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EABC’s digital desk aims to boost small-scale cross-border trade

Arusha. The East African Business Council (EABC) has officially launched a digital information desk to assist small-scale cross-border traders in overcoming non-tariff barriers (NTBs), a persistent obstacle to regional trade within the East African Community (EAC).

The launch, which was held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the TavetaHolili border, coincided with a three-day training programme titled “Capacity Building on Financial Literacy, Business Management and Gender-Sensitive Practices in Cross-Border Trade.” The training brought together more than 100 traders dealing in agricultural produce, vegetables, and fruits from the border region.

EABC’s Research, Policy and Trade in Goods Officer, Mr Gift Mbuya, told reporters that the initiative is part of the “Promoting Intra-EAC Agri-Food Cross-Border Trade by Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers to Trade.” Project.

“This project seeks to increase the participation of women and youth-led agri-food traders and boost the volume of cross-border trade, particularly in maize, rice, beans, soybeans, and horticultural products along selected EAC trade corridors,” said Mr Mbuya. The three-year project (20252027), implemented by EABC in partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), aims to empower about 2,440 women and youth traders across the region.

It focuses on reducing the cost and time of trade by eliminating NTBs, strengthening traders’ knowledge of trade facilitation instruments such as the Simplified Trade Regime (STR), and expanding access to digital trade portals and information booths at border points. The initiative is backed by a $399,900 grant from AGRA, with funding support from the Mastercard Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).

Implementation involves close collaboration with the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA), with EABC serving as lead coordinator. AGRA, an African-led and farmer-centred institution, is committed to transforming African agriculture from subsistence-based production into a commercially viable sector that enhances food security, nutrition, and household incomes.

During the training, the Deputy Director of Regional Integration at the EAC Affairs Ministry, Ms Mary Maisory, said that despite progress in reducing customs tariffs within the bloc, NTBs remain a major hindrance. “Traders still face delays in cargo clearance, unnecessary inspections, uncoordinated procedures, and limited awareness of trade documentation and standards,” said Ms Maisory.

“Building capacity and confidence among traders will help them understand the EAC’s STR, sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS), product standards, and how to report and resolve NTBs,” she added. She said addressing NTBs, strengthening cross-border infrastructure, and ensuring women and youth benefit fully from EAC opportunities are essential for the region’s economic growth.

“Empowering small-scale cross-border traders is not just about boosting trade, it is about transforming lives, uplifting communities, and building an inclusive and sustainable East African Community,” she said. Furthermore, Ms Maisory called on participants to make full use of the training sessions, networking opportunities, and policy discussions to advance their businesses and contribute to the prosperity of their nations.

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EXPLAINER: The misconceptions around Tinubu’s income tax reforms

As the countdown to the January, 2026 effective take off of two landmark Tax Reform laws gathers steam, wrong narratives and misconceptions about aspects of the new tax laws have also been on the increase. While some of the misconceptions are borne out of innocent ignorance, others are mostly from a place of political mischievousness. In this Explainer I will be addressing the misconceptions around the income tax provisions in the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025.

Over the past couple of months, I have noticed the following misconceptions and wrong narratives around the issue of income tax, many of which emanate from individuals or businesses who have clearly been evading income taxes: my

1. Nigerians pay higher income taxes from January 1, 2026

2. Money in individual bank accounts would be automatically taxed by the government

3. Federal government is desperate to raise revenue by taxing the income of Nigerians heavily.

4. Tax laws will stifle productivity

I will briefly touch on each of these misconceptions, providing clarifications in layman terms.

1. HIGHER OR LOWER INCOME TAXES FOR INDIVIDUALS?

The reality is that the income tax paid by MAJORITY of Nigerians will reduce following the new personal income tax provisions in the Nigerian Tax Act, 2025 that exempted individuals earning N800,000 and below per annum from paying income tax. What this means is that Nigerians earning minimum wage or below will pay zero income tax.

I understand some will argue that minimum wage is N70,000 per month, which translates to N840,000 per annum and ordinarily means a minimum wage earner still has N40,000 above the N800,000 exemption threshold that is subjected to an income tax of 15% under the new tax law. That is correct, but here is the catch, there is what is called TAXABLE INCOME and is not necessarily equivalent to the total income of an individual.

Taxable income is simply the part of the total income that can be taxed after allowable deductions have been made. Under the NTA 2025, you can deduct the following from your GROSS income to get your TAXABLE income:

a) NHIS contribution (5% of salary for most employees)

b) Annual rent (corresponding to 20% of the rent up to a maximum of N500,000)

c) National Housing Fund deduction (2.5% of gross pay)

d) Employee Pension contribution (8% of employee salary)

e) Life insurance premium for you and your spouse

In other words, a minimum wage earner claim some or all of these deductions and these will certainly drive down the taxable income within the exemption threshold of N800,000 per annum.

Let us do a practical calculation for an individual earning N70,000 monthly (minimum wage) who pays an annual rent of N200,000 in addition to NHIS, NHF and contributory pension deductions.

