Taiwan-Philippines Travel: Taiwan extended visa-free entry for Philippine passport holders for another year, letting Filipinos stay up to 14 days without a visa from Aug. 1, 2026 to July 31, 2027, in reciprocity for Manila’s similar move for Taiwanese travelers. Food Safety Overhaul: After the Central Union Oil tainted-oil scandal, Taiwan’s Executive Yuan plans to push amendments to the Food Safety and Sanitation Act on July 23, tightening raw-material and factory process checks, adding trial testing, boosting inspections, and requiring faster reporting. PNG Diplomatic Shock: Taiwan is reviewing economic ties with Papua New Guinea after PNG ordered the closure of Taiwan’s Port Moresby representative office; the U.S. said it is “deeply concerned,” calling it part of Beijing’s intimidation campaign. Local Preparedness Drills: Northern and central Taiwan will simulate mobile internet disruptions during air-raid drills next month, limiting users to voice calls and text for 30 minutes in Taipei/New Taipei and other counties. Consumer Protection Alert: Taipei City warned that furniture e-commerce site “Homee” appears to have shut down without notice, urging customers to keep transaction records and seek refunds through proper channels. Weather Update: Hualien’s Wanli River barrier lake overflow was delayed until early Monday due to increased seepage, though a severe flood alert remains in place. Markets & Tech Mood: A global AI-driven sell-off dragged stocks lower, with Taiwan shares falling sharply alongside chip weakness. Sports & Culture: Lee Hao-yu drove in two runs with a go-ahead double as the Tigers beat the Angels 2-1, while Kavalan’s whisky earned BevTest Platinum medals, reinforcing Taiwan’s growing whisky reputation.