Author: user user

Senate court recognizes House hearing records in Duterte impeachment case

The Senate impeachment court on Wednesday took judicial notice of specified House hearings and records related to the allegations against Vice President Sara Duterte, sparing prosecutors from having to prove that each proceeding and transcript existed.

Presiding officer Sen. Francis Escudero clarified that the ruling was limited to the existence of the hearings and their records.

It does not establish the truth of the allegations against Duterte or determine whether the underlying evidence is admissible or credible.

The records include proceedings of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability in 2024 and the House Committee on Justice in 2026.

The hearings examined Duterte’s alleged misuse of confidential funds at the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, among other allegations later included in the impeachment case.

What judicial notice means

Under the Rules of Court, judicial notice allows a court to recognize certain facts without requiring a party to formally prove them.

Prosecution lawyer Lorna Kapunan said the ruling means prosecutors no longer have to call witnesses solely to establish that the House hearings occurred, witnesses appeared and documents were presented.

“It is just a stipulation na may nangyaring ganon na meeting, prinesent itong mga witnesses, at itong mga dokumento,” Kapunan said at a press conference.

(“It is simply a stipulation that such a meeting occurred, these witnesses were presented and these documents were submitted.”)

The court may therefore recognize that the proceedings and records exist, but prosecutors must still establish the relevance, admissibility and evidentiary value of the material they intend to use against Duterte.

Lascañas affidavit marked

The impeachment court separately allowed the transfer of exhibit markings for portions of an affidavit attributed to self-confessed former Davao Death Squad member Arturo Lascañas.

The document was referred to during the testimony of National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag, who said it was among the materials reviewed in an open-source investigation into Duterte’s alleged threats against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and former House speaker Martin Romualdez.

Allowing the transfer of exhibit markings does not automatically admit the affidavit into evidence or establish that its contents are true.

The prosecution must still formally offer the document, while the defense may challenge its authenticity, admissibility and evidentiary weight.

Wednesday marked the 13th day of Duterte’s impeachment trial. Proceedings continued on Article II, which covers allegations that Duterte misused and malversed P612.5 million in confidential and intelligence funds at the OVP and DepEd.

Oborevwori celebrates Ibori at 68

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has congratulated former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, on the occasion of his 68th birthday.

He described him as a dynamic leader, whose contributions to the growth and development of the state remained significant.

In a congratulatory message issued yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor praised Ibori for his leadership during his tenure as governor between 1999 and 2007, saying he inspired many through his vision, resilience and commitment to public service.

Oborevwori described the former governor as a great motivator and an inspirational leader, who laid foundation for the development of Delta State.

He said his impact had continued to be appreciated by many across the state and beyond.

The governor said: ‘On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate our dynamic and inspirational leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, former governor of Delta State, on his 68th birth anniversary.’

He prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health and long life for the former governor as he celebrates his 68th birthday on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

‘May your special day be filled with joy and pleasant memories. Congratulations.’

Farmers offered verification tool to combat fake seeds in new campaign

Farmers can now protect themselves against the rampant influx of counterfeit seeds following the rollout of a digital verification system designed to authenticate seed quality before planting.

The system was unveiled on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, during the launch of the national ‘Dekalb Mafanikio Shambani’ campaign in Mwanza City.

Organised by Bayer East Africa in partnership with the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (Tosci), the initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity and safeguard national food security. Speaking at the launch, the Bayer Tanzania managing director, Mr Mwinyi Sango, described the campaign as a major milestone in tackling fake seed distribution, which has long undermined farmers’ yields and economic stability.

He explained that under the new scheme, seed packages feature a scratch-off panel concealing a unique code.

Farmers can instantly verify product authenticity by dialling *148*52*code# on their mobile phones before purchasing or planting.

‘We observed that many farmers purchase seeds without verifying their authenticity, allowing the counterfeit seed trade to thrive. Through this campaign, we aim to transform farmer habits and ensure every seed lot is authenticated before use,’ said Mr Sango.

To encourage adoption, the four-month initiative includes an incentive scheme offering prizes, including pick-up trucks, motorcycles, and mobile phones, to farmers who verify their seed codes through the short code.

The Tosci Lake Zone manager, Mr Ayoub Mshema, reiterated the agency’s commitment to seed quality control, noting that involving farmers directly in digital verification will drastically curb the circulation of sub-standard inputs.

‘This campaign will motivate farmers to take an active role in seed quality assurance. Eliminating the purchase of uncertified seeds is critical to expanding the adoption of genuine, high-yielding varieties across Tanzania,’ said Mr Mshema.

