Community and Society
Surge in Child Abuse Cases Triggers National Alarm and Outcry
Belize is confronting a growing crisis of child sexual abuse, with an alarming surge in high-profile and alarming cases prompting urgent calls for legislative reform and community action. Over the past year alone, more than 100 cases of unlawful sexual intercourse with minors have been officially reported, a figure experts believe significantly underrepresents the true extent of the issue. These troubling statistics have fueled public outrage and prompted widespread appeals for stronger legislation, increased enforcement, and more robust survivor support systems.
Community and Society
Garbage Buildup Threatens San Pedro’s Tourist Appeal
San Pedro Town is facing a growing environmental and public health crisis as persistent garbage accumulation threatens the island’s image as a premier tourist destination. With mounting complaints from residents and visitors, local authorities are escalating enforcement efforts and issuing warnings that noncompliance will be met with fines and legal consequences.
Community and Society
Community Comes Together to Support Quarterly Blood Drives
On Saturday, July 26th, the San Pedro Community Blood Drive Group hosted a dinner and raffle to raise funds to support their upcoming quarterly blood drive, scheduled for August 2nd at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez Polyclinic II. The “Dip, Dine & Donate” fundraiser was held at Akasha Restaurant, located at the Aruna Resort and Villas. The event began at 1PM, with nearly 100 guests having reserved in advance. Boat transportation was provided, with pickup at the dock in front of Level Up Barcade. The Akasha staff delivered professional and courteous service, taking food and drink orders throughout the day.
Community and Society
Site Inspection of San Pedro/Caye Caulker General Hospital Shows Progress
On Wednesday, July 23rd, Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez and officials from the Ministries of Health and Wellness (MOHW) and Finance conducted a site inspection of the San Pedro and Caye Caulker General Hospital project. The visit aimed to assess the progress of the long-anticipated medical facility, which is being constructed to serve residents and visitors of the Cayes. The contractor reported that the project is on schedule and expected to be completed before its April 2027 deadline.
Community and Society
MoHW Announces Containment of Recent Measles Outbreak
The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) is pleased to announce that Belize has recorded no new measles cases for more than two full incubation periods, showing effective containment of the recent outbreak.
Community and Society
Town Council Cracks Down on Illegal Effluent Flowing into Streets and Yards
San Pedro is facing a mounting issue over the illegal discharge of wastewater and effluent, prompting urgent calls for enforcement and community compliance. The issue reached a tipping point this month after the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) published a stern notice on July 8th, reminding residents and businesses that “it is illegal to discharge any effluent or polluting matter on any soil or surface of any land,” and warning that violators can face fines of up to $5,000 or up to two years’ imprisonment. Effluent is broadly defined as any “liquid waste or wastewater discharge containing human, animal, or vegetable matter… including black and grey water.”
Community and Society
ComPol Dr. Richard Rosado and Police Minister Kareem Musa Visit the Cayes
On Friday, July 18th, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police (ComPol), Dr. Richard Rosado, along with the Minister of Home Affairs responsible for police, Honourable Kareem Musa, visited the police formations in Caye Caulker and San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The visit is part of a nationwide tour the minister and his team are conducting to understand better the needs and challenges faced by police officers.
Community and Society
Islander Alma Pinelo Promoted to Commander in the Belize Coast Guard
San Pedro Town is beaming with pride as one of its own, Alma Pinelo, made history in Belize’s military with her promotion to the rank of Commander and appointment as Chief of Staff in the Belize Coast Guard (BCG). The proud San Pedrana has served in the BCG since 2008, excelling in her military career through continuous training and steadily rising through the ranks of the institution responsible for safeguarding Belize’s territorial waters.
