Colombia Earthquake Response: President Abelardo de la Espriella declared an “economic emergency” to speed quake relief and reconstruction after the 7.4 disaster killed 265, injured 3,494, and left 496 missing, with plans for public-service payments, rental subsidies, tax relief, and targeted aid for families and small merchants. Aid Access Controversy: Colombia also denied rejecting help on ideological grounds, saying foreign rescue teams were accepted based on technical qualifications—after reports that some Mexican “Topos” volunteers were barred from search work. Rescue Clock: AP reports the search is entering a “final phase” as teams race against the first 72 hours, while international aid begins to arrive and officials face pressure to reach isolated communities. Civil Society Mobilization: Catholic charities and other NGOs launched emergency appeals and relief efforts for survivors, including food, medical supplies, and shelter planning. Regional Contrast: Coverage highlights “déjà vu” for Venezuelans, contrasting Colombia’s faster equipment-based response with Venezuela’s earlier reliance on civilians digging through rubble. Mexico Justice: Mexico’s FGR took over the case of influencer César Gastélum’s livestreamed murder, citing video and security footage. Venezuela Talks: Venezuela’s government and opposition agreed to renew Supreme Court justice reforms and pursue access to frozen gold reserves held in the Bank of England. Other LATAM Watch: Flood-hit Porto Alegre braces for another El Niño; Brazil’s election campaign leans into music; and Thailand announced tighter gun controls after shootings.