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Defense must explain Sara Duterte’s Gencorp interest – Tolosa

Vice President Sara Duterte’s defense lawyers will have to explain her declared financial interest in Gencorp Industries Inc. despite corporate records showing that she was not listed as a shareholder, House prosecution spokesperson Benjamin ‘Jay’ Tolosa Jr. said.

‘It’s up to them how they will explain it,’ Tolosa, who is also private counsel for the House prosecution panel, said at a news conference.

Tolosa was responding to a question on whether a trust or nominee arrangement could explain the apparent discrepancy between Duterte’s Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) and Gencorp’s records with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Duterte listed Gencorp among her business interests and financial connections in her SALNs, but an SEC witness told the Senate impeachment court that the Vice President did not appear as a shareholder or director in the company’s corporate filings.

Tolosa said the prosecution’s concern was whether Duterte had divested herself of her financial interest in the company after becoming Vice President.

‘Our point is that one of the aspects of the article on unexplained wealth is the charge that the Vice President did not comply with the divestment requirement,’ Tolosa said.

He said the prosecution’s position was that a vice president cannot continue to directly or indirectly participate in a business or hold a financial interest in government contracts.

Tolosa stressed that Duterte herself had declared an interest in Gencorp in her SALNs.

A Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) official testified that Gencorp secured 49 government contracts worth a combined P35.88 million from the Davao City government, Philippine Health Insurance Corp. Region XI and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Region XI during Duterte’s term as Vice President.

Tolosa said the prosecution would leave it to the senator-judges to determine whether Duterte violated restrictions involving financial interests in government contracts.

‘So now, do these things show that the Vice President violated the prohibition against having a financial interest in any government contract? We’ll leave it to the impeachment court to determine,’ he said.

Gencorp is majority-owned by businessman Jaime Tan Cruz, whose name also appears in the corporate records of several other companies examined during the impeachment trial.

Based on SEC documents presented to the impeachment court, Gencorp posted P364 million in gross sales in 2024 but reported net income of about P3 million.

SOCAR expands global partnerships through new investment agreements

As part of the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum, held under the patronage of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, SOCAR signed a series of documents with various companies.

Under the Production Sharing Agreement signed between SOCAR and ExxonMobil for the exploration, development and production of unconventional hydrocarbon resources in Azerbaijan’s Middle Kura Basin, the participating interests in the contract area will be divided equally, with SOCAR and ExxonMobil each holding a 50 percent stake through their respective subsidiaries. ExxonMobil will serve as the project operator.

During the ceremony, SOCAR, XRG and TotalEnergies exchanged the Final Investment Decision for the full-scale development of the Absheron gas-condensate field. The full-scale development program will include drilling additional wells and establishing new processing infrastructure. These measures are expected to enable more efficient development of the field’s resource potential and bring its overall recovery factor closer to levels achieved by leading international gas projects.

Under a Framework Agreement on strategic partnership between SOCAR and Comstock Resources, the companies will cooperate to explore opportunities for SOCAR to market liquefied natural gas (LNG) produced from Comstock’s interest in the Haynesville shale assets in international markets outside the United States. The companies will focus on identifying potential buyers, assessing pricing mechanisms, and addressing logistical and regulatory issues related to international sales.

A Memorandum of Understanding on strategic partnership between SOCAR and Apollo for investment in upstream development and production projects provides for funds managed by Apollo to assess and structure potential investments in SOCAR’s interests in upstream development and production projects. The memorandum also envisages the establishment of joint working groups, legal, financial and technical due diligence, and the preparation of final agreements.

A Memorandum of Understanding signed between SOCAR and Securing Energy for Europe GmbH (SEFE) on cooperation in natural gas, LNG, energy security, energy infrastructure development and production projects envisages expanding cooperation in natural gas and LNG supplies, joint development of energy infrastructure projects, investment in production projects, and strengthening energy security.

The Strategic Cooperation Agreement between SOCAR and VNG sets out the framework for future cooperation between the companies. The agreement provides for a long-term partnership in natural gas, as well as related infrastructure and regulatory matters. The parties will also cooperate on energy transition and scientific and technical issues related to hydrogen and its derivatives.

Under the agreement on the deployment of the Oracle Alloy platform in Azerbaijan, Caspian Mind AI will become an Oracle Alloy operator in the country, enabling the company to provide sovereign Oracle cloud infrastructure services through locally operated cloud infrastructure. Caspian Mind AI will manage customer relationships, sales processes and certain aspects of customer support while leveraging Oracle’s cloud technologies and operational expertise.

