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How bodas are helping charcoal dealers beat security in West Nile

In the darkness, motorcycle engines roar through the forests as boda boda riders emerge from narrow paths and speed through the bushes. It is an increasingly familiar sight, as boda bodas have become part of a new tactic through which they ferry loads of charcoal bit by bit.

Instead of waiting for trucks to enter the 6,089-hectare Zoka Central Forest, or the 384-sq km Mt Kei Central Forest Reserve and collect large consignments of charcoal from West Nile, dealers are increasingly using boda boda riders to ferry smaller quantities from the deep bushes to roadside collection points.

The strategy is that they now divide a large consignment into smaller loads, use motorcycles that can negotiate narrow forest paths, and move the charcoal at night when communities, environmental advocacy groups and security personnel are in slumber.

This is making the lucrative illegal charcoal trade harder to detect. The dealers are using the psychology that a motorcycle carrying three or four sacks may not attract as much attention as a truck loaded with hundreds of bags.

When dozens of motorcycles make repeated trips in a day, the volumes quickly become substantial. Inside the forests, there are unmanned trails from all directions.

For years, the conventional picture of the charcoal trade was straightforward: charcoal burners produced the bags of charcoal in remote areas, traders ferried them in trucks and the merchandise was transported in bulk to urban markets.

But now, this model has shifted after several advocacy groups and security officials taking tough measures in safeguarding the forests from extinction.

The night shift

For boda boda riders involved in the trade, night provides an added advantage. As the the Monitor sought to investigate the racket of illegal charcoal trade, it was unearthed that most of the boda boda cyclists are ready to engage in the transportation because they are desperate for money for survival.

One of the boda boda riders, who declined to be named for fear of reprisal from his colleagues and charcoal dealers, said on the night of (September 12), he alone transported 15 bags of charcoal.

‘I made five trips that night from 8.00pm to 2.00am because there were no roadblocks and the road was clear. I was paid Shs15,000 per trip and this is good money compared to what I make during the day. That one night, I made Shs 75,000,’ he said.

Asked about engaging in the business which has endangered several species of trees in the Mt Kei Forest Reserve, he said: ‘Right now I am looking at making money because I have a family to feed and to pay school fees. But I know, trees attract rainfall and make the environment cool. But the money paid to us is lucrative.’

Speaking to the Monitor last weekend, an environmental advocate in Yumbe District, Mr Cox Banduga, of Save the Shea Nut Foundation, described the scale of the illegal charcoal motorcycle transportation as a major challenge to conservation efforts.

‘Every morning until late in the night, you see motorcycles carrying three to four sacks of charcoal. And at night, the number of motorcycles increases. When you are inside, you hear them pass at terrific speeds,’ he said.

Mr Banduga said two weeks ago, he counted about 30 motorcycles that pass via Midigo. ‘…this is only one route. Imagine areas of Kerwa, Romogi and Ariwa where there are numerous paths. Can you imagine how many motorcycles are being used in this racket?’

One motorcycle may carry only three or four sacks, 10 of them making several journeys can move dozens of bags without the need for a single large truck to enter the forest.

According to Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime (GI-TOC) 2021 report on black gold, the annual turnover of the charcoal trade in Kampala is estimated to be well over $182m (about Shs700b).

Why bodas are successful

Darkness makes surveillance more difficult, particularly along the network of footpaths and minor roads that criss-cross forest communities.

A rider enters the bush, assembles the charcoal and delivers it to a predetermined location without necessarily travelling along the major roads where security checkpoints are rigorous.

A testimony by a motorcycle rider corroborates that of Joseph, another boda boda rider, who previously transported charcoal from Zoka Central Forest, who told the Monitor in June that he had ever engaged in the charcoal transportation for the dealers.

‘I often transported bags of charcoal from Zoka forest at night to a location where I was directed to take them,’ he said.

Joseph said he was paid Shs20,000 per trip before he abandoned the business after realising the environmental consequences.

His account also explains another important feature of the trade: it is a racket. The motorcycle operator is often a link in a much longer chain involving charcoal burners, middlemen, dealers, collection point operators and eventually buyers in distant urban markets or countries.

A three months investigation by the Monitor revealed that the charcoal dealer may never enter the forest, but he is connected to local communities. They communicate on phone. The boda bodas keep surveilling which route is safe or unsafe.