His gross annual income = N840,000

Pension contributions = N67,200

NHF deduction = N21,000

NHIS deduction = N42,000

20% of Annual Rent = N40,000

By the time you make these allowable deductions from the N840,000 gross income, the individual’s TAXABLE INCOME becomes N710,800. This falls well within the exemption threshold which means the individual will not pay any income tax.

If an individual earns N80,000 monthly, and we use similar deductions for NHIS, NHF and CPS while raising annual rent to N300,000 with 20% amounting to N60,000, the individual will still be exempt from paying income tax as the taxable income would be N799,200 – within the N800,000 tax exemption threshold. Even when we calculate for an individual earning an annual gross income of N1.2m, the individual may even fall within the tax exempt status depending on the deductions he or she claims or at worst the individual may just be taxed an effective tax rate of 2.5% under the new law as against 4.6% under the old law.

The tax band is progressive in nature and only makes the rich with reasonably much higher annual gross income to pay a little more than before, which is a fair system. Although, depending on the deductions they may claim, they can end up paying lesser income tax than before. This in itself opens a lot of opportunities for the economy especially the life insurance sector as well as the health sector since one can actually sign up for health insurance and/or life insurance in order to pay lesser income tax while at the same time benefiting from quality all-round cheaper healthcare offered by the NHIS for the family.

Below is a demo tax calculation for an individual earning an annual gross income of N50 million. The individual lives in an apartment he purchased with a bank loan of N80 million at an annual interest rate of 27% with a five year tenor, making his annual interest payment to be approximately N4.32 million. This particular individual also makes N5 million contribution towards his pension and another N2.5 million NHIS contribution that covers himself, his spouse and four kids.

After deducting N5 million pension contributions, N2.5 million NHIS contribution and N4.32 million interest payment, his taxable income out of the N50 million gross income becomes just N35.18 million. However, this N35.18 million is not taxed a flat rate of 23% (under the old law, income above N3.2 million is taxed a flat rate of 24%), rather it is progressive – the first 800k is 0%, next N2.2m is taxed at 15%, next N9m is taxed at 18%, next N13m is taxed at 21% while the next N25m is taxed at 23%.

The income tax of this individual under the new tax laws is N7.02 million, which is basically 14.0% of his gross income – just 1.1% higher than his effective tax rate under the old laws. This is still by far very fair when you consider what is obtainable in many other countries of the world where effective tax rate can get to as high as 60% of taxable income.

2. WILL INCOME TAX BE AUTOMATICALLY DEDUCTED FROM BANK ACCOUNTS?

The simple answer is NO. Taxes would not be automatically deducted from the bank account of Nigerians.

This misconception is probably because of the provisions in section 29 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act which mandates banks and other financial institutions to furnish the tax authority on a quarterly basis information (name and addresses) about their customers with cumulative monthly transactions of N25 million and above for individuals or N100 million and above for a body corporate. Even though the information will help a tax authority know those ELIGIBLE taxpayers evading taxes, the provision does not amount to automatic deduction of taxes from the accounts.

Crucially, if your monthly cumulative transactions as an individual does not amount to N25 million and above or from N100 million for corporate bodies, this provision does not concern you in any way. Only about 5% of the population have bank accounts that have more than half a million in them. So, in essence, more than 90% of Nigerians, which includes all the poor and vulnerable people in Nigeria are not affected by this provision.

3. IS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DESPERATE TO RAISE REVENUE BY TAXING THE INCOME OF NIGERIANS HEAVILY?

Again, the simple and short answer is NO!

The reforms in the income tax laws are not particularly meant for the federal government to raise more revenue by taxing Nigerians heavily, the reverse is actually the case. The tax laws are meant to relieve poor Nigerians of tax burden. Meanwhile, the greatest beneficiary of personal income tax revenues are the states because Section 3(2) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act confers jurisdiction on the state tax authority in respect of tax on the income, profit or gains of individuals residing in a state. Therefore, personal income tax is part of the IGR sources of state governments.

The FG only retains income taxes from personnel of the armed forces and personnel of the Nigerian Foreign Service in addition to non-residents (those not living in Nigeria) who derive income or profit from Nigeria. Under the new tax laws, the FG has even exempted members of the armed forces from paying income tax. So, the federal government cannot raise revenue from the income of civilians living in Nigeria as that is the exclusive preserve of the states.

Also, the fact that the tax laws exempted Nigerians earning below N800,000 per annum from income tax shows that the tax laws are not necessarily about raising revenues but reducing tax burden on Nigerians so that they can have more disposable income. The tax laws simply tried to focus on increasing tax compliance by the high income earners with the state governments being the ultimate beneficiary in any case.

4. WILL THE TAX LAWS STIFLE PRODUCTIVITY?

Definitely NOT!

The new tax laws are primarily meant to boost productivity and not stifle it. This is not difficult to prove. First, the wide range of exemptions for both individual taxpayers and small businesses clearly indicates an intention to bring relief to low income individuals and small businesses. Section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the income (profit) tax rate for small businesses at 0%.

