Outrage regarding corruption and 'nepotism offspring' as deluges disrupt the Philippines.

Crissa Tolentino has long been resigned to floods as a way of life.

The 36-year-old public school teacher takes a paddle boat through the inundated streets nearly every day. It's the only way to travel from her home in the suburbs to the heart of Apalit, a low-lying town near the Philippine capital Manila.
   


The boat takes her to work, and to the clinic where she is being treated for cancer. She says she only sees dry streets for about two months in the year.

But this year she is very angry.

An unusually fierce monsoon has derailed daily life more than ever in the South East Asian nation, and sparked anger and allegations about corruption in flood control projects.

The rains have stranded millions mid-commute, left cars floating in streets that have turned into rivers and caused outbreaks of leptospirosis, a liver ailment that spreads through the excrement of sewer rats.

"I feel betrayed," Ms Tolentino says. "I work hard, I don't spend too much and taxes are deducted from my salary every month. Then I learn that billions in our taxes are being enjoyed by corrupt politicians."

It's a charge that is resonating across the Philippines, where people are asking why the government cannot tame the floods with the billions of pesos it pours into infrastructure like roads, bridges and embankments.

Their anger is palpable on TikTok, Facebook and X, where they are venting against lawmakers and construction tycoons who they allege win contracts for "ghost" projects that never materialise.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr himself acknowledged this as a continuing challenge on a visit to inspect a flood control dam that he then found did not exist. The economic planning minister later said corruption had claimed 70% of public funds allotted for flood control.

The House Speaker, who has been implicated, has resigned, although he denies any wrongdoing. And the leader of the Senate has been ousted after it was found that a contractor who won a government bid was found to have donated money to his 2022 campaign, which is illegal.

Outraged Filipinos have been stitching together AI videos of lawmakers as crocodiles, a symbol of greed. A lot of the ire is also aimed at "nepo babies", the children of wealthy politicians or contractors, whose extravagant lives are all over social media.

Scrolling through her feeds, Ms Tolentino says she relates most to a rap song from 2009 which has become the soundtrack to the public fury.

Upuan, by local artist Gloc-9, questions why politicians are unable to empathise with common folk. The song's title means "seat" in Tagalog, a local language, and it channels the anger at those with parliamentary seats who seem far removed from the lives of ordinary Filipinos.

"That [song] is our real situation," Ms Tolentino says. "It explains everything."

A huge anti-corruption protest is already planned for Sunday, 21 September - the anniversary of the day in 1972 when then leader Ferdinand Marcos imposed martial law.

His son, who is now president - Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr - is well aware of how far public anger can go. It was anti-corruption protests that drove his father from power in 1986, ending a decades-long dictatorship that embezzled billions from the state.

More recently, anti-corruption protests forced legislative reform in Indonesia and, just last week, toppled the government in Nepal. And so on Monday, as Filipinos demanded an explanation, President Marcos Jr announced an inquiry that would "unmask the swindlers and find out how much they stole".

"If I wasn't president, I might be out on the streets with them," he told reporters.

"Let them know how much they hurt you, how they stole from you. Let them know, shout at them, demonstrate - just make it peaceful."

It echoed earlier comments when he promised relief from the floods, while appearing to pin the blame elsewhere. He faulted corrupt politicians and constructions firms for the severe lack of infrastructure: "Shame on you," he said.

Then in a press conference he said he had uncovered a "disturbing" fact: the public works ministry had contracted only 15 firms to build flood control projects worth 545bn pesos ($9bn; £7.1bn).

Families of those who perished in the Air India crash are taking legal action against the aerospace companies Boeing and Honeywell.

The relatives of four individuals who lost their lives in an Air India aircraft crash that occurred in June have initiated legal action in the United States against aircraft manufacturer Boeing and component supplier Honeywell, claiming the companies acted negligently.
  