As part of the event, SOCAR and Italy’s Eni S.p.A. also exchanged a Protocol on the Completion of the Transaction for the Acquisition of a 10% Ownership Interest in the Baleine Oil and Gas Field Development Project in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. Following completion of the transaction, the participating interests in the Baleine project are held by Eni at 37.25%, Vitol at 30%, Petroci at 22.75%, and SOCAR at 10%. In addition to marking SOCAR’s entry into Africa’s upstream sector, the acquisition will contribute to the company’s long-term strategy of expanding its global upstream operations.

”Power of Unity – 2026″ joint military exercise continues in Azerbaijan [PHOTOS]

“Power of Unity – 2026” joint military exercise hosted by the Republic of Azerbaijan is proceeding successfully with participating personnel carrying out a series of training activities.

In accordance with the exercise plan, a number of practical exercises have been conducted with the aim of enhancing personnel’s capabilities to operate under various conditions and improving coordination in interoperability and command and control among participating units.

The exercises included protected advance under fire support and the conduct of operations in various types of terrain using armoured vehicles.

The personnel successfully completed the assigned training tasks while adhering to established safety regulations. Practical skills related to the coordination of units and the synchronization of their activities were also further developed.

The primary objectives of the exercises are to enhance the proficiency of military personnel, strengthen the readiness of service members from the participating countries to conduct coordinated operations under various conditions, and further improve their capabilities for effective interoperability.

President of Azerbaijan: Oil and gas will continue to dominate the economy

“Just several days ago, the state program on mining was adopted. It’s a very short-term program for four years, which will generate a lot of activity. So these are the main directions of our development,” President Ilham Aliyev said at an event held as part of the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum.

Emphasizing that oil and gas should not be forgotten, the head of state noted: “And, of course, we should not forget the elephant in the room: oil and gas, especially having in mind that this year many contracts were signed and are to be signed today. So, oil and gas will continue to dominate our economy and to generate the wealth which will be reinvested.”

Azerbaijan, Syria discuss prospects for expanding economic ties

Azerbaijan and Syria have discussed prospects for expanding economic cooperation.

According to Azerbaijan’s Cabinet of Ministers, Prime Minister Ali Asadov met with Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammed Nidal al-Shaar.

The sides highlighted the importance of the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum.

They noted that relations between Azerbaijan and Syria have been developing with positive momentum in recent months.

The sides also stressed that meetings and regular contacts between President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Syrian transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa have created favorable conditions for strengthening bilateral political dialogue and expanding cooperation in various areas.

The supply of Azerbaijani natural gas to Syria was highlighted as an important example of economic cooperation between the two countries producing practical results.

The sides also emphasized the importance of humanitarian initiatives, including a project aimed at restoring educational infrastructure in Syria with the support of the Azerbaijani government.

The meeting focused on prospects for developing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Syria in trade and the economy, investment, energy, infrastructure and humanitarian affairs.

Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister Samir Sharifov also attended the meeting.

Earlier, on the first day of the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum in Baku, Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammed Nidal al-Shaar announced the establishment of the Syria-Azerbaijan Joint Business Council.

Federal Land named Developer of the Year, eight properties recognized for design and innovation

Federal Land Inc. was honored as Developer of the Year at the Philippines Real Estate Awards 2026 for its outstanding decades-long contribution to the country’s real estate through its diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, retail, and township developments. Presented by Dot Philippines and Lamudi Philippines, the award-giving body recognized Federal Land’s diverse range of properties and masterplanned communities. From Japanese-branded developments to the company’s first branded residential property in Cebu, the win is a testament to Federal Land’s smart urban planning.

‘This award reflects our continuous commitment to creating places for progress and spaces for life. We look forward to continuing to innovate and elevate the standards of property development in the country, one project at a time,’ Federal Land Chairman Alfred V. Ty said during his acceptance speech.

As the real estate arm of GT Capital Holdings Inc., Federal Land has grown into a nationwide developer with more than 140 projects. Approaching its 55th anniversary next year, the company continues to expand while building on a legacy that includes some of the country’s most recognizable properties, including Grand Hyatt Manila, The Seasons Residences, MITSUKOSHI BGC, and The Grand Midori Ortigas.

Federal Land has broadened its development scope. In 2023, it launched Federal Land Communities (FLC), which focuses on masterplanned townships and communities. Federal Land has also established a joint venture with Japan’s Nomura Real Estate Development to bring Japanese design and development standards to upcoming projects such as Yume at Riverpark in Cavite.

