Philippines Farm Protection: In President Marcos Jr.’s 5th SONA, the government highlighted agricultural insurance as a key safety net, saying payouts hit P19 billion over four years as threats like avian flu and African swine fever continue to endanger farm livelihoods. Rural Poverty Pressure in Sugar Areas: In Negros, sugar workers and small farmers urged faster, corruption-free delivery of recovery help, pointing to RSSI infestation, higher costs, unstable sugar prices, and the annual “tiempo muerto” that leaves thousands without income. El Niño Prep and Grain Reserves (Zimbabwe): ARDA reported 120,054.49MT of summer cereals delivered to Zimbabwe’s grain reserves, with sorghum volumes rising as officials brace for possible El Niño-linked drought. Livestock Disease Alert (Nagaland): Zunheboto officials confirmed ASF has spread across the district, warning against pork consumption and urging strict biosecurity to protect pig farmers. Crop Conditions (U.S. Corn Belt): Pro Farmer members say Iowa and Nebraska corn looks generally good after storms, but disease pressure is rising and soybeans still need August rain. Food Prices and Supply (Nigeria): Traders and residents in Lagos blamed rainy floods for higher vegetable prices, citing washed-out harvests. Trade and Farm Equipment: Texas-area equipment reps said Canadian machinery demand remains strong despite tariff uncertainty. Local Market Boost (U.S. Community): A North Saanich “Harvest Hub” is breaking ground to help local producers process and sell food more easily, aiming to strengthen regional food security.