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Machel Montano has captured his 12th National Road March title, officially placing him in the record books with the most wins in the competition’s history. He has surpassed the previous record of eleven (11) held by the late Aldwyn “Lord Kitchener” Roberts. The announcement was made a short while ago this afternoon (Wednesday 18th February, 2026) by President of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organization (TUCO), Ainsley King. Montano’s winning anthem “Encore” was played 171 times across judging points. Voice secured second place with 127 plays of “Cyah Behave,” while Bunji Garlin’s last-minute entry for “Still A Road Man” earned 97 plays to claim third place. Machel Montano takes the 2026 Road March title and is now the holder of the record with the most Road March titles with his song “Encore”. ● Montano's song was played 171 times ● Voice's “Cyah Behave” was played 127 ● Bunji Garlin's “Still a Road Man” was played 97 times pic.twitter.com/IYn1G0KwBD — CNC3TV (@CNC...

State broadcaster TTT Limited is strongly denying reports that the microphone of reigning Calypso Monarch Helon Francis was deliberately muted during his Dimanche Gras performance last night (Sunday 15th February, 2026), insisting the audio interruption was the result of a technical failure and not political censorship. Viewers experienced a sudden loss of sound during Francis’ performance at the National Calypso Monarch Final, which immediately triggered speculation as the calypsonian’s lyrics were critical of the Government. During the broadcast, which was also being carried live on WACK TV, an official reportedly approached one of the programme’s two (2) presenters and said, “We mute Helon’s mic.” The presenter responded on air that he would not repeat what had just been told to him but emphasized that WACK TV remains “the place where all calypsos are played,” a remark that further intensified speculation and public debate. Social media quickly erupted, with many questioning whether...

In response to mas band Tribe’s recent ‘rose’ controversy, Minister of Defence, Wayne Sturge, is warning masqueraders that lewdness will not be tolerated during Carnival celebrations, with offenders facing possible jail time for serious indecency. Tribe recently gifted their female masqueraders an adult sex toy in their goodie bags, sparking public debate about whether Carnival has devolved into a new level of immorality. During a Press Conference at the Queen's Park Savannah on Friday (13th February, 2026), Sturge said the State is ready to make an example of them if they are caught using adult sex toys or devices on Carnival Monday and Tuesday. “I know that one band has provided their masquerades with some toys. We ask that you leave the toys and the devices at home and you can use them in the quiet of your home. Please do not use them in any public space. If you are caught, because there is CCTV, there is private cameras from people's buildings, there is an abundance of cel...

With all indicators pointing to a bumper Carnival Season, Minister of Finance, the Honourable Davendranath Tancoo, says “this is the strongest signal yet that the economy is on the upswing.” In a Media Release on Fantastic Friday (13th February, 2026), the Ministry of Finance said, “Hot on the heels of a favourable country review by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Minister Tancoo expressed buoyant optimism about the state of the economy and its current trajectory, citing as evidence the vibrancy of this year's Carnival festivities.” “Activities such as fetes, some of which are massive events, are doing very well,” he said. “Mas bands have attracted large numbers and J'ouvert bands and hotel rooms are sold out. We expect flights into Trinidad and Tobago to be packed to capacity as visitors from all around the world descend on our shores for these celebrations.” Minister Tancoo, Member of Parliament for Fyzabad, was speaking on Friday at the extremely successful Fyzabad Ca...

UPDATE (14/02/26): The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) has confirmed the full list of submissions for the National Road March Competition 2026, with eighteen (18) songs officially entered following the close of registration. Among the contenders are Bunji Garlin’s “Road Man,” Machel Montano with “Encore,” and the dynamic collaboration between Mical Teja and Patrice Roberts titled “Capital.” Montano also appears twice on the list, teaming up with Paris Coutain on “Move Out D Way,” while Coutain has also submitted the same title as a solo entry. Aaron St. Louis (Voice) enters with “Cyah Behave,” while J Angel’s “Leggo” and Ninja’s “Pensioner’s Anthem” add to the competitive lineup. Full Blown (Kory Hart & Kevon Hart) is also in the race with “Respectfully Yours.” (Click/Tap Image To Enlarge) TUCO is reminding the public that the Road March title is determined by the song played the highest number of times at designated judging points during the Parade of the Bands...

Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, has responded to a viral video involving Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath at the Hyatt Lime fete in Port-of-Spain on Wednesday night (11th February, 2026).  The video, which went viral later that night, showed an animated Padarath addressing the crowd from the stage and praising Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Jearlean John, crediting her as the founder of the Hyatt Lime fete. He also attempted to sing the chorus of Machel Montano’s hit song, “Give Them Performance.” Shouting over the music, Padarath repeatedly called on John to come forward. “Minister! Minister Jearlean John. Jearlean don’t hide. Do you know who is the founder of Hyatt fete?” he said, urging patrons to put their hands in the air and calling on DJs to “give them performance” and “give them the time of their life.” At one point, DJ Simmo approached Padarath, who then turned to DJ Ana and again called for music. During the exchange, sections ...

The Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) is advising that customers/masqueraders whose clothing and/or costumes are soiled with grease, paint, dirt, oil or mud will not be allowed to travel on its buses. In a Public Notice issued today (Friday 13th February, 2026), the PTSC said, “This decision is taken to protect public property and to ensure that all commuters are able to travel in buses that meet acceptable standards of cleanliness and sanitation. Grease, paint, dirt, oil or mud can cause permanent damage to the fabric on seats and the interior cabin of buses.” The PTSC added, “We thank you for understanding and co-operation. We wish you a safe and enjoyable Carnival Season!” Please be guided accordingly.

Chief Education Officer at the Ministry of Education, Dr. Peter Smith, has issued instructions for the suspension of classes on Fantastic Friday (13th February, 2026), for forty-one (41) schools within the Port-of-Spain and Environs Education District. The instructions were issued via a memorandum to relevant stakeholders on Wednesday (11th February, 2026). The strategic move is said to have been taken in anticipation of heightened traffic as multiple Carnival events are expected to take place on Fantastic Friday. The closure affects twenty-one (21) primary schools and twenty (20) secondary schools, as follows: Primary Schools Ascension AC; Belmont Boys’ RC; Belmont Girls’ RC; Belmont Government; Bethlehem Boys’ RC; Bethlehem Girls’ RC; Carenage Boys’ Government; Carenage Girls’ Government; Cascade School for the Deaf (Special); Cocorite Government; Crystal Stream Government; Diamond Vale Government; Diego Martin Boys’ RC; Diego Martin Government; Eastern Boys’ Government; Eastern Gir...

TMZ is reporting that “Dawson's Creek” actor James Van Der Beek has died. The Travis County Medical Examiner's Office in Austin, Texas, received a report of Van Der Beek’s death at 6:44 AM local time this morning (Wednesday 11th February, 2026).  While no official cause of death was given, Van Der Beek revealed he was battling colorectal cancer in late 2024. He became emotional while discussing his cancer battle on “Good Morning America” last year. Van Der Beek was supposed to join his fellow “Dawson's Creek” cast mates in September 2025, but was forced to drop out of the reunion for health reasons. After rising to prominence as the titular character in the hit series, which ran for six (6) seasons from 1998 to 2003, he later gained recognition for his roles in “Scary Movie,” “Varsity Blues” and “Pose.” Van Der Beek was just forty-eight (48). He is survived by his wife and six (6) children. More on this as it becomes available.  This is a developing story - refresh this pa...

The Honourable Michelle Benjamin, Minister of Culture and Community Development, said she is pleased to announce that Trinidad and Tobago's very own son of the soil and cultural icon, Machel Montano, will perform at the Flava Food Village (Flava) on Fantastic Friday (13th February, 2026) at the Queen's Park Savannah, as this year's bumper Carnival reaches its peak this weekend. Introduced in early January as part of the national Carnival offering, Flava provides small and medium-sized food vendors, artisans and entrepreneurs with a curated platform to grow their operations, reach wider audiences, and showcase the quality and creativity of locally-made products within the Carnival space. In a Media Release today (Wednesday 11th February, 2026), the Ministry of Culture and Community Development said Flava will open to the public at 4:00 PM, with live performances starting at 8:00 PM. As has been the case since its opening, the Ministry notes that admission to Flava remains f...

