Mai Tong Rod, reported that the executive hit her car from behind while apparently intoxicated and then fled after exchanging insurance information. The victim claims she has faced pressure from local police attempting to settle the matter and intimidation from the defendant's lawyer, though the case has seen little progress since the January 7 incident.

When arriving at the station, the defendant briefly greeted media before heading to the investigation room on the third floor, accompanied by his lawyer. He remained silent with journalists and his legal team requested that media not follow them inside to observe the questioning process.

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National

Border Trade Surges 41.4% in March 2025, Exceeding 100 Billion Baht

Thailand's cross-border trade surged 41.4% in March 2025, exceeding 100 billion baht in total value, driven by strong growth in both exports and imports. The expansion was particularly fueled by electronics imports, which saw significant increases in computer components, telecommunications equipment, and magnetic storage media. For the first quarter of 2025, combined border and cross-border trade reached 478,897 million baht with a trade surplus of 34,876 million baht.

6d ago Khaosod

The Department of Foreign Trade has announced that border and cross-border trade in March 2025 reached a combined value of 178,320 million baht, growing 6.5% compared to the same period last year. Exports totaled 93,261 million baht (up 1.6%) while imports reached 85,059 million baht (up 12.4%), giving Thailand a trade surplus of 8,203 million baht.

For the first quarter of 2025, combined border and cross-border trade amounted to 478,897 million baht (up 2.5%), with exports at 256,886 million baht (up 0.4%) and imports at 222,011 million baht (up 5.1%), resulting in a quarterly trade surplus of 34,876 million baht.

Border trade with four neighboring countries totaled 72,689 million baht (down 21.6%), comprising exports of 44,764 million baht (down 19.8%) and imports of 27,925 million baht (down 24.3%), with a combined surplus of 16,839 million baht. Malaysia led bilateral border trade at 28,033 million baht (up 3.1%), followed by Laos at 25,571 million baht (down 4.4%), Myanmar at 17,085 million baht (down 7.4%), and Cambodia at zero.

Key border exports included diesel oil worth 6,045 million baht, refined petroleum products at 1,922 million baht, and computer equipment at 1,617 million baht. First-quarter border trade totaled 203,447 million baht (down 22.7%), with exports of 118,742 million baht (up 27.1%) and imports of 84,705 million baht (down 20.0%).

Cross-border transit trade to third countries surged to 105,631 million baht (up 41.4%), comprising exports of 48,498 million baht (up 34.8%) and imports of 57,134 million baht (up 47.4%). China dominated transit trade at 50,488 million baht (up 19.7%), followed by Vietnam and Singapore at 17,715 million baht (up 159.5%) and 17,066 million baht (up 80.8%) respectively.

Major cross-border exports included hard disk drives worth 9,865 million baht, telephone receivers and equipment at 5,661 million baht, and computer equipment at 2,963 million baht. First-quarter cross-border trade reached 275,450 million baht (up 35.0%), with exports of 138,144 million baht (up 40.0%) and imports of 137,306 million baht (up 30.4%).

Director Arada noted that March cross-border trade expanded 41.4% to exceed 100 billion baht, driven by growth in both exports and imports. Particularly notable was the 47.4% expansion in imports of electronics products, including computer components up 569.3% to 9,613 million baht, telecommunications equipment up 48.4% to 5,555 million baht, and magnetic storage media up 22.2% to 5,213 million baht.

Imports from China grew 34.9%, from Singapore 14.5%, and from Vietnam 208.5%. Border exports to Laos rebounded with 14.9% growth, led by diesel oil at 5,632 million baht (up 44.4%), refined petroleum at 1,453 million baht (up 44.1%), and pickup trucks at 594 million baht (up 180.5%). Exports to Myanmar grew 5.5%, featuring mobile phones and smartphones at 965 million baht (up 179.8%), miscellaneous chemicals at 522 million baht (up 434.8%), and beverages at 434 million baht (up 4.5%).

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National

No Help: PM Warns Those Who Break Laws Won't Be Assisted Over South Korea's Ban on Four Thai Provinces

Prime Minister Aneutin Charnvirakul dismissed calls for government assistance regarding South Korea's ban on workers from four Thai northeastern provinces, stating that those breaking the law deserve the ban. He pledged that if Thai nationals are treated unfairly despite following the law, the government will defend them fully, while rejecting concerns that the labor ban will impact Thai tourism to South Korea.

