Philippines–Japan Energy & Minerals Push: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told Japan’s parliamentarians the Philippines is moving to a “highest tier” comprehensive strategic partnership as energy supply disruptions and geopolitics bite, with talks expected to include a study on reviewing the Japan–Philippines economic partnership agreement for critical minerals and energy resilience. Quad Energy Security: Australia, India, Japan and the US agreed to build a port in Fiji and signed pacts on critical minerals and Indo-Pacific energy security, aiming to strengthen supply chains amid Middle East shocks. Hormuz Shock Drives Markets: Fresh US strikes on Iran rattled Asia; oil bounced about 2% while investors weighed the risk of Strait of Hormuz disruption and looming US inflation data. Pacific Climate Finance Backlash: Tuvalu’s climate trust fund reportedly invested in coal, gas and a major refinery, prompting calls to review “fossil fuel exposure.” Data Centres vs Clean Power: Greenpeace warned Australia’s data-centre boom could push states toward more gas generation unless renewables and storage additions are enforced. China NEV Safety: China launched 2026 NEV safety hazard inspections, requiring manufacturers to submit risk reviews by Aug 31. Singapore Grid Integration: Singapore’s regulator said Chinese firms could benefit as ASEAN grid integration plans expand, including cross-border green power imports.