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...
Summer is here, and it’s time for summer camps. One of the most unique camps is taking place at the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve. Participants are helping monitor sea turtles and collect data on the endangered hawksbill turtle during its nesting season. The camp has been organized by PNP and PGTV for many years.
The lionfish has been in Belize for quite a few years now. It is an invasive species that poses a serious threat to the marine environment. One organization, known as FINS, which stands for Fighting Invasive and Non-Native Species, is taking action to reduce the lionfish population. The organization has a team that is not only removing this invasive species but also using it as a way to generate income.
It has been a debate that has been ongoing for years, but when the Port Honduras Marine Reserve was first established, no fish traps were allowed inside the marine reserve. Some years later, someone discovered a glitch in the Statutory Instrument that was signed, and suddenly fish traps began to appear inside the reserve. Some...
BYRISE’s 3rd Annual Summer Camp came to a close on Friday July 24th. At the conclusion of the camp, certificates were presented to the young participants. For the first time, the camp also concluded with an exhibition baseball game, giving some of the children the opportunity to play in their very first baseball game.
On Friday July 24th, residents gathered to welcome and celebrate Belize’s men’s national volleyball team, following their gold-medal victory at the III AFECAVOL Men’s Final Four. The motorcade travelled through several streets in Punta Gorda before ending at Central Park. The celebration also recognized the achievement of a member of the national team who proudly...