The Liberal Democratic Party's presidential race dominated Japan's news cycle. Nine candidates outlined their approaches to economic policies, U.S.-China relations, and constitutional revision. Polls showed Shigeru Ishiba leading with 26% support, followed by Shinjiro Koizumi at 21%. Candidates campaigned in Fukushima, emphasizing post-disaster recovery. Economic discussions focused on inflation countermeasures and wage increases. The aging population reached a record 36.25 million, with one in four seniors employed. In international news, the Philippines withdrew a ship from a disputed area in the South China Sea, while the Quad planned joint patrols to counter illegal fishing. Domestically, heavy rain warnings were issued for parts of eastern Japan, with record-breaking rainfall reported in Matsue City.