In section 147 (page 331) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, a small company is defined as a company with an annual gross turnover of N100m or less and with total fixed assets not exceeding N250m. This is basically 90% of businesses in Nigeria. A tax law that exempts over 90% of businesses in the country from paying profit tax cannot be stifling productivity under any circumstances!

In fact the same section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the profit tax rate for larger companies at 30% with a proviso that this rate shall be REDUCED to 25% from a date to be determined in an order issued by the President on the advice of the National Economic Council. This provision was a compromise position reached to allay the fears of the Nigerian Governors Forum who felt the initial proposal to progressively reduce CIT for large companies to 25% by 2030 would likely reduce revenue inflows into the federation account since CIT revenue is shared by the three tiers of government.

The provision allows the eventual rate reduction to happen when the states (who are represented in the National Economic Council) are confident that such a reduction will not adversely impact on the federation revenue inflows. The Council will then advise the President to proclaim the order reducing CIT to 25%. If the new tax laws were to be anti-productivity, the company income tax rate would have been jerked up to above the 30% rate in the old Income Tax law.

CONCLUSION

From the foregoing, it is evidently clear that the income tax provisions in both the Nigeria Tax Act and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act are people-friendly, business-friendly, pro-poor and formulated to stimulate productivity by reducing the amount of money businesses pay as profit taxes or eliminating the profit tax entirely for small businesses. It is important that states through their tax authorities massively educate residents on the correct provisions of the tax laws especially as it pertains to income taxes.

As I conclude, I must emphasise that tax is an obligation that citizens owe their country. There is no valid excuse for any ELIGIBLE taxpayer, especially those who are not classified poor, to shy away from paying their fair share of taxes. This also applies to eligible corporate taxpayers. The new tax laws makes tax evasion more difficult and will bring many eligible taxpayers, hitherto avoiding taxes, into the tax net. As more high networth individuals and entities are captured in the tax net, they will have more motivation to demand for accountability from elected and appointed leaders across the three tiers of government who manage these tax revenues. This is potentially a very good news for accelerated national development.

Ramos poised for breakout finish in Jakarta

Sean Ramos put himself in prime position for a career-defining finish on the Asian Tour, carding a gutsy 68 on Saturday to vault into joint 14th after three rounds of the Jakarta International Championship in Indonesia.

The young Filipino shotmaker showcased both composure and firepower at the Damai Indah Golf PIK course, briefly breaking into the Top 10 following a brilliant four-birdie run through his first 11 holes. Despite stumbling with bogeys on Nos. 13 and 14, Ramos still managed a respectable 33-35 for a three-round total of 203 – just four shots behind the joint leaders heading into the final round.

Sharing the lead at 199 are seasoned campaigners Scott Vincent, Wade Ormsby and Gaganjeet Bhullar, who delivered rounds of 62, 67 and 69, respectively, to set up a dramatic finish in the $2-million International Series event.

But with Ramos within striking distance of the leaders and just one solid round away from shaking up the leaderboard, hopes are high for a breakthrough Top 10 or even Top 5 result – his best on the Asian Tour so far. His current career-best showing is a tied-22nd finish at the International Series Morocco earlier in the season.

Ramos struck eight fairways and 15 greens in regulation but needed 30 putts, including two scrambling pars, to complete his round on the par-70 layout. A more efficient day on the greens in the final round could easily vault him up the standings.

Ramos’ ability to maintain pace with the region’s top players signals a maturity and competitive edge beyond his years. If he can hold his nerve under final-round pressure – a test that separates contenders from champions – Ramos could well cement himself as a rising star on the Asian Tour.

In contrast, Miguel Tabuena and Justin Quiban struggled to find momentum.

Tabuena, who opened with an impressive 65, followed up with two consecutive rounds of 71 to fall to joint 51st at 207. Quiban faded further after a 74, slipping to a tie for 73rd at 212.

Meanwhile, the tournament’s front-runners are gearing up for a gripping finale. Vincent dazzled with a bogey-free 62, fueled by eight birdies, including back-to-back birdie streaks from Nos. 1 and 12, while hitting nine fairways and 15 greens in regulation. He needed just 25 putts to complete his round.

Ormsby matched Vincent’s putting efficiency with 25 putts of his own, compiling five birdies against two bogeys for a 67, while Bhullar remained firmly in contention with a three-birdie, one double bogey round, finishing with a 36-33.

Chasing just a stroke back at 200 are Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana (64) and Poom Saksansin (66), with Stefano Mazzoli, Steve Lewton and Pavit Tangkamolprasert all tied at 201.

Meet the dark horses

Regular fixtures in the playoffs last season, are Rain or Shine and Converge ripe for a deeper run and stronger finish this time?

That’s certainly what the two ‘dark horses’ are aiming for as the PBA Season 50 kicks off tomorrow with the Philippine Cup.

The Elasto Painters made it to the semifinals of the last four conferences, including all three tournaments of Season 49, but missed out on a ticket to the Last Dance each time. The FiberXers, for their part, reached the quarterfinals thrice last season but found themselves stranded in that stage.