They rarely use smart-phones, they use the conventional phones, commonly known as kabiriti, because they can store power for long and are efficient in tapping networks. They are also difficult to track by security.

Some of the motorcycles are owned by charcoal burners, rented or operated by third-parties hired for transportation. They use several undetected paths they established. This makes enforcement challenging.

Authorities can impound a motorcycle carrying three sacks, but that does not necessarily lead them to the person who financed the cutting of trees or owns the wider charcoal business.

This means simply arresting riders may have limited impact. If the dealer remains unidentified, another rider can quickly replace the arrested transporter.

Environmental campaigners like Mr Mustafa Gerima of Save the Shea Nut Foundation, said enforcement must, therefore, move beyond roadside interception.

‘Mt Kei is now the hotbed for charcoal production. You may see a motorcycle carrying three-four bags of charcoal and you may not stop him. But if you follow them, you discover there is a truck waiting for that load in a bush,’ Mr Gerima.

He said environmental campaigners have been facing intimidation and threats on their lives from unknown callers.

‘The dealers and perpetrators have branded us as ‘opposition’. But we should not relent on protecting the lives of these trees and environment,’ Mr Gerima said.

Recently, the 4th Infantry Division Commander, Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, ordered that the confiscated charcoal be distributed to members of the local community for household energy use.

Maj Gen Sserunkuma said the security forces would strengthen efforts to protect the northern region’s dwindling forest cover, stressing that environmental conservation requires active participation of local communities.

The military has said the measure is intended to ensure confiscated charcoal benefits communities rather than returning to traders.

Did Executive Order fail?

In May 2023, the President issued Executive Order No. 3 banning large-scale commercial charcoal production and trade in northern Uganda. The directive was aimed at curbing the rampant deforestation that has severely affected the region and exacerbated the effects of climate change.

The communications specialist with Friends of Zoka in Adjumani, Mr John Unzima, said: ‘These dealings are being done under the nose of the Executive Order because it stipulates what commercial charcoal production is. The cartel of charcoal trade is beyond the boda boda riders.’

‘Who is paying the riders? Where are the charcoal sacks being collected? Where are they finally going? Yet we have both community and security intelligence in place? So, the network is too thick to penetrate,’ he added.

Ms Joyo Lekuru, a resident of Kerwa Sub-county in Yumbe District, said: ‘Mt Kei is filled with people from all parts of Uganda and other countries. You do not understand what they are doing here. But when you inquire, you will realise some of them are engaged in charcoal trade.’

She said the fight against illegal charcoal trade is not succeeding because the communities are easily enticed by money.

‘Environmentalists, leaders and media have pushed for conservation of the environment but they are being let down by the communities that cut and burn charcoal. Some of them even provide intelligence for the dealers because they are paid,’ Ms Lekuru said.

Deeper perspective of the trail

Across the circles, there are suggestions that security forces and Ministry of Water and Environment invest in satellite imagery and carry out periodic aerial surveillance to identify new charcoal-burning sites, fresh clearings and rapidly changing forest cover.

In June, the Director of Civic Advisory Hub, Mr Yona Wanjala, said there was a need to identify charcoal-burning hotspots, major collection centres, suspected dealers and financiers, the transportation patterns and destinations of bulk consignments.

‘These people do not operate in isolation. They penetrate security circles. It is sad that we are losing nature to people who want to be rich at the expense of the natural resources. They do not care if they leave Adjumani, Yumbe or the entire northern Uganda bare,’ he said.

He added that it is a black market trade because there is a ready market for the product.

The motorcycles are only visible part of the network. To save the trees, authorities should follow the charcoal paths from the forests to the person making the profit.

Ministry’s take on conservation plans

The Assistant Commissioner Forestry in charge Assessment and Monitoring at the Ministry of Water and Environment, Mr Bob Kazungu, explained that Zoka is among the eight central forest reserves considered under the management planning process for boundary opening to ease tracking and management.

He said the other seven reserves are located in Moyo and Adjumani, including some that straddle the boundaries of the two districts, while others are entirely within Moyo. According to him, an assessment done in 2022, put the forest destruction at 10 percent.

‘We have a management plan that would involve the relevant forestry departments, particularly those responsible for forest operations, law enforcement and protection,’ he said.

