ASEAN Diplomacy in Manila: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told ASEAN partners the United States “will never abandon” the bloc, citing $2.5 billion in strategic investments and $1.5 billion via the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. Regional Security: Japan’s foreign minister Toshimitsu Motegi pledged closer ASEAN cooperation to defend territories and waters, amid concerns over China’s assertive actions. Timor-Leste and India Energy Talks: Timor-Leste is inviting Indian investment in LNG, oil refining and education, with plans tied to the Greater Sunrise gas field. Climate and Children: UNICEF warned that in Timor-Leste, droughts, landslides and flash floods are disrupting classrooms and clinics, pushing climate adaptation as a child rights emergency. Scam Economy Shock: A UNODC report says Asia-Pacific scam gangs stole up to $114.1 billion in 2025, using AI and “corporate franchising” style operations to evade crackdowns. Local Governance Update: The Council of Ministers met in Dili, hearing reports on local government reform, administrative modernisation, and outcomes of an official visit to Portugal.