ASEAN Cultural Diplomacy: The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in Manila opened the ASEAN Cultural Center, with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos at the ribbon-cutting—an exhibition meant to spotlight shared regional heritage through myths, textiles, boat-building, and architecture. Regional Arts & Film: The ASEAN Film Festival 2026 in Hong Kong (Aug 20) will feature Timor-Leste for the first time, with free public screenings and a focus on intangible musical heritage. Sports & Youth Culture: Asian Athletics president Dahlan al-Hamad wrapped up a visit to Timor-Leste focused on grassroots and kids’ athletics, including plans to expand school and community programmes. Timor-Leste in ASEAN Spotlight: ASEAN Day coverage repeatedly notes Timor-Leste’s inclusion as the bloc’s newest member, framing it as a cultural and people-centred step toward a more inclusive community. Local Conservation Story: A mangrove citizen science kit from Cagwait, Surigao del Sur—built with fisherfolk—was displayed at the National Geographic Museum, highlighting community-led environmental knowledge. Education & Identity: Indonesia’s textbook overhaul plans include stronger material on national identity and science, with Timor-Leste listed among the countries whose books will be compared.