Mr Kazungu said the 2022 assessment also highlighted the unique tree species found in Zoka, including a particular strain that is considered highly resilient to changing weather conditions and diseases.

During community baraza meetings on September 9 in Yumbe and Adjumani, it was noted that the fight against illegal charcoal transportation would require more than roadblocks. Security agencies need to map the routes, identify collection points, trace the financiers, monitor repeat transporters and follow consignments to their final buyers.

Legislating for change: Looking at how quota laws for women in the Boardroom panned out globally

Sri Lanka’s position on gender parity in economic participation is, frankly, uncomfortable reading. We rank 130th out of 143 countries on the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index 2025, and we are the only country in the world to have recorded a negative rate of advancement since 2006. With 99.8% of females receiving the same level of education as males (ranked 48th in the world) and a Health and Survival score of 97.9% (ranked 32nd), we are well-educated, and we are healthy. We simply are not represented in the workforce.

One of the most frequently debated interventions to accelerate female participation in corporate leadership is the introduction of gender quotas. These legislated minimums compel companies to appoint women to their boards, but the debate is often heated: proponents argue that voluntary progress is too slow and too fragile, while critics contend that mandated appointments undermine meritocracy. Setting aside such ideological arguments, let’s take a look at empirical evidence to determine what actually happens when countries pass these laws. This article examines the cases of Norway, France, and India and asks an honest question: Did the legislation work?

Case Study 1: Norway, the pioneer

Legislation

Norway was the first country in the world to introduce a mandatory gender quota for corporate boards. In December 2003, an amendment to the Norwegian Companies Act was passed requiring a minimum of 40% representation of each gender on the boards of all publicly listed limited liability companies (PLCs). The legislation initially allowed for voluntary compliance, with a deadline of July 2005. When women held only around 12% of board seats by this deadline, the government made the consequences for non-compliance severe. Announced in 2006, companies that failed to meet the quota by January 2008 could be denied registration, dissolved, or subjected to ongoing financial penalties.

Outcomes

The results in terms of board representation were swift and unambiguous. At the time the law was passed, women held approximately 9% of board seats in Norwegian PLCs. By 2008, that figure had reached 43%. The quota was met, and to date it has held.

But the story beyond the boardroom is more nuanced. A 2019 study by economist Marianne Bertrand, published by the National Bureau of Economic Research, found that the quota had no discernible effect on broader female labour market outcomes, wages, or the pipeline of women into senior executive roles. Only 8% of board chairs are women, and women account for just 4% of chief executives and 12% of chief financial officers among Oslo Stock Exchange-listed companies. The quota elevated a few select women into boardrooms, but it did not automatically elevate women throughout organisations.

Another unintended consequence was that a significant number of companies chose to delist rather than comply. Of the 563 firms that were PLCs in 2003, only 179 remained so by 2008. Some converted to private limited company status specifically to avoid the quota requirement.

On financial performance, older studies documented a short-term decline in Tobin’s Q, a measure of firm value, following the law’s announcement and attributed this to boards becoming younger and hence less experienced in the immediate post-quota years. More recent analyses reject any lasting negative impact on firm profitability. What is broadly agreed upon is that the new women directors appointed under the quota were, on average, more highly qualified, better educated, and higher-earning than their female predecessors, disproving the common assumption that quotas compromise quality.

The verdict: Norway’s quota succeeded in its primary goal of achieving gender balance at the board level. Its limitations lie in the absence of spillover effects into the broader organisation and the loophole created by permitting companies to restructure to avoid compliance.

Case Study 2: France, the convert

Legislation

France was not always a champion of legislative intervention, instead choosing to pursue a ‘soft law’ approach that relies on governance codes and voluntary commitments to improve gender diversity on boards. Progress was minimal, and by 2009, women held just 8.4% of board seats across listed companies, one of the lowest rates in Europe.

The turning point came in January 2011, when the Assemblée Nationale passed the Copé-Zimmermann law. The legislation required all listed companies, as well as non-listed companies employing more than 500 people or generating revenue of over pound 50 million, to achieve at least 20% gender parity on their boards by 2014, rising to 40% by 2017. The enforcement mechanism was meaningful: companies that failed to comply could not compensate any board members, and new board appointments that did not contribute to the gender parity were automatically invalidated.

