Philippines Impeachment: Sara Duterte’s defense began Article II cross-examination, with counsel probing retired Sandiganbayan Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang’s political leanings as the case focuses on alleged unexplained wealth and SALN declarations. Philippines Governance & Courts: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rejected claims that the arrest of former House Speaker Martin Romualdez is “political drama,” framing it as an attack meant to discredit the process. Philippines Peace Process: Bangsamoro voters started casting ballots for the region’s first elected parliament after decades of conflict, with early violence killing three people and 15 wounded. UK Devolution Politics: Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland leaders signed a memorandum to pursue leaving the UK, signaling a coordinated push beyond Westminster. Israel–Culture War: Israeli officials escalated a dispute over the Gaza documentary “NAZA,” with calls to revoke filmmakers’ citizenship amid claims of “treason” and counterclaims of fabricated allegations. DRC Parliamentary Tensions: The National Assembly opened its September session amid opposition plans for a march, with the 2027 budget law a central item. South Korea–Uzbekistan: Seoul and Tashkent pledged to deepen a strategic partnership ahead of a Central Asia summit. Sweden Election Fallout: Sweden’s election remains razor-close, with coalition talks likely to decide whether far-right Sweden Democrats enter government. Rajasthan Local Polls: BJP led in major urban bodies while Congress held key gains, with AAP and CPI(M) emerging as alternatives in select councils. Nigeria Politics: An ADC senatorial candidate vowed to unseat the APC in 2027, pitching youth mobilization and economic change. BRICS Dinner Row: India’s BRICS vegetarian menu sparked a Congress-BJP fight over “imposition” versus dietary diversity. US Midterms Watch: Democrats see Senate control as possible, with banks and regulators likely to face sharper oversight if Democrats gain power.