Indo-Pacific Security: Japan’s defense chief sparked alarm by saying nuclear policy should be discussed “without taboos,” reviving fears of militarisation and a possible nuclear breakout. Philippines Politics & Governance: A Pulse Asia survey ahead of Marcos Jr.’s SONA found anti-corruption is the top priority for nearly 30% of Filipinos, while electricity reform debates continue as lawmakers question EPIRA’s promise of cheaper power. ASEAN Diplomacy: Sweden, Poland, Romania and Lithuania formally joined ASEAN’s Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, as Manila marked the pact’s 50th anniversary and pushed cooperation on emerging threats. Maritime Flashpoint: China and the Philippines traded water-cannon and coast-guard actions near contested shoals, underscoring how South China Sea tensions keep pulling in wider U.S. interests. Weather Watch: Hurricane Fausto strengthened to Category 2 and is expected to threaten Hawaii with wind and dangerous surf. Human Smuggling: U.S. prosecutors indicted 11 over migrant deaths in Texas rail cargo containers, highlighting the lethal risks of sealed transport. Environment & Trade: Malaysia tightened enforcement against e-waste smuggling after a container fire revealed illegal electronic waste shipments.