Diplomacy Push: Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste moved to formalize ties after high-level talks in Port Moresby, with both sides agreeing to open reciprocal embassies in each other’s capitals. Regional Security & Oceans: PNG Prime Minister James Marape used the Melanesian Oceans Summit to call for stronger ocean conservation and sustainable marine management, with Timor-Leste’s President José Ramos-Horta in the spotlight. ASEAN After Cebu: ASEAN leaders wrapped up the 48th summit with a maritime cooperation declaration reaffirming UNCLOS and peaceful dispute resolution, while energy and disaster resilience stayed front and center. Local Life in Davao: Therma South donated therapy equipment to children with special needs, and Davao City also responded to a rescued teen after an attempted jump at Agdao Flyover, citing prior incidents. Climate Pressure: El Niño risk is again in focus, with Davao Region reporting ₱117M in farm losses from moisture stress.