External Trade, February 2020.
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The San Ignacio Hospital has phone numbers to call about fevers and coughs
The doctors of the San Ignacio Community Hospital along with doctors in the private sector are proud to begin providing phone consultations for patients with a fever and cough or flu-like symptoms. This service will start tomorrow morning and will be available daily from 8am -8pm. The numbers are listed below and are only for persons with the flu seeking medical consultation. Thank-you.
Belize Water Services Public Notice
Now that our country has confirmed cases of Covid-19, Belize Water Services is adhering to the guidelines set by the Government of Belize and the Ministry of Health. To comply with the State of Emergency declared for San Pedro, our office in San Pedro will be closed until clearance is given.
Please note that all other offices country-wide remain open. However, given the COVID-19 prevention guidelines, BWS encourages customers to utilize telephone and electronic means of contact to conduct business and to utilize online banking to make payments.
BELIZE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
The Belize Solid Waste Management Authority (BSWaMA) informs the public that the operational transfer stations in Belize City, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio/Santa Elena and Burrell Boom remain open for the reception of waste.
To safeguard human health and wellbeing, and to support the entities that provide waste collection service, the BSWaMA appeals to the public to exercise caution with respect to the management of waste generated within the household.
Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and Immigration and Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Sign Agreement on Cooperation in Breeding Sheep and Goat Project
A cooperation agreement between the Government of Belize and the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) was signed today, March 26th, by the Hon. Senator Godwin Hulse, Minister of Food and Agriculture, and Immigration and H.E. Remus Li-Kuo Chen, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for a four year “Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project”.
Channel 7
PM: Keep Calm And Don't Panic
We open tonight with an update on COVID-19 in Belize. There are still only two positive tests - both from San Pedro. Five more tests were done last night and they all came back negative. So far, a total of 82 tests have been performed: 80 negative and two positive.
And that's why in a special message to the nation tonight Prime Minister Dean Barrow is telling the nation not to panic.
Here's a portion of the ten minute dress released about an hour ago:
There's No Countrywide Quarantine
But, the PM's panic disclaimer aside, at midday today, it seemed that all of Belize froze when an official press release went out, titled, "Government of Belize Enacts Quarantine Order for Entire Country".
It sounded like the COVID-19 lockdown we have all been waiting for, either with dread or anticipation. But, it turns out, it was not. The headline was over the top, and what we all thought was a national lockdown was in fact just a list of simple rules to contain the spread of COVID-19.
A few minutes after the Quarantine Order came out, Attorney General Mike Peyrefitte appears on the Government's "Ask The Experts" show to say there is no national quarantine:
The Streets Unsure About Quarantine
We note that the rules do have the force of law and were made by the Quarantine Authority of Belize. Notably, under these new rules, the number of persons on a bus is no longer limited to 25 or less, the regulations say, quote, "Notwithstanding the restriction and limitation on public gathering, the provision of public transportation by bus is limited to the seating capacity of the bus." End quote. And, also notably, when we visited the bus terminal this evening, the new measures were not in effect. Those at the bus station tell us it will go into effect tomorrow when they will have water and soap for passengers to hand wash.
Some Stranded On San Pedro
Now in San Pedro there's a real quarantine and a state of emergency in effect, and it's been extended to 30 days. That town is in a virtual lockdown, with no boats or planes in or out of the island.
Things get a little busy between 7:00 and 10:00 am when shops, bakeries, and gas stations are permitted to open, but after midday, it goes back to silent mode. Residents tell us that those who still have money line up outside to get a turn inside the shops to get some groceries.
It's a tough situation for the place known as Belize's island paradise - which has turned into a sort of soft prison for those who got stranded there when the quarantine order came down.
Belize's Patient Zero Could Be Charged
And while the attorney General urges islanders and stranded persons to be patient, he has no patience for the island's Patient Zero. She infected her mother - age unknown - and according to authorities - it's because she did not stick to the rules of self isolation. The Attorney General says she could face charges:
Social Media Rumour Spreader Is Charged
And yesterday in the Senate, AG Peyrefitte announced that the state will no longer tolerate the spreading of any rumors related to COVID-19 which causes unnecessary public panic. Well tonight, one person who has been charged is a social media panic spreader. In a first of its kind arrest, 7News has learned that 25 year old Erika Yanira Vargas from Orange Walk has been charged for the offence of "Spreading False News".
Lawless Landlords Could Be Charged
And hopefully there will also be charges for heartless landlords on San Pedro who are evicting tenants in the middle of a state of emergency on the island. We have received such reports this week and the AG said it is illegal:
Hon. Michael Peyrefitte - Attorney General:
"You can only be kicked out by virtue of a directive from the Magistrate's court. Landlord can't come and kick you out..."
The National Kids Curfew
The Attorney General also detailed the national curfew for children which was signed into law yesterday. Under the curfew minors must be accompanied by an adult between 6:00 pm and 6:00 AM. Peyrefitte explained
Hon. Michael Peyrefitte - Attorney General:
"A child cannot be in public between 6 PM and 6 AM alone have to be accompanied and it says..."
The Big BTB Downsize Sent Home 35
Two weeks ago, we told you about the layoffs at the Belize Tourism Board. The word that we got was that 50 staffers were being sent home. Well, it's actually 35 - but they weren't just sent home: they got all their benefits with severance paid up, payment up to the end of March, along with an ex gratia payment of three months salary.
The separation package comes with a commitment that once the tourism economy rebounds and job functions are restored, they will be considered for re-employment.
Why War Of The Mayor's
Last night, we showed you our interview with Senate President Darrell Bradley. That was the conversation in which he discussed his decision to offer himself as a candidate for leadership of the UDP. Well, that press encounter allowed us the opportunity to ask him about the recent Belize City Council Audit that Mayor Bernard Wagner disclosed 2 weeks ago in a press conference.
You'll remember how Mayor Wagner painstakingly outlined the assessment that auditor Cedric Flowers did of City Hall's finances. A snapshot was taken of the last few months of Bradley's final term in office, and it was compared the same period during the Wagner administration's first year in office as the newly elected council.
Wingle Garbage Truck?
And while the two mayors can criticize each other - anyone can take shots at what we saw today. A City Council Wingle Pickup turned into.a garbage truck. It was loaded sky high with orange bags and the council workers were taking on more. It looks like a council fresh out of garbage trucks - after all it did sell a few last year. But, a council spokesperson told us the truck in the video was an old traffic truck reassigned to the Works Department.
Benjamin Reid Is Home Free After Two Years On Remand
Since May of 2018, he's been on remand for murder, but tonight 23-year-old Benjamin Alexander Reid is home free. That's after the DPP's Office had to abruptly end their prosecution against him.
Reid was charged with the May 2018 murder of 43-year-old Daniel Guardado, a Salvadoran mechanic, and a working man with no known gang or criminal ties. Sometime between May 5 and May 6 of that year, Guardado was on Partridge Street extension, and reports to 7News at that time was that he went to visit a mechanic friend to show off a new motorcycle he had purchased.
Cooking On a COVID Budget
In one way or the other we're all trying to cope with COVID-19, the global pandemic.
One thing no one wants to be uncertain about is whether or not they'll get their next meal. But in an economic downturn where more and more people are losing their jobs, it's a real concern.
And when it comes to preparing family meals for quarantine any come cook can find themselves a little overwhelmed. But if you're looking for a few ideas here's an entertaining clip from Chef Sean Kuylen.
How To Hold It Together In A World Falling Apart
On March 11th, 2020 COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic but accompanying the spread of the disease is a global rise in stress and anxiety levels. This comes at no surprise. We've all seen international news clips that feature plummeting markets, makeshift morgues, and senior citizens who not only die alone but whose families are prevented from giving them a proper burial.
It's no wonder that mental health professionals worldwide have commented that never before have they taken on something of this magnitude.
Port/CWU Quietly Meeting; 21 Days Notice Taken Off Table
Three weeks ago, the industrial action at the Port of Belize was all the news. And while operations have normalised at the Port of Belize, what about the 21 days notice of industrial action that the CWU gave?
Well, without anyone noticing, the two sides have been talking, both in person and with exchanges of letters.
Water And Phone Utilities Give To COVID Relief
Yesterday the Prime Minister announced that BTL, BWSL and BEL have all pledged a million dollars to the COVID relief effort.
He said BWSL is also giving a discount on water services:
And, BTL is giving free credit and upgraded bandwidth to its customers:
BEL Balks At Suspending Bills, Offers Other Cost Cutting
But unlike BTL and BWSL, BEL can't promise consumers any across the board ease on their bills. They say that can only be assessed on a case by case basis, corporate code for "come back tomorrow."
But, the Prime Minister also challenged top executives of the utilities to take a pay cut, like he did. Now, we didn't hear anything about that but here's what Sean Fuller, the General Manager of Communications and Retail Services, had to say about general cost cutting:
Women Pay The Price For Harbouring Male Gang Members
At the start of the citywide state of emergency police publicized wanted posters for a multitude of fugitives most of whom were wanted for the offense of being a member of a gang. At the time Commissioner of Police Chester Williams claimed to know where the majority of the fugitives had run to and he warned their friends and family members not to be caught harboring or giving shelter to men who were actively being sought by police because they too could face charges.
No G's Over 40 In Jail
And so while there will be more gangsters in prison, they will have a lot of company.
Well, we've seen a tally of all the suspected gang members who were rounded up and sent to jail under the state of emergency. That count, according to our sources, currently stands at 124 persons, representing 12 different gangs that are under the police department's magnifying lens.
Cops Still Don't Know Who Drove Dorian Anthony
2 days ago, we told you about that ugly traffic accident on the George Price Highway which claimed the life of 43-year-old Dorian Anthony, a resident of Belize City.
As we reported, sometime before 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Anthony was traveling in a red Mitsubishi Outlander SUV, and in the vehicle at the time with him was 57-year-old Gary Trapp and Dawn Myers. It is uncertain who was driving, and what exactly caused it, but when the vehicle arrived at an area between 12 and 13 on the George Price Highway, there was blow-out of its left rear wheel.
Bella Vista Bad-Man On Wild Robbery
Southern cops are looking for 4 men tonight who they say were involved in a brazen Monday night robbery near Bella Vista Village in the Toledo District.
At around 5 p.m., Nahum Banegas, a 57-year-old Salvadoran Security Guard, was riding his bicycle on his way to his house in Bella Vista. Before he could arrive, 4 men cornered him, put a beatdown on him, and then robbed him of his cellular phone and the cash he had on him. But, that wasn't enough for these thugs. They then forced Banegas to call his landlord on his cellphone that they stole from him. They then instructed him to lure his landlord from his home so that they could rob him as well.
The Men With The Golden Gun
In other news out of Bella Vista, police are also reporting that they've found an unlicensed firearm, and they've charged several persons for it.
At around 10:30 today, cops went to the village to conduct raids. They went to the home of 58-year-old Vilma Sanchez, a Honduran National.
Man Drowned In Santa Martha
Orange Walk Police are investigating the mysterious death of a man from that district who appears to have drowned.
He's been identified as 37-year-old Nolasco Gomez, and police say that he was found dead in a pond of water near Santa Martha Village.
Here's more from police on the case:
Nelson Nolberto Stabbed At Home
And finally, for tonight, we report on a stabbing which occurred in the early morning hours of Tuesday at a home on Grant's Alley in Belize City.
Police told us today that Nelson Nolberto Jr. was attacked by a relative after they had a quarrel:
Channel 5
Government Enacts Countrywide Safety Measures in Response to COVID-19
There is no national shutdown, but government today instituted strict safety measures country to prevent the spread of the deadly corona virus. The COVID-19 crisis has paralyzed chunks of Belize’s [...]
Practice Social Distancing!
The new normal includes safety measures such as the closure of many business establishments such as casinos, beauty salons, gyms, bars, and restaurants. Groceries stores will remain open, but owners [...]
Belize’s First COVID-19 Patient May Have Committed an Offence
The first COVID-19 case was imported; it involves a thirty-eight-year-old woman who entered the country after leaving Los Angeles last week Thursday. The Belizean woman was expected to self isolate [...]
Almost 3 Dozen B.T.B. Employees Take Termination Packages
The tourism sector has suffered a trashing from the halting of cruise visits, the closure of businesses and the locking off of all ports of entry to Belize. Since last week, the Belize [...]
G.O.B. Imposes Freeze on a Number of Measures to Limit Spending in Public Service
Government is moving to limit spending and contain expenditures in the public service by imposing a freeze on a number of measures due to the expected economic upheaval relating to [...]
Attorney General Addresses P.S.U.’s Concerns
Public Service Union of Belize is calling on government to close all non-essential government offices across the country. Some ministries and departments have decided to close doors due to while [...]
First Person Charged for Spreading Fake News, LOL
Twenty-five-year-old Erika Vargas, a resident of Orange Walk Town, is the first person on record to be charged with spreading false news. The arraignment follows a stern warning from Attorney [...]
La Isla Bonita Turns into Ghost Town Due to COVID-19
As we told you, residents of San Pedro Town tonight remain on lockdown. When we checked in today, the streets remain without traffic and Belize’s top tourist destination has become [...]
San Pedro Tenants Say Landlord Kicking Them Out
Another concern emerging from San Pedro Town is that landlords are kicking tenants out who can ill afford rents. These tenants are mostly non-residents of the island who are there [...]
Home-based Learning Continues; BJAT, PSE and CXC Postponed Indefinitely
Schools across the country have closed due to COVID-19 as a way to enforce social distancing among the young. It means that thousands of children are now at home and [...]
Food Minister Says Belize’s Food Stock Adequate
A main concern in the population is over food security so thousands are stock piling food item. A committee called the COVID-19 Food Supply Monitoring Committee met on Tuesday to [...]
New Measures Implemented for Public Buses
Earlier this week transport authorities met with the Belize Bus Association and other bus officials to discuss the movement of persons across the country. Several large operators closed off their [...]
