Japan Earthquake Response: A magnitude 7.1 quake struck Kumamoto in southwestern Japan, triggering a blast-like incident at Aeon Mall and leaving “many people” trapped as parts of the second floor collapsed; authorities reported dozens injured, power outages and transport disruption, while tsunami advisories were later lifted and officials warned against misinformation online. South Korea Security Incident: South Korean authorities issued a brief evacuation alert after a white phosphorus leak at the US Osan Air Base near Seoul, then lifted it after decontamination, saying risk to the public was low. EU-China Trade Tensions: The European Commission said it will seek clarifications with China over Beijing’s export-control bans on 14 European defense firms, after China retaliated for EU sanctions tied to Russia. China Industrial Policy: China moved to curb its solar price war with new cost accounting rules across the value chain, aiming to restore healthier competition. ASEAN Digital Push: ASEAN-BAC Philippines urged a more inclusive, borderless ASEAN digital economy, stressing support for MSMEs and women entrepreneurs. China-Asia Sports: The 2026 Asian Women’s Volleyball Championship draw set China’s group and key matchups, with Olympic qualification at stake. Philippines Football: The Philippines men’s team opened the ASEAN Hyundai Cup with a 4-1 loss to Myanmar in Group B. MH370 Families: Chinese relatives of MH370 passengers began a Beijing court appeal seeking fuller answers after earlier compensation rulings.