Philippines HIV Debate: Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña pushed back on President Marcos Jr.’s SONA claim that “harmful influences” like porn and fake news drive HIV/AIDS, arguing stigma and underfunded services are the real bottlenecks. Philippines Power Policy: Energy stakeholders, including Meralco, urged caution on Marcos’ push to amend EPIRA and remove “system loss” charges without a clear recovery plan. Bangkok Venue Crackdown: Bangkok ordered 79 entertainment venues to stop operations after a week of safety and licensing checks, with most told to fix minor issues and a smaller group facing full shutdowns. Southeast Asia Online Gambling: UNODC warned illegal online gambling is rapidly expanding across the region, targeting young people and feeding wider organised crime. Human Trafficking via Scams: IOM said scam centres in Asia lure victims from 80+ countries through fake job offers, with passports seized and abuse reported. ASEAN Digital Economy: ASEAN-BAC Philippines chair Joey Concepcion called for a more inclusive, borderless ASEAN digital economy that reaches MSMEs and women entrepreneurs. APEC AI Cooperation: APEC meetings in Chengdu highlighted cross-border AI development and open learning tools. Cambodia–Vietnam Ties: Cambodia’s National Assembly leader met Vietnam’s top party and state officials, reaffirming cooperation on sustainable development. Pacific Storm Watch: Typhoon-strengthening Tropical Storm Dolphin formed in the western Pacific, while Hurricane Genevieve churned offshore with dangerous waves. PNG Investment: Papua New Guinea took a 13% stake in the Central Lime Project for US$16.3m, with production targeted for 2027.