TB/COVID/Pertussis Alert: Palau’s Ministry of Health and Human Services says respiratory illness cases are rising, reporting 13 confirmed TB cases (with 134 contacts tracked), 56 confirmed COVID-19 cases (six hospitalized), and increased pertussis, urging masks when appropriate, handwashing, staying home when sick, and early clinic visits. School Nutrition Push: Preschool cooks in Palau complete training to add more fresh local produce to meals, with nutrition and menu planning plus farm tours and herb-growing for school kitchens, leading to a School Chef Competition on July 28. Loan Access Backlash: The National Development Bank of Palau ends unsecured and chattel mortgage lending, requiring land collateral with legal access roads, drawing anger from landless families and young entrepreneurs who say the change blocks financing. Climate Talks in Motion: Pacific Climate Ministers meet in Sydney to advance a united agenda ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31, with Tonga’s health minister representing the country. Regional Security Shockwaves: Pacific leaders react to China’s missile test near Tuvalu, but the region struggles to agree on a joint response as countries weigh different interests and ties with Beijing. Drug Safety in the Spotlight: Court action follows alleged THC-gummy distribution at a Koror luncheon that sent three elderly women to hospital, renewing concerns about illegal marijuana-laced snacks at social events. Vaccination Coverage Check: A WHO-UNICEF report finds many Pacific countries miss the 90% child vaccination goal; Palau hits 10 vaccine targets but measles coverage drops to 75% for the final dose.