ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: Brunei’s Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof joined the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in the Philippines, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and China’s Wang Yi among key partners, as ministers focus on regional peace and flashpoints including the Middle East and Myanmar. South China Sea Tensions: China and the Philippines resumed high-level talks after fresh clashes near Second Thomas Shoal, underscoring how maritime incidents can quickly spill into wider economic and security concerns. Brunei Tourism & Sustainability: Brunei launched a one-year GSTC certification project for Ulu Temburong National Park and Luagan Lalak Recreational Park, aiming to strengthen sustainable management and support Brunei Vision 2035. Automotive Business Deal: Karrus Automotive Group was appointed Meguiar’s exclusive distributor for Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, targeting retail expansion and technical training. Clean Energy Push in the Region: Iran-war fuel shocks are accelerating solar and electric vehicle adoption in energy-vulnerable economies like the Philippines, linking energy security to household spending and business planning. Student-Led Economics Talk (Brunei): Brunei’s Economic Students’ Chamber held a session on human-centered economics, covering diversification, AI, and the future of work.