The legal complaint, submitted on Tuesday, which was reviewed by the BBC, alleges that defective fuel switches were responsible for the calamity and claims the firms did "nothing" in response despite their knowledge of the inherent dangers posed by the design of the aircraft.

Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 heading for London Gatwick, went down shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad, resulting in the deaths of 260 individuals.

Investigators have concentrated on the fuel switches after an initial inquiry revealed that the fuel supply to the engines was interrupted shortly after the aircraft took off.

Earlier statements from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) indicated that the fuel control switches utilized in Boeing aircraft are secure.

The BBC reached out to both Boeing and Honeywell for comments.

Boeing chose not to address the lawsuit specifically. Instead, it referred to the preliminary investigation report by India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) regarding the crash.

The lawsuit claims that both companies were aware of the potential hazards associated with a crash since the inception and marketing of the 787 Dreamliner and its parts.

It referenced a 2018 advisory from the FAA that recommended, but did not require, operators to verify the locking mechanism of the fuel switches to ensure that they would not be unintentionally adjusted, which could lead to a disruption in fuel flow.

In the incident involving Air India Flight 171, the switch was altered from the "run" setting to the "cut-off" position, which impacted the aircraft's thrust, as indicated by the AAIB's preliminary investigation report.

The families asserted that this represented a design "flaw" that "allowed for unintentional interruption of fuel supply and complete loss of necessary thrust" for the aircraft.

They said: "And what actions did Honeywell and Boeing take to avert the unavoidable disaster? None."

The companies also did not inform airlines that the switches needed to be inspected and repaired and failed to provide replacement parts to allow clients to make the necessary installations, according to the lawsuit.

Boeing and Honeywell "remained passive" in light of a mere advisory that suggested inspecting the switches, stated the families, who are represented by the Lanier Law Firm, based in Texas.

A more comprehensive report regarding the incident is anticipated to be released sometime in 2026.

Ultimately, the crash resulted in the fatalities of 229 passengers, 12 crew members, and 19 individuals on the ground.

Trump's journey to the UK generates a series of trade declarations as discussions on tariffs between the US and India take place.

President Trump announced on Tuesday that he had a conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to relieve tensions between the two significant economies that are experiencing disagreements over tariffs and New Delhi's acquisition of Russian oil.
   


“He is performing exceptionally well,” Trump mentioned. “Narendra: I appreciate your assistance in resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine!”

In another development, Trump's trip to the UK has commenced, bringing with it numerous agreements and statements. According to a Bloomberg report, the UK has decided to postpone discussions with the US regarding the elimination of tariffs on British steel, meaning that the existing duties will remain unchanged.

On Wednesday, British pharmaceutical company GSK (GSK) announced its intention to invest $30 billion in research and development within the US. GSK has become the foremost pharmaceutical entity looking to expand its presence in the US as Trump considers imposing tariffs on imports in the sector while pushing for increased local production.

At the same time, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is heading the US delegation in current negotiations with Chinese trade representatives in Spain, expressed in an interview on Tuesday his belief that a trade agreement with China is imminent.

With mutual tariffs scheduled to be implemented in November, Bessent indicated to journalists that he anticipates additional discussions will take place before that date.

Bessent also confirmed that he expects an announcement regarding the finalized TikTok deal to occur following a conversation between President Trump and Xi Jinping on Friday.

TikTok is poised to cease operations on September 17 unless its parent company ByteDance sells a majority stake in the social media platform or if Trump decides to prolong the deadline once more.

On Monday, China accused the US of engaging in "unilateral bullying" after the US urged G7 and NATO partners to impose tariffs on China due to its purchase of Russian oil.

Simultaneously, the Supreme Court is examining a significant legal challenge regarding President Trump's tariffs, with a resolution potentially coming as early as this fall.

The Supreme Court has set the case for oral arguments in early November, which is an unusually rapid progression toward a decision.

The tariffs in question are the extensive "reciprocal," country-specific duties that Trump has specified in various measures this year (as illustrated in the graphic below). These tariffs vary between 10% and 50%. Trump has cited a 1977 statute known as "IEEPA" — the International Emergency Economic Powers Act — to substantiate these tariffs.

