Labor Exploitation: A Timor-Leste worker says a PALM farm job in Australia left him with just $1,500 savings after being made to repay travel and accommodation costs, despite working six days a week for months—raising fresh questions about how the scheme protects families. Energy & Climate: Timor-Leste’s Greater Sunrise project is moving from politics toward infrastructure as deadlines near, while the UN warns the region—including Timor-Leste and the Philippines—must prepare for El Niño’s return. Cebu Pressure Points: Cebu City is extending help to a jailed elderly harmonica player after public backlash, while MCWD braces for rotational brownouts with 50 generators as power shortages threaten water supply. Regional Diplomacy & Culture: ASEAN’s first full-member Timor-Leste push continues, alongside a new textile showcase celebrating Southeast Asia’s living traditions. Maritime Cooperation: India’s IOS Sagar is in Colombo with a 16-nation crew under “Bridges of Friendship.”