The Developer of the Year recognition comes amid a strong year for Federal Land. Eight properties were honored across multiple categories, including Best Mixed-Use Development, Best Retail Development, Best Investment Property in Metro Manila and Cebu, and more.

‘After 54 years, our commitment remains clear: to create places that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and communities. We continue to challenge ourselves to innovate, raise our standards, and build with purpose, while staying true to the values that have guided Federal Land from the beginning. These awards affirm that our people, our partnerships, and our commitment to excellence continue to move us forward,’ said Federal Land President Jose Mari Banzon.

Cholera outbreak claims two at Kano custodial centre

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that the cholera outbreak at the Kurmawa Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kano State has been contained.

The Service, however, said two inmates died from the outbreak, with one death recorded at the custodial centre and the other at the Kano State Infectious Diseases Hospital.

The NCoS Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, said the outbreak was confirmed through laboratory investigation on September 23 by the Service’s medical team and Kano State public health authorities.

She said the incident was first detected on September 17 when an inmate presented with vomiting and diarrhoea and was immediately admitted and treated at the centre’s medical facility.

According to her, the medical team activated emergency protocols the following morning while intensifying treatment, monitoring and other interventions.

Osuji said the measures brought the outbreak under control, adding that no further deaths had been recorded since the diagnosis.

She said the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, directed that all necessary measures be sustained to protect the health and welfare of inmates and personnel.

The NCoS spokesperson expressed regret over the deaths and said the Controller-General had extended his condolences to the families of the deceased.

She said the Service had introduced additional preventive measures in collaboration with the Kano State Government to prevent future occurrences.

‘The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to reassure the public that healthcare services remain available across custodial facilities through qualified medical personnel, while continuous disease surveillance, early detection and prompt medical response are being strengthened in collaboration with relevant public health authorities,’ Osuji said.

She added that Nwakuche had directed a team of senior medical personnel from the Service’s National Headquarters to proceed to the facility for sustained monitoring.

The Controller-General, according to Osuji, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to treating persons in custody humanely and protecting their health, dignity and welfare in line with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, and established correctional standards.

Land of Fire comes alive to Katy Perry’s hits [PHOTOS]

Baku Crystal Hall was filled with music, lights and thousands of singing fans last night as Katy Perry brought her hit-filled show to the city.

Perry performed crowd favourites including “Roar”, “Firework”, “Dark Horse”, “Hot N Cold” and “I Kissed a Girl”, keeping the audience on its feet throughout the show. A striking stage setup, lighting and special effects added to the atmosphere.

Earlier in the day, the focus had been on the cars and the action at the Baku City Circuit. By evening, the spotlight shifted to Baku Crystal Hall, where the sound of racing engines gave way to Perry’s music.

The scale of the show reflected Perry’s international success. Her music has generated more than 115 billion streams worldwide, while she is also the best-selling female artist in Capitol Records’ history.

For her fans in Baku, seeing one of the world’s biggest pop stars perform live made the night a special part of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend.

After a night of music, attention now returns to the track as the 10th anniversary Azerbaijan Grand Prix takes centre stage.

Niger: Police detain security guard over alleged defilement, death of minor

Police Command in Niger has detained a 26-year-old security guard, Godwin Dauda, over the alleged defilement and death of an 11-year-old girl in Suleja.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on Friday in Minna.

Abiodun said that the police received a missing-person report at the Suleja Police Division on Sept. 20, after the girl failed to return home.

He said the girl had left home on Sept. 19 to attend a relative’s birthday ceremony within the area.

According to him, a pastor of the Apostolic Church, Suleja, later reported the discovery of a dead body inside a well on the church premises.

He said police officers and officials of the Suleja Local Government Council visited the scene and recovered the body.

‘The body was then taken to the Suleja General Hospital, where it was identified as that of the missing girl,’ he said.

Abiodun said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly defiled the girl before disposing of her body in the well.

‘The girl’s body was found inside the well within the premises of the Apostolic Church in Suleja, where the suspect works as a security guard,’ he said.

The spokesperson said Dauda allegedly fled the area after the body was recovered, in an attempt to evade arrest.

He said that the suspect was subsequently arrested around Kuje in the Federal Capital Territory at about 8 p.m. on Sept. 23.

Abiodun said Dauda allegedly confessed during interrogation to luring the girl into his security room at the church.

According to him, the suspect told investigators that he defiled the girl and that she subsequently died.

He said the suspect also allegedly told the police that he disposed of the girl’s body in the church well in an attempt to conceal the crime.

The spokesperson said investigation into the case was ongoing, adding that the suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Minna.

He said the transfer would facilitate further investigation and possible prosecution if the suspect was found culpable.