San Ignacio/Santa Elena Officials Host COVID-19 Contingency Plan Session
In San Pedro and Belize City, residents have generally been staying home and activities on the streets have slowed down as a result of the measures to prevent the spread [...]
San Ignacio/Santa Elena Authorities Working to Keep Law and Order
We also spoke with Mayor Earl Trapp and Western Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Linden Flowers. They both outlined areas that they are working to enforce and manage to keep things [...]
S.I.B. Latest Economic Figures for February 2020
The Statistical Institute of Belize has released its most recent figures as it relates to the Consumer Price Index and External Trade Bulletin. Last month, consumer prices increased slightly, as [...]
Cuban Health Specialists to Assist Belize in Fight Against COVID-19
The world class Cuban health system is contributing across the world in the fight against the novel coronavirus. Belize and Antigua and Barbuda are the two most recent countries to [...]
Man Found Dead in the North; Did He Drown?
In other news, an Orange Walk man was found dead in a pond. Police say that no injuries were observed on the body and it is suspected that Nolasco Gonzalez, [...]
Robbery and Shooting in Bella Vista Village
Police are looking for four men who committed a robbery and shooting in Bella Vista Village earlier this week. On Monday, the assailants held up a security guard and robbed [...]
A Stabbing Between in-Laws
An argument between in-laws has left one person hospitalized and another facing an attempted murder charge. Police say that during the early hours of Tuesday morning, a family was socializing [...]
Investigation Into Fatal Accident Continues
Police say they still haven’t been able to determine who was driving the mini-SUV that was involved in the fatal crash on Tuesday morning. Forty-three-year-old Dorian Anthony was killed when [...]
Commercial Banks are Fully Prepared to Work with Indebted Customers
Financial institutions stand ready to work with their respective customers during this time of economic catastrophe. The Central Bank of Belize, led by Governor Joy Grant, has been instrumental not [...]
Distilleries to Produce Hand Sanitizers
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 worldwide, hand sanitizers and alcohol are virtually non-existent in stores and supermarkets. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is one of the best [...]
Belize Healthcare Partners Limited Prepared to Take In COVID-19 Patients
Belize Healthcare Partners Limited, a private facility, is taking a different approach to deal with an anticipated health crisis in the case of a COVID-19 outbreak. The hospital is functioning [...]
Healthy Living: Domestic Violence & Social Distancing
Typically in March, Belize would celebrate Women’s Month with a plethora of activities that would celebrate women, as well as, bring to focus the issues specific to our gender. All [...]
Amandala
Prime Minister: No National Shut Down; 2nd COVID-19 case confirmed
The Prime Minister at today’s COVID-19 National Oversight Committee has stated that there will not be a national shut down today. But if they must do so, based on certain triggers, that measure will be taken.
There is now a second confirmed case; she is the mother of the first COVID-19 patient in San Pedro. Other family members who were tested were negative.
Five additional persons in San Pedro who exhibited symptoms were tested and were all negative.
Police make first arrest for “Spreading False News” amid COVID-19 crisis
An arrest for “spreading false news” that is what happened today in the times of COVID-19 crisis.
In a report this evening, the Police Press Office confirmed that 25-year-old shelf attendant, Erika Yanira Vargas was charged for that offence after making the following post on social media at around 10 on Monday, March 23.
LOVE FM
PM’s message to the people of Belize
The Government’s Press Office issued a statement from the Prime Minister Dean Barrow late this evening. The ten-minute address aimed at instilling calm among the Belizean citizenry as several restrictions and actions are being taken to combat COVID-19.
Belize Zoo impacted by COVID-19 crisis
Every day more and more people around the globe continue to be impacted, economically, by COVID-19. In Belize, several businesses and vendors have shut their doors and employees have been laid-off or terminated.
Cuban medical professionals help fight against COVID-19 in Belize
The first group of the Cuban Medical Brigade arrived in Belize yesterday via the Philip Goldson International Airport. Our news team was on hand upon their arrival just before six o’clock.
Social gatherings now reduced to 10 persons only
In recent weeks the buzz words around the country and even the globe is social distancing. It is an act where humans have to become conscious of their surroundings, avoiding crowds and a constant presence in public spaces. The Government of Belize has been advocating for social distancing as a preventative measure in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Belmopan CitCo assists residents
The Belmopan City Council is preparing for a food drive initiative to help Belmopan residents for the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Cayo correspondent Fem Cruz has that story.
Darrell Bradley speaks on his decision to run for UDP leader
Today is the deadline for UDP aspirants to submit their names to vie for the position of party leader. As it stands, there are five people in the competition.
Nationwide Curfew for persons under 16
A curfew for minors is in effect for the entire country of Belize. If any minor is found on the streets without parental guidance, the parents will be arrested and charged.
Western Regional Hospital implements new measures
The Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan has set in place new measures following the announcement of the first COVID-19 case in Belize. Correspondent Fem Cruz spoke with the Regional Manager about these measures and has the details.
Transfer stations across the country remain open
The Belize Solid Waste Management Authority has stated that the operational transfer stations in Belize City, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio/Santa Elena and Burrell Boom remain open for the reception of waste.
Minor car accident in Belmopan
Two people are lucky to be alive after a traffic incident in Belmopan earlier this morning. Cayo correspondent Fem Cruz has the details.
Chetumal City Closes Its Entrances
The government of Quintana Roo, Mexico, has announced the closure of the entrances of Chetumal City. Governor Carlos Joaquin issued the order in an effort to protect the health of the citizens.
Darrell Bradley Comments On Audit Done By Current City Council
Two weeks ago, Mayor Bernard Wagner boasted about his Council’s 9% increase in revenues and how they managed to cut costs. He also lamented on the previous administration’s reckless spending, which, according to Mayor Wagner,...
Belize Is Not Under Quarantine
At 12:43 pm today the Government’s Press Office, which is being widely advertised as the only credible source of information, announced that a quarantine order was being enacted for the entire country of Belize. According...
Will Patient Zero Be Charged For Dishonesty?
Health officials have conducted a total of 82 tests for COVID-19 up to four o’clock this evening. This is according to the Minister of Health, Pablo Marin. Of the 82 tests carried out, there have...
Government Says Stop The Fake News
Long before the first confirmed case for COVID-19 was announced in Belize, social media had been blowing up with multiple fake news of cases, national shutdowns and pandemonium of sorts. It had gotten to the...
CXC Proposes Provisions In The Wake Of COVID-19
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced its strategy for the administration of May/June Examinations. The policy decision made is to tentatively have the exams in July and to offer a modified examination process.
Encouraging Nurses In The Wake Of Pandemic
The nurses in Belize are front liners in this fight against COVID-19. Their profession will have them taking care of patients with mild to severe symptoms of the pandemic and will be at risk to... 283 CORONA VIRUS UPDATE
Government Of Belize Enacts Quarantine Order For Entire Country
Belmopan. March 26, 2020. The Government of Belize, in response to the COVID-19 crisis, and in an effort to mitigate the negative impacts that could result from a potential community spread of the deadly virus...
Breaking Belize News
Nurses Association voices serious concerns about Belize’s COVID-19 preparedness strategy
Today, the Nurses Association of Belize issued a statement voicing its frustrations with the approach […]
Ministry of Health: 82 tests have been done so far
The Ministry of Health informed today that a further 5 tests were done for Covid-19 and […]
Ministry of Finance enacts interim cost saving measures amidst covid-19 pandemic
A memo from the Ministry of Finance today informed that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, […]
Prime Minister hopeful on coronavirus: “This too shall pass…we are fortune’s child”
On a day his administration ordered even tighter social controls to counter further spread of […]
Ladyville couple charged for harboring wanted criminals Jeffrey Buller and Lionel Longsworth
On Wednesday police visited a house on Marage Road in Ladyville. There, cops found wanted […]
Belize City women charged for housing wanted Ghost Town gangster
On Tuesday, police visited a home in the Belama Phase 4 area of Belize City […]
Hattieville woman charged for harboring wanted gangster
Rondean Gillett has found herself on the wrong side of the law. That is because when […]
Facebookers beware, Woman charged for spreading fake news on FB
Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte recently indicated that legislation was put in place for persons sharing […]
Exports down two months in a row, imports up slightly
According to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB), domestic exports were down for the month […]
Don’t squander second chance on coronavirus: WHO
The world squandered it’s first opportunity to stamp out COVID-19, the Director General of the […]
US government offers $15 million reward for Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro over drug trafficking charge
The United States Government says that it has charged Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro for narco-terrorism […]
Chair of Nursing and Midwife Council issues message to nurses
The country is currently being challenged by the threat of COVID-19 and nurses are being […]
Ministry of Food and Agriculture hold agri-food response meeting
An Agri-food response and mitigation to Covid-19 stakeholder meeting was convened by the Ministry of […]
Taiwan and Belize sign agreement on cooperation in breeding sheep and goat project
A cooperation agreement between the Government of Belize and the Government of Taiwan was signed […]
Why do Central Americans love Nayib Bukele?
We have seen videos of him firmly informing his nation about the measures for the […]
Taiwan embassy extends scholarship application deadline due to Covid-19
In response to COVID-19, the Embassy of Taiwan in Belize has made the following adjustments […]
Belize and Cuba come together to fight Covid-19
Both Belize and Cuba are being challenged by the threat of COVID-19. As a result, doctors and nurses have been asked to serve patients and communities who depend on them. Cuba has sent 60 doctors to Belize of varying ages who will be giving support to the Ministry of Health and the country during this stressful period of time. The delegation of doctors arrived in Belize safely on March 25th.
Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association: Update on COVID-19
The global pandemic continues to have a major impact on our industry, with no clear end in sight. Containment and mitigation remain our best chance of minimizing its impact. Hence, we need to be relentless in our ongoing efforts to influence social behaviors, informing and educating ourselves, our employees, family and associates.
Information is updated and added regularly at www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com/covid-19
International Sources
CARIBBEAN TRAVEL NEWS ROUNDUP- March 27, 2020
Here are the top stories making news on the Caribbean travelscene for March 27, 2020:
Over 20 people have now died from COVID-19 in the Caribbean including 10 in the Dominican Republic.
There are now over 1,000 cases of the dreaded new coronavirus in the caribbean including some 488 in the Dominican Republic; 81 in Martinique and 73 in Guadeloupe.
Three Caribbean countries reported their first cases of covid-19 thursday. the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis and Anguilla now have two cases each after staying coronavirus free for weeks.
Cheap antibody test sent for validation in coronavirus fight
A British company behind a 10-minute coronavirus antibody test, which will cost about a $1, has begun sending prototypes to laboratories for validation, which could be a game-changer in the fight against the pandemic. Health technology firm Mologic, which created one of the first at-home pregnancy tests, is aiming for the test to be rolled out by as early as June if the trials are successful.
Antibody tests are designed to establish whether people have previously been infected, as opposed to antigen tests which show if someone actually has the COVID-19 disease caused by the virus.
Videos
CURRENT SITUATION IN CAYE CAULKER, 10min.
CONCERNED RESIDENTS ON WATER TAXI SERVICES, 3min.
Even though stores are open we strongly encourage everyone to stay at home, 2.5min. If you do decide to go out for essentials make sure you practice social distancing both inside and outside the store. Do not have conversations while waiting in line. When you reach home, change into a new set of clothes or take a bath. To take extra measures, disinfect all products you bought.
Belize 2020, 3.5min. I got the chance to travel to Belize in February to work in schools and help build a playground. Huge thanks to Literacy Without Borders and their team of Rotarians for incuding the Macewan Rotaract Club in your project!
COVID-19, 2min. Understand the damage that is being done to the lungs and the severity of the damage to the lungs in those who become seriously ill.
This is not just the common flu or a typical pneumonia, for which there are vaccines and treatments.
COVID-19 spreads rapidly and invisibly throughout communities through contact with others who have it, whether they have symptoms or not.
Keep those who have it in your hearts and prayers. They didn’t ask to get it. They did not intend to give it to others. It could have been you.
Thursday's ASK THE EXPERTS, 54min.
Channel 5 Daily Obituaries - KALIM HABET, 1min.
How to store your medications, 19min. We closed the show with an educational segment on how to store your medications. This will become important for those who have chronic illnesses and will be required to stock up on medications at home. Lydia Thurton is a registered pharmacist and a lecturer at the University of Belize. She shared information on how to properly house your medications (both pills and liquids) that they maintain their potency and can serve their purpose.
The Social Security Board - COVID-19 Update, 33min. The Social Security Board is making adjustments to support the country as we prepare to face COVID-19. You can now submit claim forms via email to claims@socialsecurity.org.bz. They are also creating a facility to support businesses and they are also waiving the payment of deductions to reduce cash strain for employers. Their representatives gave us all the details and advised that there will be more announcements via a Press Conference scheduled for tomorrow. On our couch:
Chandra Cansino - General Manager, Corporate Customer Relation Services (SSB)
Dough Singh - Chairman, Social Security Board
Social distancing necessary precautions to prevent spread of COVID-19, 27min. Dr. Johanne Perez helped us understand social distancing so that we are able to practice to prevent spread of COVID-19. He talked about how to be proactive in taking the necessary precautions to protect yourself from contracting the COVID-19 virus.
A message from the Prime Minister of Belize, 10min. Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow's Reassurance to the Nation Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic.
COVID Cooking, 2min. When it comes to preparing family meals for quarantine any come cook can find themselves a little overwhelmed. But if you're looking for a few ideas here's an entertaining clip from Chef Sean Kuylen. Kuylen who is currently camped on an island near Dangriga says that most Belizeans meals are cheap and simple, they can be made from 5 ingredients or less:
The Attorney General Hon. Michael Peyrefitte Explains the Safety Measures Enacted under the Quarantine Act signed March 25, 2020, 37min.