6d ago Khaosod

At 2:20 PM on May 13, 2025, during a visit to Ko Pha Ngan district in Surat Thani Province, Prime Minister Aneutin Charnvirakul addressed South Korea's blacklisting of Thai workers from four northeastern provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—which bans seasonal agricultural and fishing labor imports throughout 2025. The PM said understanding was necessary as he had not yet received a full report, but clarified that anyone working illegally must face a ban, just as Thailand bans illegal foreign workers. He drew a parallel to inspections at Ko Pha Ngan that uncovered unregistered accommodations and illegal villas, arguing that investment alone does not excuse legal violations.

When asked whether the government would help resolve the issue, the PM stated bluntly: "No help. We can't help because you broke the law yourselves. But if you follow the law and are being unfairly treated, the government will provide full protection." Regarding concerns that the ban would harm Thai tourists, the PM dismissed the worry, comparing it to one rotten fish spoiling the whole catch. He argued that labor and tourism are separate issues and noted that South Korea needs Thai tourists' spending power for shopping and cosmetic procedures, making Thailand an important trading partner. He promised to clarify matters with the South Korean government if problems arise.

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Community

Mae Pichyyanat's Two-Year Journey to Pregnancy: Changing Doctors 4 Times, 11 Egg Retrievals

Thai actress Mae Pichyyanat shares her two-year fertility journey involving 11 egg retrievals and four doctors, finally achieving pregnancy after 40 through lifestyle changes and traditional Chinese medicine alongside modern treatment.

6d ago Khaosod

Actress Mae Pichyyanat devoted over two years of physical, mental, and financial effort to achieve pregnancy after 40, and she's now sharing her journey to inspire women struggling with infertility. During her two-year attempt, Mae consulted four renowned doctors, underwent 11 egg retrievals (ICSI), received 4-5 intrauterine inseminations (IUI), took Chinese medicine for a year, made countless temple prayers, played with her nieces and nephews, and even considered getting a dog and cat. Each ICSI cycle was extremely challenging due to her advanced age, low AMH levels, and thyroid disease—many cycles yielded no eggs or poor quality eggs. In the first year, she obtained one grade AA embryo but implantation failed, leading to severe disappointment. Her husband then took her on a relaxing vacation to recover mentally. In the second year, she shifted focus to body rehabilitation instead of aggressive egg retrieval. She sought treatment from Dr. Min, a traditional Chinese medicine specialist, and made lifestyle changes including reducing sweets, sleeping earlier, reducing stress, gentle exercise, and monthly hormone monitoring. After six months of Chinese medicine and behavioral changes, her hormone levels improved significantly. During cycles 10 and 11, she obtained quality embryos that passed chromosomal screening, and the final implantation succeeded under Dr. Somchart's care. Mae hopes her post will help all people struggling with infertility and women attempting to conceive, emphasizing that maintaining both physical and mental health is essential—and that when everything aligns properly, pregnancy will come naturally. She encourages others by saying: Mae did it, everyone can too. Keep fighting!

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National

Cristo Fernandez, Actor from Ted Lasso Series, Signs Professional Soccer Contract

Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernandez signed a professional soccer contract with El Paso Locomotive after a two-month trial, fulfilling a childhood dream he abandoned at 15 due to injury.

6d ago Khaosod

Cristo Fernandez, the actor from the Ted Lasso series, has signed a professional contract with El Paso Locomotive, a team in America's second-tier USL Championship league. The 35-year-old actor, who played Dani Rojas in Ted Lasso (which aired in 2020 and 2023), spent two months on trial with the club before securing his contract. Fernandez had previously played youth soccer but had to abandon the sport at age 15 due to a knee injury. Upon his return to professional soccer, Fernandez reflected on his journey, saying: "Soccer has always been an essential part of my life and my identity. No matter where life has taken me, the dream of playing professional soccer has never left my heart."

