Sucre, the 2025 Youth Soca Champion, is poised to make waves in the soca music industry as he sets his sights on 2026. Representing the Zig Boi Music Group, Sucre has already established himself as a formidable talent with a title to his name. His journey to success has been marked by a rigorous development program, guided by the experienced hand of Zig Boi Music Group CEO, Mr. Spine. Over the past two years, Sucre has been immersed in a comprehensive training regimen that included studio sessions, live performances, and networking opportunities. His collaboration with the legendary band Traffik and the formation of the youth-centric Evolution Band have further honed his skills and expanded his reach. Sucre’s victory in the Soca Champions competition was a testament to his dedication and talent. Since then, he has performed on international stages, including an opening act for Morgan Heritage in St. Maarten. As he prepares to compete against top acts like Blaka Dan in the 2026 Soca Champions competition, Sucre remains committed to inspiring the next generation of soca artists. His latest single, ‘Gimme Wuk Darlin,’ continues a love story narrative that began with his 2025 hit, ‘Hold on Darlin.’ Sucre’s vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to create a community that nurtures young talent and ushers in a new era of soca music.
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October filled with faith, pride for Venezuelan migrants
October 2025 has become a month of profound significance for Venezuelans worldwide, marked by a blend of pride, hope, and emotional renewal. On October 10, Maria Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering commitment to defending democratic rights and fostering a peaceful transition in Venezuela. This global recognition resonated deeply with millions of Venezuelans living abroad, reigniting a sense of pride and optimism for their homeland. Just nine days later, on October 19, the Vatican celebrated the canonization of Venezuela’s first two saints, Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez and Mother Maria Carmen Rendiles Martinez, in a grand ceremony at St. Peter’s Square led by Pope Francis. These two revered figures, symbols of faith, science, and humility, provided a spiritual affirmation for Venezuelans both at home and in the diaspora. For Venezuelans in Trinidad and Tobago, these events carried special emotional weight. Carolina Alvarez, originally from Barquisimeto and now residing in Chaguanas, described the canonization as a moment when ‘Venezuela stood up again,’ recalling her grandmother’s prayers and the enduring legacy of Dr. Hernandez. Luis Martinez, from Caracas and now living in Port of Spain, shared how hearing the Pope mention Dr. Hernandez’s name brought tears to his eyes, rekindling a sense of hope. Maria Fernanda Perez, from Maracaibo and living in San Fernando, expressed that the canonization felt like ‘a caress for those of us who are far away,’ restoring faith in the midst of adversity. Javier Gomez, a construction worker from Valencia now living in Arima, encapsulated the collective sentiment, stating, ‘The Nobel filled me with pride, but the saints gave me back my soul.’ These events, he reflected, reminded Venezuelans of their enduring faith and resilience, offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
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CG Poseidon storm into EFA ‘Big 8’ by hammering Trincity Nationals
In a spectacular display of football prowess, CG Poseidon, last season’s Eastern Football Association (EFA) runners-up, secured their place in the EFA Big 8 with a resounding 12-0 victory over Trincity Nationals on October 19. The match, held at the Clayton Ince recreation grounds in Maloney, saw Poseidon finish third in Group B, ensuring their progression to the tournament’s quarterfinals. Entering the game in sixth place with 11 points, Poseidon needed a win to secure a top-four spot in their group. Their dominant performance not only achieved this but also leapfrogged them to third place with 14 points, trailing only group winners FC Maloney (21 points) and second-placed Eastern Connect FC (16 points). Poseidon’s Isaiah Farrell led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by Kedell Jones and Joshua Rogers, who each scored twice. Lejean Lezama, Jamal Oliver, Zedane Ravello, and Kemo Toby also contributed to the goal fest. Meanwhile, FC Maloney, already confirmed as group winners, dashed FC Porto Arima’s Big 8 hopes with a 5-2 victory, led by Saleem Henry’s brace. In another thrilling match, Zebulun narrowly defeated USC Hummers 4-3, with Hasie Alexander scoring a hat-trick. The Big 8 matches are set for this weekend, featuring high-stakes clashes such as Eastern Connect vs. Athletic United FC and reigning champions Malabar Youngstars vs. Wallerfield. The EFA final, scheduled for November 9, will see the champions take home a $15,000 prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 awarded to the second and third-placed teams, respectively.
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Port of Spain MPs upset over reduced garbage disposal budget
Tensions flared during a recent session of the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives as opposition MPs raised concerns over an $8 million reduction in the budget allocation for garbage collection and other services in Port of Spain. The debate, which took place on October 21, saw Port-of-Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young leading the charge, asserting that the cuts would significantly hamper the capital city’s ability to manage waste effectively. Minister of Local Government Khadijah Ameen countered these claims, stating that the allocation was sufficient and could be supplemented if necessary. She accused the opposition of creating unnecessary panic and seeking headlines rather than focusing on the facts. Ameen emphasized that the line item in question covered multiple services, not solely garbage collection. However, Young and other MPs, including Port of Spain South MP Keith Scotland and Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert, remained unconvinced, pointing to broader reductions in the Port of Spain City Corporation’s budget for goods and services, which had decreased by $20 million over the past year. St Ann’s East MP Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly and Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales also pressed Ameen for clarity on where additional funding might come from, to which she reiterated her earlier responses. The session highlighted growing concerns over the financial management of essential services in the capital.
