Philippines State Finance: Maharlika Investment Corp. says it booked P1.24B in first-half core income and is targeting P3.3B for 2026, citing interest from a P15B Petron loan and returns from its Makilala Mining loan assignment, while assets could rise to P129B if the government releases the remaining P50B capitalization. US Diplomatic Reshuffle: The Trump administration notified Congress it plans to close five smaller US missions—Grenada, Nagoya, Medan, Winnipeg and a Douala branch—aiming to save about $4.4M a year as it also moves to reopen posts in Libya and Syria. South Asia Floods: Kerala’s monsoon disaster has killed at least 25, with thousands displaced and relief camps expanded as authorities push rapid aid and delegated powers to districts. East Asia Heat Emergency: Tokyo zoo reports three lions dead from suspected heat stress, while South Korea’s heatwave toll rose to 19 and the president declared a national disaster. India Health Policy: Himachal Pradesh plans a new health insurance scheme for economically weaker families, offering coverage up to Rs 10 lakh at a nominal premium with about 10 lakh families targeted. Singapore AI Readiness: Singapore outlines a workforce push for AI readiness, stressing reskilling and stronger technical fundamentals as AI reshapes decision-making. Regional Culture Diplomacy: India hosts BRICS culture ministers in Bhopal starting Aug 5, with a cultural festival planned for Aug 6-7.