Baku rental market reflects strong activity in real estate

Housing prices in Azerbaijan have increased by 46 percent over the past five years compared with June 2020, Azernews reports, citing the Central Bank of Azerbaijan.

According to the CBA, prices in both the primary and secondary housing markets have been on the rise. While the real estate market remained relatively stable in 2020 due to the pandemic, subsequent years have seen clear upward trends.

In the first half of 2025, the increase in housing prices, along with higher average interest rates on newly issued domestic mortgage loans, contributed to a decline in the housing affordability index. At the same time, the positive dynamics in households’ disposable income kept the index above its benchmark level.

Open-source data on the housing market shows that by the end of June, the median monthly rent in Baku reached 883 manats, translating into a capitalization period of 22.5 years. The ratio of average housing prices to the average monthly nominal salary in Baku stood at 217 months, or 18.1 years.

Although investments in the construction sector have fluctuated over time, the share of financing directed toward residential housing within total capital investments has been growing. This trend has strengthened in recent years, contributing to higher market activity.

According to the report, the increase in residential construction investments has been driven by both strong demand and new projects initiated by the state and private sector.

‘Overall, the recovery of investment flows, the large-scale construction and reconstruction work carried out in the country, and the ongoing process of legalizing undocumented housing by presidential decree are expected to keep activity in the construction and real estate markets at a high level,’ the CBA noted.

Supervisory Board set to oversee Azerbaijan International Bank operations – decree

The overall management and supervision of Azerbaijan International Bank (ABB) and Azer-Turk Bank will now be conducted by their respective Supervisory Boards, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has made amendments to multiple presidential decrees, including the decree dated August 7, 2009, on transferring Azerbaijan International Bank OJSC to the management of Azerbaijan Investment Holding and related regulatory matters, the decree on the rules of state participation in the management of banks and non-bank credit institutions with state-owned shares, the February 9, 2009 decree on improving the activities of the Ministry of Finance, and the July 16, 2022 decree on improving the management of Azer-Turk Bank OJSC.

As a result of these amendments, the previous requirement that the Supervisory Boards include a specific number of members, including the chairperson, has been removed. For Azerbaijan International Bank, this requirement for five members has been lifted, allowing the Supervisory Board to carry out overall management and supervision with more flexibility. Similarly, for Azer-Turk Bank, the requirement for three members, including the chairperson, has been removed, and the Supervisory Board will now oversee the bank’s activities independently.

Baku Slavic University holds VI International Forum on New Challenges in Education

Baku Slavic University hosted the VI International Forum on ‘New Challenges in Education,’ attracting education officials, Ministry of Science and Education representatives, and international experts, Azernews reprots. The forum, dedicated to the ‘Year of Constitution and Sovereignty,’ was held under the motto ‘Towards a More Educated Future.’

Distinguished participants included Andreas Schleicher, Director for Education and Skills at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD); prominent Turkish psychologists Acar and Zuhal Baltas of the Baltas Group; Carolyn Wright, CEO of the British Educational Suppliers Association; and Roman Aliyev, Director of Riga Classical State Gymnasium, who shared their expertise and experiences.

The forum focused on balancing emotional intelligence and artificial intelligence in education, emphasizing the development of students and educators into their best possible versions.

In his address, Baku Slavic University Rector Anar Nagiyev highlighted that education in Azerbaijan has also ‘returned to Garabagh,’ noting the university’s efforts to prepare students for the modern labor market and promote inclusive education.

Deputy Minister of Science and Education Idris Isayev stressed that literacy in Azerbaijan is nearly 100% and underscored the central role of education in social development, human capital growth, and the preservation of national values. He emphasized that digital skills and the use of AI as an educational tool are increasingly essential for youth.

Andreas Schleicher added that collaborative teaching strengthens professional confidence and effectiveness, and that AI integration should enhance, not diminish, teachers’ creativity.

The forum continued with in-depth discussions and exchanges on the future of education in Azerbaijan and beyond.