The appeals court has permitted the tariffs to remain in effect while the case is examined through the judicial system.

Why Ukraine will assess Britain’s ability to influence Trump through soft power

In a speech that sidestepped the complexities of geopolitics, King Charles III's brief reference to Ukraine last night, though minor, was noteworthy.

"During two World Wars, we collaborated to overcome tyranny," Charles remarked to President Donald Trump at a state dinner. "Today, as Europe faces the threat of tyranny once more, we and our allies unite in support of Ukraine to deter aggression and maintain peace."
   


This was an important, albeit gentle, reminder to his guest that American involvement in the Western response to counter Russia’s hostilities remains crucial and urgent, even as Trump appears indecisive regarding the implementation of new sanctions on Moscow and seems again to express dissatisfaction with Ukraine’s leader for not agreeing to a compromise.

The king's reference to the conflict was certainly intentional. His statements would have been crafted with the input from the government of Britain. Moreover, the king — according to sources, is informed on ceasefire negotiations — has previously demonstrated his commitment to the Ukrainian cause, including in March when he welcomed President Volodymyr Zelensky to his private residence at Sandringham, just three days after an explosive confrontation in the Oval Office between Trump and Zelensky.

The ongoing conflict will challenge Britain’s soft influence in persuading Trump to exert further pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Some European officials remain hopeful that this charm offensive could inspire Trump to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance of the US involvement in European security and offer a renewed perspective on his allies’ requests for stronger actions against Russia.

The subject will likely come up when Trump meets with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has been attempting to persuade Trump to take a firmer position against Moscow.

Examining the wealth and career of Oscar winner Robert Redford

Oscar-winning actor and filmmaker Robert Redford died at the age of 89 on Tuesday morning at his residence in Utah, The New York Times reported. As of now, the cause of death is yet to be revealed. Cindi Berger, the chief executive of the publicity firm Rogers & Cowan PMK, told the news outlet that The Sting star died in his sleep.
  


Robert Redford’s net worth
For nearly seven decades, Robert Redford charmed the entertainment world with his craft. While he started his professional acting career in the 1950s, Redford began his television career in 1960. Following his appearance on Alfred Hitchcock Presents and The Twilight Zone, Redford made his film debut with War Hunt in 1962.

Also Read: Robert Redford, screen idol turned director and activist, dies at 89

For his charismatic performance in the film The Sting, Robert Redford received a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor in 1973. However, he won his first Oscar for Best Director in 1980 for his directorial debut, Ordinary People. In 2002, given his contribution to the world of cinema, Redford was also given the Academy Honorary Award.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Robert Redford built a fortune of $200 million throughout his journey in the entertainment industry.

Robert Redford had a humble beginning
Robert Redford grew up in Santa Monica, California. According to The New York Times, Redford’s father had worked as a milkman to provide for his family in the early days. However, he later became an accountant and worked for Standard Oil of California.

Also Read: Robert Redford dies at 89: What was his cause of death and net worth?

At the age of 18, Robert Redford lost his mother to a blood disorder in 1955.

FAQs:
What is Robert Redford’s net worth?
Robert Redford had total earnings of $200 million, as per Celebrity Net Worth.

What did Robert Redford win the Oscar for?
Robert Redford won an Oscar for Best Director for his directorial debut, Ordinary People, in 1980. Redford was also awarded an honorary Oscar in 2002.

YouTube Unveils Breakthrough AI Tools in “Made on YouTube 2025”

We at [Our Tech Insights] present a detailed, comprehensive look at YouTube’s latest innovations from its Made on YouTube 2025 event. These new tools mark a strategic leap forward in empowering creators with AI—transforming ideation, creation, audience engagement, and protection. Below is everything you need to know, with a sharp focus on how these features work, their rollout, impact, and what creators should do to leverage them.