‘In the last four conferences nakarating kami ng semifinals. Hindi lang kami maka break-break, hanggang semifinals lang. Parati naming nakakatapat na team ‘yung TNT, we can’t get over that hump. But we feel na itong conference na ito mas nakahanda kami,’ said ROS coach Yeng Guiao.

Aside from the added experience his young guns like Adrian Nocum, Jhonard Clarito and Gian Mamuyac got from their Final Four appearances, what’s giving Guiao brighter hopes is the arrival of veteran Stanley Pringle.

‘I think what Stanley brings is he’s able to make players around him better and he can also mentor our younger guards. ‘Yung mga bata naming mga gwardya, maraming matututunan sa kanya,’ he said.

‘And then we have a closer. We have a lot of games I feel we could have won doon sa endgame or clutch situations. You need somebody like a Stanley Pringle to get you over and the other guys can learn from that. Maipasa niya ‘yan doon sa mga ibang kasama niya. So the future looks bright no for our team.’

Seasoned big man Beau Belga, who missed a good portion of the season-ending All-Filipino due to vertigo, is back to 100 percent fitness, providing experience and toughness to ROS.

Converge, now coached by Pampanga Vice Gov. Dennis Pineda, has been the busiest in the pre-season.

The squad arranged a trade with Phoenix to get the No. 2 pick in the rookie draft and use it for Juan Gomez de Liaño then re-signed vastly improved Schonny Winston and got veteran frontliner Rafi Reavis and rookie Kobe Monje on board to join forces with Justin Arana, Justine Baltazar and Alec Stockton.

‘Siyempre, sana umangat naman po ‘yung performance namin,’ said Pineda of their goal.

The debuting mentor downplayed talks tagging his souped-up crew as a strong contender.

‘Hindi po siguro. Hindi kami dapat bantayan nila, marami pong mas magagaling na teams. Nandoon po kami sa bottom and one good thing about that is nacha-challenge ‘yung mga bata ngayon dahil may ini-aim kami,’ he said.

Tanzania to field four young cyclists at Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania will be represented by four young cyclists at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025, set for October 5 in Nairobi, Kenya.

Organised by Jubilee Insurance, the event promotes healthy living, youth empowerment, and regional sporting unity. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is among East Africa’s premier cycling events, attracting competitors from across the region.

For Tanzania it presents an important platform to strengthen the country’s cycling culture and allow emerging athletes to compete internationally. The Tanzanian contingent comprises three men and one woman, selected through a rigorous national process by the Tanzania Cycling Association (TCA).

The participants are Ms Asnat Moris, Mr Frank Marik, Mr Hassan Sharif, and Mr Waziri Masoli. The Talent Development Committee at TCA, Chairperson, Dr Judith Mashala, said the team was chosen from a wide pool of talent identified through competitions held over the past two years.

“We are sending four young cyclists to represent Tanzania at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025. Our association organises competitions across the country, and these cyclists have proven themselves as the most capable,” she said. She noted the athletes recently competed in Rwanda and are now intensively preparing for Nairobi.

“This race is not just about competition. It promotes health, wellness, and community development,” she added.

Jubilee Health Insurance Chief Executive Officer, Dr Harold Adamson, said the partnership with TCA reflects the company’s commitment to the event and to youth development. “Our flag will fly high.

We are preparing well with this team of four. Sport promotes health and well-being, and we are creating opportunities for people to exercise and live healthier lives,” said Dr Adamson.

Jubilee Life Insurance Corporate Financial Officer, Mr Hillary Godson, emphasised the company’s commitment to youth through sport. “We are dedicated to standing with young people and helping them achieve their dreams.

Exercise is vital for daily life, enabling youth to live freely and without stress,” he said. “We work with communities to nurture talent.

Sport is talent, and we support the government’s efforts to empower youth through self-employment,” he added. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is expected to draw strong participation this year, with athletes from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania vying for honours.

The event combines sport with community engagement, underscoring the values of unity, health, and youth development. For Tanzania, participation in the race is part of a broader strategy to raise the profile of cycling, nurture local talent, and inspire the next generation of sportspeople.

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Ewura warns businesses against building fuel stations without permits

Dar es Salaam. The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) has cautioned entrepreneurs planning to establish petrol stations across the country to secure official construction permits before commencing work, warning that failure to comply could result in heavy penalties.

The warning came in a press statement issued on Friday, October 3, 2025, during a consultative meeting in Iringa, amid reports that some investors, particularly in rural districts, were rushing to build stations without following due process. Ewura said such practices undermine regulatory standards and pose safety, health, and environmental risks.

Ewura Central Zone Manager, Ms Hawa Lweno, told stakeholders from the downstream petroleum, electricity, and water sectors that anyone intending to build a petrol station must first obtain a construction permit from the authority. “Failure to comply with this legal requirement will attract a fine of up to Sh20 million,” she stressed.

