Ocean Policy Push: Tonga says it will roll out its first National Ocean Policy in 2026, aiming for 30% protection and fully sustainable management, with whales at the center and a call for regional cooperation across shared currents and tuna stocks. Community-Led Conservation: The Marshall Islands told the Melanesian Oceans Summit that protected areas work best when local people lead and traditional knowledge guides decisions. Regional Unity at the Summit: FSM’s special envoy urged science-based action and unity at the Melanesian Ocean Summit, where PNG is positioning itself as a regional ocean leader and Timor-Leste’s president is in Port Moresby for talks. Compact Funding Worries: A new U.S. GAO report warns Compact of Free Association money is getting stuck behind late audits and bureaucratic delays, threatening Palau’s recovery and key services. Cost Pressure on Shipping: A freight forwarder says fuel surcharges will jump for Guam and CNMI, with downstream impacts for household prices. Storm Aftermath: Humanitarian updates from the Solomon Islands highlight displacement, damaged health services, and WWII-era explosives complicating relief. Economy Watch: The World Bank forecasts Pacific growth slowing to 2.8% in 2026 as higher energy and shipping costs weigh on tourism and imports.