Tao Pun subdistrict in Song district, Phrae province, is implementing an aggressive campaign against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through the "Tao Pun Model," a data-driven initiative that creates health innovations and connects health stations, volunteer caregiver networks, and local wisdom to develop sustainable community health management. The subdistrict faces rising NCD rates stemming from unhealthy behaviors: 34.86 percent of residents drink alcohol regularly, 21.31 percent smoke, and many continue consuming sweet, fatty, and salty foods—all major risk factors for diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases. Among a population of 4,778, there are currently 270 diabetes patients and over 700 with high blood pressure.

To address this challenge, the municipal administration has systematized health care since joining the Wellness Subdistrict network in 2013, supported by the Community Health Promotion Fund (THPF) and the Health Promotion Foundation. The approach emphasizes active health management while improving quality of life across all age groups and reducing NCD risk factors at the community level. Key innovations include the "three-color flower" tool—a health awareness device using blood sugar test results to communicate risk (green for normal, yellow for at-risk, red for patients)—and health stations established in every village to serve as community learning centers.

For elderly and bedridden patients, the municipality has developed a caregiver volunteer network of 27 members providing one-stop health services including appointment follow-up, hygiene care, and health coordination, particularly for isolated residents.

The director of the Juvenile Observation and Protection Department disclosed the case of the 14-year-old who opened fire at Paragon shopping mall, revealing he is undergoing psychiatric treatment by court order with good behavioral record and weekly family visits.

On August 7, 2025, Komol Prompeng, director of the Juvenile Observation and Protection Department, updated the case of a 14-year-old boy responsible for the shooting at Paragon on October 3, 2023. The boy is currently in the care of Kanlayaraj Nakhon Institute under psychiatric supervision, with a court sentence of 3 to 5 years of training. He has completed 2 years of detention and will reach his minimum 3-year term in 2027.

During his detention at the institute, officials have conducted continuous behavioral and risk assessments, finding the boy demonstrates good conduct, creates no problems, and poses no concerning risks. His parents visit every week without fail.

Over the past 2 years, the boy has received consistent psychiatric medication. The department conducts evaluations every 3 months to report behavioral progress to the juvenile and family court.

When the minimum 3-year detention period approaches completion, the department will conduct a comprehensive risk and behavior assessment and present findings to the court. If his conduct remains good and poses no risk, the department may petition the court for release at the end of the minimum 3-year term.

Thepsirin Nonthaburi school has announced a special closure from August 10-14, with regular classes resuming on August 17. Director Nathathon Thongphlab issued the announcement on August 7, citing an emergency situation at the school. The closure details include: all students are off on August 10-11 and 13-14; students should review materials and complete assignments given by their teachers during the break; teachers and school staff are to work from home; and all students will return to campus for normal classes on August 17.

A remarkable natural formation called the "Naga's Eye" at Phu Langka National Park in Maha Sarakham Province is attracting growing attention from visitors and pilgrims. The distinctive feature consists of naturally weathered rock formations that resemble a giant eye, combined with a crystal-clear pool of spring water that accumulates in the cave year-round. According to Thai traditional beliefs, the naga dragon deity governs water sources and wealth, making the site a popular destination for those seeking blessings for prosperity and career advancement. Visitors ascend to the formation to make offerings and prayers before the "Naga's Eye," viewing it as a place of spiritual power and natural wonder. The site stands out as an authentic natural landmark in contrast to artificial tourist attractions, drawing hikers and spiritual seekers to explore Phu Langka National Park's scenic trekking routes.

Toom Ratchaneekor has overcome three years of public vilification after a court ruled in her favor in a 50-million-baht damages case against Leluck Hospital, Dr. Pin Leluck (Pissaporn Srichaiyanwat), and another physician over a facial cosmetic surgery procedure. The court ordered the defendants to pay 7.7 million baht in compensation. Toom and her lawyer Sittichai Kritiyamedhagun held a press conference to discuss the victory.