Ms Lweno explained that the permit process is more than a formality, noting that it enables Ewura’s technical teams to inspect sites to ensure compliance with national standards, including fire safety systems, environmental protection measures, and safe distances from schools, hospitals, and residential areas. “This permit is essential because it allows our experts to confirm that construction meets the required health, safety, and environmental benchmarks,” she added.

The government has recently encouraged investment in fuel retailing, particularly in underserved rural areas where access to reliable energy remains a challenge. However, officials insist growth must be orderly.

Observers note a surge in applications to build fuel stations, driven by expanding road networks and growing demand for transport and logistics. Yet, unregulated construction risks accidents, fuel leakages, and breaches of urban planning laws.

At the Iringa meeting, one participant, Mr David Mlyapatali, praised Ewura’s outreach, saying many entrepreneurs enter the fuel retail business without understanding their obligations. “This meeting has been very beneficial because it has given us clarity on the procedures and our responsibilities,” he said.

Under the Petroleum Act and Ewura regulations, investors must first apply for a construction permit and undergo technical reviews before receiving an operating licence. Noncompliance can lead to fines, closure orders, or legal action.

Ms Lweno emphasised that Ewura welcomes investment but will not compromise on safety. “Follow the law first.

Doing so protects your business and the community you serve,” she stressed. The Iringa session is part of Ewura’s nationwide drive to sensitise fuel station investors about construction and operational rules, signalling clearly that shortcuts will not be tolerated.

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15 Key facts about jailed rap mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

Following his conviction and 50-month prison sentence for transporting people for prostitution in the United States, Hip Hop legend Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs faces one of the darkest chapters of his life. Once celebrated as a global music and business icon, his reputation now hangs in the balance.

Here are 15 things to know about the fallen star:

Early Life: Born Sean John Combs on November 4, 1969, in Harlem, New York, Diddy grew up in Mount Vernon, raised by his mother after his father was killed when he was just two years old.

Education and Hustle: Combs attended Howard University, where he majored in business. Though he left before graduation, his time there shaped his drive and ambition.

Music Industry Breakthrough: Diddy began his career as an intern at Uptown Records, quickly rising through the ranks before launching his own label.

Bad Boy Records Legacy: In 1993, he founded Bad Boy Records, propelling artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, 112, and Mase to global fame.

Hitmaker Extraordinaire: As Puff Daddy, Diddy released several chart-topping singles. His 1997 tribute to The Notorious B.I.G., ‘I’ll Be Missing You,’ dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for 11 weeks.

The Business Mogul: Beyond music, Combs built a vast business empire, investing in brands like Cîroc vodka, DeLeón tequila, and AquaHydrate, with his net worth once estimated at over $800 million.

Fashion Influence: In 1998, he launched the Sean John clothing line, which redefined urban fashion and earned him the CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year award in 2004.

Television and Media Expansion: In 2013, Combs co-founded Revolt TV, a music and lifestyle network designed to amplify Black culture and creativity.

Multiple Reinventions: Known for frequently changing his stage name – Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy, Diddy, and Love – his identity shifts became part of his enduring brand.

Lavish Lifestyle: Diddy was famous for his extravagant ‘White Parties,’ luxury mansions, and celebrity-filled gatherings that defined the hip-hop elite lifestyle of the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Legal Troubles: His career has long been marred by controversies – from nightclub shootings in 1999 to multiple civil lawsuits alleging abuse, violence, and misconduct.

Criminal Conviction: In July 2025, Combs was found guilty of transporting individuals for prostitution and was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison in New York on October 3, 2025.

Courtroom Apology: During his sentencing, Diddy publicly apologized to his family, fans, and victims, admitting that ‘power and fame blinded him to the consequences of his actions.’

Public Reaction:

The conviction sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many fans expressing disappointment while others called it a long-overdue reckoning.

Legacy in Question: Once hailed as a symbol of Black excellence and innovation, Combs’ influence on music, fashion, and business now stands overshadowed by scandal leaving his legacy deeply tarnished.

From chart-topping success to a federal prison sentence, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ story is a powerful reminder of how fame, fortune, and unchecked excess can ultimately lead to a dramatic fall from grace.

BINI, Lola Amour, Dionela lead Awit Awards 2025 nominees

R and B singer Dionela scored the most nominations at the 2025 Awit Awards with seven, a majority of them for the tracks “Sining” with Jay R and “Marilag.”

“Marilag” is nominated for Record of the Year and Best Perforamance of a Solo Artist while “Sining” is up for Song of the Year and Best Collaboration,

Both are up for Best R and B Recording, and Dionela’s last nod is his collaboration with Alisson Shore “Hoodie” for Best Pop Recording.

Alternative band Lola Amour followed Dionela with six nominations, five of them for its hit single “Namimiss Ko Na.”

The track is up for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Alternative Recording, Best Musical Arrangement and Best Engineered Recording credited to Rene Serna.

