Philippines–China Tensions: A think tank urges the Philippines to modernize its armed forces after the 2016 arbitration win, warning Beijing keeps operating in disputed waters. Pacific Security: Australia’s AFP chief will pitch an INTERPOL-style policing pact, PACPOL, to counter China’s growing South Pacific policing footprint. Japan–Wildlife Safety: Four climbers in Hokkaido were rescued after a brown bear encounter; authorities are reviewing bear habitats as sightings rise. India–Consumer Policy: India will chair UNCTAD’s consumer protection expert session in Geneva, focusing on product safety and cross-border disputes. India–Tech & Education: AICTE says 58 engineering colleges were shut under “progressive closure” in 2025-26. India–Cricket: England’s Jacob Bethell’s 76 helped spoil Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s record debut; India’s Bishnoi faced scrutiny after back-foot no-balls. China–Taiwan: China’s coast guard begins patrols east of Taiwan, escalating maritime tensions. China–Religion: Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri is released and arrives in the US after Trump raised his case with Xi. Tech Race: Micron starts major Japan expansion to boost HBM output for the AI boom. Weather: Super Typhoon Bavi nears US Pacific islands with “catastrophic” risk.