El Niño & Food Security: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inaugurated a P833.37m irrigation project in Bohol, warning El Niño could last into 2027 and urging farmers to shift from water-hungry rice to drought-tolerant, high-value crops plus solar pumps and water reuse. Freedom of Expression Under Pressure: UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan warned that states are weaponizing speech laws, citing the Philippines case of detained journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio and broader crackdowns on dissent. Global Hunger & Multilateralism: Pope Leo XIV urged stronger UN-backed action at WFP, calling adequate food a “fundamental human right” as hunger rises and bureaucracy blocks aid. Water Crisis in Gaza: Mercy Corps said over 75% of Gaza’s population faces severe water insecurity, with families surviving on under six litres per person daily. Climate Finance Push: London Climate Action Week opens with a push to make London a global hub for climate finance between UN summits. Ukraine Accountability: Sweden will join a special tribunal and international claims commission to pursue Russia’s crime of aggression and assess damage. Visa Costs Rise: Japan approved a major hike in visa fees for foreign nationals starting July 1, the first change in nearly five decades. HIV Funding Alarm: South Africa plans to raise global health aid cuts at a UN HIV/AIDS meeting as the US winds down PEPFAR. Recycling Drive: Malaysia’s National Recycling Campaign targets household waste segregation to boost recycling and supply raw materials. Sports & Youth: Kenya’s football clubs sealed National Super League spots; Sri Lanka’s junior athletics meet saw record-breaking performances; Jordan’s JoYS youth science exhibition opens June 27.