Outcomes

By 2020, women represented 44.6% of board directors at CAC 40 companies and 45.2% at SBF 120 companies. By 2024, these figures had risen further to 46.7% and 46.4% respectively, making France not only compliant but a global leader, ranking second worldwide in board gender diversity, behind only Iceland.

Unlike Norway, France also saw a positive shift in shareholder attitudes. A study published by EDHEC Business School, examining over 2,700 director elections between 2007 and 2020, found that shareholder support for female directors increased markedly after the law’s introduction. Female candidates received greater support than male candidates in post-quota elections, suggesting that the quota did not merely fill seats, but actively changed perceptions of women’s qualifications and legitimacy as directors.

Research published in the journal Environmental and Social Governance found that companies with more women on their boards showed measurably improved environmental and social performance. Women directors tended to have more E and S experience than their male counterparts and were shown to steer companies toward more responsible governance practices.

The limitations of the Copé-Zimmermann law mirror Norway’s in one critical respect: the gains did not cascade downward. In 2020, women made up only 21% of executive committee members at the largest French listed companies, and only 10% of those held operational positions. France recognised this gap and, in December 2021, passed the Rixain Act, extending quota obligations to executive committees and senior management, with targets of 30% by 2027 and 40% by 2030.

The verdict: France’s experience is the most convincing evidence that hard law outperforms soft law on this issue. The speed and scale of change following a mandatory quota, backed by meaningful financial penalties, is categorically different from what voluntary measures produced. The lesson for policymakers is that the glass ceiling does not shatter on its own, but also that the glass ceiling in the boardroom is not the same as the one in the executive suite

Case Study 3: India, the minimalist mandate

Legislation

India’s approach to legislating for women in boardrooms takes the form of Section 149 of the Companies Act 2013, that mandated all listed companies and large public companies to appoint at least one woman director to their board. The deadline for compliance was set for April 2015. The Securities and Exchange Board of India subsequently extended the requirement to the top 500 listed firms by April 2019 and the top 1,000 by April 2020. Penalties for non-compliance include fines ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 500,000, with daily fines for ongoing violations.

Unlike the Norwegian and French laws, India did not set a%age threshold. The requirement was simply one woman. This reflects the broader challenge of the Indian corporate context, where, prior to the Act, women were almost entirely absent from boardrooms, and family-controlled conglomerates dominate the listed company landscape.

Outcomes

The law produced a sharp, visible increase in women’s board representation immediately following the April 2015 compliance deadline. A decade on, Nifty-500 companies average approximately one in five board members being women. However, 223 of those 500 companies fulfil precisely the minimum mandate with only one woman director, suggesting that many companies have met the letter of the requirement without embracing its spirit.

Researchers at The Wire and other institutions have found more encouraging signals within the data. Studies using employee review platforms found that firms with higher proportions of women on their boards had measurably better workplace culture scores. Importantly, firms were, on average, appointing more women than the bare minimum required, suggesting that the legal mandate sent a signal that companies internalised beyond mere compliance.

The weaknesses of India’s approach are well-documented. A single mandatory appointment does not constitute critical mass. Research suggests that women need to comprise at least 15% of a board, ideally holding three or more seats, before they can meaningfully influence board deliberations and governance outcomes. One woman in a room of fifteen is tokenism with a legal certificate.

The verdict: India’s Companies Act 2013 opened the door but did not widen it. A minimalist mandate in a country with a deeply patriarchal corporate culture produced incremental compliance rather than transformative change. However, there are signs of positive cultural shifts in firms that have gone beyond the minimum and point to the value of stronger, more ambitious legislation.

What Sri Lanka can learn

Across these three case studies, a clear pattern emerges. Mandatory legislation with teeth delivers measurable results. Soft approaches, voluntary commitments, and governance code nudges do not. Norway’s pioneering law and France’s Copé-Zimmermann Act both demonstrate that gender balance at the board level is achievable, and achievable quickly, when the state decides to require it. India’s experience shows that a minimum mandate is better than nothing, but is insufficient on its own to change corporate culture.