Blue Hole Scenic Flight - Belize, 2min. Earlier this year we took a scenic flight over the Blue Hole in Belize. As expected, it was incredible!
BELIZEAN JOHNNY LINDO: SPEAKING FOR THE RECORD!, 30min. Passing through one of the most popular hangout spots for Belizeans here in the Los Angeles Belizean community, my acquaintance with Johnny Lindo came by coincidence seeing his quiet demeanor sitting down minding his own business. Someone had told me to check with him about information on sports, politics and culture in Belize that can enrich my documentary series. And so my becoming immediately interested being one who had been seeking out any kind of Belizean culture, history, music and politics which those in the diaspora brought with them but remains hidden until excavated.
Amazing Snorkeling in Belize, 4min. My family and I went on a snorkeling catamaran tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley off the coast of San Pedro, Belize. It was an incredible experience!
Belize Zoo impacted by COVID-19 crisis, 2.5min. The Belize Zoo located on the Western Highway have reported a significant decrease in visits over the past two weeks. In speaking with the founding director of the Belize Zoo, Sharon Matola, she explained to us that this decrease has impacted them significantly. They are now asking for the public’s assistance in acquiring food to feed the approximate 200 animals at the zoo.
BELIZE 2020, 23min. A COMBINATION OF OUR DIVE VIDEOS TAKEN IN BELIZE , AMBERGRIS CAYE WITH OUR DIVE MASTERS FROM NO WORRIES TOURS IN 2020.
Belize Investment Portfoilio | National Call for Projects (March 2020), 54min. On March 26, 2020, BelizeINVEST, a Unit of the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE), hosted an online Webcast under its National Call for Projects for the Belize Investment Portfolio (BIP) given its Business Continuity Plan (BCP) under COVID-19.
Belize 2020, 24min.
March 26, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Ambergris Caye’s quarantine extended to 30 days; second positive COVID-19 case related to Patient 1
San Pedro Town’s mandatory quarantine has been extended to 30 days after Belize registered its second COVID-19 (Coronavirus) case. The first case was announced on Monday, March 23rd by Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow, and on Wednesday, March 25th PM Barrow confirmed that the second positive case was the first patient’s mother. Upon the announcement of the initial quarantine on Monday around 3PM, the business sector on the island shut down, leading to the closure of restaurants, shops, supermarkets, pharmacies and gas stations among others.
Rabies and Blackleg vaccination for cattle strongly recommended
Given the current spike in cases of Rabies and Blackleg in cattle in various regions of Belize, the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Health and Belize Livestock Producers Association, once again advises livestock producers to vaccinate their animals against Rabies and Blackleg. Cattle farmers are reminded that these vaccinations must be done on an annual basis.
Sugar Industry Commits to Continue 2020 Crop
With the constantly changing nature of the COVID-19 situation globally and locally, we remain vigilant to respond effectively in these challenging times. At Belize Sugar Industries Ltd. (BSI), the safety and health of our employees, customers, partners, stakeholders, and community are at the heart of all we do. We are taking every precaution to protect all stakeholders, employees and work environment to prevent its spread.
Change in the Pump Price of Fuel Effective March 25, 2020
The Ministry of Finance announces that on Wednesday, March 25th, the pump price for diesel will decrease by 99 cents from $9.24 to $ 8.25 per gallon.
The prices for premium gasoline, regular gasoline, and kerosene will remain unchanged at $10.92, $10.23, and $6.62 per gallon, respectively.
Belize Electric Company Ltd. donates BZD$200,000 to COVID19 Response
Lynn Young, President, and CEO of Belize Electric Company Ltd. (“BECOL”), a subsidiary of Fortis Inc. (“Fortis”), announced a BZD$200,000 contribution to the COVID19 Pandemic Response Initiative (“COVID19 Response”).
Even before the first case of COVID19 was confirmed in Belize, the Government has been diligently preparing and ramping up the country’s health care facilities. “We have an urgent need for protective gear for our medical and support staff. This donation will go a long way in helping us to procure the necessary gear and medical supplies,” said Dr. George Gough, CEO of the Ministry of Health.
COVID-19 Measures taken by the Belize Postal Service
The Belize Postal Service is an essential service department. As such it will endeavor to continue to provide postal services to the Belizean public to the extent that it can reasonably do so.
Notwithstanding the above, the Belize Postal Service strives to make postal services available amid the detection of the COVID-19, the point must be emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of all its employees is of paramount importance. As such, every decision to continue to offer this vital service to the public will be taken with the safety and wellbeing of its staff into full consideration.
Ambergris Today
State Of Emergency In San Pedro Extended To 30 Days
The second case in the country of Belize has been confirmed to be the mother of the woman confirmed with the first corona virus case, both in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Her infection is said to have come about from direct contact with her daughter. Other family members were screened and tested with negative results.
PM Barrow also indicated that there were five other people tested in San Pedro, separate from the first case, and all results came back negative. Four other tests were conducted on the mainland, all proving negative results of COVID-19.
Town Council Updates On Conditions For COVID-19 State Of Emergency
In the joint press conference delivered today by the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. John Briceño, it was confirmed that there is a second case of COVID-19 which resulted in being the mother of the first victim. In light of this information, Ambergris Caye’s state of emergency has been extended to 30 days, but may likely terminate before then. This time will allow MOH to continue with its necessary mapping investigation from the first and second victim.
Lord Michael Ashcroft To Contribute $10 Million To Help Belize Combat COVID-19
The press release reads: “COVID-19 has impacted many countries around the world and on March 23, 2020, our very own Belize confirmed its first case. Having spent the last two weeks in the country and personally witnessing its impact on the overall economy of Belize and the lives of ordinary Belizeans, Lord Michael Ashcroft has agreed to contribute BZ$10 Million to the national effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. This sum will be deposited with the Belize Bank, who will be the custodian of the funds to be disperse on behalf of Lord Ashcroft.”
Various Belizean Sources
Notice to Commercial Users and Water Boards on Rudimentary Water Systems
The public, especially those served by rudimentary water systems, is hereby reminded that these systems were designed for DOMESTIC use only.
The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development is aware that there are water bottle companies connected to these systems that are using a considerable amount of water affecting the residents of the villages. The village water boards are strongly advised to immediately address this practice in order to ensure that the priority, which is the residential water consumption, is met.
BELIZE ELECTRIC COMPANY LTD. DONATES BZD $200,000 TO COVID19 RESPONSE
Lynn Young, President and CEO of Belize Electric Company Ltd. (“BECOL”), a subsidiary of Fortis Inc. (“Fortis”), today announced a BZD$200,000 contribution to the COVID19 Pandemic Response Initiative (“COVID19 Response”).
BAY Viral Selfie Competition
The Belmopan Active Youth are having a selfie competition. Show they how you are preventing the spread of the virus, and you could win. Best of luck! Stay safe and healthy.
A huge thank you to the men and women on the force during these times!
COMPOL Chester Williams & the entire Belize Police Department continue to do their best in enforcing the measures implemented by the COVID-19 Task Force Committee. However, everyday the Officers continue to encounter some resistance, it is with this in mind that we implore upon all to work with us to keep our country COVID-19 Free.
US Embassy EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The U.S. Embassy is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the following position:
Security Investigator (Foreign Service National Investigator)
Closing date: April 8, 2020
Works at Belize Heritage Plaza and Yarborough Football Field project Suspended
The public is hereby informed that in pursuance to the Government of Belize and Ministry of Health’s recommendations concerning COVID-19, the Belize City House of Culture and Rejuvenation Project will be suspending all works at our Belize Heritage Plaza and Yarborough Football Field project sites effective, Thursday, March 26, 2020. This closure is necessary for the safety and wellbeing of our contractors and the public. It is anticipated that works will continue as soon as the all clear is given by GOB and MOH. We regret any inconveniences caused.
Help Hope Haven help our disadvantaged Islanders
If you are in a position to donate please help Hope Haven help our disadvantaged Islanders who are in need of food subsidization.
Many peoples income stopped instantly or was cut back drastically. While some employers are doing their best to subsidize wages not all are able too.
Maya body painting for rituals, battles and sacrifices
Body paint and animal skin was used to effectively display status among Maya warriors. Helmets were not common to the Maya, nevertheless they utilized elaborate headdresses as protection for their heads.
Below is an animated depiction of how the Maya possibly painted themselves in time for battles, rituals or sacrifices.
COVID-19 Measures Taken by the Department of Transport
The Department of Transport (DOT) continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health to address some of the challenges related to COVID-19.
The Department’s main focus at this point is to maintain uninterrupted, but safe, public transportation services to all commuters countrywide until otherwise notified by the Government of Belize. The DOT in collaboration with the Transport Board and the Belizean Bus Association (BBA) hereby notifies the public of the following new measures:
Change in the Pump Price of Fuel Effective March 26, 2020
The Ministry of Finance announces that on Thursday, March 26, 2020, the pump price for kerosene will decrease by $1.19 from $6.62 to $ 5.43 per gallon.
The prices for premium gasoline, regular gasoline and diesel will remain unchanged at $10.92, $10.23 and $8.25 per gallon, respectively.
SPTC Update on Covid-19 and Considerations for State of Emergency
In the joint press conference delivered today by the Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. John Briceño, it was confirmed that there is a second case of COVID-19 which resulted in being the mother of the first victim. In light of this information, Ambergris Caye’s state of emergency has been extended to 30 days, but may likely terminate before then. This time will allow MOH to continue with its necessary mapping investigation from the first and second victim.
Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. and the San Pedro’s EOC committee on the advice from the Ministry of Health, hereby inform the general public that some considerations will be made in order to accommodate the needs of the residents in Ambergris Caye due to the 30-day extension of the state of emergency; they are as follows:
Administering First Aid in the context of COVID 19
Situation: many countries have taken quarantine measures, however people might face situations which require first aid at home or somewhere else. They have to pay particularly attention to the ageing population.
Prevention: as much as possible, people should use a hydro-alcoholic/disinfectant solution and/or be closed to a place where they can wash their hands. It is important to clean hands BEFORE and AFTER providing first aid, to reduce infection transmissions.
Unconscious casualty and breath checking: airway must be clear and open, the first aider tilts slightly the head and observes the chest movements, and feels the air onto his/her hand (not forgetting after using disinfectant solution or washing hands). He/she have to avoid approaching his/her face to the mouth of the victim or use ideally a bag-valve-mask.
COVID-19 Test Samples – Update No. 1
The Ministry hereby provides a report on an initial mapping exercise in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The mapping exercise allowed the Ministry to test seven persons who were the immediate contacts of the index case. One immediate contact from those individuals resulted as a positive case. The patient is stable and has no signs or symptoms as of today. All other samples are negative. To date, there are two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Belize.
In addition, five other samples which were collected from two other districts all tested negative. As part of the ongoing enhanced surveillance, further tests which were collected today, March 25th, in San Pedro and other districts will be processed at the lab later today. The Ministry of Health will continue its enhanced public surveillance across the country.
Message to Nurses from the Chair of the Nursing and Midwife Council
The country is currently being challenged by the threat of COVID-19 and as nurses we are being asked to perform in ways that we never had before - to serve our patients and communities who depend on us. We all may have concerns about both the professional realities and implications of working in unfamiliar circumstances or settings. We had to reevaluate the way we provide care, and some of us may have even begun to question whether or not we should remain as frontline caregivers.
Cuban Medical Professionals Help Belize Fight COVID-19
Today, March 25th, Belize welcomed 32 members of the “Henry Reeve” International Contingent of Cuban Health Professionals who are specialised to assist in times of disaster and pandemics.
The team of health professionals arrived in Belize to support the country’s response to the COVID-19 global pandemic. They were received by Hon. Pablo Marin, Minister of Health; Mrs. Lizette Perez Perez, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Belize; and Lou-Anne Burns Martínez, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belize.
Minister Marin took the opportunity to thank President Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the medical professionals, and especially the Cuban people for supporting Belize as a part of their efforts worldwide to limit the spread and effect of the virus.
Agri-Food Response and Mitigation to COVID-19 Stakeholders Meeting
An Agri-food Response and Mitigation to COVID-19 Stakeholder Meeting was convened by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture on March 24, 2020.
The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Hon. Godwin Hulse chaired the session. In attendance were Hon. Jose Mai, key government partners, and private sector stakeholders of the productive sector.
The objectives of the meeting were the following:
1. To verify the results of a food stock availability survey of the basic food basket commodities;
2. To identify and address specific short- and medium-term challenges to the sector arising from the global pandemic; and
3. To develop a mechanism for communication, coordination, and continuity in the face of COVID-19.
Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry
COVID-19 Preventative Measures
As advised by the Ministry of Health and the Government of Belize, the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry will be limiting its services to the public until further notice.
Effective immediately, the office will be open to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 12: 00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. only. The office will be closed to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
During these hours, the following restrictions apply:
• Persons must form a line to access services and maintain a distance of at least 3 feet between each other...
UPDATED BUS SCHEDULES
Business Community in Belize Sends Donation
in Solidarity with Cuba
oday, March 25th, members of the business community in Belize donated more than BZ$8,000.00 worth of supplies at short notice to assist Cuba with its efforts to prevent the spread of the COVID-19.
The donated items include soap powder, bar soap, bath towels, sheets, cleaners and disinfectants, and garbage bags. The supplies are being sent to Cuba with the support of TAG Airlines.
Utility Relief
BWS - 25% reduction in rates for all residential users using 3000 gallon/month for March, April and May (that is about 65% of residential users)
BEL - will deal with requests for relief on a case by case basis (they pay for their supply of electricity that they don't themselves generate)
BTL - discounted and free Top-Up for Pre-Paid customers, increase in bandwidth
NO need to hoard or overbuy food or materials.
Ocean Ferry Schedule
MORALES TRANSPORT BUS SCHEDULE UPDATE
Hello dear customers, we have decided to have one run daily, effective immediately. We have taken the necessary action to assist those that need to get to work. This will be until further notice. Kindly subscribe to be kept informed and receive our latest updates via our Newsletter.
