On Friday October 3rd, traffic at the newly upgraded Michael Espat Bridge came to a standstill when a minivan collided with a semi-truck. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured. The addition of new guardrails to the bridge has reduced available space, making it tighter for vehicles to pass. The bridge is located on a curve,...
For decades, Belize and Guatemala have experienced tensions along the border. In 2014, the Chiquibul Forest became a hotspot, as Xateros crossed from Guatemala to illegally harvest thousands of Xate leaves, often entering armed. It was on September 25th of that year that a Xatero shot and killed Tourism Police Officer Danny Conorqui while he...
In a recent patrol of the Port Honduras Marine Reserve, rangers from the Toledo Institutefor Development and Environment (TIDE) discovered a dead hawksbill turtle caught in anillegal gillnet set on the coral reefs. The environmental NGO, which manages SapodillaCayes and Port Honduras, regularly faces challenges from illegal fishers crossing theborder from Guatemala and harming Belize’s...
In a significant boost to local law enforcement, the Punta Gorda police department has officially received a new pickup truck to enhance its operational capabilities. This addition aims to improve the department’s response to time and overall efficiency in serving the community. The new vehicle will assist officers in patrolling the area, conducting investigations, and...
Residents have long raised concerns about traffic within the town limits, citing reckless driving and unlicensed motorcyclists as significant issues. Many have voiced these complaints at town meetings and in discussions with the Commissioner of Police. Reports indicate that some drivers engage in reckless behavior, while motorcyclists are often found riding without a valid driver’s...
The Punta Gorda Police Formation held a meet-and-greet in the St. Vincent Block area on Thursday, October 17th. At least a dozen residents participated, expressing their concerns and opinions about the ongoing challenges they face. During the meet-and-greet, the officer commanding the Punta Gorda Police Formation, his deputy, and the community policing team were in...
The Port Honduras Marine Reserve is once again at the center of public discussion following the recent installation of boundary buoys within the protected area. Earlier this week, fishermen spotted the newly placed buoys and raised concerns about their locations. One fisherman questioned whether the markers had been installed in the correct positions, believing they...
The Flames of Independence were built by Dr. Ludwig Palacio and his family. It has been around for several years. However, for some time, the flames were not lit. Dr. Ludwig believes it was the responsibility of the Punta Gorda Town Council to maintain the monument and keep the flames lit. However, the Punta Gorda...
Hillside Health Care hosted its monthly Health Fair Monday July 13th, at Central Park. Providing free blood pressure and glucose screenings, along with health education, to encourage healthier lifestyles.
Ya’axché Conservation Trust has received the Champion Award and a special recognition at the Protected Areas Conservation Trust 30th Anniversary Celebration. Ya’axché also acknowledged PACT for its continued partnership and support in strengthening protected areas, biodiversity conservation, and community development across southern Belize.
It has been almost six months since work began on the cementing of a small section of North Street, the road that runs alongside Toledo Community College. However, after six months, the project remains incomplete. Two speed bumps were installed, which have reportedly caused significant damage to vehicles. Concerned citizen Mr. Henry Pleck Martinez has...
