Philippines–Singapore Ties: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met Singapore PM Lawrence Wong in the Istana, with both leaders spotlighting Southeast Asia’s pride in tennis star Alex Eala’s Wimbledon run and backing deeper bilateral cooperation. Aviation Connectivity: IATA data shows Asia Pacific dominating the world’s busiest airport pairs, with Jeju–Seoul Gimpo leading; Central Asia and Vietnam also posted strong passenger growth. Markets Watch: New Zealand’s NZX 50 slid as chip-related worries resurfaced after ASML price signals, while Asia shares leaned weaker amid semiconductor pressure. South Korea Rates Shock: The Bank of Korea lifted rates for the first time in over three years, tightening policy as the AI-driven chip boom stokes inflation—sparking renewed volatility in Korean stocks. West Asia Security: Iran warned it could block additional energy export routes after US strikes, as Hormuz tensions keep shipping and energy markets on edge. Global Opinion Shift: A Pew survey found China more favorably viewed than the US in many countries, citing deteriorating US soft power under President Trump. Transport Dealmaking: Indonesia and Saudi Arabia discussed expanding air, sea, rail and logistics links, including adding more airports for international flights. Climate Voices: Indigenous leaders urged governments to stop tokenism ahead of COP31, demanding real decision-making power.