Tag:
Honorable Andre Perez
Government
$1.9 billion 2026–2027 national budget debated in the National Assembly
From March 23rd to 25th, the proposed 2026–2027 national budget was debated in the National Assembly (House of Representatives) in Belmopan. Prime Minister John Briceño introduced the $1.9 billion budget on March 10th under the theme “Budgeting for Belizean Prosperity.” The proposal highlights what the government describes as strong economic performance, including a historic low unemployment rate of 2.0% and reduced inflation, along with reported gains in health, tourism, and conservation. During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Honorable Tracy Taegar-Panton acknowledged some achievements but challenged several of the government’s claims.
Community and Society
Tour guide graduation honors San Pedro’s tourism pioneers
During the recent graduation of new tour guides in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, held on March 20th, a group of veteran tourism pioneers was recognized for their decades of contribution to the island’s tourism industry. The honored were acknowledged for their contributions to the development of San Pedro’s tourism product and for their continued dedication to the sector.
Environment
Opposition Emerges Over Proposed International Airport on Ambergris Caye
The proposed development of an international airport north of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some islanders support the initiative, others have begun voicing opposition. An online petition has been launched to gather signatures against the project, which would allow private jet owners to fly directly to Ambergris Caye from international destinations.
Environment
San Pedro Mobilizes Ahead of Expected Heavy Sargassum Season
On February 24th, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) urged community partners to begin preparations for the upcoming sargassum season. Early windy conditions in February brought the first influx of the brown seaweed to the shores of San Pedro. According to reports, the 2026 season is expected to bring large amounts of sargassum to the region, and collective efforts will be required to keep the island’s main beach areas as clear as possible.
Sports
125 Young Athletes Join San Pedro Football Academy 2026
The San Pedro Football Academy officially opened its 2026 season on Saturday, February 21st, at 9AM at the Ambergris Stadium, marking its fourth consecutive year of youth football development on Ambergris Caye. This year, the academy welcomed 125 children, more than double the number enrolled when the program launched.
Conservation
Local authorities say heavy equipment transported to north Ambergris Caye has no permits
Following images shared on social media on Thursday, January 22nd, showing heavy equipment being transported to northern Ambergris Caye, the Office of the Area Representative, Honorable Andre Perez, and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve submitted reports to several environmental government authorities, including the Prime Minister. According to officials, the transportation of the construction equipment was carried out without the proper permits or authorizations. On Friday, January 23rd, Perez said the individuals responsible for transporting the equipment were unable to produce any permits, and as a result, the equipment must be removed from the area.
Environment
Area Representative weighs in on Silver Palm development in northern Ambergris Caye
A significant new development in northern Ambergris Caye, dubbed Silver Palm, has raised concerns among environmentalists, residents, and local authorities. The proposed community project, planned on a 237-acre island northwest of Ambergris Caye, has come under scrutiny after moving forward without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and despite reported objections from the Belize Fisheries Department and the Ministry of Blue Economy. Area Representative and Minister of Blue Economy, Honorable Andre Perez, said island residents were not consulted and argued that such a project is not suitable for this environmentally sensitive area.
Conservation
Stakeholders Unite to Strengthen Belize’s Fisheries Enforcement Efforts
On November 11th, a validation workshop was held in Belize City for the National Fisheries Enforcement and Conservation Monitoring Strategy and Action Plan. The session emphasized the importance of developing an effective national strategy to protect Belize’s marine resources, bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Belize Coast Guard, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation, and the Belize Fisheries Department.