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United Airlines hiking fares 15-20% on jet fuel spike

United Airlines has implemented broad-based fare hikes of 15 to 20 percent as it seeks to offset the surge in gasoline prices while protecting profits, executives said Wednesday.

The big US carrier, which has also trimmed its 2026 flying capacity by 5 percent, aims to recover 100 percent of the added costs from the jet fuel price spike due to the Middle East war.

Chief Executive Scott Kirby described oil prices as ‘incredibly volatile,’ but said the company’s plan is based on the assumption that ‘fuel may remain higher for longer.’

While the airline has yet to see pullback from customers due to high fares, United may cut back additional flights in 2027 if demand ebbs, Kirby said.

United on Tuesday reported higher first-quarter profits but lowered its full-year profit forecast due to jet fuel costs. United expects fuel prices to average $4.30 per gallon in the second quarter, up 55 percent from the average in the first quarter.

Other carriers too

Other airlines have also announced fare increases and capacity curtailments in response to the surge in oil prices since the US-Israel siege on Iran launched on Feb. 28.

The head of the International Air Transport Association on April 17 called on authorities to put ‘well-coordinated plans in place’ in case of jet fuel rationing.

Worries about jet fuel availability are more acute in Asia and Europe compared with the United States, said United Chief Financial Officer Michael Leskinen.

‘We don’t see a lack of availability being an issue at all in the US. It’s a price issue,’ Leskinen said.

‘However, even in Europe and Asia, as we sit here today, we think it’s a price issue not an availability issue,’ said Leskinen adding that ‘spot outages’ could happen in Europe and Asia if the conflict drags on.

Cops, soldiers discover arms cache in Butuan City

Joint operating troops from the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13) and the Philippine Army uncovered an arms cache believed to belong to the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Antongalon, Butuan City, on Monday.

Police Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV, director of PRO-13, said the discovery was made by personnel of Butuan City Police Station 4, the 29th Infantry Battalion, and the 25th Ordnance Explosive Disposal (EOD) Team of the Philippine Army after acting on a report from a concerned citizen.

Recovered from the site were five M76B rifle grenades, one M76C rifle grenade, one M76A-1 rifle grenade, two short plastic magazines for M16 rifles, four short alloy magazines for M16 rifles, one long magazine for an M16 rifle, two M60 barrels with defaced serial numbers, one handheld radio, and one Alcatel keypad cellular phone.

‘I commend our citizens for helping maintain peace and order in the region, particularly through their vigilance in reporting the presence of firearms and explosives. Our operatives are still conducting an investigation into the origin and intended use of the recovered items, as well as the individuals or groups responsible for storing them in the area,’ Magistrado said.

Authorities said the five M76B rifle grenades, one M76C rifle grenade, and one M76A-1 rifle grenade were deemed hazardous to handle and were immediately disposed of through controlled detonation at the site by the 25th EOD Team.

Meanwhile, the two recovered M60 barrels were turned over to the Butuan City Forensic Unit for ballistic examination.

PVL Finals: Creamline wary as it goes for clincher vs gritty Cignal

When Creamline flushed Cignal with a heavy dose of championship experience to take Game 1 of the PVL All-Filipino Conference finals, the Cool Smashers did so in such an authoritative manner that even their foes couldn’t help but notice.

‘It’s about how they (Creamline) stay composed and enjoy every situation. For us, it felt different,’ said Super Spikers coach Shaq Delos Santos. ‘The biggest lesson for us, especially since it’s our first time [in the All-Filipino finals], is to embrace the moment.’

Cignal, which owns runner-up finishes in the 2022 Reinforced and 2024 Invitational, has one shot to embrace the moment.

Creamline guns for the crown on Thursday at Smart Araneta Coliseum, intent on reclaiming its crown but very much aware of how much its gritty foe has to offer as it fights for survival.

‘Cignal is the type of team that doesn’t stick to just one lineup. They make a lot of changes. So we need to stay patient and be ready for whatever adjustments they make in Game 2,’ said Jema Galanza, who had 17 points in Game 1, aside from collecting 13 excellent receptions from 18 tries.

The Cool Smashers looked untouchable in that 25-22, 25-18, 25-16 victory two days ago, but even coach Sherwin Meneses admitted that his squad can’t expect to run through their rivals in the same easy manner.