Travel Alert – U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize
As the government of Belize continues to issue more directives to promote social distancing there may be instances of civil unrest. Many people, under stress, may resort to aggressive or violent behavior. Be aware of what is happening around you when in Belmopan or other areas. Grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals, and gas stations may be areas where the chances of people getting frustrated or desperate are particularly high. Police and military are stretched extremely thin at this time and responses to incidents may be even more delayed than usual. If you sense something is wrong, trust your instincts and immediately leave the area.
Channel 7
Second COVID Case Confirmed In Belize, It's Not Imported
Tonight, we start with the news that a second case of COVID 19 has been confirmed in Belize - and it's directly related to the first case on San Pedro.
The Prime Minister gave very preliminary details at a press conference three hours ago:..
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"Just before I took to the podium, the Minister of Health called me to say that there is a second confirmed case but it is that the first confirmed case infected one of her family members, indeed her mother. There were other family members that were screened and sampled and tested, they all were negative and they were 5 additional persons in San Pedro tested, not related to the first case at all but who it appeared, that might have been exhibiting symptoms that warranted they be tested, all negative..."
No National Shutdown, Not Yet
So, with an in-country transmission from the first infected person to her mother, by the textbook classification, that would qualify as a stage two situation.
Today, rumours went wild that there would be an immediate national shutdown. But, again, those were just baseless and panic inducing rumours. The Prime Minister opened the press conference by emphatically saying that there will be no national shutdown - not yet at least:
"We're not announcing a national shutdown; we're not announcing the declaration of a state of emergency. So, I want to make clear to the people of this country that it may yet come to that, if it does, we will give some notice and in any event since that is at the very least a possibility and I would go so far as to say a likelihood depending on how things evolve, I need to make clear right at the start that, if he got to that point, it would not mean that every last little thing would be locked down, there would be no need for people to rush the supermarkets, there would be no need for any run of the banks..."
Economic Czar: It's a Catastrophe
Now, many thousands who have lost their jobs in the tourism sector as a result of the global pandemic, must look to the government for assistance.
And that means the economic czars, one appointed by the Government, the other by the Leader of the opposition.
Today, government's representative said it is an economic catastrophe:
"It's true to say the situation in the economy is catastrophic as is what we describe it as because it is not only the tourism sector, it is the allied sectors, everybody that contributes to tourism and that's a really large sector of the economy that we're talking out. The information that we have suggest that we're talking about upwards of 80% of the employees in the hotel sector that are losing their jobs, that's 80% of about 14 thousand people..."
Banks Give A Break
Dr. A. Joy Grant - Governor, Central Bank:
"The cooperation from the banks has been a stellar and what they have agreed to do primarily is to look at the loans that will need to be refinanced. There are different approaches, one bank took the position that every loan that was performing on their books, they would give a moratorium 3 months of principal and interest and if you don't want the moratorium them it was up to you, to get in touch with the bank to say that you don't want it. The others have taken the position that you will come into the bank and negotiate with the them about what is the best thing for you..."
SSB Will Provide Benefits To the Suddenly Unemployed
And there will also be more relief for employers who have lost their revenue and employees who have lost their income.
The Chairman of the Social Security Board outlined the measures they will take to give relief to those who have lost their jobs:
"We are proposing a statutory instrument to the government and it is in the making, where we will provide an amendment to the regulations act that will set aside that exemption period for anybody who is infected by COVID 19. What does that mean? It means that if you lost your employment and this is for people who had lost their employment as result of COVID 19, meaning the absence of tourist of a result of it, individuals who work in the hotel industry who the hospitality industry or anybody else who are affected and job was compromised as a result of COVID 19..."
Special Consideration for Exposed Healthcare Workers
And while those benefits are for workers who have lost their jobs, what about those healthcare workers on the frontline who have to deal with the COVID Cases? The Prime Minister says there will be special funds for them:
"I want to make clear that those frontline persons will be taken care of fully and completely in so far as personal protective equipment is concerned. In so far as dealing first of all with the workers at the KHMH, in so far as finding separate quarters for them to live in, a part from their family homes, while they are on the front lines of the struggle..."
Self-Important Senate (Still!) Debates Budget
There was a Senate Meeting in Belmopan to follow up on last week's business in the House of Representatives, which included the passing of the budget for the next fiscal year, known as the General Revenue Appropriation Bill for 2020/2021.
You'll remember that during last week Thursday's House meeting, there was no debate, which was a rare - if not unprecedented - occurrence. The ruling Government and the Opposition decided that in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has no time for political bickering on the floor of the House of Representatives. Viewers are also aware that this Bill also allowed the Barrow Government to seek parliamentary approval to get access to the first 25 million dollars in relief funds for all those Belizeans in the tourism sector who are out of a job because of the COVID-19.
Hon. Darrell Wants To Be Leader
Tomorrow is the deadline to submit names for UDP Leadership candidates, and tonight we can report that the field has widened considerably. What was already a crowded three man race, how now turned into a five man race.
President of the Senate Darrell Bradley put in his name yesterday, and, reliable reports say that three time Pickstock area representative Wilfred Elrington did so today.
Assuming no one drops out - which is a big assumption - in a five man race for the majority votes from 570 delegates, the winner would only need to get the support of 115 delegates.
Chairman Peyrefitte Gets Ready For Five Way Leadership Convention
The media also got an opportunity to speak with UDP Chairman Michael Peyrefitte after this morning's Senate Meeting. He took a few questions from the press about the interest that Darrell Bradley and Wilfred Elrington are taking in the leadership of the party. Here's what he had to say to say this afternoon about the 5 candidates who will be running to replace Party Leader of the last 22 years Dean Barrow:
Michael Peyrefitte- Attorney General:
"In the last 24 hours two members of the National Assembly have expressed interest in the leadership of the UDP. That's the president of the Senate Hon. Darrell Bradley and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Wilfred Elrington. And yes, they have both sent in their applications and they are the two latest ones to do so."
You Could Go To Jail For COVID Panic Rumours
But the UDP convention, originally scheduled for April 5th, has been postponed indefinitely, so that is on the backburner.
COIVD is all the news now, and as we told you in our first segment - the Prime Minister opened today's press conference refuting rumours that there would be an immediate national shutdown.
And the Government stressed today that it will no longer tolerate the spreading of these rumors which causes more fear in an already panicked society. This afternoon, Attorney General Michael Peyefitte told his colleagues in the Senate today that his office will start prosecuting individuals who are spreading these types of rumors:
City Buses Face Diminishing Returns
And one of the rumours has been that city buses may stop running - but that one is within the realm of possibility.
And what would happen if city buses stopped running? That's a question that many commuters have been asking because like most unimaginable scenarios it's quickly becoming a likelihood. This morning we headed to the headquarters of City Shuttle to speak to Owner Phillip Jones. Jones says that while business is bad in the era of COVID-19 commuters were there for him in the good times and he wants to be there for them now.
Boots, Kicking Up Dust
And, in other news.
Residents of the Port Loyola Area have been calling us saying that they have a COVID concern. Their Area Representative Boots Martinez has been trucking in loads of clay off Faber's Road, and the dust storms raised by the dump trucks are causing sore throats and asthma attacks - an unwelcome hazard in a world preparing to fight the respiratory virus of immediate concern, COVID-19.
Cuban Medical Bridgade Arrives
It's been 25 years of diplomatic relations between Belize and Cuba and in that time one of the island's most valued exports has been the dozens and dozens of doctors that have come to work and save lives in Belize. And today in Belize's greatest hour of need, we can all breathe a little easier because a brigade of thirty-two Cuban doctors has just arrived. They stepped onto the tarmac of the closed Philip Goldson International Airport just before 6:00 this evening, flying their country's flag, and received the warmest possible greeting from Minister of Health Pablo Marin and CEO of Foreign Affairs Annie Lou Burns.
List Flight To Canada
And, also at the airport earlier today was a special Westjet charter flight from Canada chartered to fly out 14 Canadians who were stranded on the islands.
They flew out this morning from Caye Caulker - where they were lathered with hand sanitiser before they got into the plane, then flown to San Pedro, and then to the PGIA - where all the Tropic Air workers were masked.
We are told that they didn't go into the PGIA, customs and Immigration met them at the back where they were processed.
Bus Schedules Being Discussed With Regulators
The Department of Transport is reporting tonight, that they are working with the bus operators to return some normalcy to public transportation for Belizeans workers who need to commute between districts to reach their job sites.
A press release note that the focus is to maintain uninterrupted but safe public transportation.
The restoration of bus runs will come with some changes. The Department notes that the workaround will have to remain flexible, depending on how the COVID-19 situation develops in Belize. As a result, the availability of bus runs could change without notice. Next, public transport will be limited to seated passengers only; no standees will be allowed.
Hon. Briceno: 125M is a "Drop In the Bucket" For Enormous Crisis
Going back now to today's press conference, the COVID relief fund is now at 125 million dollars. Last week, the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition said it was 275 thousand dollars but they have pushed that up. Even so, the Leader of the Opposition says it is just a drop in the bucket.
Briceno and Barrow Against Eviction
Briceno also addressed the issue of unlawful evictions. It's actually a part of what's behind that attempted exodus from San Pedro. People have nowhere to stay because they lost their jobs, can't pay their weekly rent, and their landlords are giving them the boot, COVID or not. It's illegal, immoral and just plain wrong. The PUP leader said he won't stand for it:
Agrifood Supplies Assessed
Earlier you heard the Prime Minister speak about the finding that Belize currently has enough food domestically to support itself. That was the determination of "An Agri-food Response and Mitigation to COVID-19 Stakeholder Meeting" which was held yesterday.
Minister of Agriculture Godwin Hulse chaired the session, which included the PUP's Jose Mai, key government partners, and private sector stakeholders of the productive sector.
According to a release, the Food Stock Availability survey confirmed that as of March 24, 2020, Belize has sufficient available supply in storage or in the field of the basic food and feed grains to sustain the population for over six months.
National Child Curfew In Effect
Effective tonight a curfew has been put into effect for all minors. It started in Belize City last week during the declared state of emergency but it has now been put into effect countrywide. The Regulation which was signed today is cited as amendment four to the Families and children act states quote: "Every minor shall be and remain within the confines of private property during the hours of 6:00 pm at night and 6:00 am the following morning unless the minor is accompanied by a parent or guardian."
Police Strike a Pose
Taking a cue from the KHMH medical staff, the senior command of the police department today sent their COVID-19 awareness message, by striking a pose, with a purpose.
Knelling atop Independence Hill, Commissioner Chester Williams and his top officers "We are here for you, work with us, lets make Belize COVID-19 free."
A charming picture, emulating the KHMH one, and confirming that Corona is definitely Belize's least wanted international fugitive.
Finnegan Market Will Remain Open, For Now
Yesterday, when we were at the Michael Finnegan market, we heard a lot fo concerns about whether the market would be closing because of social distancing regulations. Well, today the Belize City Council announced that the market will remain open on what it calls a day to day basis. The council urges customers to practice social distancing and says it will try to keep crowds in the market to 25 at a time.
Channel 5
A Second Confirmed Case of COVID-19; Woman Infected Her Mother
Tonight there is a second case of the highly contagious corona virus. The second case is the mother of the thirty-eight year old resident of the San Pedrito area of [...]
State of Emergency for Ambergris Caye is Extended for 30 days
San Pedro remains under lockdown tonight as San Pedranos observe a state of emergency imposed since Monday following the announcement of the first case of the virus. Generally, the streets [...]
PM Barrow: “No National Shutdown Just Yet”
Prior to this afternoon’s press conference, there had been persistent hearsay on social media that the prime minister would be bringing into effect a countrywide lockdown in attempting to mitigate [...]
No Need to Panic Amid Coronavirus Chaos
According to PM Barrow, should a countrywide state of emergency become imminent, citizens must not panic. In the case of such eventuality, the prime minister says that the national taskforce, [...]
Local Economy Di Tek Serious Lick
As the nation braces for a crisis provoked by the COVID 19, several measures were announced today at a press conference by the national Oversight Committee, to ease the pain [...]
$150 Bi-weekly for Laid-off Tourism Workers
Belize’s economic performance in light of the existing crisis is very poor and it will take months for the country to rebound from the doldrums of COVID-19. Gross domestic product, [...]
PM Barrow Acknowledges $10 Million Donation by Lord Michael Ashcroft
Lord Michael Ashcroft, who has been in Belize for two weeks, made a significant announcement today as the country braces for the spread of COVID-19. Lord Ashcroft is making a [...]
Contributions by Utility Companies
During his presentation today, PM Barrow also spoke about the contributions made by the utility companies. On Tuesday, B.E.L. said its hands are tied when it comes to cancellation of [...]
Landlords Summarily Evicting Tenants is Unlawful
The Leader of the Opposition who is the co-chair of the Oversight Committee joined the Prime Minister at a press conference this afternoon. There have been numerous reports of property-owners [...]
Despite Additional Funds, Financial Relief is Still Only a Drop in the Bucket
Government is stepping up efforts to raise public funds to aid Belizeans, and while it is now looking at an initial one hundred and twenty-five million dollars in financial relief, [...]
Kerosene Price Goes Down
With prices for crude oil dropping on the international market, kerosene prices will go down at the pump at midnight tonight. The Ministry of Finance says the price for kerosene [...]
Is the Michael Finnegan Market Closing its Gates? Not So Says CitCo!
Reports surfaced this morning that the Michael Finnegan Market was closing down. The information online suggested that vendors were all leaving at midday because the market would be shutting down. [...]
Senate Approves 2020-2021 Budget with $25M COVID-19 Assistance Package
A Special Sitting of the Senate took place today in Belmopan for senators on both sides of the aisle to approve the General Appropriations Bill 2020-2021. When it went to [...]