Lola Amour’s sixth nomination is its eponymous debut album for Album of the Year where it is up against BINI’s “Talaarawan,” SunKissed Lola’s “Olaholah,” Ben and Ben’s “The Traveller Across Dimensions,” Munimuni’s “Alegorya” and Zild’s “Superpower,”

BINI’s three other nominations were “Salamin, Salamin” and “Cherry On Top” both for Music Video of the Year and the former also competing for Best Dance/Electronic Recording.

Awit Awards organizers the Philippine Association of the Record Industry will announce details for its 38th awarding ceremony in the near future.

Here are the full list of nominees:

Record of the Year

‘Nene’ by SunKissed Lola

‘Heartache Generation’ by Ena Mori

‘Marilag’ by Dionela

‘Love Is’ by The Ridleys

‘Namimiss Ko Na’ by Lola Amour

Album of the Year

‘Talaarawan’ by BINI

‘Olaholah’ by SunKissed Lola

‘The Traveller Across Dimensions’ by Ben and Ben

‘Alegorya’ by Munimuni

‘Superpower’ by Zild

‘Lola Amour’ by Lola Amour

Song of the Year

‘Sining’ by Dionela and Jay R

‘Ikot’ by Over October

‘Misteryoso’ by Cup of Joe

‘Pagbigyan’ by Sugarcane

‘Namimiss Ko Na’ by Lola Amour

Best Collaboration

”Pag Ang Puso ang Nagsabi’ by JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano

‘Ligaw na Bullet’ by Denise Laurel and Skusta Clee

”Di Ko Kasalanan’ by Demi and Gins and Melodies

‘Sining’ by Dionela and Jay R

‘Within’ by Ladine Roxas and Kris Lawrence

‘Sa Kahapon’ by Dilaw and Janine Berdin

Best Performance by a Group Artist

‘Triumph’ by Ben and Ben

‘Tayo Na Lang’ by Nobita

‘Lampara’ by Press Hit Play

‘One Sided Love’ by G22

‘Sige, Sayaw!’ by Dear Dahlia

‘Nilalang’ by Dilaw

Best Performance by a Solo Artist

‘ATM’ by Ice Seguerra

‘I’ll Be Somebody You Want’ by Jolianne

‘Pauwi Na ‘Ko (Dito Ka Na Lang)’ by Dwta

‘Marilag’ by Dionela

‘Alas Dos Na!!!’ by Janine Berdin

‘Fake Faces’ by Felip

‘Umaycan’ by Noel Cabangon

Best Performance by a New Group Artist

‘Aminin’ by Naiba

‘Hi, Tita’ by Sala

‘Bituin’ by Letters from June

‘Walang Humpay’ by 12th Street

‘Alak’ by Karilyo

Best Performance by a New Solo Artist

‘Alintana’ by Muninn

‘Panggap’ by Plume

‘Sickreet’ by Ryannah J

”Di Maipagkakaila’ by Ia

‘Kahit ‘Di Ako Ang Gusto Mo’ by Patricia Heart

‘Seryoso’ by Lottie Bie

Best Pop Recording

‘Bakit Hindi Ka Crush ng Crush Mo’ by Itchyworms

‘Dilaw’ by Maki

‘Toyo’ by KZ Tandingan

‘Yoko Na’ by Josh Cullen and Al James

‘Hoodie’ by Dionela and Alisson Shore

Best R and B Recording

‘Tango’ by Jarlo Base

‘Marilag’ by Dionela

‘Sining’ by Dionela and Jay R

‘Call Me What You Want’ by Elise Huang

‘Fighting for You’ by Thyro Alfaro and JP Bacallan

Best Rap/Hip-hop Recording

‘Subomoto (Hev Abi remix)’ by Zae and Hev Abi

‘Kalakal’ by SB19 and Gloc-9

‘Utang Clan’ by Gloc-9

‘Ako Lang ‘To’ by XYVRL

‘Marikit sa Dilim’ by Juan Caoile, Kyleswish and Jawz

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

‘Salamin, Salamin’ by BINI

‘Tension’ by Peyton

‘Eksena’ by YARA

‘Come Over’ by Pop Money Worldwide, Carrot Mayor, SHNTI and Aunt Robert

‘Hilo’ by Paul Pablo

Best Traditional/Contemporary Folk Recording

‘ATM’ by Ice Seguerra

‘Ito Lamang’ by Project: Romeo

‘You’ll Never Feel Alone Again’ by Earl Generao

‘Nandiyan Pa Ba?’ by 6cyclemind and Gloc-9

‘Huling Liham’ by Paham and Dwta

Best Jazz Recording

‘Superfunk’ by GundamFunk

‘Get It Right’ by Nicole Asensio and Solo .Cal

‘Careless Fools’ by Debonair District and Jacques Dufourt

‘Remedios Circle’ by Alvin Cornista, Chuck Stevens, Abe Lagrimas Jr., Tim Lyddon and Dave Harder

‘What Is It All About?’ by Nicole Asensio and Solo .Cal

Best World Music Recording

‘Sarung Banggi’ by Overheat and Camsur Made

‘You Did It’ by KAIA

‘Chinese Restaurant’ by Nicole Adeya

‘Careless Fools’ by Debonair District and Jacques Dufourt

‘Sabado’ by SinoSikat?