Azerbaijan awards presidential scholarship to following university entrants – decree

The following students admitted to higher education institutions will be awarded Presidential scholarships, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed an order granting Presidential scholarships to students entering higher education institutions in Azerbaijan for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The order stipulates that students who achieved the highest results in the entrance exams within their respective fields of study and gained admission to Azerbaijani higher education institutions will receive Presidential scholarships:

Abdiyeva Ayla

Abduleeva Ayan

Abduleeva Maryam

Abdulsamadli Orkhan

Abdurahmanova Guhat

Aghamammadova Zeynab

Aghayev Aliakbar

Alizade Ziya

Allahyarli Farid

Babarabov Nijat

Babashli Aysel

Babayev Anar

Babayeva Jamila

Baghirov Raul

Bakhshaliyeva Aytaj

Bayramzade Gunay

Bakhtiyarova Royale

Jafarova Sehrin

Jannatov Fuad

Efendi Zahra

Ahmed Aisha

Ahmedzade Laman

Akberov Eljan

Akberova Nigar

Alili Mushfig

Aliyeva Fidan

Aliyeva Nazrin

Aliyeva Tamella

Alizade Sevinj

Alizade Sureyya

Ansarli Gler

Asgar Ilham

Azizli Sema

Fareczade Rahim

Hajiyeva Narmin

Hajizade Nihad

Hagverdi Ilham

Habibullazade Gulay

Halim Aydan

Hasanli Osman

Hasanov Fizuli

Hashimov Chingiz

Hummetli Chichek

Huseynli Arif

Huseynli Enes

Huseynova Aysu

Khalilova Aylin

Ibrahimli Gulay

Ibrahimov Emin

Ibrahimov Ali

Ismayilov Ali

Ismayilov Altay

Ismayilova Sema

Ismayilzade Khadija

Karimov Rajab

Garayev Rafael

Garibov Shukran

Goshgarov Muzaffar

Guluzade Nazrin

Gurbanli Kamaladdin

Gurbanov Mursel

Mahmudova Samra

Mansurov Eldar

Mammadli Mehri

Mammadov Abulhasan

Mammadov Ismayil

Mammadov Shahin

Mammadova Fidan

Mammadova Maryam

Mammadova Nazrin

Mirzazade Gunduz

Muradli Adil

Muradli Nuray

Musayev Shahin

Musazade Samad

Mustafayev Ibrahim

Mustafayeva Emiliya

Murshudlu Aykhan

Murvetova Gulay

Nadirli Tunar

Nasirov Kamran

Nazarzade Zaur

Nurmammedli Sona

Omar Jabir

Ramizli Zahra

Rahimli Oruj

Rahimova Khadija

Rustamov Nijat

Sadikhov Nijat

Sariyev Murad

Safarov Yusif

Safarova Aysel

Samadov Metin

Shabanova Rayyan

Shamilova Vusala

Sharifli Fidan

Shirinov Royal

Tahirli Zaman

Velizade Aygun

Velizade Babek

Yusifova Nazrin

Zeynalli Nilufer

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan is tasked with addressing the implementation of matters arising from this decree.

Azerbaijan Basketball League: first round concludes tonight

The opening round of the Azerbaijan Basketball League is set to conclude this evening with the final match between Ordu and Nakhchivan. Azernews reports that the game will be held at the Baku Sports Palace, tipping off at 19:00 local time.

Basketball enthusiasts have already witnessed an exciting start to the season, with several competitive clashes across the country. In earlier fixtures, Sabah overcame Neftchi with a confident 86-75 victory, while Absheron Lions defeated Sheki 91-80 in a hard-fought contest. Ganja edged past NTD 90-85 in a nail-biter that went down to the final minutes, while Lankaran secured a convincing 93-82 win against Sumgayit. Meanwhile, Quba impressed with a dominant performance, routing Sarhadchi 98-76.

The league, which brings together teams from different regions of Azerbaijan, is gaining increasing attention both from fans and sports analysts. Each matchup reflects not only the rising standard of domestic basketball but also the growing passion for the sport nationwide.

Tonight’s clash between Ordu and Nakhchivan will determine the final standings of the first round, setting the tone for the rest of the season. With both teams eager to prove themselves early, fans can expect another spirited encounter to round off an already thrilling start to the league.

Comelec orders Chiz to explain P30-million campaign donation from contractor

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has ordered Sen. Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero to explain the P30-million campaign donation he received from a contractor during his 2022 senatorial campaign.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia confirmed on Saturday, October 4, that a show cause order (SCO) was sent to Escudero on Friday.

The senator has been directed to appear before the poll body’s Political Finance and Affairs Department on October 13.

The order follows a similar directive issued earlier against Lawrence Lubiano, president of Centerways Construction and Development Inc., who admitted during a House hearing that he donated P30 million to Escudero’s campaign. Lubiano claimed the funds came from his personal account, not from the company.

Garcia said the Comelec is determining whether the donation violated Section 95 of the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits contractors or entities with government projects from contributing to political campaigns.

”Yan ang pinaka-puno’t dulo ng magiging desisyon ng Comelec,’ Garcia said in an interview on Dobol B TV, referring to whether the donation was made in a personal or official capacity.