When asked about her initial reaction to winning, Toom said: "We fought for three years and became a social defendant for three years, while people didn't understand the depth or reality of what happened. Only the two parties truly know the full truth. We were constantly attacked because we never publicly explained what occurred—speaking out would have just escalated the mud-slinging. Now I'm relieved to be normal again. For three years, I couldn't walk through the market without wondering if people hated me or still supported me. I had to wear a mask and had no confidence in myself. I'm truly grateful that justice exists because we fought for it."

When asked what she believed led to her victory, Toom responded: "Nothing more than the facts of what happened to me and what was done to me—things people saw and didn't see. I think that's enough for us now."

Her lawyer explained that the case hinged on medical malpractice in a consumer protection matter. He noted that under consumer protection law, the burden of proof lies with the medical side to demonstrate that their actions did not constitute negligence or wrongdoing. The court found negligence on the physician's part. The lawyer mentioned submitting a case closure statement and medical certificates, though some documents were not translated into Thai. A treating physician was initially summoned but could not appear in court, so the defense presented available evidence.

When asked if the defendant planned to appeal, Toom said: "That's their right—it's something anyone can do."

Regarding concern that an appellate court might reverse the decision, Toom stated: "As my lawyer said, everything depends on evidence. As for claims about late submissions causing delays—we had the authority to request them, and we submitted everything according to the specified timeline. Anyone can verify who actually submitted late."

Asked if she was satisfied with the 7.7-million-baht compensation versus the 50-million-baht claim she filed, Toom said: "We initially asked for 50 million because my first lawyer recommended that figure, but I already knew that realistically the court wouldn't award that amount."

Among the sacred figures that Thai people and devotees revere and visit to seek blessings, the name of Thao Wessuwanna—the god of wealth and protection—ranks foremost. Across the nation, one unique and uncommon shrine stands out: the three-legged statue of Thao Wessuwanna Pang at Wat Prathumkhanawat in Maeklong subdistrict, Muang district, Samut Songkhram Province.

Visitors to Wat Prathumkhanawat, situated along the Mae Klong River, are immediately drawn to the striking sculpture of Thao Wessuwanna with three legs. The statue stands prominently on the riverbank, facing the broad waters as though guarding against dangers from the river. The deity has a green complexion, wears a golden crown and ornaments, and holds a ceremonial baton. The most astonishing feature is the presence of three legs—believed to be unique to this province.

This remarkable statue came into being before 2007, inspired by a vision of Phra Kru Udomsamut Khun (Luang Pho Udom), the late abbot and meditation master of Wat Prathumkhanawat. One night, he dreamed of Thao Wessuwanna with three unusual legs and resolved to commission the statue's construction based on this vision.

Today, the three-legged Thao Wessuwanna draws steady streams of devotees seeking blessings for prosperity, wealth, business success, investments, property sales, health, and family matters. Grateful worshippers return to make offerings of incense, candles, chicken figurines, and red water as tokens of gratitude.

Beyond the renowned deity, Wat Prathumkhanawat houses other significant sacred objects. "Luang Pho Saan," the principal Buddha image in the ubosot (ordination hall), was created in 1857 using an intricate wooden construction technique. This 31-inch-wide, 41.5-inch-tall image in the maravichai posture is considered highly sacred and remarkable. Currently preserved in the abbot's quarters, it is revered by locals seeking happiness, safety, and protection of assets.

"Luang Pho Phra Ruang Chao," a regally dressed Buddha image, stands before the ubosot. This was recreated in 1974 from a smaller original donated by devotees and is especially sought after for blessings regarding career advancement and civil service examinations.

Phra Kru Thammathornpaibuun Yanwipulo, the current abbot, explained that Wat Prathumkhanawat was founded in 1857 during the reign of King Rama IV. A devoted layman named Bua spearheaded its construction. After completing the temple, Bua ordained as a monk and was later granted the ecclesiastical title "Thao Chao Khun Winaiyamuni." For over a century, the riverside temple has served as a spiritual center for the Maeklong community.