Community and Society
Team Robb’s Red Rumm Wins 2026 San Pedro Classic Fly-Fishing Tournament
From August 6th to the 8th, San Pedro once again celebrated community, conservation, and sport during the annual San Pedro Classic Fly-Fishing Tournament. A total of 22 teams participated this year, competing for permit, bonefish, and tarpon on the island’s pristine fly-fishing flats. At the end of the three-day competition, Team Robb’s Red Rumm emerged as the champions. The team also claimed the grand prize last year, when competing under the name One Shot Willy’s.
Business & Economy
SFXCU hosts first Educational Business Expo in San Pedro
The St. Francis Xavier Credit Union (SFXCU) San Pedro branch held its first Educational Business Expo at Central Park on August 6th, drawing local businesses, government agencies, and community members to learn more about member services, financial products, and protections.
Community and Society
Travelers to Pay New BZ$10 Security Fee at Municipal Airports
On Wednesday, August 5th, the Government of Belize, through its weekly Cabinet Brief, announced the introduction of a BZ$10 aviation security fee. The fee will apply to every departing passenger traveling through any municipal airport in Belize. It will take effect once the Minister responsible for the Civil Aviation Department, Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, signs the required Statutory Instrument. As of press time, the Prime Minister had not commented on the announcement, and no date has been set for the signing of the Statutory Instrument.
Community and Society
Community Oriented Policing Office Harris Gabourel Promoted to Corporal of Police
San Pedro Police Constable (PC) Harris Gabourel, who has served for several years in the Community Oriented Policing Office, has been promoted to the rank of Corporal of Police. His promotion also places him in charge of the unit, where he will continue to champion community policing initiatives, foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the public, and work collaboratively with island residents. He also works closely with the business community, schools, and organizations to promote public safety and enhance the quality of life in San Pedro.
Community and Society
17-Year-Old San Pedrano Ruben Trejo Jr. Successfully Completes International Cross-Country Flight
On Tuesday, August 4th, San Pedro's Ruben Trejo Jr. landed at the island's John Greif II Municipal Airport after completing his first international cross-country flight alongside his instructor, Joel Hernandez of El Salvador. Trejo, 17, studies at Aerosal Aviation School in El Salvador, training to become a pilot, and recently completed his first solo flight. He is among the youngest people to land an aircraft on Ambergris Caye.
Community and Society
Former San Pedro Fire Chief Orin Smith Retires
After serving in the Belize National Fire Service for 27 years, former Officer Commanding of the San Pedro Fire Station, Orin Smith, has officially retired. Smith led the island's fire station from 2022 to 2025. He came to San Pedro with more than 22 years of experience, having served in various municipalities across the country.
Community and Society
SSB Card Renewals Paused due to Card Supply Shortage
On August 4th, the Social Security Board (SSB) announced that it has temporarily suspended the renewal of expired Social Security cards until September 14th due to a shortage of card stock. The board clarified that the disruption affects only replacement cards for expired Social Security cards. First-time applicants and holders of temporary Social Security cards will continue to be served.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town Council Strengthens Traffic Safety Measures Following Rise in Accidents
San Pedro Town Council officials outlined several measures to improve road safety following a recent increase in traffic accidents across the island. In an exclusive interview on July 30th, Traffic Department Supervisor Glevy Medina detailed the initiatives, which include stricter vehicle inspections, new motorcycle helmet standards, expanded police checkpoints, and the installation of speed bumps on newly paved roads.