Wildlife Crime Crackdown: Philippine authorities seized 50 live Indian star tortoises from a Malaysian passenger arriving from Bangkok, after x-ray screening found the reptiles hidden in luggage; the animals were handed to the DENR for rescue care while charges are being prepared. Conservation Science: Kaziranga National Park in Assam released its first scientific assessment of the greater hog badger, estimating at least 55 individuals across nearly 1,100 sq km, using camera-trap data from tiger surveys. Low-Carbon Farming Push: Thailand’s central plains are set to pilot low-carbon rice under the BCG Economic Model, targeting a 50,000-rai rollout across eight provinces to cut emissions and link farmers to global carbon credit markets. Air Pollution Watch: Yangon’s AQI hit 192, with residents and advocates pointing to diesel vehicles, factory emissions, and fuel quality as key drivers. Thailand Tourism Trade: Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2026 wrapped in Pattaya with 429 international buyers from 58 countries, pitching “Healing is the New Luxury” through wellness-led, sustainability-focused travel. Energy Transition Pressure: Asia’s renewables push is being tested by Middle East oil disruptions, with some countries turning to short-term fixes that could slow long-term clean energy investment.