AGP Executive Report
Last update: 3 hours agoDrug Policy in Focus: Laos PM Sonexay Siphandone reaffirmed the government’s push to curb narcotic drugs and illicit trafficking on the 39th International Day Against Drug Abuse, citing public awareness, stronger enforcement, alternative livelihoods, and rehab/treatment services; Laos reported 3,660 drug trafficking cases in 2025 with 5,643 suspects arrested. Inflation & Health Costs: Laos inflation eased to 7.4% in June (from 9%), with medical care and medicines rising 11.8%—a reminder that household health expenses remain under pressure. Regional STI Collaboration: At the ASEAN STI ministerial meeting in Vientiane, Malaysia urged a more integrated, mission-driven science, technology and innovation ecosystem to tackle public health, food security, and climate resilience. Health Access Tech (Regional): In the Philippines, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center launched robotic-assisted surgeries, expanding advanced surgical access in the Bangsamoro region. Community Health & Nutrition: WFP highlighted behavior change approaches to improve diets, linking healthier food choices to stronger food systems. Workplace Stress (Regional): A Gallup report found Filipino workers reported the highest workplace stress in Southeast Asia, while Laos figures sat below the regional average.
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