Monthly Archives: February, 2025
Community and Society
Residents urge authorities to do more for street infrastructure on the island
In collaboration with the central government, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has launched an ambitious project to pave the main streets in all subdivisions. However, many residents living along the side streets are urging authorities to also upgrade their areas. Reports highlight issues in neighborhoods like San Mateo and the DFC subdivision, where the primary complaint is the lack of drainage. This situation makes some streets impassable after rainfall, forcing residents to take alternative routes, including crossing private property, to access their homes.
Sports
San Pedro Pirates draws 3-3 against Wagiya SC
It was an action-packed football match between the San Pedro Pirates and Wagiya SC on Sunday, February 23rd, in southern Dangriga Town. The game, which marked Week 6 of the Premier League of Belize (PLB) Closing Season, took place at Carl Ramos Stadium, where both teams gave their all, resulting in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Community and Society
Taxi Operators now have designated parking in front of the SPBE
The taxi federation has been granted preferential parking on the street front of the new facility of San Pedro Belize Express. The long-standing dispute escalated following the relocation of the water taxi terminal, with taxi operators accusing golf cart rental companies of poaching their customers by soliciting at ports of entry. This practice is deemed illegal, as the licenses of the golf cart companies require them to operate solely from their designated office locations.
Environment
Conservation organizations disagree with Minister Perez’s statements regarding gillnet ban process
On February 21st, a joint press release by The Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries and Oceana stated that the Honorable Andre Perez, the Minister of Blue Economy in charge of the Belize Fisheries Department (BFD), misrepresented facts about Belize's gillnet ban. The statement emphasized that Perez's comments contradicted the transparent, multi-year process that led to the prohibition of gillnets in Belizean waters.
Police News
Cause of death for three American tourists in San Pedro linked to pulmonary edema
A post-mortem examination was conducted on Monday, February 24th, to determine the cause of death for the three young American women found deceased at a beach resort south of San Pedro Town. Gian Sho, the Executive Director of the National Forensic Science Service, confirmed that they died from acute pulmonary edema. This condition is caused by excess fluid in the lungs. The next step is to investigate what led to this condition in the young women. A toxicology test is currently pending, and samples collected from the women will be tested in a laboratory in the United States, with results expected within two weeks.
Community and Society
San Pedro Veterinary Hospital announces closure date
The impending closure of the San Pedro Veterinarian Hospital (SPVH) on March 7, 2025, poses a challenge for pet owners on Ambergris Caye. Renowned for its appreciation of animals, the San Pedro community now faces limited options for veterinary care, raising concerns about the welfare of pets in the area.
Accidents & Disasters
American woman dies following a diving tour near Ambergris Caye
Police are investigating the death of an American national, Dawn Michele Rhoades, 55, who fell ill during a scuba diving tour near San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Mrs. Rhoades received Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) while being transported back to San Pedro. She was then taken by ambulance to Ambergris Hope Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Police News
Bethsa Ramirez granted bail after charged with Theft
Thirty-four-year-old Bethsa Ramirez is out on bail after spending a few nights in remand at the Kolbe Foundation Belize Central Prison. This followed a ruling by a judge in the High Court. Ramirez was arraigned at the San Pedro Magistrate Court on a theft charge on Monday, February 17. She is accused of embezzling over half a million dollars while employed by the development company El Diamante Ltd.