Concurring with the sentiment, Bayer’s head of partnerships in Africa, Mr Vitalis Wafula, emphasized that high-quality seeds remain the foundation of profitable agriculture and sustainable economic growth.

Local agricultural inputs distributor, Ms Magreth Zacharia, noted that field visits across Lake Zone regions revealed strong farmer demand for certified inputs to increase crop margins.

Relating his personal experience, a maize farmer from Sengerema District, Mr Magoli Daudi, recalled how fake seeds nearly destroyed his livelihood.

‘Two years ago, I unknowingly planted counterfeit maize seeds. I harvested only 10 bags per acre instead of the expected 25 to 30 bags, incurring severe financial losses that almost forced me out of farming,’ Mr Daudi shared, welcoming the digital verification tool as a crucial shield for agricultural investments.

DOF to pair tax relief program with wealth, excise taxes

The Department of Finance (DOF) is preparing to cushion the fiscal blow of planned middle-class tax relief through tweaks in the excise tax on so?called sin products, fresh charges on single?use plastics and a wealth tax targeting luxury automobiles.

Finance Undersecretary Karlo Fermin Adriano said the agency’s proposed ‘Progress Bill’ seeks to raise P518.71 billion from excise tax reforms from 2027 to 2030 to promote healthier, more eco-friendly lifestyles and redistribute wealth.

‘The middle-income classes pay a lot of taxes, but they’re not poor enough to qualify for the ayudas, but not rich enough to have a very comfortable life,’ he told reporters.

The proposed measures aim to offset the fiscal impact of raising the personal income tax exemption threshold to P350,000 and exempting small businesses from the minimum corporate income tax.

Based on government estimates, the combined relief taxes could trim revenues by about P326.92 billion from 2027 to 2030, with the bulk, or P300.33 billion, from the expanded income tax exemption.

Still, the bill will leave the government P191.77 billion net revenue from 2027 to 2030, already factoring in revenue-eroding and revenue-generating reforms.

The revenue-generating side of the measure is expected to raise P518.71 billion in 2027 to 2030. The largest contributor is the updated sweetened beverage (SB) tax, which is expected to raise P2 96.97 billion from 2027 to 2030 amid high obesity rates.

‘Take note that sin products are not a required commodity to consume, it’s technically a vice and at the same time, when you consume it, it’s harmful to you,’ Adriano said.

Under the proposed update on SB tax, the DOF seeks to hike the current tax rate to P20 per liter for purely caloric or non-caloric, a mix of caloric and non-caloric sweeteners and P40 per liter for those using high-fructose corn syrup, a combination of purely HFCS with any caloric or non-caloric sweeteners.

Coverage will expand to ‘edible ices’ such as ice cream and popsicles, as well as soy milk, 100 percent fruit and vegetable juices.

Adriano said the bill also targets wealthier households with a steep excise tax tier on luxury automobiles, which is expected to raise P15.64 billion in revenue until 2030.

‘If you can afford an P8 million car, then definitely you’re rich. If you can afford an P8 million car, then you have to pay a 75 percent tax,’ he said.

Other components include higher duties on e?cigarettes and introduction of new excise tax on novel tobacco products and devices.

Other revenues include the P150-per-kilo excise tax on plastic, against the backdrop of the Philippines’ sachet economy and its ranking among the top 10 countries with the highest annual plastic emissions.

The bill also seeks to update the Motor Vehicle Road User Tax by adjusting MVRUT rates based on cumulative inflation, benefiting road users.

Acting Budget Secretary Kim Robert de Leon backed the proposed tax relief measures but said it is ‘a balancing act.’

‘If we will have additional tax relief, definitely it will have an impact on our revenues. We really have to check whether our expenditure will still be able to sustain given that we also have fiscal consolidation measure that we don’t want to increase our deficit further,’ he said.

Farmers urged to adopt resilient seeds to increase food security

The Agricultural Seed Agency (ASA) has called on farmers to adopt certified, climate-resilient seeds, saying the move is essential to increasing agricultural productivity, minimising crop losses and strengthening Tanzania’s food security as climate change continues to disrupt farming.

Speaking at the ongoing Nanenane Agricultural Exhibition at the Dr John Malecela Grounds in Dodoma, ASA chief executive officer, Mr Innocent Masaka, said the agency has stepped up the production and distribution of improved seed varieties developed to withstand changing climatic conditions across different parts of the country. He said the improved seeds, particularly for maize and other staple crops, have been developed through research to help farmers maintain production despite erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells.