Escudero acknowledged receiving the donation but denied any involvement in flood control projects in his home province of Sorsogon or other areas.

Centerways Construction is among 15 contractors previously identified by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. as having cornered about 20% of the government’s flood control project contracts.

Garcia clarified that Escudero was not being singled out, saying the poll body is also looking into alleged illegal donations received by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte during their 2022 campaign, as well as other names mentioned in the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism report.

Malacañang has said Marcos is open to being investigated over the reported campaign donations.

Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal previously said that soliciting or receiving donations from individuals or entities with government contracts is an election offense punishable by imprisonment and disqualification from public office.

The ongoing investigations also coincide with congressional inquiries into flood control projects after Marcos revealed that contractors linked to several lawmakers had cornered massive government flood control contracts.

Cinemalaya opens 21st edition calling for accountability, more gov’t support

The 21st edition of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is now underway, finding a new home this year at the Shangri-la Plaza mall in Mandaluyong.

With Cinemalaya’s main home the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) still in renovation, the renowned festival has been shifting locations the past couple years, setting up shop in the Philippine International Convention Center and Parañaque’s Ayala Malls Manila Bay.

Shangri-la Plaza hosted the festival’s opening ceremony last October 3 ahead of 10 days of screenings, an honor it shares with select cinemas across Metro Manila including Gateway Cineplex and U.P. Town Center.

Actress-singer Julia Clarete, Directors Showcase Best Supporting Actress winner of Cinemalaya 2011 for “Bisperas,” hosted the ceremony which culminated in a screening of Indian film “Ha Lyngkha Bneng (The Elysian Field)” by Pradip Kurbah.

This year’s edition bears the theme “Layag sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos” which CCP president Kaye Tinga said reflects how festival entries “capture movements to moments in space and time.”

Deputy festival director Tess Rances noted in her speech that five of last year’s entries, led by Best film winner “Tumandok” and Special Jury Prize winner “Alipato at Muog,” received numerous accolades in different competitions.

“While millions of taxpayers are skimmed by politicians who are supposed to be in service of them, artists scrape the bottom of the pot to bring their ideas to life,” said Rances, taking a dig at lawmakers recenty tagged in corruption.

Rances urged the government to allocate funds for the arts, particularly for programs dedicated to film, “Laban po lahat ang korupsyon at suportahan ang sining.”

Veteran actress and Cinemalaya Foundation president Laurice Guillen, in formally opening this festival’s edition, noted in her own speech that 197 films by 165 filmmakers have been screened since Cinemalaya began back in 2005.

Echoing Rances’ words, Guillen recalled how National Artists Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal reflected Philippine society in their films during 1970s and 1980s.

Guillen said Bernal’s films, regardless of genre investigated the human condition and articulated such through his characters while noting that Brocka described the injustices of his time as “madness” and his characters “fought against all odds to bring sanity back in a world gone mad.”

“Every voice can bring hope, every voice that believes in the triumph of the human spirit is a spark that can bring change,” Guillen ended. “That is the challenge for the creative industry, for our filmmakers, and for Cinemalaya.”

The 21st Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival runs until Oct. 12, 2025.

UPMG affirms print media’s ‘credibility advantage’

In an era when ‘anyone can post, react, or go viral,’ the printed word commanded the spotlight as the United Print and Multimedia Group (UPMG) held its third General Membership Meeting on Sept. 18.

With the theme ‘Credibility Advantage: How Print Builds Trust in a Digital World,’ the meeting held at Kingsford Hotel Manila gathered publishers, editors, advertisers, and industry leaders for a day of dialogue on how trusted journalism can guide audiences amid the information overload.

UPMG president Vivienne Motomal, the concurrent assistant vice president of the Journal Group of Publications, opened the program with a message that both underscored print media’s resilience and noted the challenges faced by the industry in upholding its standards. ‘It feels good to be gathered in this room with people who share a deep-seated belief in the power of the printed word,’ she said.

Motomal acknowledged the swift rise of digital media but stressed print’s enduring role: ‘In this chaos, what does the reader yearn for? They yearn for an anchor. A source they can trust. When a person holds a newspaper or a magazine in their hands, they are holding a tangible commitment to journalism.’

AI as next disruptor

Credibility remains the industry’s strongest currency, she said. ‘This is why, even in the digital age, our role is more critical than ever. The future is a credible hybrid where print and digital can work together to build a complete, trustworthy media ecosystem.’

In his keynote address, Lucien Dy Tioco, executive vice president of Philstar Media Group, traced the arc of media transformation, recalling how the once ‘traditional’ press now competes with algorithm-driven feeds.

