As this year's Balikatan exercise enters its final week, the US, Philippines and Japan are conducting a counter-landing live-fire drill in Laoag, testing interoperability with HIMARS rocket systems, Stinger missiles and drones. President Lai Ching-te toured Taiwan's major projects in Eswatini following his surprise arrival Saturday in Taipei’s only African diplomatic ally. And a Chinese citizen in Taiwan could lose her permanent residency after being indicted accused of taking money from Beijing to interfere in elections. Plus:
- Taiwan says it will preserve progress on its US tariff deal and seek equal or better terms if Washington offers improved conditions to other countries.
- Japan’s master cleaners are turning plushie restoration into a viral global business, offering spa-like treatments to toys for clients worldwide, some traveling specifically for the service.
- The 2026 Asia Pride Games bodybuilding competition wrapped up over the weekend, featuring creative categories that celebrate gender diversity and body positivity.
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