Monthly Archives: August, 2026
Dr. Love
Doctor Love: Strong Independent Candidate
Doctor Love is the island's and possibly the world’s greatest authority on just about everything. The Doctor answers questions concerning any subject except religion or politics. Persons needing additional assistance or counseling should contact the Family Services Division at 227-7541. The opinions herein are not necessarily those of The San Pedro Sun. Write Doctor Love at PO Box 51, San Pedro Town, Belize, or email: dr.love@sanpedrosun.com
Community and Society
SAGA Shelter Animals Find Loving Homes
The San Pedro SAGA Humane Society is celebrating after several of its shelter dogs and cats recently found permanent homes. The organization thanked everyone who has opened their hearts and homes to a shelter pet, while reminding the public that many cats and dogs are still waiting to be adopted.
Weather
Drought Risk Grows in Belize as El Niño Conditions Strengthen
Belize received a drought warning on August 25th as scientists cautioned that a strengthening El Niño could bring hotter weather and reduced rainfall across the region. The warning comes as Panama and El Salvador have declared emergencies over El Niño-related drought conditions, highlighting growing concerns across Central America. The warning is linked to shifting weather patterns associated with El Niño that can reduce atmospheric moisture and suppress rainfall. El Niño is expected to affect the region more strongly during the upcoming dry season, which typically begins around November and December.
Arts & Culture
Belize Establishes First National Music Archive
Belize officially marked a major step in preserving its cultural heritage on August 24th, when Honorable Francis Fonseca, Minister of Culture, announced the establishment of the country’s first Belize Music Archive and the National Recording Treasures of Belize. The initiative was launched through the Belize Music Project, with a new archive laboratory opened at the Belize Archives and Records Service in Belmopan.
Business & Economy
Tourism Stakeholders Warn Proposed Hotel Tax Increase Could Hurt Belize’s Competitiveness
Opposition continues to grow against a proposed increase in Belize’s hotel accommodation tax from the current 9% to 12.5%. Tourism stakeholders on the cayes and across the country believe the increase could make Belize a more expensive destination and place the country at a disadvantage when competing with other destinations in the region.
Pageants & Beauty
Queen of the Bay Delegates Visit San Pedro Ahead of 81st Pageant
On August 27th, seven Queen of the Bay delegates, accompanied by reigning Queen Samantha Ramirez, visited San Pedro for the first time in nearly 20 years ahead of the 81st annual Queen of the Bay Pageant, set for August 29th. During their island visit, the group met with Senator Gabriel Zetina over coffee, toured the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and enjoyed lunch and recreational activities at The Water Park at Secret Beach.
Pageants & Beauty
Faith Edgar Delivers Powerful Presentation at Miss World Head-to-Head Challenge
Miss World Belize Faith Edgar continues to represent the Jewel at events leading up to pageant night on September 5th. Her presentation during the Head-to-Head Challenge on August 22nd captivated many as she delivered a touching speech about her passion for dentistry and the motivation behind her efforts to improve oral health among Belizean youth.
Community and Society
San Pedro Police Launch Crime Suppression Squad
The San Pedro Police Sub-Formation has launched a new motorcycle team, dubbed the Crime Suppression Squad (CSS), to strengthen policing efforts on the island. Announced this week, the CSS will operate primarily in the San Pedrito and DFC areas of San Pedro and work alongside the existing operations team to target criminal activity. The unit’s formation marks an expansion of local law enforcement efforts aimed at addressing gang activity, drug trafficking, and other crimes.