Chutney soca star Ravi B (Ravi Bissambhar) has issued an apology after some patrons were barred from entering his Reunion party at Tantra Terraces in Sangre Grande on Saturday night (7th February, 2026). As the event quickly filled to capacity, the Fire Service moved to restrict entry in order to avoid overcrowding of the venue, which resulted in some ticket-holders being turned away. Those affected were subsequently offered refunds. See Ravi B’s full apology statement below: Reunion Apology Statement - Feb 8th, 2026 To my people of Sangre Grande and everyone who came out in love to support REUNION, my heart is heavy knowing that some of you were unable to enter the venue on the night of the event. REUNION was done purely out of love for my hometown, love for the culture and love for the people who have supported me from day one. Sangre Grande raised me and anything I do here is always from the heart. We want to be absolutely clear: tickets were not oversold. The event was planned and ...

In a historic victory, Savita Singh became the first woman to win the 2026 International Chutney Soca Monarch in its 31-year history, leading a female-dominated top three (3) at the Grand Finals of the competition, held at Skinner Park, San Fernando, last night (Sunday 8th February, 2026). Singh, who earned a top score of 813 points from the nine (9) judges, was also crowned the Queen of Chutney Soca. Placing second was Rasika Dindial, with 673 points, who also won the Traditional Chutney Monarch, and in third place was Lady Lava (Keisha Harris), with 662 points. Meanwhile, 2025 Chutney Soca Monarch Machel Montano came in fourth place with 651 points. Montano won in 2025 with “Pepper Vine,” featuring Drupatee Ramgoonai and Lady Lava.  Three (3) titles were contested on Sunday night: Chutney Soca Monarch, Queen of Chutney Soca, and Traditional Chutney Monarch (introduced this year). Fourteen (14) contestants competed in the Grand Finals, which was held on a Sunday for the first time...

Three-time Chutney Soca Monarch Kris “KI” Persad (real name: Kris Veeshal Persad) has withdrawn from the Chutney Soca Monarch (CSM) Finals, citing health reasons. In a Media Release this morning (Thursday 5th February, 2026), Southex said KI “had a fainting incident on leaving the stage at the semi finals, he was taken to the Hospital by Ambulance, underwent tests and was given the all-clear. They had originally said that he may have fainted from a bit of dehydration.” According to Southex, KI traveled back to Canada, but his doctors have advised that he should rest for another two (2) weeks, “making it impossible for him to come back to Trinidad in time for the Grand Finals.” Southex said it “wishes KI a speedy recovery and we look forward to seeing him on our stages in the very near future.” The Grand Finals of the Chutney Soca Monarch will take place on Sunday (8th February, 2026) from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM (Midnight). The event will be held at Skinner Park in San Fernando.   Four...

After a meeting with San Fernando Carnival Stakeholders on Monday (2nd February, 2026), the San Fernando Carnival Committee said it wishes to “formally advise all stakeholders, bandleaders, cultural practitioners, sponsors, and the general public that the competitive component of San Fernando Carnival 2026 has been suspended. ” In a Media Release following the meeting, the Committee said, “This decision was taken following careful review of the level of funding received for Carnival 2026 , which was lower than allocations received in previous years , and insufficient to responsibly support a full competition-based Carnival product. The Committee has also assessed current operational costs and the need to ensure that all participating bands and stakeholders are treated fairly and sustainably. Carnival 2026 WILL PROCEED The Committee is emphasizing that San Fernando Carnival 2026 is not cancelled. “The parade of the bands will proceed as scheduled , and the City will once again come aliv...