‘Fast forward to the present time, we now live entirely different from how we were 15 years ago,’ he said, noting how people scroll for headlines, binge shows, and check influencers for tips without a second thought. But with these conveniences came serious consequences. ‘Technology has brought a more toxic conversation on social media, strong political biases that breed divisiveness, bigger and bolder online scams, and worse of all, fake news to help distort public opinion,’ he noted.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI), Dy Tioco added, is the next disruptor: ‘In just over a year, AI technology is quickly being applied in almost everything . We need to fight for our place now.’

But reaffirming the value of print, he said: ‘We write news with a journalistic edge. We curate news according to national importance. We create content to foster objectivity and calm. That is what the world needs right now. We need to exist because we fight for the truth.’

Safeguards vs fake news

The panel discussion that followed had Angel Guerrero, vice president of UPMG and publisher of Adobo Magazine as moderator, drawing more insights from Dy Tioco and Jack Jacinto, vice president for public and member relations of Pag-Ibig Fund.

Jacinto underscored the public sector’s reliance on credible media outlets: ‘Our organization knows this and values credibility, which is why we support print.’

The panelists highlighted the meticulous processes behind print-fact-checking, rigorous editorial process, and context-rich reporting-as essential safeguards against fake news.

Science of narrative

They also called on publishers to present a united front to policymakers, again emphasizing print’s permanence and credibility as irreplaceable strengths even as technology reshapes the means of distribution.

The morning open forum tackled AI verification tools and the expansion of media literacy programs, reinforcing UPMG’s shared values that uphold trustworthy content.

The afternoon session shifted the focus to the science of narrative. Von Cruz and Bernz Soriano from The Nerve, a Manila-based narrative intelligence and data-forensics firm, demonstrated how their technology goes beyond social listening to trace how both authentic stories and misinformation move through digital ecosystems. Their investigative platform maps influence networks and identifies the sources of viral falsehoods, insights that can help newsrooms and advocacy groups respond swiftly and accurately.

By showing how narrative forensics can complement traditional reporting, The Nerve presentation perfectly aligned with the meeting’s theme: combining data-driven innovation with journalism’s timeless commitment to credibility.

New members

Also presenting UPMG’s annual report, Motomal cited the group’s latest partnerships and achievements in the publishing sector. Two new member organizations – Simpol.ph and Philippine Graphic – were also officially inducted.

Festivities continued with raffle draws and a warm welcome from Jericho Feliciano, director of sales of Kingsford Hotel Manila, who commended UPMG’s dedication to responsible journalism. To formally close the event, Roda Zabat, UPMG auditor and The Manila Times vice president for sales and marketing, asserted that print, far from being obsolete, is instead evolving into a powerful hybrid with digital platforms. -CONTRIBUTED

Alert vs flu-like illnesses up again

Senior health advocates on Thursday called on local government units (LGUs) to protect high-risk groups like the elderly against influenza-like illnesses (ILIs), emphasizing that delayed vaccination could lead to severe and costly flu complications. This, after the Quezon City government reported that the ILIs have surpassed the epidemic threshold, with 152 cases reported from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13. The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc. also reported a 10-percent increase in patient admissions, noting that hospitals are ‘mostly full’ as the rainy season intensifies. Bayan Bakuna lead convenor Mikaella Jeleene Salinas Asoy said vaccine allocations from the national government remain uncertain. According to health experts, seniors face the highest risk of severe flu complications, including pneumonia and heart attacks. Hospitalization costs for such can range from P10,000 to P30,000. Household transmission rates can reach 13 to 32 percent, with flu spreading aggressively among school-age children. Older persons who live with or help care for grandchildren who may unknowingly bring the virus home become at a greater risk. ‘The reported spike in cases highlights the urgent need for preventive measures,’ Asoy said. ‘Vaccination remains the most proven, cost-effective way to protect the elderly population,’ she added. She urged families to accompany their elderly loved ones to barangay health centers and inquire about vaccine availability. She noted that such community demand can help LGUs prioritize vaccination programs and ensure that seniors are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Can you forfeit your final-year exams for Big Brother Naija show?

Timmy Daniel

I would not forfeit my final-year exams for Big Brother Naija. Education is a long-term investment that guarantees opportunities, while BBN is a temporary platform. I would prefer to finish my studies first, then explore opportunities like Big Brother Naija afterwards. Completing my degree gives me a solid foundation, credibility, and more confidence. Big Brother can wait. Missing my final exams could have lasting consequences on my future and career path.