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US embassy resumes operations after threat alert
The US Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, has resumed its operations on October 21, following a brief closure prompted by a security alert issued by US authorities. The alert, which was issued on October 18, warned of potential threats to US infrastructure in the region, urging US nationals to avoid visiting US government facilities during the Divali holiday weekend. The embassy communicated this advisory through a social media post, heightening public anxiety and speculation about the underlying reasons, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions between the US and Venezuela. However, by October 20, the embassy announced via Facebook that it would reopen for visa appointments and citizen services the following day. During a visit to the construction site of the new embassy on Tuesday, Newsday observed heightened security measures, including thorough searches of vehicles entering the compound. Embassy staff declined to comment on the situation, citing media restrictions, but a security source confirmed that such measures are standard procedure. Meanwhile, Minister Barry Padarath commended Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander for addressing public concerns, emphasizing that such advisories are not uncommon given the geopolitical climate. Attorney General John Jeremie also dismissed rumors of seeking refuge in a safehouse, stating, ‘Absolutely not.’
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Lone Paria survivor ‘disgusted’ by CoE legal fees
Christopher Boodram, the sole survivor of the 2022 Paria diving tragedy, has publicly criticized the exorbitant legal fees paid during the commission of enquiry, labeling it a ‘feeding frenzy at our expense.’ In a statement on October 21, Boodram expressed his disgust at the former PNM administration’s allocation of millions to commissioners and lawyers, while the families of the four deceased divers remain uncompensated. He likened the legal proceedings to ‘vultures picking at the corpses of my brothers,’ emphasizing the emotional toll on the bereaved families. The enquiry, which cost $15.5 million, was described by Boodram as a ‘political excuse,’ with none of the Lynch Report recommendations implemented. Despite the matter being referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions, no progress has been made on potential corporate manslaughter charges. Boodram thanked Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for not appealing Justice Joan Charles’ judgment, which revealed the legal payments, and urged her to intervene to provide relief to the families. He highlighted the ongoing struggles of the families, including Paria’s recent ‘meet-and-greet’ session with its new board, which he dismissed as a ‘well-intentioned public-relations exercise.’ Boodram lamented the lack of justice for the poor, stating, ‘I bared my soul and told my story to the nation for free, and it is grievous and painful to learn about the millions that were spent on lawyers when not one red cent has been paid to the families.’ He also noted the unfulfilled $1 million compensation promise made by former Prime Minister Stuart Young. Paria’s chairman, Nyree Alphonso, acknowledged the pledge but cited complexities with insurers and attorneys as obstacles to timely resolution.
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PNM, UNC tit-for-tat over national employment drive
A heated four-hour debate unfolded in the House of Representatives on October 21, as government and opposition MPs clashed over the National Recruitment Drive, ministry vacancies, and budgetary allocations for the Ministry of People, Social Development, and Family Services. The Standing Finance Committee ultimately approved a budget of $6,012,215,208 for the ministry, but not without intense exchanges. Social Development Minister Vandana Mohit revealed approximately 634 vacancies in her ministry, sparking questions from opposition MPs about the recruitment drive’s purpose and qualifications for advertised posts. Opposition MPs, including Stuart Young and Keith Scotland, pressed Mohit for clarity, leading to repeated interruptions and appeals for order from Speaker Jagdeo Singh. Mohit emphasized that the recruitment drive was not designed to fill positions under the service commissions’ purview, while government MPs defended the allocations as sufficient. The session also saw personal jabs, with MPs accusing each other of childish behavior and political bias. The debate highlighted the ongoing tensions between the government and opposition, with Singh cautioning MPs against creating a ‘Potemkin village’—a facade masking deeper issues.
