November is one of the biggest months in Punta Gorda, as it marks the time for Garifuna celebrations. These festivities bring significant economic benefits to Toledo, yet in recent years, these gains have been reduced due to added fees at the border crossings, as well as overtime charges for customs and immigration officers. Today, the...
The first-ever Primary School Battle of the Drum took place on Friday, November 1st, at the Punta Gorda Sporting Complex. This event provided an opportunity for primary school students to showcase their talents in drumming, singing, and dancing. It also created a space for children to interact within a culturally rich environment. Nine primary schools...
As the Garifuna celebrations continue, the National Garifuna Council has organized a series of events set to take place in Punta Gorda Town. One of the main events is the Miss Garifuna Pageant. On Saturday, November 2nd, the NGC Pieni Branch hosted their pageant, where four candidates competed for the title of Miss Garifuna Pieni...
Oceana Belize, an NGO that continues to advocate at the national level for policy implementation and amendments, is proud to celebrate 15 years of service in marine conservation in Belize. Oceana is one of many organizations promoting the sustainable use of marine resources to ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of the sea...
October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Around the globe and across the country, many health organizations are working to educate the public and support those battling cancer. Cancer has a serious impact on lives, and treatment costs are high. To raise awareness, the Ministry of Health in Punta Gorda, in collaboration with the...
Toledo Community College continues to excel and represent both locally, nationally, and internationally. Over recent weeks, TCC has dominated regional volleyball competitions and will represent the south at the national level in Orange Walk. They also participated in the International Coastal Cleanup competition hosted by BFSF, winning first place for the best video submission. Additionally,...
In observance of I, the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future (BFSF) invited all environmental groups in Belize to participate in the International Coastal Cleanup competition. On October 2nd, BFSF announced the winners, having received only four video submissions highlighting the importance of keeping the coastline clean and protecting marine life. Out of the four...
October 23rd and 24th, the Minister of Natural Resources and his team of 45 arrived in Punta Gorda for a two-day land clinic. The first day of the clinic was designated for residents of Barranco, Eldridge, Forest Home, Cattle Landing, and Punta Gorda to receive assistance with challenges they face in the process of obtaining...
The Toledo Institute for Development and Environment (TIDE) has been collaborating with various stakeholders to manage the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve (SCMR). One of these key stakeholders is the University of Belize. On Sunday, October 20th, TIDE and the University of Belize signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), formalizing their partnership in education and conservation...
October is widely recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to supporting women who are battling the disease. This month is critical in bringing people together, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring that those affected by breast cancer know they are not alone. It aims to inspire survivors, patients, and their loved...
The fight to end violence against women and girls remains an important issue. in Punta Gorda, efforts to raise awareness and promote prevention continued through a two-day workshop held at the Warsa Drum School. Hosted by the Child Development Foundation, the workshop focused on educating participants and encouraging greater awareness surrounding violence against women and...
Belize has taken a major step toward strengthening the future of sports with the country’s first-ever Sports Summit. Held last week at the Belize Civic Center. Organized around the theme “Building Belize Through Sport: Governance, Youth Development, Health, High Performance and Sports Tourism. Participants discuss the state and future of sports in Belize.
Tensions are heating up in the village of Corazón at Corazón Technical High School. Several parents are upset that their children have not advanced to Fourth Form, reportedly because one teacher claimed that nearly half the class failed English. Typically, when so many students fail, summer classes are offered to help them improve; however, some...
The Ministry of Rural Transformation has announced the winners of the Village Councils of the Year Award 2026. Representing Toledo District, Bella Vista Village Council has been selected as the district’s Village Council of the Year. The recognition comes at a time when Bella Vista is also set to benefit from a major development project. A new market building planned...
After three years of service to the St. Peter Claver Catholic Church and the community of Punta Gorda, Father Eric Serrano is being bid farewell as his time of service comes to an end. A special mass was held in his honor. The farewell was filled with heartfelt moments as parishioners expressed their gratitude through gifts, songs, and...