Senate Debates Budget 2020-2021
Social partner senators Mark Lizarraga and Elena Smith, along with U.D.P. Senator Doctor Carla Barnett, also shared their views on certain sections of the Prime Minister’s budget. Senators are calling [...]
First Cohort of Cuban Medical Professionals Touch Down in Belize
Late this evening, a chartered flight arrived from Havana, Cuba landed at the Philip Goldson International Airport. On board was a team of Cuban medical professionals, who will be here [...]
Frontline Health Personnel to be Given Augmented Compensation Packages
Cuba has had a medical brigade deployed in Belize comprising doctors and nurses for years now. At the press conference earlier today, Prime Minister Dean Barrow spoke about how important [...]
5 Persons, Including Wilfred Elrington, Vying for Leadership of the U.D.P.
The United Democratic Party postponed its national leadership convention amidst the COVID-19 situation that has been plaguing the world. The deadline for applications is set for March twenty-sixth and at [...]
Darrell Bradley for U.D.P. Leader
Darrell Bradley is currently the President of the Senate. He ran as the U.D.P. standard bearer for Caribbean Shores in 2015, but was defeated by the P.U.P.’s Kareem Musa. Bradley [...]
Tracy’s Relief Aid Comes Under P.U.P. Fire
Albert area representative Tracy Panton has come under fire from the People’s United Party after it came to their attention that relief being offered to constituents appeared to be blatant [...]
Food Security During National Emergency
The issue of food security in a case of national emergency is paramount. While he alluded to the fact that government is doing everything in its means to ensure that [...]
Can Laid Off B.T.B. Employees Double Dip in Relief Funds?
Last week, the Belize Tourism Board laid off a majority of its employees and provided them with compensation packages that should cover the next four months. But would they still [...]
COVID-19 Patient Isolation Unit Will Remain at K.H.M.H.
Prime Minister Dean Barrow during a press conference today confirmed to the country and frontline healthcare workers that the isolation unit will remain inside the walls of the Karl Heusner [...]
Belize Medical Associates Will Not Accept Suspected COVID-19 Patients
A private medical facility has plans not to accept COVID-19 cases. The folks at Belize Medical Associate say they cannot accommodate COVID-19 patients because the facility is not properly equipped [...]
Amandala
5 UDP candidates submitted their applications to run for leader
Five candidates submitted their applications so far to run for leader of the United Democratic Party – Hon. Omar Figueroa, Hon. Patrick Faber, Hon. John Saldivar, President of the Senate Darrell Bradley and Hon. Wilfred Elrington. The deadline for applications is Thursday, March 26, 2020 at 5 p.m.
Prime Minister: No National Shut Down; 2nd COVID-19 case confirmed
The Prime Minister at today’s COVID-19 National Oversight Committee has stated that there will not be a national shut down today. But if they must do so, based on certain triggers, that measure will be taken.
There is now a second confirmed case; she is the mother of the first COVID-19 patient in San Pedro. Other family members who were tested were negative.
Five additional persons in San Pedro who exhibited symptoms were tested and were all negative.
Four other persons from other districts were also tested and their results were negative so apart from the two cases in San Pedro, there is no other confirmed COVID-19 case in Belize.
LOVE FM
PM says Economic Help is coming
Since the declaration of COVID-19 as a pandemic, Prime Minister Dean Barrow addressed the nation on the economic downturn that Belize would experience due to this global situation. One of the things he had committed to was to give financial aid to employees in the tourism industry that would inevitably become unemployed.
Cuban Medical Brigade arrives in Belize
Thirty-two of fifty-eight members of the Cuban Medical Brigade that was deployed to assist Belize in the fight against COVID-19 arrived today at the Philip Goldson International Airport. The team consists of not only doctors, but nurses and other medical professions
No immediate shutting down of the country
Hours prior to today’s press conference rumors circulated that the country would be shutting down and a national state of emergency would be declared. At the opening of his address this afternoon the Prime Minister made it clear that this is not the case.
PM confirms second COVID-19 case in Belize
A second person in Belize has tested positive for Covid-19. The announcement was made this afternoon by Prime Minister Dean Barrow.
Department of Transport Implements new preventative Measures
The Department of Transport is working closely with the Ministry of Health to address some of the challenges related to COVID-19. The Department’s main focus is to maintain uninterrupted, but safe, public transportation services to all commuters countrywide until otherwise notified by the Government of Belize.
PUP condemns UDP care packages
The People’s United Party has issued a release speaking against care packages that have been provided by certain area representatives to their constituents. According to them, Belizeans have, quote, “…reacted with disbelief and outrage at the action of certain UDP politicians who are using the tragedy, panic and desperation caused by COVID-19 to attempt to garner political mileage.”
Senators debate the budget for the fiscal year 2020/2021
Senators were in session today in Belmopan debating the budget for the fiscal year 2020/2021. The budget was passed through the House of Representatives last week with no lively debate as has been the tradition.
Lord Michael Ashcroft has pledged ten million dollars to help fight COVID-19
Lord Michael Ashcroft has pledged ten million dollars to the Government of Belize as part of the COVID-19 Response Fund. Prime Minister spoke briefly of this donation in today’s press conference.
Market vendors struggle to sell their products
This morning there were reports that the Michael Finnegan Market in Belize City was going to be closed as of midday. Upon making checks at the market our newsroom found that there was no official closure of the market; vendors were simply not opening their stalls. Reporter Naim Borges has the details.
Then there was four
While the entire nation is focused on the COVID-19 situation, business continues in various areas including politics. With the deadline approaching for applications to be submitted for the UDP leadership, the party’s Secretariat has received five applications from well-known UDP members.
Busito Operations Face Issues In Belmopan
The busito operators in Belmopan are being greatly affected by the preventative measures put in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz spoke with them and highlighted the struggles they...BEL 1 821 BUSINESS, COMPANIES & ORGANIZATIONS
BEL Defers Bill Payments For Persons Who Are In A Financial Crisis
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has announced that there will be no disconnection San Pedro if persons are not able to pay their bills until the state of emergency is lifted. Today, the company held...
BEL defers bill payments for persons who are in a financial crisis
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has announced that there will be no disconnection San Pedro if persons are not able to pay their bills until the state of emergency is lifted. Today, the company held a press conference where they stated that persons across the country will also be receiving aid.
Breaking Belize News
Belize Electricity company donates $200,000 to national COVID-19 response
Belize Electricity Company (BECOL) a subsidiary of Fortis Inc. (Fortis”) has donated $200,000 to the […]
Cuban medical team arrives in Belize
This evening, a team of Cuban doctors arrived in Belize to help with the national response […]
Ministry of Health confirms 2nd covid-19 positive case; awaiting results of more tests
The Ministry of Health today provided a report on an initial mapping exercise in San […]
Business community in Belize donates supplies to Cuba
The business community in Belize has banded together to donate medical supplies to Cuba to […]
Dr. Barnett: $150 twice-monthly payment for those affected
Amid a grim economic outlook, Senator Dr. Carla Barnett announced that a payment of $150 […]
Banks offer plans on loans
Central Bank of Belize Governor Joy Grant says the major banks and financial institutions are […]
Ashcroft’s contribution, through Belize Bank goes to Ministry of Health
Lord Michael Ashcroft’s $10 million contribution for COVID-19 goes principally to the Ministry of Health. […]
SSB: We will cover unemployed COVID-19 patients
A Statutory Instrument being developed will ensure that persons who catch COVID-19 at least three […]
Political leaders unite despite internal controversy
Both Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Leader of the Opposition Johnny Briceno are facing internal push-back […]
New regulation bans gatherings at social establishments
While non-essential businesses are restricted, restaurants and others remain open as much as possible and will […]
Government advises against commercial use of rudimentary water systems
The public, especially those served by rudimentary water systems, is reminded that these systems were […]
Mark Lizarraga: Prepare for “confluence of life-changing storms”
Belize faces multiple storms in the coming months, of varying kinds, according to Business Community Senator, […]
Michel Chebat: Budget does not match unprecedented times
It did not take a week, says Senator Michel Chebat, for the COVID-19 crisis to […]
PUP says: No time for despicable politicking
The Opposition, People’s United Party (PUP) has issued a statement telling the current UDP administration […]
More training and technology, less “miscellaneous” says Senator Isabel Bennett
Senator Isabel Bennett has a problem with the word “miscellaneous,” or more specifically, how many […]
Wilfred ‘Sedi’ Elrington submits his name for UDP Party leadership
BBN has confirmed with senior UDP sources that Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred ‘Sedi’ Elrington […]
Lord Michael Ashcroft to contribute $10 million to Belizean effort to combat Covid-19 pandemic
A statement from the Belize Bank Limited issued today said that Lord Michael Ashcroft has […]
Opposition criticizes education, trade allocations in Budget
When no one got up quickly enough to begin this morning’s Budget Debate in the […]
Team of Cuban doctors headed to Belize today
A team of Cuban doctors is headed to Belize today, to assist with the country’s […]
Businesses in downtown Belize closing their doors
Belize’s business community continues to do its part in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic […]
Senate meets on Budget amid COVID-19 pandemic
After a largely rancor-free and truncated debate in the House last week, the Senate takes its […]
Cuban Medical Professionals assist Belize and Jamaica with Covid-19
COVID-19 will not spare any country on earth. Medical professionals are in short supply and the number of cases are rising. Cuba is quickly proving to be one of the unique countries for which the pandemic presents an opportunity for their health care professionals as they respond to the SOS for doctors to help in the battle against the severe coronavirus epidemic.
Cuban doctors were among the international first responders in Wuhan to tend to the sick and assist Chinese authorities. Since then, Cuban doctors have been providing assistance to countries all over world including Spain and Italy and is now assisting its Caribbean Neighbors.
International Sources
Fresh groundwater discharge insignificant for the world’s oceans but important for coastal ecosystems
Fresh groundwater is a critical natural resource for humans and wildlife to survive. Groundwater is found several feet down earth, in cracks and soil pores, sediments and rocks.
The University of Göttingen conducted the first computer model to track the flow of groundwater into the oceans. Their analysis shows mindful results on how pollutants from the land are transported into the sea. The pollutants put coastal ecosystems such as estuaries, salt marshes and coral reefs at great risk.
Nature Communications Journal published an article on the first computer model to study groundwater flow.
Movie: A sea outing turns deadly in white-knuckled thriller Harpoon
In Harpoon, three friends adrift on a boat fight for survival somewhere off the U.S. East Coast. But there’s a reason North Vancouver filmmaker Rob Grant didn’t set the new thriller at home.
“That was our inside joke — these people are nuts already, so let’s set it in Florida,” Grant said.
They shot the interiors on a set in Calgary, where the film’s production company, 775 Media, is based, and exteriors in Belize.
“We ended up renting a touring charter boat in Belize,” he said. “It came with a captain and two shipmates. We had a seaside hotel and every morning we’d have breakfast then get on the boat. It was a pretty surreal experience.”
Videos
Curse of the Xtabai (full movie), 1hr20min. Here is a local film you
Can watch at home.
Enjoy... Folklore of the evil spirit Xtabai goes back generations in Belize.
There are many versions of the tale.
This was inspired by stories from elders in San Antonio Village.
Here is a feature documentary of how we made 2012 "Curse of The Xtabai", 1hr17min. Documentary of the making of Belize first feature length film, 2012 curse of the Xitabai, all mainly all local cast and crew, directed and co-produced by late Matthew Klinck and co-produced by me.
Lammers Belize Trip 2020, 7min.
Update on COVID-19 Situation in Belize and Economic Relief Package by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and leader of the Opposition Hon. John Briceno, min.
Cuban Medical Brigade arrival, 2min. Thirty-two of fifty-eight members of the Cuban Medical Brigade that was deployed to assist Belize in the fight against COVID-19 arrived today at the Philip Goldson International Airport.
BEL discusses COVID-19 Plan with the local media, 34min.
The Blue Hole in Belize FLYOVER, 3min. The Blue Hole in Belize is Discovery Channel's #1 in its "Ten Most Amazing Places on Earth" list. A World Heritage Site, it is popular among seadivers and adventurers alike.
BELIZE- JAGUAR PAW CAVE TUBING, 12min.
Belize | Travel to Serve, 18min. Through the University of Louisville's International Service Learning Program, I was able to work alongside communication, criminal justice, and nursing students in the small town of Independence, Belize. .
U Janal Pixano'ob (Finados), 15min. A celebration between the Yucatec Maya people of Belize explained by Nojoch Máak Roy Rodriguez member To'one Masehualo'on NGO .
March 25, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Measures to follow during mandatory quarantine
As Ambergris Caye continues under a mandatory quarantine after been declared on the afternoon of Monday, March 23rd, islanders are reminded to stay at home, practice social distancing and continue proper hand washing. During this period, restaurants, and most super markets and shops will remain closed. Residents are urged to comply with the quarantine orders and remain at home. This measure will be enforced by police, who will be conducting patrols across the island.
Update on COVID-19 situation by our local leaders
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Area Representative Honourable Manuel Heredia Jr. announced during a briefing on Reef TV that stores will be allowed to open tomorrow, Wednesday, March 25th from 7AM to 10AM to give people the opportunity to get groceries. Other places allowed to open include bakeries, pharmacies and the gas station.
Guerrero added that those less fortunate can contact Hope Haven at 226-2333 for some assistance with groceries.
On another note... according to Dr. Marvin Manzanero from the Ministry of Health, the person who tested positive is doing very well.... 34 samples were sent today for COVID-19 testing and results should be available tomorrow.
Ministry Issues Warning Against the Use of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine
The Ministry reminds the public that there are no approved drugs for the specific treatment of COVID-19. While the aforementioned drugs have been used experimentally for the management of COVID-19 patients, the Ministry of Health strongly advises the public against self-medicating with any of these drugs.