The three important caveats: First, boardroom quotas do not automatically produce pipeline change. In both Norway and France, the gains at the board level have not been replicated in the executive suite, in operational leadership, or across mid-management. Quotas are a ceiling intervention, and they need to be complemented by floor interventions, such as mentoring, sponsorship, pay equity, and care infrastructure, to reshape organisations from within. Second, the quality of women appointed under quotas is not diminished, and thus, the meritocracy argument against quotas does not survive empirical scrutiny. The evidence consistently shows that women appointed to boards following quota legislation are as qualified, or more qualified, than their predecessors. Third, the design of the mandate matters enormously. Effective legislation requires ambitious targets, enforceable consequences, and a genuine commitment to closing not just the board gap but the leadership gap at every level.

Sri Lanka’s consistently low rankings on economic gender parity reflect a structural problem that will not resolve itself incrementally. With 40% of the top 30 CSE-listed companies not having a single woman on their Boards, something must change. The Women Directors Forum advocates for a considered, evidence-based conversation about whether legislative intervention has a role to play in accelerating change in our boardrooms. The evidence from these three countries suggests it does.

FG automates certificate evaluation, ends physical visits to education ministry

The Federal Ministry of Education has fully automated the evaluation and authentication of academic certificates, removing the need for applicants to visit the Ministry in person.

Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the reform is a key component of the Federal Government’s digital transformation agenda and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Under the new system, applicants can complete the entire credential evaluation and authentication process online through the ministry’s dedicated portal.

The initiative is designed to cut bureaucratic delays, speed up processing, enhance transparency and provide more convenient services to Nigerians at home and abroad.

Dr Alausa explained that the automation will strengthen the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s academic certification system. It will also enable institutions, employers, and other stakeholders to verify qualifications through a more structured and reliable process.

The minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to leveraging technology to modernise education governance, improve institutional efficiency, and deliver citizen-centred services.

Applicants were advised to use the official credential evaluation and authentication platform at essverify.education.gov.ng. Enquiries can be directed to [email protected].

Beyond esports: eGilas Head Coach works to help Davao farmers

Alparas, though, is more than meets the eye. Aside from his triumph in the esports stage, he also has a life outside of the virtual battleground.

Coaching a rag tag of NBA 2K dreamers is one thing. Helping another sector of the community is another. The decorated coach aspires to accomplish both.

With eGilas, he wants to give back to the Philippines’ esports-crazed fans.

Outside of the competition, the NBA 2K19 ProAm Invitational champion aims to repay the efforts of hardworking Filipino farmers.

He has his auntie’s business to achieve that.

Established in 2006, Coffee for Peace is a business built on the idea of giving back to the backbone of the community.

‘It’s my auntie’s business in Davao which started in 2006. They came from Canada and they went back here to help farmers. Their mission is to help farmers sell their products at a high price,’ Alparas told Tech INQ.

‘In other words, we give justice [to their work].’

Wearing one cap is hard enough. The weight of carrying the heavy crown of being a National team coach is tough as is.

Having to wear another in the form of a business handler adds up to Alparas’ responsibilities.

The young tactician has no qualms with that.

In Coffee for Peace, Alparas plays the role of marketing director for institutional and industry clients.

Much like his ways with eGilas where he bolsters the bond of his young team, Alparas’ role in his family’s business is centered on building partnerships and connections with organizations, companies and other institutions.

RELATED STORY: Alula SC, Elevate share Filipino CODM World Championship dream

Giving back outside of esports

‘Honestly, it’s hard to balance esports and organization. In the morning, I’m in the coffee shop. When I get home, I focus on NBA 2K.’

‘Fortunately, I was able to manage it even if it’s hard. It’s well worth it too because we’re champions.’

Even with a bevy of roles on his table, Alparas was able to accomplish multiple things.

For one, he continues his advocacy in helping Filipino farmers.

‘Since I went to Davao before and stayed there for six months, I saw the good things that my aunt was doing. I enjoyed it so I ran a coffee shop of my own. I went there [to Davao] voluntarily. I trained there for six months.’

Alparas’ quest with Coffee for Peace is built on three core ideals; environment, farmers and peacebuilders.

Aside from promoting sustainable farming practices, Alparas’ family also aims to promote fair trade with farmers to give them a more desirable profit and transform communities in areas like Mindanao, where armed conflicts usually take place.

Keeping the focus

In July, Alparas and eGilas made the Philippine-based esports fans proud by reigning supreme in the eFIBA Season 4 World Championship in Qatar.