“We continue to encourage farmers to use certified, climate-resilient seeds because they are the foundation of higher productivity, improved incomes and national food security,” said Engineer Masaka. He cautioned that although access to quality seeds has improved, some farmers continue to buy uncertified products, exposing themselves to poor harvests and avoidable financial losses.

Mr Masaka urged farmers to ensure that every seed package they purchase bears the seal of the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI), which confirms that the seeds have been inspected and meet national quality standards.

“The TOSCI certification mark assures farmers that the seeds have been tested and approved. Buying certified seed is an investment that protects farmers from unnecessary losses while delivering better returns,” he said.

He said ASA is using this year’s Nanenane exhibition to showcase improved seed varieties while educating farmers on modern farming technologies and good agricultural practices that can enhance productivity.

According to him, the agency is participating in all nine Nanenane exhibition zones, including the national exhibition in Dodoma and zonal events in Arusha, Tabora, Simiyu, Mwanza, Kagera, Mbeya, Morogoro and Lindi.

He said the nationwide participation reflects ASA’s commitment to ensuring farmers across the country have access to high-quality certified seeds that improve crop yields, strengthen resilience to climate change and support sustainable agricultural development.

Delta unveils power sector reform plan

Delta State Government has announced plans to establish an independent electricity market through the creation of Delta State Electricity Regulatory Commission and Delta State Rural Electrification Agency before the end of the year.

The announcement was made during a panel session at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, where government officials, regulators and private sector stakeholders outlined the state’s roadmap for transforming the electricity sector and attracting new investments.

The participants said the planned reforms were designed to strengthen the state’s electricity regulatory framework, expand access to power, particularly in rural communities and create an enabling environment for private sector participation.

The initiative is also expected to improve electricity supply, stimulate economic growth and position Delta State as a leading destination for energy investment in Nigeria.

According to the panellists, the two institutions are expected to become operational before the end of 2026, following ongoing engagements between Delta State Government, Ministry of Energy and private investors.

They said the move is aimed at enabling the state to regulate electricity generation, distribution and supply under the provisions of the Electricity Act, which empowers states to establish and manage their own electricity markets.

The officials revealed that the government would also conduct public consultations before unveiling the state’s electricity market framework.

Panellists said Delta State is strategically positioned to build a viable electricity market due to its abundant natural gas reserves and significant power generation capacity.

They noted that the state hosts Transcorp Power’s 1,000-megawatt power plant, which could meet a substantial portion of Delta’s electricity demand if supported by adequate distribution infrastructure.

They, however, identified inadequate electricity distribution as the biggest obstacle to unlocking the state’s energy potential.

A representative of Transcorp Power attributed the country’s broader electricity challenges to inadequate gas supply and transmission bottlenecks.

Discussions also focused on gas flaring and opportunities for investors. Panellists advised prospective investors to engage directly with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), which oversees the Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme and maintains a desk office in Delta State.

They noted that gas flaring in Nigeria had reduced significantly from over one billion standard cubic feet per day to about 500 million standard cubic feet through gas-to-power projects, modular gas utilisation initiatives and other commercial solutions.

Fuel prices fall across Tanzania as global oil costs ease

Tanzanian motorists and businesses are set to benefit from lower fuel prices after the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) announced a reduction in the retail prices of petrol, diesel and kerosene for August.

The new price caps, which took effect on Wednesday, August 5, show that petrol prices have fallen by Sh92 per litre, diesel by Sh204 per litre, and kerosene by Sh440 per litre compared to the previous month.

In Dar es Salaam, the maximum retail prices have been set at Sh3,898 per litre for petrol, Sh3,978 for diesel, and Sh4,003 for kerosene.

EWURA attributed the decline primarily to lower prices in the international petroleum market, despite continued price fluctuations linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The regulator said it continues to monitor global market developments and adjust domestic fuel prices in line with its pricing formula.

The revised prices are expected to ease transport and operating costs for businesses while offering some relief to households facing high living expenses.

Lower diesel prices, in particular, could reduce costs in sectors such as transport, agriculture and manufacturing, where the fuel is widely used.

EWURA reminded fuel dealers that they must sell petroleum products at or below the published price caps and display pump prices prominently at filling stations. It also encouraged consumers to compare prices and buy from stations offering the most competitive rates.