‘The series isn’t over,’ Meneses said, adding there is much to clean up heading into the 5:30 p.m. Game 2 tussle. ‘We’ll continue to work on our lapses in practice and go back to square one. Cignal won’t back down. That’s why they’re in the finals. So we can’t relax.’

Jia de Guzman, who returned to the finals for the first time in three years, is optimistic heading to Game 2, but said her teammates will have to be careful against a team that beat them twice in three previous meetings this conference.

No surrender

‘We have to do our best to close out as much as possible because we know Cignal is a good team. They gave us a hard time the whole conference,’ said De Guzman, who had 22 excellent sets and scored four points.

‘We’re optimistic. We’re thankful that the team is slowly coming together. We’re peaking at the right time. But Game 2 will be a different kind of fight,’ she added.

It is a fight that Cignal hasn’t surrendered just yet.

‘There’s still a Game 2. The championship isn’t decided in Game 1. We still have the opportunity to bounce back, reset, and perform better in the next game. We’ll fight until the end,’ said Delos Santos in Filipino.

‘It’s tougher for us since we didn’t get Game 1. Personally, I need to trust the team and our system more. We just have to play our game. I told them not to pressure themselves too much. I want us to show what we’ve built and prepared for, because that’s why we got here. We just need to bring out our real game, and that’s it, no regrets,’ he added.

The Super Spikers will again rely on Vanie Gandler, who finished with 17 points and 10 receptions in Game 1, and will hope that Erika Santos can rebound from a 9-of-39 attacking clip that netted 10 points. Gel Cayuna was limited to 14 excellent sets but scored six points-the third-best scorer of the team.

PLDT, meanwhile, looks to clinch bronze in Game 2 against Farm Fresh at 3 p.m.

House panel to probe Duterte ‘death threats,’ tax records on April 29

The House of Representatives committee on justice is set to tackle one of the most explosive charges in the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte – her alleged grave threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and former Speaker Martin Romualdez – at what could be its final hearing on probable cause on April 29.

Justice committee chairperson Rep. Gerville Luistro of Batangas said Thursday that the next hearing will delve into the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) probe and documentary evidence on the alleged death threats Duterte made in November 2024.

‘We are inclined to proceed to the presentation of evidence in support of the allegations of threat. As a matter of fact, yesterday (Wednesday), we issued a subpoena to the NBI, as well as duces tecum to bring all digital and documentary evidence pertaining to the allegations of threat,’ Luistro told ANC Headstart.

‘That is because we are really intending to conduct a clarificatory hearing on the allegations of threat. This will be happening on April 29,’ she added.

Before suspending the April 22 hearing, the justice committee granted a motion to issue subpoenas for the NBI to present its findings on the vice president’s alleged threats.

Unlike the first two hearings, the April 29 session will only have the NBI as its sole resource person, Luistro said. Since there would be a less packed agenda, she mentioned that the committee is likely to vote that same day on whether probable cause exists for each allegation in the two impeachment complaints.

‘So we anticipate that at the end of the hearing on April 29, the justice members will proceed to vote on the determination of probable cause,’ Luistro said.

She further stressed that the grave threats allegation is the last of the charges in the impeachment complaints to be examined, noting that no justice committee member has so far requested additional hearing dates – which she believes suggests the panel is satisfied with the three sessions scheduled.

Before voting, however, Luistro also said that the committee will first need to decide whether to unseal the tax records of Duterte and her husband, Atty. Manases Carpio, as submitted by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

‘We need to vote whether or not we will open [the sealed box] because we cannot terminate the proceedings of the Justice committee with a matter left pending,’ she said.

Should the committee vote to keep the BIR records sealed, Luistro said she would suggest transmitting them to the Senate as is, leaving it to the upper chamber to determine whether it has the jurisdiction and legal authority to open them as an impeachment court. This, she stressed, would only apply if the committee first votes in favor of probable cause.

‘But in the event that we will not open the sealed box, I think I will be suggesting to the committee that we just transmit it to the Senate even if it is sealed. So we will leave it up to the Senate what their position will be about that. That is on the assumption that the justice members will vote in favor of the probable cause,’ she said.