Backed by his squad of Miguel Hubillar, Kenneth Gutierrez, Joshua Machado, Chris Briones and Prich Diez, Alparas fueled the Philippines past Turkey, 3-0, in the Finals.

Then, when the lights went out and the dust settled in Qatar, the decorated mentor went home to manage his coffee business.

Because he’s not just doing these for NBA 2K fans or Filipino farmers alone, Alparas is doing these for everyone he can lend a hand to.

‘It’s really nice because with the coffee business, we’re helping farmers. Then, in 2K, whoever Pinoy is playing, they’re supporting and every time we win, we’re all happy.’

Abia plans 50Mw power boost for reliable electricity

The Abia State government, through the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, said plans were underway to boost reliable electricity in Aba, the commercial nerve of the state.

According to the state government, the ongoing efforts by the state was to strengthen electricity supply to the Aba Ring-Fenced Area to ensure greater reliability and sustainability of power supply to businesses, industries and residents across Aba and its environs.

Our correspondent reports that the state government recently had an engagement with the management of Geometric Power Aba Limited (GPAL), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) as the state build towards the restoration of up to 50Mw of grid electricity supply to the Aba Power network.

The restoration of the 50Mw grid supply, it was gathered, is expected to provide a backup source of electricity for the Aba Ring-Fenced Area for emergency purposes only and also to enhance the capacity of the system to meet the growing electricity needs of industries, businesses and households.

According to Hon. Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, while reacting to efforts the state government was making to ensuring improved power supply in the state said: ‘The state government recognizes that a reliable electricity system requires diversification of energy sources and adequate contingency arrangements.

‘Consequently, the government in collaboration with Geometric Power, NDPHC and relevant stakeholders have made progress in securing an alternative gas supply option for the Geometric Power Plant.

‘The proposed alternative gas arrangement is intended to provide a reliable backup to the existing gas supply system, to reduce the risk associated with dependence on a single source of supply and ensure that gas availability does not unnecessarily interrupt electricity generation.

‘The state government considers this initiative particularly important because the sustainability of electricity supply to Aba is critical to the continued growth of the city’s industrial and commercial economy and to the broader economic development agenda of the Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR.

‘The government is also engaging relevant Federal Government agencies, power sector operators, gas suppliers and other strategic stakeholders to facilitate the necessary technical, commercial and regulatory arrangements required to achieve a more resilient power supply architecture for Aba.

‘The government appreciates the patience and understanding of electricity consumers, particularly industries, businesses and residents who depend on reliable power for their livelihoods and operations. The Ministry of Power and Public Utilities will continue to provide updates as these initiatives progresses.

‘The government therefore expresses its appreciation to Geometric Power, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for their cooperation, technical support and contribution in strengthening electricity supply and advancing the economic development of Abia State.

‘The Abia State Government remains committed to building a stable, reliable and sustainable electricity system that supports industrialization, job creation, investment and improved quality of life for the people of Abia State.’

Kano: Hisbah Arrests TikToker Over Obscene Videos ý

The Kano State Hisbah Board has arrested popular TikTok content creator Ukasha Yahaya, popularly known as UK International, over videos showing him hugging and bathing with women.

ýDeputy Commander General of the board, Dr. Mujahid Aminuddeen, confirmed the arrest on Thursday, saying the 27-year-old was picked up after intelligence revealed he had entered Kano.

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ýAminuddeen said the TikToker is currently in custody as investigations continue.

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ýUkasha, a native of Gusau in Zamfara state and resident of Abuja, admitted during interrogation that he could not recall the number of videos he had produced with women.

Some of the clips showed him dancing, hugging, or carrying women, while others featured swimming and bathing scenes.

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ýHe disclosed that some of his videos had attracted between one and three million views.

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Asked how he sourced the women, Ukasha said they approached him because he is a content creator.

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ýAsked if he could involve his sisters in his videos, he said all of them are married and that his mother and several others had cautioned him repeatedly.

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ýHe also said he is already considering quitting such content as he prepares for marriage.

The TikToker apologised and pledged not to repeat the acts.

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ýDaily Trust reports that his TikTok account, UK INTERNATIONAL, has over 262,000 followers, follows 26 accounts, and has garnered 2.4 million likes.

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ýDr. Mujahid said Ukasha would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

He warned youths against using TikTok for activities that contravene morality and religion.

