Cebu

Israeli and Palestinian peacebuilders spoke at the UN Security Council, urging governments to make support for civil society a permanent commitment rather than an ad hoc effort. The appeal highlights the work of grassroots organisations on both sides that continue cooperation and dialogue despite conflict, and calls on member states to provide sustained funding and political backing for such peacebuilding initiatives.

The United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs issued its daily top news roundup, focusing on Colombia, Syria and Central Africa, alongside broader peacebuilding and peace support work. The brief highlights ongoing UN engagement in peace processes and political transitions in these regions, with Colombia's implementation efforts, the situation in Syria and Central African developments drawing attention.

Babis travelled to Cebu in the Philippines to experience the Sinulog Festival and its traditions up close. During the celebrations, he noticed what he describes as a serious financial irregularity: thousands of people were shouting 'Viva Pit Señor!' without anyone apparently paying anything. The story, shared in Greek, mixes travel reporting with a humorous take on the festival's customs.

Discussion is underway about the future of India's space agency ISRO and which companies stand to gain from the growing commercial space business. Commentators are questioning whether private players and global space firms could marginalise the state-run agency, and who is actually making money as the space economy expands.

The Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu has explained its policies and space constraints after questions were raised about patient watchers sleeping outside the hospital. The facility says limited space and visitor rules mean watchers are not always able to stay beside patients indoors, prompting public discussion about accommodation for families of those being treated.

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs has concluded a visit to Afghanistan, the UN's political affairs department announced in a note to correspondents. The visit comes amid ongoing international engagement with the country's authorities and continued UN efforts on peace, security and humanitarian concerns. Further details of meetings and outcomes were not provided in the announcement.

GrimKeep, a grimdark roguelite dicebuilding game, is set to launch in November, according to a report from TheSixthAxis. The title combines dice-based building mechanics with roguelite progression in a dark fantasy setting. Gamers are sharing the news as part of the steady stream of indie game announcements, with interest centred on whether the dicebuilder formula can sustain a grimdark tone.

Pakistan's envoy to the United States briefed students at the University of Hartford on diplomacy and peacebuilding, discussing the country's approach to international relations and conflict resolution. The engagement session offered students a direct exchange with a senior diplomat on issues shaping Pakistan-US ties.

A Pakistani envoy met with students at the University of Hartford to discuss diplomacy and peacebuilding. The session covered Pakistan's approach to international relations and conflict resolution, offering students a chance to engage directly with a senior diplomat. The event was reported by The Diplomatic Insight, a publication covering global affairs and diplomatic outreach.

The Andrew Carnegie Foundation has announced an international call for proposals focused on peacebuilding and mediation. Organizations working in conflict resolution and dialogue can apply under the foundation's International Program. The announcement is drawing attention among practitioners and researchers in the peace and security field seeking international funding.

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs has concluded a visit to Afghanistan, the UN announced. No details were given about whom she met or what was discussed. The trip comes as the UN continues engagement with the Taliban authorities over humanitarian aid, human rights and political inclusion, issues that keep Afghanistan in focus internationally.

A photograph by Dutch photographer Ed van der Elsken, showing police officers on a street, is circulating online. The image, described as the left fragment of a larger shot, was taken around 1959-1960 and is believed to depict Manila or Cebu City in the Philippines. Van der Elsken was known for his street photography during extensive world travels.