South China Sea Flashpoint: The Philippines accused China’s coast guard of firing water cannons at Philippine government vessels near Scarborough Shoal for a second straight day, saying the incidents created a “serious risk of collision” and involved dangerous manoeuvres; China countered that it used lawful “control measures.” ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: As ASEAN foreign ministers wrapped up meetings, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed Washington’s South China Sea interests and told Asian allies the US won’t abandon them even as it seeks more positive ties with Beijing. Ukraine Mediation Talk: Rubio also met Russia’s Sergey Lavrov, saying the US is ready to help end the “senseless war” in Ukraine but there’s “no quick path” and diplomacy needs sustained effort. Regional Security Agenda: The ASEAN Regional Forum opened amid Middle East turmoil and Strait of Hormuz concerns, with calls for safer international shipping and renewed diplomatic engagement. Brunei-China Naval Visit: A Chinese PLA Navy fleet arrived at Muara port for a four-day friendly visit, with joint activities planned with the Royal Brunei Navy. Local Relevance—Brunei in the wider region: Brunei’s passport ranked 19th globally in the Henley index, while Brunei Foreign Minister Abdul Mateen Bolkiah attended ASEAN ministerial events in Manila.