Community and Society
Free Self-Defense Program for Women and Teens Launches in San Pedro
Islander and Sensei Martin Dawson of Dawson's Pit Fighters, along with Jazelie "Jaz" Azueta, have joined forces to organize a self-defense pink belt program for teenage girls and women. The 13-hour course began on June 20th at Hidden Treasure Lounge, south of San Pedro Town.
Community and Society
ACES Celebrates World Crocodile Day with Fundraisers and 31-Kilometer Charity Run
ACES Wildlife Rescue celebrated World Crocodile Day on June 18th with a series of fundraising events, including bar promotions and a 31-kilometer charity run across Ambergris Caye. The initiative aimed to raise funds and awareness for the organization's ongoing wildlife rescue and conservation efforts. Participating bars offered special "Croc Tails" and "Croc Beers" in support of the campaign.
Community and Society
Road Improvement Projects Continue in Key Areas of San Pedro
Road repair and maintenance works continue across San Pedro Town as the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) addresses deteriorated streets in several areas of the island. Recent works have focused on roads behind Bowen & Bowen, within the Escalante Subdivision, and in the DFC area, where crews have been grading roads, filling potholes, and improving driving conditions.
Community and Society
1.1 Billion Children Face Climate Risks Worldwide; Belize included in UNICEF Assessment
On June 16, UNICEF launched its Children’s Climate Risk Report 2026, a global assessment indicating that nearly half of the world's children—approximately 1.1 billion—are exposed to at least three overlapping climate and environmental threats that affect their health, education, and overall well-being. Belize is among the countries identified as facing multiple climate-related risks.
Community and Society
San Pedro Police Mark Police Week with Community Outreach
San Pedro police officers observed Police Week from June 14th to 20th with a series of community and departmental activities that began with a church service and included a park cleanup, school outreach, public engagement events, and an awards ceremony. Assistant Superintendent Egbert Castillo said the week is being celebrated by police formations nationwide, while officers in San Pedro are focusing on community service and strengthening relationships with residents.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Retracts No Objection Letters; Stakeholders Continue to Call for Greater Transparency
On June 12th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (HCMR) announced it was retracting all previously issued Letters of No Objection (LNOs) for projects that have not yet commenced construction. Executive Chairman Ian Pou confirmed the decision and explained the reserve's position during an interview at the Hol Chan office on June 15th. Education and Outreach Officer Mariela Archer also discussed the reserve's procedures and the reasons behind the increased scrutiny of development proposals.
Community and Society
SPTC launches summer job training program for high school students
The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) will launch its Youth on the Job Training Program on July 1, offering local students an opportunity to gain hands-on work experience during their summer break. The three-week initiative is open to San Pedro High School students with a valid school identification card and an original Social Security card. Applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with space available for up to 20 participants.
Community and Society
SPTC Calls for Removal of Illegal Signs from Streets and Beaches
The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is launching a campaign to address visual pollution from the growing number of signs promoting businesses along roadways and in public spaces across town. As the island administration has stated in the past, all business operations must be conducted within the premises specified under their trade license regulations. The move has garnered support from many community members, although some argue that roadside signage remains one of the most effective ways to promote their services.