Queen Conch Season closes three months early; quota has been met
With the quota for the 2019-2020 conch season set at 925,000 pounds, the Belize Fisheries Department has declared the season closed, 3 months early.
US Embassy Donates Heavy Duty Trucks to the Ministry of National Security
The United States Military Liaison Office through the Embassy of the United States in Belize today, March 24th, donated 10 2020 Ford 250 trucks to the Ministry of National Security.
International airport closes down; confirmed Coronavirus case on Ambergris Caye leads to mandatory quarantine
Ambergris Caye is on official 72-hour quarantine following the announcement of the first positive Covid-19 patient from the island. The International Airport and borders have been closed as well, but no restrictions have been placed on incoming or outgoing freight and cargo.
COVID-19 Measures to be taken by the Attorney General’s Ministry
Belmopan – March 23, 2020 – The Attorney General’s Ministry informs the public of the following conditions in respect to the delivering of services, effective immediately: A. Legal Advice and Services Centre: The provision of all services to the public from the Legal Advice and Services Centre country-wide is suspended effective today, March 23, 2020 […]
KHMHA goes into Emergency Mode and adjust visitation in preparation for COVID-19 response
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority advises the general public that as of today Monday 23rd March 2020 we are in Emergency Mode with adjustments to our Visitor's Policy as part of our response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Emergency mode means we have postponed elective services and an abbreviated clinic schedule will be announced. Visitors with respiratory symptoms will not be allowed to visit patients. All persons entering the hospital will be scanned and triaged at nurse’s stations located at the KHMH lobby and Accident and Emergency.
Ambergris Today
Very quiet in San Pedro
Several photos of downtown Tuesday.
Various Belizean Sources
Travel Alert — U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize (24-MAR-2020)
Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City is now closed for conunercial transportation for a minimum of 30 days. U.S. Embassy Belmopan is compiling a list of persons seeking to leave Belize. If you are a U.S. citizen who is considering returning to the United States from Belize, please enroll in STEP at https://step.state.v,rov/ and provide your name and contact information to our email address: belmopanuscitizenAstate.gov so we can contact you as soon as we have any updates.
BEL San Pedro Office Closed Until Further Notice
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) advises customers in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye that the office located on Pescador Drive is closed until further notice; however, customers may contact us at any time.
The office closure is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff and the communities we serve following the confirmation of a COVID-ig case in San Pedro.
We assure our customers that BEL will continue to provide safe and reliable services. Customers may contact us by phone, email, text or Facebook for service requests or queries.
Should you need 5 gal water In San Pedro
Agua Dulce (226-2929) has no water delivery today but they are filling containers at their place which is in San Pedrito by the Office Restaurant.
PRESS RELEASE COVID- 19- PROTECTED AREAS CLOSURE
Due to confirmation of the first case of COVID- 19 in Belize, the Association of Protected Areas Management Organizations (APAMO) is joining the national efforts to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. The travel restrictions and social distancing measures are impacting the day to day staff operations on sites. Consequently, APAMO is now tasked to responsibly protect the health and safety of its most valuable resource its staff and the general public.
In this regard, it has been decided that all protected areas co-managed by APAMO members will be closed to the general public as of March 24, 2020 and shall remain closed until further notice.
Vital Statistics Unit Implements COVID-19 Measures
The Attorney General’s Ministry informs the public of the following conditions with respect to the delivery of services at the Vital Statistics Unit in Belize City effective immediately.
Services to the public will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The office will be closed to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
On days of service to the public, the provision of all services continues under strict social distancing conditions, as guided by the Ministry of Health, in the wake of COVID-19. Accordingly, the following will apply:
Ministry Issues Warning Against the Use of Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine
The Ministry of Health is aware of an increase in the public’s request for the drugs Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine as possible treatment options for COVID-19. The Ministry reminds the public that there are no approved drugs for the specific treatment of COVID-19. While the aforementioned drugs have been used experimentally for the management of COVID-19 patients, the Ministry of Health strongly advises the public against self-medicating with any of these drugs.
COVID-19 Measures taken by the Belize Postal Service
he Belize Postal Service is an essential service department. As such it will endeavor to continue to provide postal services to the Belizean public to the extent that it can reasonably do so.
Notwithstanding the above, the Belize Postal Service strives to make postal services available amid the detection of the COVID-19, the point must be emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of all its employees is of paramount importance. As such, every decision to continue to offer this vital service to the public will be taken with the safety and wellbeing of its staff into full consideration.
World Tuberculosis Day 2020
World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is observed every year on March 24th as a means of increasing public awareness of the disease. The theme for this year is “It’s time to end TB!”
In 2018, an estimated 10 million people fell ill with TB worldwide - 5.7 million men, 3.2 million women, and 1.1 million children. TB remains a public health concern and is still responsible for 1.5 million global deaths every year.
Announcement from the Office of Ombudsman
In alignment with the guidelines and press releases from the Government Press Office and Ministry of Health, our Office in an effort to safeguard members of the public and our staff during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Office of the Ombudsman will no longer be entertaining walk-ins.
Social Security Board Belize implement temporary suspension of Registration Services
Customers: Please take note that we have implemented a temporary suspension of the Registration Services as a COVID-19 measure.
BMA says NO to COVID19 Symptoms
As of Thursday, March 26th, 2020, Belize Medical Associates will no longer be seeing patients with symptoms and signs of Covid-19.
Temporary Suspension of Immigration Services
The public is hereby notified that the Ministry of Immigration has suspended the following services countrywide effective today, March 24, 2020 until further notice:
- Applications for Belize passport (except where there is need for a passport for emergency travel)
- Applications for nationality
- Applications for permanent residence
- Applications for visas (except where such visas are required to allow the applicant to obtain extensions in order to maintain their legal status in Belize)
TROPIC AIR TO RESUME DOMESTIC CARGO OPERATIONS ON THURSDAY
Tropic Air will be resuming limited cargo operations to its entire domestic network (including San Pedro and Corozal). As the schedule can change based on unforeseen developments, we encourage all our customers to contact their nearest cargo station for more information.
We also continue to offer passenger service between Belize City Municipal, Dangriga, Placencia and Punta Gorda. Corozal, Caye Caulker and San Pedro passenger service remains temporarily suspended.
Cancellation of Sailing Prohibition for Cargo Vessels - San Pedro
The operators of cargo vessels providing service between San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and the mainland are hereby notified that Cargo vessels are authorised to provide cargo service to the island. The prohibition of sailing for all cargo vessels has been lifted, under the following conditions:
1. All vessels are required to land at the Belize Port Authority dock in San Pedro and to load and offload their cargo, under the supervision of officials at that location. The procedure for berthing allocation remains the same.
Some positive news from our local Atlantic and Belize Banks
U.S. Embassy Belize Donates Trucks
We are proud to donate ten 2020 Ford 250 trucks to the Ministry of National Security today to assist in their efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Eight of the trucks were assigned to the Belize Defence Force and two to the Belize Coast Guard.
The trucks were handed over by the U.S. Embassy's Senior Defense Official, Lt. Col. Ryan Jones. The US$793,213 donation comes complete with a two-year supply of spares and accessories. The contribution was made through the U.S. Foreign Military Financing Program.
Channel 7
Belize's First COVID-19 Case Had Contact With 34 Persons
Tonight, Belize still has only one confirmed case of COVID-19. There have been 64 total tests done and one positive result. That's the case out in San Pedro, a 38 year old female, a Belizean national who returned from Los Angeles on Thursday and started exhibiting symptoms on Friday.
She's in self quarantine and she's already getting over the flu symptoms. But what about all those she came in contact with? From the international flight she arrived on at the airport, then on a domestic flight to San Pedro, and then on the island.
San Pedro In Sleep Mode
And the health team has all the space it needs because San Pedro is on a quarantine lockdown. The busiest island in the land, has been reduced to a ghost town. That's after a state of emergency was declared yesterday for Ambergris Caye.
And, according to the our colleague from the san Pedro Sun, the island had "gone ghost" today:
Dion Vansen - San Pedro Sun:
"There is no life; there is absolutely no signs that of what San Pedro is about. During a day like today, at any time of the year, high tourism season, the streets will be packed with traffic..."
Abrupt Cut Off Of Island Transport Unintended
And, while the island is quiet as a selling army today, it was frantic yesterday as people rushed to try and get off. Some, for economic reasons - because their accommodation arrangements had expired, or others, because of the COVID panic.
But, how it played out, with San Pedranos needing to get home, stranded in the city, and Caye Caulker passengers blamelessly caught up in the middle, and police stopping then from docking in the city.well, all that was a whole big mess. And un unnecessary one.
Today, Doug Singh, who sits on the National Oversight Committee - and owns a resort on Caye Caulker told us that how it went down left a lot to be desired:
The New Normal In a Be-Masked Belize
Singh himself got caught up in that inconvenience today, and we'll have that story for you in our next segment.
But to some extent, inconvenience may be part of the new normal in a world that has become "curiouser and curiouser" in the COVID-19 era.
Manzanero: Pre-Covid "Normal" Might Never Return
And, according to the Director of Health Services, it may be some time, maybe never, before we revisit what we knew as normal before COVID. Here's how he put it in today's "Ask The Experts" session:
Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services:
"I don't know if it's going to ever go back to being normal. If when we go back to being a normal, whatever that means..."
Un-masking The Truth About Masks
Manzanero also spoke about another part of the new normal which you saw in Cherisse's story. That's the part with the masks - which are becoming normalised, but Manzanero went to lengths to say those should not be part of the new normal even in a virus - laden world:
"If you are not ill, you shouldn't be wearing a mask and I am seeing police officers, transport officers, people doing delivery and I cringe at that because I was waiting at a checkpoint, 3 cars behind and I'm seeing one of the persons wearing a mask in the time I was waiting, actually touch his mask, 3 times and I'm sure if he didn't have a mask he probably would not have been touching his face..."
Regular Bus Runs Disrupted
And one more thing that can't become the new normal is the disruption of regular bus service.
From last night, the news went out that several of the bus lines running to and from northern Belize were suddenly suspending all operations until further notice. Why? Well, they say it's social distancing, but we'll guess that it could also have a little to do with their bottom line - because it's not easy to make money off a bus with 25 passengers.
But whatever the reason, the problem is that they only gave a few hours' notice to thousands of Belizeans who rely daily on public transportation to commute from their homes in the north to their workplaces in the Belize district and beyond.
Disrupted Bus Runs Stopped Health Workers Movements
And, there disruption in regular bus service is also affecting the COVID response. That's because many Ministry of Health employees depend on it every day. DHS Manzanero told us more:
"The bus that stop running from the north is another headache for us because health staff, lab staff is primarily from the northern part of Belize..."
Courtney Weatherburne, A Long Way From Home
So, as we've been telling you, Belize has joined the global coronavirus clan battling this pandemic. According to the WHO, 195 countries have now confirmed cases of COVID 19.
Now, in terms of national response, we are way behind many countries that are dealing with the outbreak. Take our friendly ally Taiwan, they have under 200 cases but they have it under control and there are very strict quarantine rules.
India, which has the second largest population in the world, is trying their best to contain it but it is spreading rapidly. It is a challenge for them because imagine trying to achieve social distancing in a country with 1.3 billion people.
A country where everywhere you go, you are surrounded by crowds.
Well, our Courtney Weatherburne is studying in New Delhi, which is one of several major cities in India that are under strict lock down for the next 21 days.
Things Got a Little Crazy When...
And while students or travellers might expect to get stuck abroad, what about finding yourself stuck in your own country?
Anything's possible in the COVID-19 era and that's just what happened to a group of construction workers when they tried to get home from their Caye Caulker worksite.
That's because yesterday when the government declared a state of emergency on the island of San Pedro they outlined the provision that quote: "No person will be allowed to leave or enter Ambergris Caye during this time. Unauthorized vessels will be banned from leaving or arriving on the island." End quote.
Negative Results From Contacts of American Visitor With COVID-19
And, continuing with our COIVD coverage, health authorities today gave an update on the American tourist who spent 5 days in Belize last week, and then tested positive for COIVD-19 after he returned to New York. He is a young male, who was touring in a larger group and sharing accommodations with at leats two other men. Tracing has been done on all his contacts in Belize, and Manzanero said they were all negative:
The Cubans Are Coming!
And while that American has gone, the Cubans are coming! A medical brigade of 62 Cuban medical professionals will start arriving tomorrow, and continue on Thursday. Government has chartered a private jet to bring them into the country. They are here to significantly boost the national response to COVID 19. DHS Manzanero discussed their deployment today:
Fabric Store Close Because of COVID Concerns
And while help is on the way Belizeans are doing their part to flatten the curve of a potential COVID-19 community spread. Those efforts saw dozens of non-essential businesses close their doors today. Among them is one of Albert streets retail fixtures, Mikado.
Making the announcement of the closure today the store's managers said quote: " We can't stress enough how important and critical it is to stay home during this initial stage so that we can help to contain the spread of the virus."
We stopped into the store for a word with manager Umesh Mahitani who told us that the decision was driven by the fact that the virus can remain on the fabric:
Terminal Deck Fast Food Says Take It Out
And while Mikados is among the businesses that are closing until further notice, there is one fast-food restaurant in Belize City which is struggling to remain open under the threat of the COVID-19 scare.
That Terminal Deck Food Joint, located on Amara Avenue, specializes in fast food. This weekend, its owner, Abdul Ahmad, called on his follow restaurant-owning colleagues to boost their delivery services in the promotion of social distancing.
Man Dies in Fatal Accident
There was a deadly traffic accident on the George Price Highway this morning, between Miles 12 and 13. It has left one Belize City man dead, and two injured.
It happened at about 9:10 when a Mitsubishi Outlander heading to Hattieville had a blow-out on the left rear wheel. The driver lost control and the SUV ran into a white 40-foot trailer, parked in front of the Softy toilet paper factor.