‘100 Mensahe’ by Dan Gil and Marga Jayy

Best Alternative Recording

‘Homeostasis’ by Barbie Almalbis

‘A Gentle Reminder to Rest’ by Amateurish

‘Bulaklak sa Buwan’ by Ely Buendia

‘Namimiss Ko Na’ by Lola Amour

‘Wala Nang Saysay’ by Meds

Best Rock/Metal Recording

‘Orange’ by Amateurish

‘The Risk’ by Faspitch

‘Bawal Lumingon’ by CHNDTR

‘Dahas’ by Kjwan

‘Pano’ by Caren Tevanny

‘Dragon’ by Mayonnaise

Best Ballad Recording

‘Ethereal’ by Pappel

‘Lagi’ by Ica Frias

‘Kasing Kasing’ by Juan Karlos and Kyle Echarri

‘Medyo Ako’ by Juan Karlos and Moira Dela Torre

‘Ihilak Lang Na’ by Morissette

”Di Ko Masabi’ by Stell

Best Instrumental Recording

‘Nang Buo Kong Buhay’ by Jay Gomez and Yvette Parcom

‘SuperFunk’ by Gundam Funk

‘See You on the Other Side’ by Lustbass and RJ Pineda

‘Good Nights’ by Lustbass

‘Remedios Circle’ by Alvin Cornista, Chuck Stevens, Abe Lagrimas, Jr., Tim Lyddon and Dave Harder

Best Inspirational Recording

‘Beautiful Day’ by The Company

‘Little World Changer’ by Belle Mariano

‘Ningas ng Pag-Asa’ by Jamie Rivera and 92AD

‘Dahil Sa’Yo’ by Viola Natividad

‘Face of God’ by December Avenue

Best Novelty Recording

‘Da Coconut Nut (DJ Sandy Remix)’ by Giani Sarita and DJ Sandy

‘Walang Label’ by Eugene Layug

‘Wala Akong Pake’ by Johan Kyle and ANNUHBAE

‘Art Song’ by Pinkmen

‘Atras Abante’ by Introvert Fiesta and Aji

Best Recording by a Child or for Children

‘Ang Init Init’ by Imogen

‘The Phonics Song’ by Teacher Cleo

‘Tadhana (Easy Lang)’ by Giani Sarita

‘Jesus, Best Friend’ by Ateneo Boys Choir

‘Nasa Palad Mo’ by Ateneo Boys Choir featuring Marcel Roy S. Navarro and Generoso R. Maquirang IV

Best Original Soundtrack

‘lyo’ from ‘Can’t Buy Me Love’ by Darren Espanto

‘Maskara’ from ‘Lavender Fields’ by Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez

‘Ulit Ulit’ from ‘Pamilya Sagrado’ by Regine Velasquez

‘Uuwian’ from ‘What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim?’ by BGYO

‘Sa Akin Siya’ from ‘Asawa ng Asawa Ko’ by Crystal Paras and Jeniffer Maravilla

‘Nagbago ang Daigdig’ from ‘My Guardian Alien’ by Zephanie

‘Aabutin ang Tadhana’ from ‘Chasing in the Wild’ by Hyacinth Callado

Best Christmas Recording

‘Hesus Aming Hari’ by Jonathan Manalo, John Roa, EJ De Perio, Vee Jay Dela Calzada, Diwa, Hazel Faith, Shekinah Gram, Viola Natividad, Caleb Santos, Jacob Sean Bacal, Naomi, Jessi Ferrer, Elizabeth Clemente and Ezekiel Clemente

‘Ganito ang Pasko’ by Sparkle Singers

‘Weather with You’ by Lucas Pison, Chezka

‘Noche Buena’ by Jan Roberts

‘Paskong Mag-Isa’ by Debonair District

Best Regional Recording

‘Kasing Kasing’ by Juan Karlos and Kyle Echarri

‘Ihilak Lang Na’ by Morissette

‘Ang Paghuwat’ by Morissette and Ferdinand Aragon

‘Umaycan’ by Noel Cabangon

‘Buhi’ by Ferdinand Aragon

‘Dili Na Lang’ by Jolianne

‘Panata’ by Tothapi

Best Remix Recording

‘Welcome to My World’ by Jonathan Manalo and Theo Martel

‘Love Is the Answer’ by Jonathan Manalo, Moy Ortiz and The Company

‘small town (crwn’s crying in the parking lot edit)’ by crwn

‘different. (kenyama remix)’ by kenyama

‘WHITE ROOM (Reimagined ver.)’ by ena mori

Best Engineered Recording

‘Pahinga’ by Nikhil Armanani

‘Nobya’ by Carlo Jay Cruz

‘Pauwi Na’ko (Dito Ka Na Lang)’ by Brian Lotho

‘Segundo, Siguro’ by Axel Fernandez

‘Namimiss Ko Na’ by Rene Serna

Best Musical Arrangement

‘Nobya’ by Franz Sacro and Choi Padilla

‘Bittersweet’ by Ashlee Mickaela Factor and Alyssa Janine Cruz

‘Namimiss Ko Na’ by Lola Amour

‘Get It Right’ by Gabe Dandan

‘Umaycan’ by Kahlil Refuerzo

Music Video of the Year

‘Salamin, Salamin’ by BINI; produced by Roxy Liquigan, Carlo L. Katigbak and Carlos Jorge Reyes; directed by Kerbs Balagtas

