Sunday, October 18, 2026

Community and Society

SPTC Warns Against Purchasing Vehicles Without Import Permits

The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is reminding residents and vehicle dealers that they must obtain an import permit before purchasing any vehicle intended for use in San Pedro. The requirement applies to both brand-new and replacement vehicles as the island continues to grow and vehicle imports increase.

New Disability Commission Promises Greater Inclusion Across Belize

The Government of Belize has officially launched the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, marking a new phase in the implementation of the Disabilities Act, 2024. The Commission is expected to help transform the rights outlined in the legislation into coordinated action and improvements in the daily lives of persons with disabilities.

San Pedro Bids Farewell to Milagro Garel with Special Mass

Family members, friends, and community leaders gathered on September 4th to celebrate the life of Maria del Milagro Garel with a special funeral Mass at the San Pedro Roman Catholic Church. Garel, originally from San Pedro but later residing in Belize City, served as the Country Director of World Pediatrics Belize. She is remembered as a compassionate advocate who dedicated more than 20 years to helping Belizean children access specialized and life-changing medical care.

Electricity Crisis Drives Growing Interest in Solar Power

Many Belizeans are taking a closer look at solar energy systems as Belize continues to experience electricity interruptions and scheduled load shedding. Interest has increased in recent weeks as high demand and reduced available supply have led Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) to implement scheduled interruptions. At the same time, unplanned outages have also affected the island.

Laura Cantun Brings Global Experience to Belize

hree Belizean teachers—Clarisa Gongora, Laura Cantun and Shellon Nuñez-Flowers—shared their experiences of teaching abroad. Cantun has now returned to Belize after completing the five-year program and told The Sun that she is excited to share the knowledge and experience she gained in the US.

Community Run Opens Suicide Awareness Month

Fourteen people participated in a suicide awareness run organized by Coach Kian Trejo of the San Pedro Town Council Sports Department on Tuesday, September 1st. The event began at the southern end of the San Pedrito Highway and ended at Central Park, marking the start of Suicide Awareness Month.

Eco-Museum Belize Earns Silver at 2026 ICRT Responsible Tourism Awards

Eco-Museum Belize, located in northern Ambergris Caye, received a Silver Award at the prestigious 2026 International Center for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Responsible Tourism Awards. The awards recognize outstanding organizations advancing sustainable development, cultural preservation, and community empowerment within the tourism industry.

Traffic Controls Increased for Back-to-School Rush

With schools officially reopening on Monday, August 31st, the San Pedro Traffic Department activated its road safety measures to protect students and other road users. These include regular traffic checkpoints and wardens at key intersections throughout town, particularly during busy drop-off and pick-up periods.