Philippines–Vietnam Upgrade: Manila and Hanoi elevated ties to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership” as President Ferdinand Marcos and Vietnamese leader To Lam met in Malacañang, expanding cooperation on defense, the economy, technology and people-to-people links. Diplomatic Friction: The state visit hit a snag when a scheduled Senate meeting between To Lam and Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano was canceled, with no official reason given. Energy Push: Vietnam is accelerating onshore wind deployment to strengthen renewable fuel supply and cut reliance on coal and gas, as electricity demand climbs. HCMC Carbon Market Rules: Ho Chi Minh City’s agriculture and environment ministry is set as the sole authority for Vietnam’s national registry of greenhouse gas quotas and carbon credits, aiming for centralized, transparent data management. Vietnam Economy Watch: S&P Global reports Vietnam’s manufacturing PMI rose to 52.8 in May, with new orders returning to growth after April. Transport & Tourism: Vietjet announced direct Cebu–Ho Chi Minh City flights starting Dec. 11, 2026, adding five round trips weekly and boosting capacity between the two countries.