Troops rescue 14 kidnapped victims, recover 281 rustled livestock in Sokoto

Troops of the 8 Division Garrison of the Nigerian Army have rescued 14 kidnapped victims and recovered 281 livestock from bandits who attacked Horo Birni Village in Shagari Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

A credible security source from the area disclosed the operational success to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Sokoto.

The source, who pleaded anonymity, said troops responded swiftly to distress calls on Tuesday and carried out the operation by confronting the terrorists who were moving with the kidnapped victims and the rustled livestock.

According to the source, troops made contact with the terrorists who were already in possession of the kidnapped civilians and livestock taken from the villagers.

‘Troops engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray with gunshot wounds abandoning the kidnapped victims and rustled livestock.

‘Troops searched the area and successfully rescued 14 kidnapped victims. Recovered 195 cows, 84 sheep, two camels and two motorcycles,’ the source disclosed.

The source explained that the troops’ quick response saved lives and property, adding that teamwork and synergy among agencies during the operation were worthy of commendation.

‘The troops are always battle-ready to tackle all forms of criminality in the country but need sustained community support and vigilance,’ the source said.

Kasama Mo Mangarap: New GCash Stories film celebrates second chances with lawyer Sheila Gomez

Not every dream unfolds exactly as planned, and the journey toward making it a reality isn’t always a straight path.

Sometimes it calls for unwavering perseverance. Other times, it means finding the courage to take a second chance. And often, true progress comes from knowing when to ask for help so you can keep moving forward.

It’s this spirit of courage and perseverance that takes center stage in the sixth installment of this years #GCashStories, the flagship campaign from the country’s No. 1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem.

Themed ‘Kasama Mo Mangarap,’ this latest chapter reveals the deeply inspiring real-life journey of Atty. Sheila Gomez-a former legal aide whose lifelong dream of becoming an attorney was realized through sheer determination, responsible financial choices, with the timely support of GLoan.

‘Our GCash Stories campaign showed us that the most powerful script is that of real life,’ said Neil Trinidad, chief marketing officer of Mynt. ‘Progress becomes possible when people are given the right support at the right time. At GCash, we believe our role goes far beyond providing financial tools-we want to empower Filipinos to keep moving forward.”

“Every Filipino deserves to dream, and deserves a second chance in pursuing just that. We take immense pride in Sheila’s journey because it is living proof that digital financial inclusion doesn’t just solve a temporary problem; it turns everyday obstacles into real, lasting possibilities-dreams achieved,” he added.

The #GCashStories movement

GCash Stories is a celebration of real Filipinos whose journeys remind us that progress is often built through everyday acts of courage, determination and hope.

Over the last three years, the campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement that transcends storytelling, capturing a rich collection of lived experiences that reflect the aspirations, challenges and triumphs of underserved communities across the country and their individual stories of progress with the help of GCash.

By welcoming Atty. Sheila into this portfolio, GCash continues to spark vital conversations about financial inclusion. Her story adds to a powerful legacy of real-life breakthroughs previously featured by the brand:

Cocoy, a laid-off bartender who turned into a successful business owner with the help of GLoan.

Alma, a well-loved university employee who lost her home to Typhoon Ulysses but rebuilt it through community crowdfunding via GCash Send Money.

Turing, a drag queen and breadwinner who sustained her family during the pandemic by digital tipping via GCash QR.

Adz, a champion para-athlete who raised funds via GCash Send Money to advocate for the new generation of para-athletes.

Rhea Inayan, Ang Bayani ng Barangay from Bacolod City who empowered a community through her GCash Pera Outlet, bringing essential financial services directly to her neighborhood.

‘At the heart of every GCash Story is a real story of financial progress,’ said Lourdes Batac, GCash head for Communication Strategy.

“At the end of the day GCash’s own narrative is not just about the products we’ve made, but how our products have transformed the lives of everyday Filipinos. We owe it to Cocoy, Ate Alma, Turing, Adz, Rhea and Sheila, for allowing GCash to share their story so that more Filipinos today can clearly imagine their own financial progress journey,” Batac said.

From dreamer to lawyer

For Atty. Sheila Gomez, becoming a lawyer was a dream built on years of sacrifice. While working full-time as a legal aide, she tirelessly juggled the demands of her day job with the rigorous, exhausting requirements of law school, balancing long days at work with late nights of studying.

However, as law school expenses began to pile up alongside everyday living costs, Sheila faced an overwhelming reality familiar to millions of working Filipinos: the heavy weight of financial anxiety. Every enrollment and exam season brought a persistent fear of falling short. Rather than putting her life’s calling on hold, she made the decision to turn to GLoan as her silent, reliable personal partner.

