Climate-Resilient Reefs: Tonga, the Federated States of Micronesia and French Polynesia signed a global pledge to protect coral reefs that can better survive climate change, with traditional practices like rāhui highlighted as part of the plan. West Papua Rights Pressure: Pacific diplomacy put West Papua back in focus as Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders pushed Indonesia to allow a UN human rights commissioner visit, warning membership could be reviewed if action doesn’t happen by 2026. Gender & Climate Leadership: Forum leaders backed a Pacific Pact on Gender and Climate Action, aiming to boost women’s influence in climate decisions, improve gender-responsive climate data, and ensure climate finance reaches frontline communities. Oceans & Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Leaders strengthened regional positions on ocean sovereignty and fisheries, while civil society and Greenpeace warned that port deals and deep-sea mining could open the door to resource extraction risks. Palau Forum Aftertaste: Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr said the real test is what people see next—turning commitments into results in villages, schools, ports and daily life. Local Culture Spotlight: Palauan poet Stephanie Pettit won a UN Women regional contest for “Kolt,” turning personal motherhood pain into a powerful public voice. Sports Leigh-Out: CNMI’s Labor Day softball tournament and other off-island sports updates are featured in this week’s Leigh Gases roundup.