ASEAN Diplomacy, Timor-Leste’s New Role: Timor-Leste took part for the first time as a full member of ASEAN at the ASEAN–Australia Forum, underscoring its growing regional footprint. Greater Sunrise Momentum: A long-stalled Greater Sunrise Gas project is shifting from sovereignty politics toward a race to meet mid-2026 concept deadlines, with Timor-Leste pushing an onshore processing model after a key LNG cooperation deal. Health & Climate Watch: The UN warns El Niño is likely to return by mid-2026, urging early preparation as drought, food insecurity and disease risks could spike. Regional Security & Justice: Timor-Leste is also linked to wider accountability efforts, including moves to pursue war-crimes investigations tied to Myanmar’s military. Local Spotlight (Elsewhere): Cebu City’s anti-mendicancy crackdown sparked backlash after an elderly harmonica player was arrested, with authorities now assessing welfare needs.