Community and Society
Belize Set to Roll Out Redesigned Banknotes with Advanced Security Features
The Central Bank of Belize is set to launch a new series of banknotes by mid-year, featuring a fresh look while retaining the same value. This marks a significant change in both design and security. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming currency changes.
Community and Society
Truck Companies Consider Legal Action Over Downtown San Pedro Restrictions
A group of truck company representatives in San Pedro Town has retained legal counsel following new restrictions imposed by the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC). The restrictions prohibit large and container trucks from traversing the downtown area. The restriction, publicly announced by the SPTC on April 30th, is being challenged as unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional in a letter issued by Belize City-based law firm Elrington and Company.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Opens Marine Education Center
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially opened its new Marine Education Center, located on the ground floor of its headquarters in downtown San Pedro. The long-anticipated event welcomed a diverse group of attendees, including primary school students, representatives from the Belize Tourism Board, tour guides, local leaders, and specially invited guests. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the education center to both guests and the public.
Community and Society
Azaliah Ortega wins Hol Chan’s Annual Primary School Trivia Competition
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve hosted its Annual Primary School Trivia Competition on May 14th at the Lion’s Den. A highlight of the much-anticipated Reef Fest, the event aimed to foster environmental awareness and stewardship among young students. It drew enthusiastic participation from six local primary schools across Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
Community and Society
Dr. Richard Rosado Ushers in Reform to the Belize Police Department
Belize’s law enforcement landscape is transforming with the appointment of Dr. Richard Rosado as the new Commissioner of Police. Taking office on April 30, 2025, Dr. Rosado’s promotion marks a personal milestone and a pivotal moment for the Belize Police Department (BPD), which is dealing with growing challenges in public safety, modernization, and community trust.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Launches 2025 Reef Fest
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially launched its annual Reef Fest over the weekend to promote environmental stewardship and community engagement. The festivities began on Saturday, May 10, with a large-scale beach cleanup along the northern coastline of San Pedro, near important sea turtle nesting areas. A volleyball competition took place the following day.
Community and Society
San Pedro’s Young Fishers Cast Off in First Kids Tournament
For the first time, a fishing tournament for children was held in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, on Sunday, May 11th. The event attracted over 300 kids and their parents, making it a fun and engaging competition. The tournament began at 8AM, and fishing took place from the shoreline, seawalls, and piers around town. By 2PM, everyone returned to the weighing station with their catches, and the top fishers were awarded prizes.
Community and Society
BNTU Stages Demonstration in Belmopan City
Hundreds of union members staged a demonstration in Belmopan on Friday, May 9th, led by the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU), alongside the Public Service Union and other allied organizations. The protest marked the first phase of a planned series of industrial actions aimed at pressuring the Government of Belize (GOB) to implement long-standing salary and wage reforms.