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National

Countdown to Bangkok Pride Festival 2026: Over 500-Meter Rainbow Flag to Transform Silom Road as Pai-Pai and Geng Thacharya Prepare to Unleash the Power

Bangkok Pride Festival 2026 will take place from May 28 to June 1, featuring a spectacular 500-meter rainbow flag parade along iconic city streets like Silom Road and Rama 1. The festival, themed 'Patch the World with Pride,' aims to promote the three core values of PEACE, PEOPLE, and PRIDE, with organizers expecting over 350,000 participants. The event includes a major parade on May 31, awards ceremony, forum discussions, and Drag Bangkok Festival, positioning Bangkok as a candidate for WorldPride 2030.

6d ago Khaosod

Bangkok is preparing to light up in rainbow colors once again with the grand celebration of diversity and equality at Bangkok Pride Festival 2026 under the theme 'Patch the World with Pride,' championing three core principles: PEACE, PEOPLE, and PRIDE. This year, Nirmit Pride is joining forces with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and partners from civil society, the private sector, and government to take the celebration to an even grander scale. The centerpiece will be a spectacular 500-meter rainbow flag that will unfurl across Silom Road, Henriette Street, and Rama 1 Road, transforming the heart of Bangkok into a global landmark celebrating equality and diversity.

The five-day festival runs from May 28 to June 1, 2026, with the campaign 'Road to Bangkok WorldPride 2030' as its driving force to elevate Bangkok to a world-class Pride destination. The highlight is the Bangkok Pride Parade 2026 on Sunday, May 31, from 2 PM to 10 PM, featuring the magnificent 500-meter rainbow flag running the full length of Silom Road from Naradhivas intersection through key Bangkok landmarks including Sanam Luang, Rama IV Road, Chulalongkorn University, and terminating at Thammasat Stadium. The parade will include over 150 contingents covering 3.8 kilometers, plus a special 'PATCH OF GLOBAL PRIDE' procession from EM District.

This year's parade is organized into six color-coded sections representing six dimensions under the three main axes of PEACE, PEOPLE, and PRIDE: PATCH of HARMONY (green), PATCH of UNITY (blue), PATCH of IDENTITY (purple), PATCH of DIGNITY (orange), PATCH of LOVE (red), and PATCH of SPIRIT (yellow). The festival will conclude with a performance by Rabibvad Art reflecting the powerful fusion of Thai culture with contemporary expression. Organizers expect over 350,000 participants this year. The general public can join the parade for free without registration, while groups of 10 or more can apply to participate with special activities or presentations.

Beyond the spectacular parade, the festival features four major activities: Bangkok Pride Awards 2026 honoring individuals and organizations advancing equality across 11 categories and 24 awards; Bangkok Pride Forum 2026 hosting over 35 discussion sessions covering economy, health, technology, and human rights; the Bangkok Pride Parade 2026; and Drag Bangkok Festival 2026 promoting Thai drag art on the world stage with Asian-level competitions.

Waddao Chunmapha, founder and chairman of Nirmit Pride Company Limited, the event organizer, states that this year is significant for Thailand's LGBTQIAN+ community and another year of empowering LGBTQIAN+ youth to represent Thailand on the international stage.

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National

Pheu Thai Says Goodbye: Won't Field Bangkok Governor Candidate, Won't Oppose Independents Using Party Logo

Pheu Thai Party announced it won't field a Bangkok governor candidate or formally nominate candidates for the Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly, though it may allow individual members to run using the party logo.

6d ago Khaosod

On May 13, 2025, Chulphan Amornviwat, Minister of Labor and Pheu Thai Party leader, announced the party's decision not to field a candidate for Bangkok governor in the upcoming local election, nor will it officially nominate candidates for Bangkok Metropolitan Assembly positions. Although the party has made this position clear, several long-time party members who maintain strong confidence in the party have requested permission to use the party logo as party members, which will be evaluated individually by party leadership. Amornviwat stated the party's reasoning centers on readiness and appropriateness, as Pheu Thai is a national-level political party that focuses primarily on large-scale electoral competitions. While the party occasionally fields candidates at the provincial administrative organization level in some areas, it rarely does so officially at smaller local levels. The party believes local political competition should be open to other political groups and citizens to decide on leaders who can implement policies suited to their communities, which is why it has not directly participated in Bangkok governor elections in recent times.

