Rugby Governance: World Rugby says Samoa’s international programme is “still on” while discussions continue over the Lakapi Samoa dispute, after fears of a possible four-year suspension that could derail the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Deep-Sea Mining: A Samoa-focused debate warns that deep-sea mining beyond national waters could cause permanent ecosystem damage and argues for a moratorium as rules at the International Seabed Authority remain unsettled. Pacific Sports: Samoa and New Caledonia opened their OFC U-16 Women’s Championship campaigns with wins in Honiara, with Samoa beating Tonga 2-1 and New Caledonia routing PNG 5-2. Netball Pathway: Samoa is set to play in the Oceania Netball World Cup qualifier in Tonga, with two spots up for grabs alongside hosts Tonga, Cook Islands, Fiji and PNG. Public Safety & Justice: Samoa’s Ministry of Police confirms three staff were terminated after positive drug tests, while the Justice Ministry flags a review of the Criminal Procedures Act 2016, including the death penalty for drug offenders. Weather & Disasters: Samoa faces renewed fire risk after a second blaze in five days, as El Niño dries conditions. Regional Mobility: Australia has published the list of Pacific Engagement Visa eligible countries, including Samoa, offering a permanent residence pathway.