Need Help With Your Light Bill? BEL Has Its Own Bills to Pay!
Since last week, we've been reporting on how the COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Belizeans who make their living off the tourism industry. Suddenly, many of them don't have a job because all international travel has been shut down.
As the COVID-19 threat increases, there will more Belizeans who won't be able to pay their bills.
BEL Willing To Consider On a Case By Case Basis
The BEL executives also announced this afternoon that the company is prepared to allow an extended grace period on bills to Belizeans devastated by COVID-19. But, they say that it has to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
They explained how the relief to their customers will work for those who truly need it:
BEL Will Keep the Lights On
In their 40-minute press conference, the BEL executives also discussed the preparations that they have made to keep the lights on, even as the COVID-19 pandemic progresses. Here's what had to say about that:
Sean Fuller - GM, Comm. and Retail Services , BEL:
"We are very optimistic and we believe that while we are in this serious situation in this country, BEL's position is that we will continue to serve this country. We don't expect any power outages. Our preventative or prevention and reaction plan being headed by Mr. Armstrong allows us to respond to any trouble, respond to any issues..."
Fuel Prices Fall
And while you should conserve energy, don't feel a way to drive a few extra miles for social distancing in the countryside. It might be made easier by cheap diesel. At midnight, the price per gallon is going down by 99 cents. That takes its price from $9.24 to $ 8.25 per gallon - the lowest in over a year.
Why Not Do More Testing to Flatten Curve?
As we told you at the top of the news, Belize only has one positive test for COVID 19, out of 64 total tests which have been performed.
But, that's not enough. And it has been shown - in places like South Korea - that blanket testing is the only way to effectively flatten what is known as the infection curve.
Manza: Call Centers, Call Me!
And speaking any yesterday's Ask the Experts Session, Manzanero discussed thew ticklish issue of call centres and social distancing. We know those require operators to work in cubicles quite close together. Manzanero says as social distance rules tighten, that may have to change:
Belize Medical Says Stay Away
And cutting quicker than a call center, Belize Medical Associates is pulling their hand, slowly, out of the alligator's mouth that is COVID-19. In a Press release today the Private clinic announced that it would no longer see patients with signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
Channel 5
Belize Remains with Only One Confirmed COVID-19 Case
The Ministry of Health has concluded its first preliminary exercise on San Pedro related to the positive COVID-19 case. According to Director of Health Services Doctor Marvin Manzanero, some thirty-four [...]
La Isla Bonita Remains on Lockdown
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye remains on lockdown tonight. La Isla Bonita was placed on quarantine on Monday for seventy-two hours after a resident of the San Pedrito Area tested positive [...]
San Pedro Police Keeping the Peace on Ambergris Caye
To ensure that everything remains peaceful on Ambergris Caye, Superintendent Christopher Noble and his team are advising all resident to remain home. Noble is advising all businesses that alcohol must [...]
B.E.L. Says No Light Bill Waiver Amid COVID-19 Crisis
Amid the crushing economic impact of the coronavirus crisis many, including the opposition, are calling on government to have its majority-owned utility companies waive their respective bills for the next [...]
B.E.L. Implements Plan of Action to Help Customers Amid Corona Hardship
Despite the coronavirus emergency, B.E.L. says it continues to defray the monthly expenses of some three thousand senior citizens across the country. The representative of the company reiterated, however, that [...]
A Statutory Instrument for Laid off Workers to Claim S.S.B. Benefits
Among the first to feel the implications of COVID-19 are the thousands of persons, primarily from the tourism industry, who have been sent home without pay or placed on holiday. [...]
Despite Economic Burden of Pandemic, Can Employers Afford to Pay Staff at Lower Salary?
The S.I. is only to last for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. The S.S.B. is working closely with the Ministry of Labour and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and [...]
Caye Caulker Non-Residents Abandon the Island Due to Fears of COVID-19 Spread
Following the announcement of the first case of COVID-19, flights and water taxis were suspended to San Pedro which is under a state of emergency. Fear and panic drove many [...]
Tourism Industry Taking a Blow Due to COVID-19
Tourism based economies are taking a blow from the COVID-19 disease which has spread across the world. It is no exception in Belize as thousands of people who depend on [...]
Cuban Doctors to Arrive in Belize on Wednesday, Thursday
The first team of medical experts from Cuba will land in Belize on Wednesday and the second batch of doctors will arrive on Thursday via a chartered airplane from Guatemala. [...]
Cuba Working on COVID-19 Vaccine
According to Hernandez, Cuban medical professionals are working on a vaccine to neutralize the COVID-19 virus. According to press reports, preliminary results of the vaccine being developed by Cuba to fight [...]
S.S.B. – Taking Care of Stakeholders and Staff while Managing COVID-19
As you heard, Social Security will be amending its regulations to provide cover to persons who are left unemployed as a result of the novel coronavirus. Persons, who have been [...]
S.S.B. Proposes Advance Payment to Pensioners
The Prime Minister sin expected to make official announcements on Wednesday, but another recommendation that S.S.B. Chair Doug Singh revealed during his appearance on Open Your Eyes this morning is [...]
Many Bus Operators Suspend Operations
Several large bus operators announced that they were halting services between their base and Belize City. Others have decided to reduce the number of buses operating, so they have adjusted [...]
Bus Run Cancellations Tough for Health Workers
During today’s Ask the Expert session, the Director of Health Services Doctor Marvin Manzanero also spoke on the bus situation. One viewer asked the panel if it was safe to [...]
More Questions for the M.O.H. Experts
Viewers of the live webcast also wanted to know about the possibility of a lockdown; as well as the use of certain drugs to treat the COVID-19. Here’s the Director [...]
Changes at the Fuel Pumps
The novel coronavirus has caused the prices for crude oil and fuel to plummet in the international market. Some pump stations in the U.S. have lower prices to as much [...]
B.E.L. Implements Cost-Cutting Measures Amid Coronavirus Predicament
While the price of diesel dips, government is also calling for cut backs at ministries, including its majority-owned utilities to curtail their expenses during the COVID-19 crisis. Belize Electricity Limited, [...]
1 Dead & 2 Others Injured in Traffic Accident
One man was killed and two others injured in a road traffic accident on the George Price Highway. This morning, Dorian Anthony was on his way to visit his incarcerated [...]
Corozal Free Zone Grinds to a Halt
The coronavirus crisis continues to have far-reaching financial consequences in all sectors of the economy, including the commercial free zone in Corozal. While most of the attention has been focused [...]
Commercial Banks Offer Packages to Costumers
There is some good news from the private sector and that is that commercial banks are offering packages to customers who are facing hard times ahead. The banks are extending [...]
Immigration Department Suspends Certain Services
Due to the threat of COVID-19, the Immigration Department is suspending certain services beginning today. Applications for passports will be accepted only for emergency travel; otherwise all is on hold. [...]
Restaurant Businesses Take Serious Hit Amid COVID-19 Crisis
Like many businesses, restaurants are also feeling the effects of COVID-19 and will have to change their way of doing business. In the next twenty-four hours, restaurants will close their [...]
Chicken Prices at Quality More Affordable to Families
Quality Chicken is one of the main suppliers of chicken to the tourism industry and the population. Now, that the industry is at a standstill and people are losing their [...]
In times of Pandemic, Online Shopping is the Way to Go
Online shopping to stock up for food items is a most convenient way at a time when the country is under threat of COVID-19 and social distancing is a priority. [...]
Amandala
State of Emergency declared: San Pedro under COVID-19 lockdown
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, became the first municipality in Belize to have a confirmed coronavirus case after results of a test were received by Ministry of Health officials late last night. The announcement was made this morning at a press briefing by Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero.
Immediately following the announcement, people on San Pedro began boarding water taxis in a bid to leave the island.
Their rush to leave, however, was halted by measures that were announced by the government.
Facing COVID-19, KHMH takes protective steps
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) has implemented measures to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 at the hospital. People visiting the hospital must undergo screening at a desk at the entrance to the hospital, and will be asked questions about places they had visited, and whether they are experiencing any of the symptoms of coronavirus.
Also, only one person at a time will be allowed to visit a patient.
COVID-19 spawns new preventative measures
On Friday, as Belizeans were preparing for the weekend, the government announced new preventative measures to deal with the threat of the coronavirus pandemic. Up to last weekend, Belize was the only country in Central America that did not have a confirmed case of COVID-19, as the World Health Organization (WHO) had dubbed the strain of coronavirus, a respiratory illness that could lead to death if it is left untreated.
Belize’s first COVID-19 case was “imported”
Today, the Government of Belize announced at an early morning press briefing the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the country.
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, explained that the person is a Belizean who travels frequently between Belize and the Los Angeles area.
The 38-year-old woman is a resident of San Pedro and returned to the country on a flight last Thursday.
Dr. Manzanero stressed that the infected person began experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus, but had not been sneezing.
Northern bus runs have been suspended effective tomorrow Tuesday, March 24
According to press releases issued by O-Tillett, R-Tillett, Valencia’s and Morales Transport, all their runs have been suspended until further notice due to COVID-19.
COVID-19 spawns new preventative measures
On Friday, as Belizeans were preparing for the weekend, the government announced new preventative measures to deal with the threat of the coronavirus pandemic. Up to last weekend, Belize was the only country in Central America that did not have a confirmed case of COVID-19, as the World Health Organization (WHO) had dubbed the strain of coronavirus, a respiratory illness that could lead to death if it is left untreated.
Belizeans woke up today, Monday, however, to a new reality. In an early morning press briefing, Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, confirmed that Belize had discovered its first COVID-19 case.
American tourist with COVID-19 visited Belize
Belize went into this weekend as the only country in Central America to remain free of the dreadful coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Information that COVID-19 was discovered in an American man, who had been to Belize and whose name has not been made public, was made official today.
The news that the American man, who visited Belize and had pleaded to get a COVID-19 test when he returned to the US, first began to make the rounds in social media earlier this week, where it had gained some traction.
Water taxi operations suspended because of COVID-19
An official announcement was made this morning during a press brief held by Prime Minister Dean Barrow, along with officials of the COVID-19 task force, that Belize has registered its first positive COVID- 19 case — a Belizean woman, a San Pedrano, who frequently visits the United States.
The 38-year-old woman returned from the US on Thursday, March 19, and went into isolation. She reportedly had minimal contact with others and was seen by a physician.
The Ministry of Health reportedly began a tracing and mapping exercise after her return to Belize.
Coronavirus pandemic sends BTB staffers packing
The coronavirus pandemic that has been sweeping across the world has become a nightmare for the global tourism industry, with both planes and ships grounding to a halt.
A little more than one week ago, cruise lines announced that they would suspend their calls to Belize, and this had a devastating impact on the local tourism industry, which employs hundreds of Belizeans.
Layoffs in the tourism industry began from the time the announcement was made that cruise ships would no longer be making calls to Belize, but on Friday, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) began implementing cost-cutting measures that resulted in the layoffs of around half of its staff.
Editorial: Tourism will recover, but Belize still has to refocus
On Sunday, Belize was the only country in the Americas that hadn’t reported one person being infected with COVID-19 (since then, one Belizean who goes back and forth between Belize and the US has tested positive for the virus), but we are among the countries that are being hit the worst on the economic front. The financial losses in the larger countries are staggering, but expressed in relation to the size and robustness of their economies, their losses pale compared to what is happening to our economy in Belize, and what is going to take place if there is no return to normalcy soon.
The loss and the lesson of Carlos Garcia
The intransigence and wrongheadedness of the top brass of the KHMH and the Ministry of Health, in the face of urgent pleas from its Health Workers Union, makes me worry greatly about the future, and has shaken up to a fresh and painful state, some sad memories. A car break-in thief on Princess Margaret Drive stole my flash drives where I had stored records of my experiences over fifteen years in the management system of Nova Companies of Belize, the well-known, now defunct shrimp farm on the outskirts of Ladyville. I have forgotten more than many will ever know about the business of shrimp farming, but this crisis at Karl Heusner, and the “ignorance” of those making big decisions, brought me back to the sad and regrettable loss of life on the job one morning at Nova.
Released from murder charge 2 months ago, Paul Smith charged with murder again
The alleged killer of Derrick King, 21, an employee of Bowen and Bowen who was shot and killed about 3:15 p.m. on March 18 at the corner of Orange Street and West Street, has been arraigned, along with three others who were charged with conspiracy to commit murder.
The four men who have been arraigned are Paul Smith, 25, a resident of 11 Cemetery Road; Luciano Novelo, 19, a resident of 6 Baghdad Street; Randy Green, 27, a resident of 25 Cemetery Road; and Charles Middleton, 23, a resident of 25 Cemetery Road.
Two teens charged for the murder of Keith Courtenay
An ongoing investigation into the murder of Keith Courtenay, a 46-year-old City Council worker of Ebony Street, has led to two minors, 15, who have been jointly charged with murder.
The father of 7 children and grandfather of 4, described as a hardworking family man and churchgoer who was not known to be involved in gangs, was shot eight times in the back while protecting his grandson when the shooting began, at about 5:15 Wednesday evening, March 4, in front of his mother’s house at the Ebony Street Long Barracks.
Lyndon Hinds, 27, and Kendale Flores, 25, charged with child’s murder
Two men, Lyndon Hinds, 27, and Kendale Flores, 25, were charged with the murder of Kia Herbert, 5, when they appeared today before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts Anderson. They were also charged with conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, grievous harm and use of deadly means of harm.
Hinds is a construction worker of 57 Iguana Street Extension, while Flores is a welder of 9 Pitter Street. They were remanded until May 22.
92nd Baron Bliss Harbour Regatta 2020
A wintery dawn seemed to confirm the weatherman’s insistence of bad weather for the day’s historic event of the 92nd Baron Bliss Harbour Regatta. Sailed off the Digi Park in Belize City for the past few years, this annual event defiantly retains hold of a long Belizean tradition of sailing. As the wind veered to the north-east and dropped shortly after first light of dawn, the rays of feeble sunlight struggled through grey nimbus stratus.
