Weather Watch: Pagasa placed parts of Bataan and Zambales under an orange heavy-rain warning (15–30 mm per hour) while Metro Manila and more areas sit under yellow alerts, as habagat weakens but still brings scattered rains and thunderstorms. Disaster Response: A passenger ferry fire off Coron, Palawan left at least 5 dead and dozens missing, with rescue efforts ongoing amid rough seas and thick smoke; authorities say the blaze started in the cargo hold and precautions are in place to prevent an oil spill. Plastic Waste Pressure: Siquijor LGUs say plastic waste is piling up faster than recovery facilities can handle, as tourism grows and single-use bottles from major brands flood local collection systems. Wildlife Enforcement: DENR reported seizing hundreds of illegally traded wildlife in 2026 operations, underscoring ongoing pressure on biodiversity. Climate Extremes: The EU’s Copernicus monitor says August was the hottest month ever recorded globally, with record ocean heat—raising the stakes for extreme weather risk in the Philippines. Clean Energy & Transport: NLEX is doing interim repairs on rain-damaged sections while planning permanent fixes once conditions clear; DP World and ATI commissioned hybrid RTG cranes at Manila South Harbour to cut fuel use and emissions. Food Waste Action: Baguio is reviving its Half-Cup Rice policy to reduce food waste, pairing it with a “Be RICEponsible” campaign.