Prime Minister Ishiba's second policy speech dominated morning coverage, announcing plans to raise the ¥1.03 million income threshold, a significant shift from previous administrative positions. The speech emphasized cross-party dialogue, reflecting his minority government status.
A fatal explosion at a tile factory in Takahawa and a serious runway incident at New Chitose Airport where construction vehicles entered an active runway generated sustained coverage throughout the morning.
By afternoon, scrutiny intensified on political funding transparency as reports revealed 95% anonymity rates in cabinet ministers' fundraising events. The government quietly shelved plans to reform retirement benefit taxation.
Prince Akishino's 59th birthday press conference generated evening coverage with his comments on imperial succession reforms, while Toshiba announced plans to reduce workforce by 3,500 employees through early retirement programs.