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Breaking

Supamas Orders Second Summons for 'Chang Nueng' After Missing Consumer Protection Committee Hearing; Threatens Criminal Penalties and Accelerates Financial Investigation

A construction contractor known as 'Chang Nueng' faces a second summons after skipping a Consumer Protection Committee hearing on May 12, with authorities warning of criminal penalties and launching a financial investigation into fraud alle

6d ago Khaosod

On May 13, 2025, Supamas Israphakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and overseer of the Consumer Protection Board (CPB), disclosed updates on the case against Kriang Kai Raywaiklang, known as 'Chang Nueng,' a construction contractor and owner of the Facebook page 'Suan Jib Home Construction.' The defendant was summoned to provide a statement on May 12 but failed to appear as scheduled.

Supamas reported that while 40 of 60 alleged victims came to testify, the defendant's absence prevented mediation proceedings. She ordered the CPB to issue a second summons, warning that non-compliance would result in criminal penalties: imprisonment not exceeding one month, a fine not exceeding 20,000 baht, or both.

The CPB has been gathering evidence for a civil lawsuit on behalf of victims and coordinating with law enforcement agencies handling fraud cases and consumer protection violations. Supamas emphasized this action reflects the government's commitment to protecting consumer rights in housing, a fundamental human need.

The CPB requested a 15-day financial investigation from banking channels. Potential penalties for breach of contract include imprisonment up to one year, a fine up to 200,000 baht, or both. Advertising violations carry penalties of up to six months imprisonment, up to 100,000 baht fine, or both. The CPB's legal proceedings are expected to conclude within two months.

Regarding Modern Teej Co., Ltd., a separate housing construction case, the Consumer Protection Committee previously approved civil proceedings against one defendant. However, approximately 60-70 additional complaints have been filed, while the company has already registered for business dissolution. The CPB must gather additional evidence for the committee's further review.

Criminally, the CPB has forwarded 90 cases to law enforcement for further questioning and documentation. Two cases have already been forwarded for prosecution. The CPB continues investigating other construction contractors with similar patterns seen on online media and social platforms.

Supamas advised consumers to carefully verify online purchases or services match advertisements, research contractor and company history before signing contracts, and avoid paying large lump-sum deposits disproportionate to project scope. She assured that the CPB will pursue all legal remedies in both civil and criminal cases without exception.

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National

Ekniti Opens 'SUBCON Thailand 2026' with BOI's 5T Initiative to Drive Industrial Transformation

Deputy PM Ekniti opened SUBCON Thailand 2026 at BITEC Bangkok, promoting the BOI's "5T" initiative to help Thai manufacturers transition from subcontractors to global supply chain partners amid rapid industrial transformation. The trade sho

6d ago Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas presided over the opening of SUBCON Thailand 2026 at BITEC Bangkok, May 13-16, 2026, noting that global transformations—spanning geopolitics, security, environmental standards, energy crises, and the rise of AI—are reshaping how industries operate and compete. These changes present opportunities for Thai businesses, with SUBCON Thailand serving as a key mechanism to help local manufacturers meet international buyers, access new technologies and standards, and transition from subcontractors to becoming solution partners and future allies of global corporations.

Thailand possesses significant potential through its robust industrial foundation, experienced component manufacturers, ready infrastructure, and strategic geographic location, evidenced by record investment promotion requests to BOI exceeding 1.8 trillion baht in 2025 and over 1 trillion baht in the first quarter of 2026. The critical challenge is aligning Thailand's development with global trends through promoting digital and AI technology adoption, clean energy transition, human resource development across all business levels, and regulatory reform to support the business sector.

Ekniti emphasized the "5T" principles guiding Thailand's economic advancement: Target (resource allocation precision), Transition (shift to new economies), Transform (economic restructuring benefiting SMEs and communities), Transparency (digital technology implementation), and Together (unified collaboration among government, private sector, and citizens).

BOI Secretary-General Naruetom Terdsteerasukdi stated the organization has partnered to organize SUBCON Thailand for 20 consecutive years, connecting Thai businesses to global supply chains. This year's edition reflects the emerging global industrial landscape emphasizing advanced technology, sustainability, and production risk diversification, encompassing emerging sectors like electric vehicles, semiconductors, automation, medical devices, and aerospace. Thailand occupies an optimal regional position to capitalize on current supply chain restructuring, possessing infrastructure, workforce, 50 years of accumulated industrial base, and high-quality component manufacturer networks. BOI prioritizes creating business opportunities by linking Thai entrepreneurs with leading multinational corporations investing in Thailand, facilitating production transfers and technology advancement.

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