Afolabi Olakunmi

I cannot forfeit my final-year examinations for Big Brother Naija, because leaving my life-time asset for a show that does not guarantee winning or even long-term fame is a very bad decision for me and my career. Having my degree can open many doors in my career and business. I can still pursue Big Brother Baija later, if I choose to. I am not against the show – it is a great platform and many people have enjoyed it. However, forfeiting my final exams for it would be something I cannot even imagine.

Salahudeen Bolanle

Participating in the show does not guarantee me emerging as the winner. It is more of another journey that cannot add much value to me. On the other hand, my final exams stand as a conclusion of an important phase of my life and a stepping stone to great achievements for myself and my family.

Oluwatobiloba Akinade

Big Brother would not pay me for all the effort I have put into my studies, not to mention toiling with my final-year exams. However, I might consider choosing a certain amount of money over my final-year exams if the money is life-changing enough to secure my future, start a stable career or business, and possibly return to complete my education later.

Still, education is a solid backup plan no money should easily replace. Besides, fame and money from platforms like Big Brother can be temporary, but education remains a permanent asset. Even if I gain fame, having a degree gives me something to fall back on when the trends fade. So, unless the offer is overwhelmingly worth it and guaranteed, I would rather stay and complete my final-year exams.

Ayobami Obayemi

This is a very tricky question in the sense that they want to know your priorities. So, talking about the Big Brother show and my priorities, I put things that make a positive impact on my life first before any other thing. Big Brother Naija is just for entertainment, for relaxation. My final-year exams are my priority. I would need the exams to graduate, and when I have the certificate, I can get a good job and have a better life. In fact, I would take N20,000 to forfeit the Big Brother Naija show. I am not a fan of it. I would only make it my priority if I were getting something more reasonable, like an endorsement worth millions of naira.

Akorede Onifade

I cannot forfeit my final-year examinations for Big Brother Naija because my education remains a top priority. I have invested years of hard work and sleepless nights to reach this stage in my academic journey. To abandon all of that for a temporary show would be to throw away the foundation of my future.

Big Brother Naija, though entertaining and full of opportunities, is uncertain. There is no guarantee of winning, lasting fame, or even how long one might remain in the house. However, my final-year examinations are certain. It is the key to completing my degree, securing my career, and honouring the time, money, and effort already spent in school.

Therefore, with wisdom and conviction, I choose my final-year examinations over Big Brother Naija. Education first, because opportunities will always come, and the certificate I earned will remain mine forever.

Esther Ayoola

I cannot forfeit my final-year examinations for Big Brother Naija because my education is my foremost priority. Forfeiting it means delaying or risking my graduation. It means I would lose that academic year and repeat those exams later. Fame comes and goes. The examinations represent the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and financial investment. Missing them would mean delaying my graduation, losing the degree I have worked tirelessly for, and jeopardising the opportunities tied to my academic success.

Big Brother Naija can come again in another season. I cannot forfeit my studies I am supposed to do at the right time, for a show I could be evicted from, and that is the end.

Oladipupo Boluwatife

I cannot do that. My dreams and goals do not align with being popular or famous. So, I would not forfeit my final exams because of an entertainment-based show like Big Brother Naija. Education is a priority for me. It is the path I have committed to, and it aligns with the future I envision. While the show may bring fame and quick money, it does not guarantee long-term fulfilment or stability, which is what I am truly aiming for.

Iyanuoluwa Oguntola

I would go for the show and earn good money. I could always come back to complete my studies. Money makes things easier. But it is still a gamble. The show does not guarantee winning or fame, so I need to be sure the opportunity is real and worth the risk. If the money is guaranteed and enough to sort out my future, I would accept it. If not, school first.

Alexandra Oladipupo

I would not because Big Brother Naija is an entertainment show where the future seems blurry and uncertain. It is not something I see aligning with my long-term goals. I would not want to risk my final exams for temporary fame or unclear opportunities. However, if it were a better opportunity with a clear and promising future, something that adds real value to my life and goals, I would gladly consider it. But for BBNaija? I would rather finish school first.

Olayiwola Joshua

I would not forfeit my final-year exams for BBNaija. I have worked hard for years to reach my final year, and I would not throw that away for a reality show. Big Brother Naija may bring fame and money, but it is temporary. Education is a long-term investment, and completing my degree gives me a solid foundation for the future. I would rather graduate first, then explore opportunities like BBNaija, if they still interest me.

Bamigboye Daniel

It depends on the offer. If Big Brother Naija guarantees enough money and exposure to change my life completely, I might consider it. But it would have to be worth more than the years I have spent studying. If there is no guaranteed reward, I would not risk missing my final-year exams. Education is still the safest bet for me.