Ryzza Mae Dizon’s mom Rizza embraces spotlight, unfazed by critics

Rizza Amimita Dizon, the mother of TV host-actress Ryzza Mae Dizon said she is content cooking her daughter’s daily baon, and just giving her moral support behind the scenes, but is now grateful for new opportunities that came her way.

The woman behind Team Ryzza, a content creator which came out with a number of viral mukbang videos, is a constant presence in the life of the former child star, who at an early age was already being picked on because of her looks.

Under her caring guidance, Ryzza has grown into a poised and accomplished young woman who remains grounded despite her many achievements. The critics may persist, but their voices have been softened by the reassuring presence and unwavering support of her mother.

But while she often tells the young TV host to simply ignore the bad comments on social media, she admitted that as a mom, she sometimes finds herself not inured from its sting.

‘Syempre po bilang nanay, nasasaktan po tayo pag nasasabihan yung anak natin ng ganoon, pero lagi ko po pinapaliwanag kay Ryzza na hayaan nang ganyan ang sinasabi nila, huwag nang pansinin basta ang importante, magdasal ka lang sa Panginoon,’ the mother of four told reporters at a press launch for her first product endorsement in Alabang recently.

‘May kanya-kanya po tayong komento, so hayaan natin sila. Huwag natin silang patulan. Ang importante po, kahit papaano andiyan pa rin sila sa atin,’ she further said.

Now, Mommy Rizza is stepping into the spotlight on her own as an ambassador for a health and wellness brand, which taps into her relatability of a housewife, at the same time a mother who advocates for her family’s wellbeing.

At her endorsement launch and contract signing, Mommy Rizza literally came out with large-sized coffee mug which her followers already associate with her in her mukbang videos.

Rizza became emotional when she saw Ryzza’s special message, saying she is very proud of her mother for her achievements.

She said she is grateful for the support she is getting from her family as well as their followers, taking this endeavor as an opportunity to help provide for the family.

‘Sobrang saya nya at hindi rin sya makapaniwala na nagkaroon na ako ng endorsement… sabi lang nya na lagi magpasalamat sa tiwalang ibinigay sa akin,’ Rizza said.

‘Happy ako dahil makakatulong nako kay Ryzza. Dati kasi sya lang lahat,’ she said of Ryzza being the family’s breadwinner, adding that she is proud of what Ryzza was able to accomplish and contribute to their family even as a child.

As the face and brains behind Team Ryzza, Rizza conceptualizes their content, with her clear giant mug of coffee often serving as a familiar companion in their eating videos. Her shy presence has resonated with many who see her and Ryzza as a story of success born out of perseverance and hard work.

At present, Team Ryzza boasts of 3.8 million followers on Facebook, almost 400,000 on TikTok, and 56,000 on Instagram, and getting millions of collective shares and reactions on their content.

But as she becomes more known as a public figure, Mommy Rizza is wont to take her own advice about criticisms being thrown her way. She recently was a subject of ridicule by another content creator who would make fun of her content as well as exaggerate her speech and looks for his own followers.

As product endorser, Mommy Rizza is also involved in the live selling of their product. While the celebrity mom was hesitant at first because of her natural shyness, Anna Magkawas, CEO of the wellness brand that Rizza is endorsing, said she is happy with the former’s improvement in public speaking and in expanding her platform.

But more than that, Magkawas said she admires Rizza’s determination and humility, noting that despite their more comfortable life, she still chooses to personally care for her family without the aid of a house help or driver to bring Ryzza to the studio. Rizza also consistently gives food to the needy, something that she has been doing without publicizing it on social media.

On Ryzza Mae’s suitors

Meanwhile, Mommy Rizza has a little love advice to Ryzza, who is now 21 years old. The former child star is being linked to Bimby Aquino and Hyeon Yul on the noontime show ‘Eat Bulaga.’

‘Kung sino po yung magugustuhan ng anak ko, yung magmamahal sa kanya at mamahalin din nya, support po ako,’ she said.

Asked about what she thought of Bimby, who she has known since he and Ryzza were little and shooting their first movie together with Vic Sotto, ‘My Little Bossings’ in 2013.

‘Ok naman po, mabait po si Bimby… nung nakita ko sya nung birthday na ni Ryzza nagulat ako kase sobrang taas na nya. napakabait na bata, magalang po sya,’ she said of Kris Aquino’s younger son.