The committee on justice deferred on Wednesday the disclosure of Duterte and Carpio’s income tax returns after encountering a legal obstacle where the tax code specifically limits the release of such records to Congress only upon request during inquiries in aid of legislation and in executive session.

Salami, Showkey, others for honour at Black Merit Awards

The maiden edition of the Black Merit Awards is set to hold tomorrow, Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Shell Zenith Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

According to a statement by the Creative Director and Founder of the awards, Mrs Oluwatoyin Black, the Black Merit Awards is a prestigious annual event aimed at celebrating outstanding individuals of African descent who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and impact across various fields.

Black noted that the awardees cut across sectors, from the arts to enterprise, science to social advocacy, adding that the initiative is designed to spotlight Black excellence and amplify voices shaping the future.

She revealed that some of the honourees include the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who will receive the Black Merit Grand Medal Distinguished Leader Award; veteran actor, Alhaji Adebayo Salami, as an Iconic Legend; and Daddy Showkey as the Street Music Icon.

Other awardees include Yemi Solade, Mercy Aigbe, Ruggedman, and Obesere, among others.

‘The awards are about celebrating our stories, honouring our greatness, and inspiring future generations.

‘It is also designed to showcase excellence in leadership, recognise visionaries transforming industries and communities, highlight creative innovation by artists pushing boundaries, and celebrate change makers building a more equitable world, as well as rising stars making early impact and icons whose enduring contributions continue to inspire,’ she said.

Black further stated that the platform aims to bridge continents by bringing global attention to Black excellence across Africa and the diaspora.

‘Whether in Lagos, London, Atlanta, or Accra, the Black Merit Awards serve as a beacon of celebration.

‘Representation is not just visibility; it is validation. By recognising those who dare to lead, create, and uplift, the awards foster pride, motivation, and cultural preservation.

‘Our goal is to celebrate excellence globally by honouring individuals, organisations, and initiatives that authentically represent and shape the narrative of the Black experience across the world,’ she added.

Foreign investors drive Nigeria’s bank recapitalisation as confidence rebounds

Fresh signs of renewed investor confidence in Nigeria’s financial system have emerged, with about 28 per cent of ongoing bank recapitalisation investments sourced from foreign investors, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disclosed.

The development, unveiled during the CBN Special Day at the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair, highlights a growing international vote of confidence in Nigeria’s reform-driven financial sector.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations at the apex bank, Mrs. Sidi Ali Hakama, said the recapitalisation exercise due to close March 31, 2026, is progressing steadily, with 34 banks already meeting the new capital thresholds.

She stressed that the level of foreign participation is a strong endorsement of ongoing reforms. ‘About 28 per cent of recapitalisation investments are coming from foreign sources, reflecting renewed confidence in Nigeria’s financial system,’ she said.

Hakama attributed the renewed confidence to sweeping reforms under the leadership of Olayemi Cardoso, particularly in the foreign exchange market.

According to her, ‘the reforms have increased transparency and liquidity in the FX market, with a new FX manual removing many restrictive capital controls and simplifying trade and investment procedures.’

‘Decentralisation push on pipeline surveillance is disaster waiting to happen’ N’ Delta activist

Growing calls to decentralise Nigeria’s pipeline surveillance system have triggered fresh concerns among policy analysts and security stakeholders who warn that fragmenting oversight of critical oil infrastructure could reverse recent gains in production and stability.

The debate, which has drawn in former militant leaders including Ateke Tom, Boyloaf, and Shoot-at-Sight, is being framed by proponents as a push for equity.

A Niger Delta youth leader Comrade Preye Tambou, however, argued that it is a bid to redistribute lucrative federal contracts rather than improve security outcomes.

‘The decentralisation being demanded is a security disaster waiting to happen. Breaking surveillance into multiple militant fiefdoms will multiply extortion points, complicate intelligence gathering, encourage rival armed structures, and return the Niger Delta to a competitive militarized economy,’ Tambou said, in a statement, Friday.

Pipeline surveillance, a federally controlled security function, had in recent years been consolidated under private operators, including Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

Toyin Abraham’s Oversabi Aunty gets honour as Olori Ogunwusi lauds actress

Toyin Abraham’s highest-grossing film, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ has been honoured by the Dr Shaibu Husseini- led National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

The recognition is coming for her film, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ which grossed over N1 billion at the Nigerian box office. The award celebrates Abraham’s ‘outstanding box office performance’ as a first-time director.