A man is dead shortly after collapsing at a Carnival fete at O2 Park in Chaguaramas on Sunday morning (25th January, 2026). The deceased has been identified as 37-year-old Vishal Sookhoo of Red Hill, Arouca, who was a Senior Loans Officer at ANSA Bank. According to reports, Vishal was attending the Soaka Till Sunrise fete with a group of friends, when he complained of feeling unwell and suddenly collapsed, around 7:45 AM. Friends and on-site medical personnel immediately rendered assistance. He was subsequently conveyed to the St. James Medical Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival at 8:45 AM. An autopsy has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of death. A packet of non-prescription pills was allegedly found in Vishal’s possession, although authorities could not confirm what type of pills they are or whether he had consumed any. Officials have urged the public not to speculate on the cause of death, noting that autopsy results are pending. A Senior Police Official confi...

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said it has launched Phase II of Operation Festive Shield, under the theme: “Operation Secure De VIBES – Visibility, Intelligence, Border & Band Security, Enforcement, Safety for All.” In a Media Release today (Friday 23rd January, 2026), the TTPS said, “Aligned with the National Carnival Theme 2026: ‘We Like It So,’ the TTPS is committed to keeping Carnival safe, secure, and enjoyable for everyone.” What this means for you: High visibility of Officers across all routes and zones; Intelligence-led Policing to prevent crime; Border & Band security to protect participants; Enforcement of the law with zero tolerance for violence; and Safety for all – public, performers, and visitors. Deputy Commissioner of Police, ‘Operations,’ Suzette Martin, says, “We are right here with you, securing the vibes, protecting the people, and preserving the culture. We urge you to play your part by celebrating responsibly, heeding our publicized safety t...

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is advising members of the public to take note of the following Regulations, dated 22nd January, 2026, related to the Prohibition of Glass Bottles on Carnival Monday (16th February, 2026) and Tuesday (17th February, 2026): Prohibition of Glass Bottles: 3. (1) A person who is not an authorized person shall not: (a) have a glass bottle in his possession; (b) use a glass bottle; or (c) carry a glass bottle, in or within the vicinity of a Carnival event in any public place during the period of Carnival. (2) A person who contravenes sub-regulation (1) commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) and to imprisonment for six (6) months. Seizure And Disposal of Glass Bottles: 4. (1) Where a person is found committing an offence under regulation 3, a Police Officer may, without proceeding to arrest that person, seize and take away any glass bottle which that person has in his possession. (...

In line with the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago's (GORTT's) commitment to reducing noise pollution while preserving cultural expression, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) said it has begun implementing a series of new and heightened noise management initiatives for the 2026 Carnival Season. These measures are designed to improve the regulation of noise from Carnival activities and other large-scale events, particularly in high-density residential areas where noise-related complaints have long been a concern. In a Media Release today (Wednesday 14th January, 2026), the EMA said, “Over the years, residents, particularly those in residential neighbourhoods, have expressed concerns regarding the noise generated by Carnival festivities. In response to this, and in alignment with the GORTT's commitment to improve noise mitigation strategies, the EMA has taken proactive measures under the Noise Pollution Control Rules, 2001 (as amended) (NPCR), to enh...

The National Carnival Commission of Trinidad and Tobago (NCC) released its updated T&T Carnival 2026 Calendar of Events on Tuesday (30th December, 2025). Check it out below for the latest information, dates and times for all your Carnival favourites. ( Click/Tap Image To Enlarge ) The NCC notes that additional events may be added. Visit www.ttcarnival365.com for updates. For more information, contact 622-1670, ext. 1307.

Popular media personality, Seigonie Mohammed, announced a short while ago this afternoon (Monday 29th December, 2025) that she is departing State media house, TTT Limited .  Mohammed officially debuted as a News Anchor on TTT News on Monday 2nd September, 2024 — almost sixteen (16) months ago — which, at the time, was a significant change from her previous role as Weather Anchor at CCN TV6. Due to the structure of TTT Limited , some staff turnover usually occurs when a new Government comes into power. In announcing her departure, Mohammed stated on X: “And so this chapter ends...Thank you for trusting me to not just keep you informed but for letting me be part of your every day: your stories & your moments! I wish you all endless possibilities as we head into 2026! Goodbye TTT. Hello New Year!” Her post accompanied a video of her saying, “As the year comes to a close, so to does my time with TTT Limited . For those of you watching, we had an amazing 13 years in media. So, let ...