What’s New: The AI Tools on YouTube’s Horizon

At the Made on YouTube 2025 event, YouTube introduced a suite of AI features designed to assist creators at every stage—from concept to post. Key offerings include:

  • Veo 3 Fast for Shorts: An AI model developed with Google DeepMind that lets creators generate video clips (with sound), backgrounds, stylization, and props directly inside Shorts.

  • Edit with AI: Transforms raw capture (video/photo assets) into polished “first draft” videos—arranging best moments, adding music, transitions, and even voiceovers in some cases.

  • Speech-to-Song: Converts spoken dialogue in videos into music or soundtracks, allowing creators to remix natural speech into meme-worthy, catchy audio.

  • Auto-Dubbing and Lip-Sync Enhancements: More natural dubbing (translation + voice sync) to help creators reach global audiences.

  • Ask Studio: A conversational AI assistant inside YouTube Studio to help creators with strategy—suggesting ideas, helping with analytics and optimization, growth insights.

  • Likeness Detection Expansion: Tools to detect when AI-generated content uses a creator’s facial likeness, allowing them to manage or request removal of such content.

  • Live, Podcasts & Shorts Cross-Features: Redesigned features for live streaming, podcast creators, conversion of podcast episodes to Shorts, easier clip generation, and more.

India–US Trade Relations: The Impact of Tariffs on Oil and Strategic Cooperation

India and the United States share one of the fastest-growing bilateral trade relationships in the world, covering goods, services, technology, and strategic cooperation. However, the momentum of this partnership has often been tested by trade disputes, tariff-related challenges, and policy differences. Recent developments surrounding oil-linked tariffs and other protectionist measures have raised questions about the future of a potential trade deal between the two nations.

The Tariff Roadblock: 25% Oil-Linked Duties

One of the most significant obstacles to a comprehensive trade agreement is the imposition of 25% tariffs on oil-linked imports. Washington’s insistence on retaining these tariffs has created friction with New Delhi, which views such measures as damaging to its energy security and overall trade balance.

India, being a large importer of crude oil and petroleum products, considers affordable access to energy resources vital for sustaining its economic growth. The tariff barriers not only increase costs but also affect downstream industries and consumer prices, creating broader macroeconomic challenges.

The Broader Trade Landscape Between India and the US

  • Bilateral Trade Value: Over $190 billion in goods and services annually, making the US India’s largest trading partner.

  • Key US Exports to India: Crude oil, defense equipment, aircraft, medical devices, and agricultural products.

  • Key Indian Exports to the US: Pharmaceuticals, IT services, textiles, precious stones, and automotive parts.

  • Growth Drivers: Expanding technology collaboration, increasing investments in renewable energy, and rising demand for defense cooperation.

Despite the strong numbers, tariff disputes—ranging from steel and aluminum to agricultural commodities—continue to delay progress toward a long-term, comprehensive trade pact.

Strategic Implications Beyond Trade

While tariffs form the immediate roadblock, the broader implications extend to geopolitics and security cooperation. Both nations are members of the Quad alliance, working together on Indo-Pacific security, technology sharing, and climate change initiatives. Trade friction, however, risks undermining trust and slowing momentum in these areas.

Areas of Alignment

  • Defense and Security Cooperation: Multi-billion-dollar defense deals and joint military exercises.

  • Technology and Digital Trade: Expansion of data security, 5G, and AI collaboration.

  • Climate and Renewable Energy: Commitments to green hydrogen, solar power, and carbon reduction.

Areas of Conflict

  • Tariff-related disputes (oil, agriculture, and steel).

  • Market access disagreements in pharmaceuticals and digital trade.

  • US concerns over intellectual property rights and digital taxation.

Potential Scenarios for a Trade Deal

The path toward a trade agreement depends on negotiations around tariff reductions and reciprocal market access. Both countries have a vested interest in achieving a balanced deal, as it would boost investor confidence and open new avenues of cooperation.