The ceremony took place at the board’s South West Zonal Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, March 20, 2026.

Guests at the ceremony included Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, the National President of the Association of Movie Producers in Nigeria, Blessing Ebigieson, Head of Operations at Viva Cinemas, Patrick Lee, Vice President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, and Grace Edwin-Okon.

Speaking at the celebration of Abraham’s achievement, Dr Husseini said, ‘Today we gather to honour an exceptional talent. An actress, producer and debut director. We are here to celebrate Toyin Abraham, whose film ‘Oversabi Aunty’ has achieved an extraordinary milestone, surpassing N1 billion at the Nigerian box office.

‘This accomplishment is not only a personal triumph for her, but it is a testament to great strength, resilience, and the global potential of Nollywood. At the National Film and Video Censors Board, we take pride in supporting a thriving film culture that entertains, informs, and contributes meaningfully to our national economy. This recognition is part of our commitment to celebrating those who continue to raise the bar in storytelling and production. Today, we are also presenting her with an award for outstanding box office performance as a first-time director. Please, you must give Toyin Abraham a round of applause.

‘And to Toyin Abraham, we celebrate your vision, your hard work. You work very hard. The only place she has not done a skit is on my back. Your unwavering dedication to your craft cannot be compared. Congratulations to you.’

In the same vein, Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, one of the wives of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, shared how Abraham’s film prompted her to rethink her family life.

‘The movie isn’t just entertainment. It gave me the time to reflect on my family, my children across the world. I started calling them, telling them, ‘I’m not too busy for you.’ Toyin Abraham has taught me that even in our busy lives, we must be intentional about our loved ones. For those who haven’t seen ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ you need to see it. It is a must watch for all parents, especially religious people. You can’t watch it and remain the same. It’s a wake up call,’ she said.

APC leaders assure rancour-free national convention, hail South-South unity

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has expressed strong confidence in its internal unity as it prepares for its upcoming APC National Convention, with party leaders projecting a peaceful and rancour-free exercise.

Speaking ahead of the convention in Abuja, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, stated that the processes leading to the national gathering-from ward to state levels-had been orderly and democratic.

He likened the progression to the careful stages of baking a cake.

He noted that about 8,453 delegates are expected to elect party leaders, largely through a consensus arrangement, adding that the party has effective mechanisms for resolving disagreements.

Aniagwu emphasised that the peaceful conduct of previous congresses across political zones demonstrated the party’s ability to manage internal affairs, assuring members and the public that the convention would reflect transparency, orderliness, and unity.

Similarly, the recently concluded South-South APC Zonal Congress in Asaba has been described as a major milestone in strengthening the party’s cohesion in the region.

Chief Press Secretary to Delta State Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, hailed the congress as a historic gathering marked by unity, consolidation, and renewed political strength.

He noted that the alignment of South-South states under the APC signals a new era of cooperation and enhances the region’s political relevance at the national level.

Ahon commended party leaders and stakeholders for fostering unity and urged newly elected zonal executives to sustain the momentum by promoting peace, collaboration, and inclusiveness.

He also highlighted the strong turnout of political heavyweights, describing it as a reflection of growing cohesion within the party.

Ondo: Aiyedatiwa commends Tinubu, Yilwatda over national convention

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the outcome of the party’s National Convention held in Abuja.

Mr. Aiyedatiwa, who led delegates from Ondo State to the convention, described the exercise as peaceful and well-organised. He noted that the emergence of national officers reflected internal cohesion within the ruling party.

According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the Governor also congratulated the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and other members of the National Working Committee (NWC), who were returned unopposed.

‘The orderly process, spirit of unity and reaffirmation of shared ideals attest to the maturity of our party and the strength of its internal democracy,’ the governor was quoted in the statement.

He also lauded party stakeholders, including members of the convention planning committee and delegates, for their discipline during the exercise.

The governor added that the convention’s outcome reinforces the responsibility of the APC as the governing party to deliver on its mandate under the Tinubu administration.

He said Ondo would continue efforts to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and expand development initiatives across communities.

Aiyedatiwa, however, lauded the delegates from the state for their conduct at the convention.