Maritime Safety & Health: The Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment chair says the humanitarian situation aboard the Palau-flagged hijacked tanker MT HONOUR 25 has “rapidly deteriorated” after more than two months in captivity, with five of 17 crew now suffering health problems; food is reportedly down to rice and water is unsafe to drink, and pirates have reportedly exchanged gunfire between rival groups. Cybersecurity: Palau is testing post-quantum encryption and other defenses after breaches exposed thousands of medical records, with a proof of concept funded at no cost by U.S. firm Forward Edge-AI and plans for broader rollout ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum. Public Health: Palau’s Ministry of Health confirms a whooping cough (pertussis) case in Koror and urges residents to check vaccination status while an investigation and contact tracing get underway. Reef Protection: Scientists confirm a crown-of-thorns starfish outbreak in Koror’s Ngederrak Conservation Area, calling for urgent monitoring and community action to protect coral ecosystems. Rehabilitation & Justice: Palau’s Supreme Court sentenced Burton Wenty to 25 years in prison and a $50,000 fine for repeat methamphetamine possession. Community Health Access: Taiwan’s Root Medical Peace Corps completed a five-day outreach across Palau, delivering consultations, basic lab testing, pharmacy services, and health education in multiple states. Sustainable Food & Livelihoods: Palau opened its first community-managed satellite giant clam hatchery in Koror to boost reef restoration and create aquaculture opportunities.