Rum Innovation: Brugal unveiled Colección Visionary 3, a new premium aged rum made by toasting casks with ingredients inside (this time coconut), adding a fresh “one-way” flavor variable to its aging process. Diplomacy & Security: The Dominican Republic ordered nine Cuban diplomats to leave within seven days, escalating geopolitical tension as Cuba condemned the move and allegations of spy links surfaced. Telecom Regulation: Indotel presented a proposal for a new General Law on Telecommunications, Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity, aiming to modernize rules for fiber, mobile generations, satellite links, submarine cables and data centers, with a single concession and a single electronic window for infrastructure deployment. Public Finance & Governance: A DR Congress session update said key bills still stalled—water, labor code updates, cybersecurity management, a new civil code and civil procedure, energy efficiency, nutritional labeling, and climate change—before the second ordinary session begins Aug. 16. Tourism & Events: Presidente Festival 2026 ticket prices were set from RD$3,900 to RD$21,000 for a two-day combo, with phased presales starting Aug. 14 via tuboleta.com.do. Infrastructure & Education: Abinader kicked off construction of UFHEC’s new San Juan campus and ARCASA Plaza, targeting higher education expansion plus commerce and entrepreneurship. Transport Revenue: DR’s new driver’s license system has generated nearly RD$300M in 5.5 months, issuing 329,727 licenses since March 3. Drug Enforcement: DNCD and prosecutors arrested five in Pedro Brand and seized over 4,700 grams of alleged narcotics in coordinated operations.