Remittances Surge: The Central Bank says Dominican remittances hit US$6.219B in the first half of 2026 (+6.7% YoY), with June alone at US$1.049B (+13.6%), driven mainly by the U.S. diaspora (81.4% of formal flows). Customs Collections: The General Directorate of Customs collected RD$129.24B in H1 2026 (+2.6%), with June revenues up 15.4% to RD$24.16B, citing faster clearance and stronger controls. Tourism & Heritage Investment: Tourism Minister David Collado inaugurated the restored Alcázar de Colón Museum (over RD$100M) and launched an RD$86M public lighting upgrade in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City to boost safety and visitor experience. Energy Cost Pressure: ECLAC warns oil prices are set to stay higher than 2025, which could worsen trade balances for energy-importing economies including the Dominican Republic. Public Debate on Penal Code: Santiago Matías (Alofoke) says Congress will modify 16 articles of the new Penal Code after a meeting with President Abinader, including provisions tied to freedom of expression. Environment Plan: The government, via Environment and RD Vial/Digecac, announced a reforestation push to plant 10 million plants along major highways and avenues over two years. Drug Smuggling Crackdown: U.S. CBP seized 22.35 kg of cocaine shipped from Santo Domingo to Delhi, declared as “music equipment,” as part of Operation Striker Shield.