Typhoon Francisco Update: PAGASA says the typhoon (Mekkhala) rapidly intensified over the Philippine Sea, with TCWS No. 1 up over Batanes, parts of Cagayan, and the Babuyan Islands, bringing strong winds, rough seas, and possible heavy rains even if a direct landfall is not expected. El Niño & Water Security: President Marcos urged climate-ready farming as El Niño risk stays high, highlighting drought measures like solar-powered pumps and water reuse, alongside the Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Bohol meant to boost irrigation and protect farmers’ incomes. Heat Advisory: Imus City, Cavite recorded a dangerous heat index (up to 45.6°C) and warned residents about heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke despite rainy conditions. School Safety After Violence: DepEd and PNP are coordinating after a Tacloban school shooting killed three and injured five, with authorities also probing bullying links in earlier Cavite stabbing incidents. Plastic Waste Governance: An Inquirer series explains how plastic leaks into rivers and coasts through weak collection, illegal dumping, open burning, poor segregation, and limited recycling—despite lower per-capita use. Agriculture Pest Threat: SRA reports the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation in Bukidnon jumped from 30 hectares to 53.29 hectares in days, prompting coordinated containment efforts with LGUs and sugar mills.