‘Namumula’ by Maki; produced by Jonathan Bacala; directed by Kerbs Balagtas

‘Cherry on Top’ by BINI; produced by Roxy Liquigan, Carlo L. Katigbak and Carlos Jorge Reyes; directed by Kerbs Balagtas

‘Kalakal’ by SB19 and Gloc-9; produced by 1032 Lab and lana Cris Forbes; directed by Alanshiii and XY Pintoy

‘Tagpi-tagping Piraso’ by Ely Buendia; produced by August Lyle Espino, Cedric Hornedo, Lemuel Francia and Geoffrey Collera; directed by August Lyle Espino

Best Cover Art

‘Patibong’ by Gracenote; RJ Villanueva and Darwin Hernandez

‘The Traveller across Dimensions’ by Ben and Ben; Jether Dane Guadalupe, Katrina Urmatam and Puppeteer Studios

‘Kalakal’ by SB19 and Gloc-9; Louis Duran and IC Forbes

‘I’m Okay’ by Moira Dela Torre; Equinox Manila Productions, Moira Dela Torre, Jason Maxx and Artu Nepomuceno

‘Misteryoso’ by Cup of Joe; Nica Angeles and Gian Bernardino

Hundreds left homeless in Visayas, Mindanao fires

A government worker died while more than 500 people were left homeless in separate fire incidents in Samar, Davao and Cagayan de Oro recently.

Reynold Muñez, 30, an employee of the provincial government of Samar, was trapped in the fire that gutted his house in Barangay Canlapwas, Catbalogan City on Wednesday.

Muñez was reportedly trying to rescue his son, not knowing that his family had already evacuated.

The fire was reportedly caused by a faulty power connection.

In Davao City, more that 150 houses were destroyed in a fire that broke out in Barangay 21-C on Thursday.

The fire quickly spread to houses made of light materials.

No one was reported injured or killed in the incident that left more than 200 families homeless.

In Cagayan de Oro City, up to 121 people lost their homes in a fire that broke out in Barangay 17 on Thursday.

Affected families took shelter under a nearby bridge.

Metro Pacific Water ramps up Iloilo push with P11-billion plan

Metro Pacific Water (MPW) is scaling up its footprint in Iloilo with more than P11 billion in new projects, on top of the P4.2 billion it has already poured into rehabilitating the province’s aging water system.

‘MPW has been a partner of the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) for several years, and we recognize that the road to addressing Iloilo’s water challenges has not been easy,’ MPW President and CEO Andrew Pangilinan said.

‘We are not here to offer a quick fix. Quick fixes are what left Iloilo struggling in the first place. We are here to build a system that can stand for decades – one that future generations will not need to question.’

The planned capital program will fund both short- and long-term upgrades, according to Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW), the joint venture company serving Iloilo City and seven neighboring municipalities.

‘Short-term projects include pipe replacements and upgrades in HS Jaro, Diversion, Q. Abeto, Iloilo City Proper, Mansaya, Bo. Obrero, and Sinikway,’ said MPIW Commercial Support Services Department head Annie Mae Salonga.

‘For the long-term, we have started developing the 66.5 million liters per day (MLD) Desalination Plant and a 5 MLD modular facility to help secure Iloilo’s water supply.’

Salonga said the utility has also standardized more than 28,000 meters to ensure fair and accurate billing.

‘Old meters degrade over time and no longer provide accurate readings. Standardization ensures that the consumption recorded is exactly what the customer is charged – no more, no less,’ she said.

MPIW Chief Operating Officer David Berba emphasized that customer trust underpins the expansion.

‘Water is not just a commodity – it is life itself. It is the mother cooking rice for her family, the student washing before school, the worker refreshing after a long day. That is why trust is so important in this service. And trust is not built by words – it is built when Ilonggos turn on their taps and water flows, day after day,’ he said.

Despite the heavy investment pipeline, Salonga clarified that any adjustments in water rates would be determined by MIWD and regulated by the Local Water Utilities Administration. She noted that rates have not changed since 2018 despite rising operating costs.

‘With the improvement of water services through service level projects, customers will enjoy 24/7 safe and reliable water supply and will feel that their payments are truly worth it,’ she said.

MPW, through MPIW, entered Iloilo in 2019 to take over what it described as a heavily strained and outdated network.

The company now serves more than 860,000 people across Iloilo City and seven municipalities, stretching over 572 square kilometers and the Tigum-Aganan Watersheds.

Rolling out these projects, the company added, requires coordination with multiple regulators – including MIWD, LWUA, and the National Water Resources Board – as well as the priorities of eight local governments.