Philippines Credit Watch: Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) kept the Philippines at “A-” with a stable outlook, pointing to strong growth, low external debt, and big foreign-exchange buffers, while warning income gaps still need work. Asian Games Logistics: Japan’s Aichi-Nagoya hosts told late Asian Games additions to find their own stays, saying there’s no budget or space beyond the 15,000 delegation cap. Demographics: Japan saw births rise 0.8% in Jan–June to 342,068, the first first-half increase in 11 years. Currency & Inflation: Japan’s August inflation came in at 1.4% y/y, while reports highlighted record yen-support spending and ongoing pressure on the currency. Defense & Security: Japan plans defense equipment aid to at least 12 countries and is acquiring a former Nippon Steel site in Hiroshima for a new multifunctional defense complex. Tech & Industry: Kioxia and Sandisk outlined a $31B+ Japan expansion for advanced 3D NAND through 2032. Culture & Sports: Yayoi Kusama died at 97; the NFL eyes more Japan games; and Rei Sakamoto beat Kei Nishikori in U.S. Open qualifying.