Defense Diplomacy: The Philippines and Vietnam are pushing a “deeper” defense partnership, with Manila saying it can share information and plan new activities—while stressing it can’t say the same about China’s “good faith.” US-Philippines Economy & Security: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to develop the Luzon Economic Corridor, as a senior US official is set to visit Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Brunei and the Philippines. Regional Maritime Tensions: China’s coast guard says it carried out “law enforcement” patrols east of Taiwan amid Japan-Philippines maritime delimitation talks; Taiwan rejects Beijing’s claims. Undersea Security Pact: Seventeen countries launched a framework (GUIDE) to protect critical underwater infrastructure, including subsea cables, with Brunei among endorsers. Brunei-linked Community News: Malaysia’s JUPEM posthumously honoured a staff member who died while on duty during a Malaysia–Brunei border survey. Local Culture & Food: PBBS proposes higher Kaamatan allocations to expand halal food access for visitors, including from Brunei.