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...
It has been over a decade now that the Guatemalan armed forces have continued to violate Belize’s sovereignty. On Saturday, the Guatemalan armed forces escalated their aggression and rammed into a Belize Defence Force boat on the Sarstoon. The Guatemalan armed forces clearly violated Belize’s sovereignty once again, and this time they were more aggressive...
The Belize Coast Guard and Rangers from TIDE have removed three illegal gillnets during a joint maritime enforcement patrol near Corona Reef. The operation was conducted on November 6th along Belize’s southern maritime border with Guatemala. The gillnets, which are prohibited fishing gear in Belizean waters, were located and removed during the patrol. During the...
Jahida Ramirez is a talented young author from Punta Gorda Town. On Monday morning, at the Welcome Center, she officially launched her new book, dedicated to the youth of Punta Gorda, Belize, and the world. A proud achievement for this young Belizean, using her creativity and passion to inspire the next generation. Congratulations, Jahida, and...
At Thursday’s BTIA meeting, one of the concerns raised was the poor condition of the Punta Gorda Vegetable Market. One resident took to social media to express concerns, pointing out that the Maria Lopez Market was funded by the European Union and the Government of Belize at a cost of $1 million in 2016. However,...
On Saturday October 31st, the Miss Garifuna Peini Pageant was held at the sporting complex. Four young ladies proudly showcased Garifuna culture, as they competed for the coveted crown. At the end of the evening, Miss Tiricy Colon emerged as the winner and was crowned Miss Garifuna Peini.
