Community and Society

The Belize Coast Guard (BCG) has expanded its services on the cayes with the opening of a new patrol base in Caye Caulker on Wednesday, April 1st. The initiative aims to strengthen protection and enhance surveillance in the area, benefiting residents and stakeholders on the island.

Road infrastructure works continue in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, as the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) advances upgrades across key areas. As part of these efforts, the council has been transporting materials to the San Marcos Subdivision. It is reminding the public that any large trucks (including dump and sand trucks) seen in the downtown area are authorized for these works.

The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support and Gender Affairs, through its Department of Human Services, hosted the Happy Hearts Funday on March 31st, at Rendezvous Caye, providing a memorable and uplifting experience for children in care from across Belize.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve marked Child Stimulation Month by engaging preschool and primary school children in a series of educational activities focused on marine conservation and environmental awareness. The initiative centered around the Hol Chan Education Center, which opened on May 14, 2025, and served as the hub for the month-long activities. The program included storytelling sessions with preschoolers, guided tours, and glass-bottom boat trips to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, offering children a firsthand look at Belize’s marine ecosystems.

Authorities in San Pedro are intensifying preparations ahead of the Easter weekend, with a strong focus on public safety, traffic control, and community wellbeing as the island prepares for one of its busiest holidays of the year.

The San Pedro Town Council sponsored a three-day advanced cinematography workshop from March 22nd to 24th, with three-hour sessions each day. Led by Emmy Award-winning cinematographer Bruce Finn as guest trainer, the workshop focused on composition, lighting, and on-set safety etiquette. It attracted local photographers and videographers eager to develop their skills beyond the basics.

The Women in Business Expo 2026 was held on Saturday, March 28th, at Saca Chispas Field in San Pedro, bringing together dozens of women entrepreneurs, community members, and organizers to celebrate female achievement. The sixth annual event, a collaboration between Hope Haven Belize and the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), led by Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez and Councilor Dianeli Aranda, drew a large crowd to celebrate women’s achievements under the theme “Women Evolving, Communities Changing.” Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Natalie Arceo, the evening featured over 23 booths showcasing women-led businesses, a fashion show sponsored by Pink Boutique, performances by the San Pedro Dance Academy, and the fifth annual Champions for Change Awards, honoring 13 women and girls.

The Mighty Blue Jaguars Drum Corps of San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School (SPRCS) returned to the island as champions following an outstanding performance at this year’s Belize Band Fest. The island marching band secured first place in the School Band Category at the annual event held on March 28th in Orange Walk Town.