Maternity Protection Gaps: The ILO says ASEAN progress on maternity benefits is uneven, with women in informal work and migrant workers still facing limited access to maternity protection and healthcare support. Bilateral Health Cooperation: Cambodia and Laos plan to expand border public health ties, with a new MoU aimed at preventing and controlling infectious diseases like malaria and improving outbreak response at border gates. Tobacco Control Push: Laos marked World No Tobacco Day 2026 at Mahosot Hospital, warning that tobacco and nicotine firms target children and youth via flavored products and e-cigarettes, and calling for stronger enforcement of smoke-free rules and sales restrictions. Laos Cave Rescue (Health & Safety): Rescuers in central Laos are still racing to find two men feared trapped in a flooded cave network, using new search routes after reports of possible “knocking” sounds and a risky vertical shaft. Public Health Diplomacy: Laos and Japan reaffirm cooperation on public health and infrastructure during a Vientiane meeting, with Japan also supporting UXO clearance. Anti-Scam & Digital Safety: Lao leaders discussed tackling transnational internet scam centres with India, linking economic ties to safer digital systems. Fake News Response: Cambodia’s information minister proposes a Mekong fact-checking and rapid response mechanism to curb misinformation that can spread across borders. Wildlife & Health Link: A major bear bile farm rescue in Laos freed 27 moon bears, spotlighting animal cruelty tied to traditional medicine markets.