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“Pres” aiming to break Naparima win-streak in SSFL southern showdown
In a pivotal showdown that could reshape the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Premiership, fourth-placed Presentation College San Fernando is set to challenge the undefeated league leaders, Naparima College, on October 22 at Lewis Street. The ‘Pres Lions,’ currently holding 21 points, trail Naparima by six and are determined to become the first team this season to defeat the dominant ‘Naps.’ A win for Presentation would not only halt Naparima’s nine-game winning streak but also reignite the title race, with defending champions Fatima College and 2024 Coca-Cola Intercol winners San Benedict’s College still in contention. However, coming off a 1-0 loss to St Anthony’s College, Presentation faces their toughest test yet and must deliver a flawless performance to challenge Naparima’s supremacy. Naparima, under the guidance of head coach Angus Eve, has been formidable, conceding just two goals in nine matches, thanks to their solid defense and goalkeeper Mikhail Clement. A victory for Naparima would extend their lead at the top of the 16-team standings, creating a significant gap from their closest rivals. Meanwhile, Fatima College, second in the standings with 22 points, aims to recover from a surprising 3-2 defeat to Signal Hill Secondary as they host eighth-placed Arima North. Third-placed St Benedict’s College, tied with Presentation on 21 points, is favored to secure three points against winless Carapichaima East. Other matches include St Anthony’s College facing San Juan North, Queen’s Royal College hosting Malick, and Trinity Moka welcoming St Augustine. Two fixtures, St Mary’s College vs. Signal Hill and Trinity East vs. Scarborough, have been postponed. The SSFL standings highlight Naparima’s dominance, with Fatima and St Benedict’s closely trailing, setting the stage for an intense battle for the 2025 crown.
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Fro Hummer lays down the Bumpa Law
As the anticipation for Tobago Carnival 2026 builds, soca artist Fro Hummer, born Jason Reyes, is already making waves with his latest release, *Bumpa Law*. More than just a song, *Bumpa Law* is a cultural movement that celebrates rhythm, connection, and, most importantly, respect for boundaries. Reyes, known as the “Vibes General,” is using this track to amplify his advocacy campaign, *No Permission, No Wine*, which emphasizes mutual consent and respect in social interactions.
Reyes’ musical journey spans over two decades, during which he has collaborated with industry giants like Mice Raymond and Darryl Braxton and mentored emerging talent through his Artform Music Academy. His stage name, Fro Hummer, has its roots in his high school days, where his hairstyle earned him the nickname “Fro,” while “Hummer” was coined after a successful radio event.
*Bumpa Law*, a polished soca-pop track written by Azaryah (formerly Flipo), captures the essence of Caribbean dance culture. It’s a celebration of unspoken connections that form when music, movement, and energy align. However, Reyes is clear that the song carries a deeper message: the “law” in *Bumpa Law* represents mutual understanding and respect, ensuring that every dance is both empowering and enjoyable.
Reyes’ advocacy campaign, *No Permission, No Wine*, seeks to preserve the joy of Caribbean culture while promoting respect and consent. “Dance is expression, not entitlement,” he asserts. “True vibes come from mutual energy and consent, where both parties feel safe and free to enjoy the moment.”
Beyond music, Reyes is a seasoned radio personality and MC, skills that have honed his ability to connect with audiences. His upcoming EP, which blends various genres, reflects his diverse musical influences, from soca icons like Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin to global stars like Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars.
Reyes believes the soca industry is undergoing an exciting transformation, with the genre gaining global recognition through social media, streaming platforms, and cross-genre collaborations. Despite challenges in marketing and infrastructure, he remains optimistic about the future of soca.
Fans can look forward to a visually striking music video for *Bumpa Law*, directed by Juan Lennon, which will celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s culture while reinforcing the message of respect. Reyes also plans to continue his community impact initiatives, partnering with organizations to promote women’s safety and empowerment.
With *Bumpa Law* available on all major streaming platforms and upcoming performances at events like Black Gold in New York, Fro Hummer is poised to make a lasting impact on the global music scene.
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Tancoo, Manning clash over query about 10% hike
A tense exchange unfolded between Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo and San Fernando East MP Brian Manning during a Standing Finance Committee meeting on October 21, as the committee reviewed a $6,012,215,208 budgetary allocation for the Social Development Ministry. The focal point of the debate was the government’s promise in the 2025/2026 budget to grant public servants a ten per cent wage increase. Manning, a former finance minister in the PNM administration, questioned whether the budget included provisions for this wage hike and if negotiations would conclude before the fiscal year’s end. Tancoo dismissed the inquiry, stating it had already been addressed and urged Manning to focus on the presented figures. Manning persisted, arguing that his question remained unanswered, prompting Speaker Jagdeo Singh to intervene and reiterate that the matter had been clarified. The exchange escalated as Tancoo accused opposition MPs of seeking headlines, while Manning emphasized his commitment to holding the government accountable. The meeting also touched on proposed increases to the National Insurance System (NIS) contribution rate, with Tancoo outlining a phased approach to raise the rate by three per cent in 2026 and another three per cent in 2027, extending the retirement age for full NIS pensions from 60 to 65 over the next decade. Diego Martin North/East MP Colm Imbert later contested whether the ministry’s allocations accounted for these NIS adjustments. The committee is set to continue its deliberations from October 22-25, with the House expected to pass the budget by October 25 and the Senate commencing its debate on October 27. Leader of Government Business Barry Padarath expressed confidence that Parliament would conclude the budget debate before October 31, ensuring the President has sufficient time to assent to the budget.