When pressed if she likes Bimby for Ryzza, she said: ‘Mabait po talaga sya.’

HNB Life opens branch in Kandana

HNB Life recently marked another significant milestone in its growth journey with the grand opening of its new branch in Kandana, further strengthening its presence across Sri Lanka.

With a vast network of physical and incubator branches islandwide, the company continues to enhance accessibility to life insurance solutions while bringing its services closer to customers and communities across the country.

The opening of the Kandana Branch comes at a defining moment for HNB Life, as the company celebrates its 25th anniversary and steps into a new chapter following its transformation from HNB Assurance to HNB Life.

Speaking at the Branch Opening, Director/CEO Lasitha Wimalaratne said: ‘The opening of our Kandana Branch is another important step in our journey to make life insurance more accessible to every Sri Lankan. As we celebrate 25 years of protecting lives and empowering dreams, expanding our footprint allows us to better serve our customers while strengthening our connection with communities across the country. Our growing branch network, together with our dedicated team of Life Planners, ensures that we remain close to our customers and are able to support them with solutions that truly meet their evolving needs.’

Executive Vice President/Chief Business Officer – Advisor Distribution Harindra Ramasinghe said: ‘Our expansion into Kandana reinforces our commitment to reaching more Sri Lankans with meaningful protection and financial planning solutions. Our advisors have evolved into Life Planners, reflecting a broader and more purposeful role in helping customers navigate life’s milestones with confidence. Supported by a vast network of branches across the island and a highly committed sales force, we are continuing to create greater convenience and value for individuals and families across the country.’

Antonio Tinio calls out Marcos alleged inaction on transboundary haze

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio on Thursday criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on what he described as the latter’s inaction on the issue of transboundary haze that originated from Indonesia, which also affected the air quality in parts of the Philippines.

Tinio made this remark during the House sponsorship and plenary deliberations on the proposed budget of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for next year.

Tinio asked Palawan Rep. Jose Alvarez, the agency’s budget sponsor, if the DENR will attend the meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Da Nang, Vietnam in October this year.

As a sponsor who defends the agency’s budget and answers interpellations from fellow lawmakers, Alvarez confirmed DENR’s attendance in the meeting. Officials of DENR were also present in the deliberations.

Tinio then recalled his interpellation on Misamis Occidental Rep. Sancho Oaminal during the plenary deliberations on the proposed budget of the DFA earlier that day.

He also asked Oaminal if the DFA will attend the meeting in October, where the latter said that it is the DENR expected to attend the meeting.

With these answers, Tinio said that it seems that the issue of the haze is not on the radar of the DFA, DENR, and Marcos. Oaminal then responded by saying that it’s not being careless, but because the ‘DFA does not have the scientific capability’ to assess the situation, and is relying on the expertise of DENR on the matter.

‘Nakikita po natin kung gaano kainutil, walang ginagawa ang Marcos Jr. sa issue ng transboundary haze pollution,’ Tinio said during the deliberations for the proposed budget of DENR.

(We can see how Marcos Jr. is not doing anything to address the issue of transboundary haze pollution.)

Tinio then noted how the deputy prime minister of Malaysia visited Indonesia to discuss and address the hazardous effects of the haze, particularly on preventive measures.

‘Ganun ka high-level kasi ganoon gustong protektahan ng Malaysia… ang mamamayan sa epekto ng pollution. Pero dito sa Pilipinas, pabanjing-banjing lang ang Malacañang hayaan nyo na lang mag mask na lang o magcancel ng klase pag sobra na ang haze,’ the lawmaker added.

(That’s how high-level it is because Malaysia wants to protect its citizens from pollution. But here in the Philippines, the Malacañang is being careless, and just told the public to wear masks or cancel classes due to haze.)

For several weeks, the hazardous and thick haze which blanketed Indonesia also affected neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Philippines with most fires concentrated on Borneo Island.

Reports said that nearly 300,000 hectares of land were burned in Indonesia so far this year, with an increase in carbon emissions seen since late July.

In the past weeks, the DENR reported that several areas recorded high PM2.5 levels, or a fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or less of pollution. The agency advised the public to limit outdoor activities as the haze can bring respiratory implications.

The INQUIRER has sought a comment from the Malacañang regarding Tinio’s remarks and has yet to receive a response.