The loan provided her with the immediate financial flexibility to cover her law school expenses, allowing her to stay completely focused on her goals without compromising her self-worth or hiding in shame.

Armed with this support, she successfully passed the Bar. Today, she continues her journey of financial progress as an active user of GCredit and GGives, proudly declaring, “Ako si Sheila, at ito ang aking GCash Story.”

‘One of the biggest lessons I learned is that perseverance doesn’t always mean doing everything on your own. Sometimes, it means having the courage to seek the right support,’ Atty. Sheila Gomez shared during a fireside chat.

She added, ‘It’s unfortunate that many Filipinos see loans in a negative light, but when used responsibly and with a clear purpose, borrowing can be a powerful tool and a smart investment that moves you closer to your dreams. I’m grateful that GLoan gave me that opportunity.’

Championing fair and respectful lending

Atty. Sheila’s story highlights a critical reality in today’s economic landscape. Amidst inflation and a challenging local economy, many Filipinos still face predatory lenders or rigid, traditional systems that leave them feeling trapped rather than helped.

Celebrating its 10th year, Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash, steps in to actively destigmatize the lending category, championing fair, transparent, and respectful financial practices. Proving that responsible lending should empower the borrower, protect their dignity, and provide a clear path forward, not a cycle of debt.

‘Since our inception, we have pursued our mission: ‘Fair loans that spark better every day for all Filipinos,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc.

‘Everything we do rests on three core commitments: to provide fast, collateral-free loans; to ensure a safe and secure credit experience; and most importantly, to enable Filipinos to borrow with dignity. When paired with discipline and perseverance, responsible borrowing becomes a stepping stone to lasting financial progress,” Isidro said.

Enabling every Filipino’s journey toward a better future

While Sheila’s triumph takes center stage, hers represents the millions of borrowers who turn to GLoan to continue their education, scale their livelihoods, support their families and overcome unexpected challenges.

Through these collective experiences, GCash lives out its ultimate vision of Finance for All. By meeting Filipinos exactly where they are, GCash reinforces the universal truth that every individual has the right to dream and achieve those dreams, no matter their socioeconomic situation.

Mystery surrounds Yanga Community Shield trophy disappearance

Questions continue to surround the disappearance of Young Africans’ (Yanga) 2025 Community Shield trophy after club president Hersi Said revealed that the silverware had been stolen, prompting debate over when and how the incident occurred.

Hersi made the revelation during Yanga’s General Meeting held in Dar es Salaam on August 2, 2026, expressing disappointment over the loss of the trophy and confirming that the club had contacted the relevant authorities to seek a replacement.

‘Can you believe someone stole our 2025 Community Shield during our championship parade? Trophies are won on the pitch, not stolen,’ Hersi said. The statement, however, has left several unanswered questions, particularly regarding the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft.

According to Hersi, the trophy disappeared during Yanga’s championship parade held on July 4, 2026. However, footage from the celebrations appears to show the Community Shield trophy being displayed throughout the procession, from the starting point at Karume to the final celebrations at the club’s headquarters in Jangwani.

The circumstances surrounding the alleged theft have raised further questions, including how an individual could leave with a large trophy unnoticed despite the presence of thousands of supporters, club officials, security personnel, and members of the media who covered the event.

Another issue being debated is why the Community Shield trophy was allegedly targeted when Yanga displayed several other major trophies during the parade, including five consecutive Mainland Premier League titles and the 2026 Mapinduzi Cup.

The incident has also brought attention to security arrangements during major club events, with questions being raised over access control measures and whether surveillance systems were in place to monitor the movement of trophies and other valuable items.

There are also questions over whether the matter was reported to the police, as Hersi only confirmed that the club had engaged the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) regarding the possibility of obtaining a replacement trophy.

TFF, however, clarified that once a trophy is presented to a club, it becomes the property of that club, and the federation has no responsibility for investigating its disappearance.

‘The trophy belongs to the club after it has been handed over. Any issue concerning its loss or theft is the responsibility of the club,’ a TFF official said.

The federation’s position means Yanga will have to address the matter internally and follow the necessary procedures with relevant authorities if the trophy is to be recovered or replaced.

The controversy comes at a time when Yanga are preparing for the 2026/27 season, with the Community Shield match against traditional rivals Simba scheduled for August 12 in Zanzibar.

The match will provide the first opportunity for the two giants to compete for silverware in the new campaign.