C-Ray Full Throttle Thursday Race results – March 19
Here are the C-Ray Full Throttle Thursday Race results for yesterday, March 19. There were 25 cyclists at the start line for the 23.8 mile ride which was completed in 55:52 for an average of 25.1 mph.
Top finishers by category were:
ELITE: 1st Joshua Fuller (Santino’s); 2nd Brandon Cattouse (C-Ray D. Banner); 3rd Barney Brown (Digi).
Dean Barrow has left the front door open again!!!
Some of you may be comforted by shallow words and promises that are a comfort to a fool. I, on the other hand, know that swift and decisive action is what will make a difference in our fight against COVID-19. Therefore, while I hold on to this opinion strongly, I want to make it clear that if you are lax in your way of dealing with the situation, no need to comment, because you are okay with whatever happens to you and Belize hereafter.
We are being totally reckless by relying on people to self-quarantine. This San Pedro woman clearly did not do her part, if we believe reports that she was even at a party with some 60 to 70 attendants. [By decree, only groups of 25 are allowed, so they all violated the law!]
Jerome and Jewel: lovers reconcile and become engaged!
On Jerome’s return to the capital, he had mentioned in passing by the following Monday morning that he had spoken with Jewel, and that she had sent us her love; and I had not been able to resist taking a shot in the dark and ask if he had given her the ring, a question with which I had utterly floored him.
He had reacted sharply with:”What ring?” And, at what I had tried to be a knowing look, continued with, “Good Lord! Is nothing at all private in this place?” before he had walked off.
Get older docs and nurses off the front line
I saw the images of five doctors in Italy who contracted the COVID-19 and died while working on the front lines against the disease, and it occurred to me that if your age group is the one most susceptible to the disease, you shouldn’t be there. We know that doctors and nurses are heroes, but it is foolish for a hero to die unnecessarily. The situation in Italy is very difficult at this time, and a number of retired doctors are putting away their golf clubs and heading for the hospitals.
The face mask is the best line of protection against the spread of the coronavirus
Dear Editor,
History repeats itself. Back when the space race had just begun, Americans were searching for a pen the astronauts could use in space. It had to be able to write upside down. They spent huge amounts of money researching this product.
The Russians used a pencil. I read this in the Reader’s Digest many years ago.
Similarly, the entire planet is looking for a vaccine or a treatment for COVID-19. They just allocated $8 billion U.S. for such an endeavor.
We have rough seas ahead
Dear Editor,
According to the Oxford dictionary, deleveraging is the process or practice of reducing the level of one’s debt by rapidly selling one’s assets. The global debt is 257 trillion, according to an International Monetary Fund’s estimate for the end of March, 2020.
Belize is the 18th most indebted country in the world, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 92%. After the coronavirus (Covid-19) passes, Jamaica and the world will have to deleverage.
LOVE FM
SSB discourages new registrations or renewal of cards
The chairman of the Social Security Board, Doug Singh explained that services provided by SSB that are not urgent will not be carried out. He says new registrations or renewal of cards are not being encouraged at this time in order to minimize the traffic at the SSB offices and to protect their workers.
BMA restricts patients with symptoms of COVID-19 at their St Thomas street clinic
The Belize Medical Associates (BMA) has announced that effective March 26 they will no longer be seeing patients with symptoms or signs of COVID-19. This includes Fever, coughing, running nose, and shortness of breath.
43-year-old Dorian Anthony killed in car accident
A road traffic incident that occurred this morning took the life of one man and injured his two passengers. 43-year-old Dorian Anthony was travelling on the George Price Highway with 57-year-old Gary Trapp and Dawn Meyers when he lost control of the vehicle around Mile 12.
Ministry of Health Rolls out phases 1, 2 and 3 of their COVID-19 action plan
Since the first detection of COVID-19, the Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero has indicated that phases one, two and three have been rolled out. In yesterday’s edition of Ask the Experts, Dr. Manzanero went into detail on the process of mapping and the importance for those who were on Ambergris Caye to remain there.
BEL differ bill payments for persons who are in a financial crisis
The Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has announced that there will be no disconnection San Pedro if persons are not able to pay their bills until the state of emergency is lifted. Today, the company held a press conference where they stated that persons across the country will also be receiving aid.
Social Security approves sickness benefits for recently unemployed
Hundreds of men and women in Belize have been laid off, terminated or sent home indefinitely over the last week. The actions by employers and business owners are the result of the COVID-19 pandemic that has reached Belize.
Belize remains with only one confirmed case of COVID-19
After confirming her as a COVID-19 patient, the Director of Health Services has indicated that the woman of San Pedro Town is recovering to the point where she no longer has any symptoms. Since the test came back positive on Sunday night, health officials have been tracing the movements of the businesswoman and have conducted interviews with her as well with the people she has been in contact with.
Several bus lines suspend services
This morning, the usual hustle and bustle at Bus Terminal in Belize City was replaced by relative calmness. Typically, the terminal would be packed with people, who would constantly have to rush through the gates to secure a seat on the bus.
Western Health Region implementing additional measures to prevent COVID-19
The management of the Western Health Region has announced that additional measures are being taken at the major hospitals in the Cayo District in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the Western Regional Hospital and San Ignacio, Community Hospital patients are now being greeted by security who will direct them to different areas within the compound based on the purpose of their visit.
Diesel sees drop in fuel prices
Diesel gas will be seeing a 99 cent drop in its price effective midnight tonight. The price will be going from $9.24 to $8.25 per gallon. The prices for premium, regular, and kerosene will remain unchanged at $10.92, $10.23, and $6.62 per gallon, respectively.
Breaking Belize News
Senate President Darrell Bradley to run for UDP leader
Former Mayor of Belize City and current President of the Senate Darrell Bradley has thrown […]
Blowout leads to fatal crash for North Creek resident
Police continue to investigate, but preliminary information points to a tire blowout sending a vehicle […]
Cargo vessels being allowed to dock in San Pedro
A statement released today from the Belize Port Authority (BPA) says that despite the current […]
Diesel goes down by 99 cents
The Ministry of Finance announced that on Wednesday, March 25, the pump price for diesel […]
Belize Medical Associates will not see patients showing signs of COVID-19
Today, Belize Medical Associates (BMA) announced that it will not be seeing patients exhibiting symptoms […]
Ministry of Immigration suspends services
Today the Ministry of Immigration announced that several of its services are suspended with immediate […]
Western Health region implements precautionary measures in response to Covid-19 pandemic
The management of the Western Health Region informed today that additional measures are being taken […]
US Embassy donates heavy-duty trucks to the Ministry of National Security
The United States Military Liaison Office, through the Embassy of the United States in Belize, […]
Tropic Air cargo services suspended
As companies all over the country make adjustments in light of the ongoing conoravirus (COVID-19) […]
Accident reported near mile 12 on George Price highway
An accident has been reported on the George Price Highway near mile 12. According to […]
Businesses taking the lead closing doors to reduce Covid-19 exposure and spread
Several businesses and bus lines have announced that they are closing operations until further notice […]
Ministry of Education elaborates on home-based learning initiative
The Ministry of Education (MOE) issued additional guidance to teachers and principals this week on […]
Indian publication rates how Latin American and the Caribbean are handling COVID-19 pandemic
Newsclick.in an independent media source in India, published an article this week analyzing the actions […]
Men survive attack in Cowpen village
Sometime before 5 o’clock there was a shooting in Cowpen, Stann Creek. Naun Vanegas, 57, […]
Man stabbed near Queen Street
Sometime last night a man was stabbed near Queen Street in Belize City. He has […]
5 Best Beaches in Belize
Caribbean destinations are synonymous with beautiful white sand beaches, and while Belize has its fair share of beautiful beaches, before coming to Belize you should know that not every destination has a walk-in beach. That’s because our entire coastline is lined by the beautiful Belize Barrier Reef and the ecosystem doesn’t prevent this in all areas. You can be 100% sure to expect to see turquoise blue waters at any coastal destination you visit, but if you’re looking for a sandy beach that you can walk right into the water, here’s where you should visit:
5 Days in Western Belize
One week in Belize? Say no more. There’s so much you can experience in this amazing jewel in one week; from the exciting beach and marine adventures to wild, adrenaline rushing jungle expeditions. Here is our seven- day travel plan for you to get a sampling of what makes Belize unique.
Arrive at Belize City to the Philip Goldson Int’l Airport (BZE). Depending on what time your flight gets in you may have to overnight in Belize City – no problem at all!
The 2020 Queen Conch Season will close effective on March 27th, 2020
Any person or establishment found in possession of the Queen Conch meat after this date will be charged and prosecuted in a court of law in accordance with the Fisheries Regulations.
The Fisheries Department advises the public to report any illegal fisheries activity by calling telephone numbers: 224-4552 or 223-2623.
Overnighting at Lighthouse Reef in Belize
Lighthouse Reef is one of the most famous atolls in Belize. Discover why you should make it your next vacation destination.
Located about 50 miles from the Belize mainland, the atolls are part of a vast, protected marine reserve that includes several bird, sea mammal and fish sanctuaries.
It’s the only atoll large enough to hold a private airstrip. It’s also spectacularly scenic, with soft sand beaches, shady palms and clear blue water.
It’s home to the first protected natural area in Belize. In 1928, the Belize and British governments established Half Moon Caye Monument as a way to protect endangered red-footed boobies. It is now home to the only viable breeding colony of red-footed boobies in the western Caribbean.
International Sources
5 Know-Before-You-Go Tips for Traveling Belize
If you’re like most Americans, you probably don’t carry much cash in your day-to-day life. But you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of the folding stuff in your wallet during your travels in Belize. That’s because, while credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, you’ll pay a three percent fee to use them. The fee helps offset the card processing fees merchants must pay and serves to encourage the use of cash in most establishments, as that’s what Belizean merchants prefer. Over the course of your trip, that three percent can really add up if you’re using cards for everything.
Is It Over? Simone Biles Unfollowed Boyfriend Stacey Ervin, Jr. On Instagram
Could it be over between iconic gymnast Simone Biles and her beau, fellow gymnast Stacey Ervin, Jr.?
We’re wondering that after noticing posts featuring both parties on their respective social media pages have been few and far between over the last few months. And while Ervin still follows Biles on social media, she no longer follows him on Instagram.
Flight bans don't work, say health professionals
Some people see a direct link between air travel and the spread of coronavirus. Initially, that was doubtless the case. Aviation is guilty as charged: Covid-19 was brought to Europe by passengers on commercial airlines. But the WHO says shutting airspace is futile once local transmission of coronavirus has begun.
In the vain hope that it might help, or at least prevent a similar response in the awful event of another global pandemic, allow me to let the WHO speak out about flight bans. “Evidence shows that restricting the movement of people and goods during public health emergencies is ineffective in most situations,” say the medical experts at the WHO.
Videos
Downtown SanPedro on Tuesday. Empty streets..., 40sec. San Pedro Town on a 72-hour quarantine following a confirmed Coronavirus case on the island.
Group of men from Caye Caulker Village docked near Haulover Bridge, 1min. News Five has confirmed that the group of men that docked at the marina near the Haulover Bridge in Belize City came from Caye Caulker Village. Arrangements were made by their employer to have the men travel from Caye Caulker to Belize City for them to make their way home. Before leaving, the men were asked questioned and screened by an official from the Ministry of Health.
Tents Erected on La Isla Bonita Amid COVID-19 Detection, 1min. In the wake of today’s announcement of the presence of COVID-19 in San Pedro, several military tents have been erected in an area of town. Doctor Marvin Manzanero explains that while the collapsible shelters are there in case persons need to be isolated, he also emphasized that patients should first seek to self-isolate at home. On the subject of the American national who tested positive for coronavirus one week after leaving Belize, the Director of Health Services said that the person’s travel history in Belize also may have included Belize City and San Pedro, but that information is yet to be confirmed.
Chocolate Festival of Belize 2020 Cancelled, 2min.
Howler Monkeys in the Trees of Belize, 3.5min. Howler Monkeys frolicing
Ministry of Health - Technical Advisor -COVID-19, 32min. Dr. Natalia Largaespda Beer, Technical Advisor with the Ministry of Health concluded the show with the latest medical information on COVID-19
The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) - impact of COVID-19, 28min. The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) was our guests to talk about the impact of COVID-19. John Burgos, Executive Director of BTIA says that seasonal workers have already been laid off and that permanent workers will experience a pay cut. He talked with us about what they are doing to weather the crisis.
Tuesday's "Ask the Experts", 53min.
Employers and employees please take note on the updates on Social Security contributions, 1.5min. The Covid National Oversight Committee met yesterday morning. Coming out of that meeting were several decisions related to Social Security, its contributors and employers. In one instance, employers will be allowed to file their returns for at least two months without making payments. Chairman Singh explained how this would work.
In a Country Without Corona, 7min. The video is 2 days old, so the title is dated, as the virus is now here. Great video though, as Katja interviews Dr. Nelson Lopez here in Cayo. She also interviews someone at Lin's.
"The borders have been closed since today - and the corona virus has not yet officially arrived in Belize. Nevertheless, the country is preparing for the outbreak. Since I'm stuck here for the next 30 days, I made a little report about the situation. If you are interested in further episodes, or ideas, questions, topic suggestions that I should follow up on - let me know!"
EXTREME ZIPLINING THROUGH BELIZE JUNGLE (CRASHED INTO A TREE, 11min. AND ALSO CLIMBING UP TO A 1000FT WATERFALL
Ambergris Caye, Beliz, 15min.
San Pedro Belize - Memories, 3min.
Uploaded this video on my Birthday, which fell on the week that Belize had its first positive case for COVID 19 unfortunately. We are on mandatory Lockdown according to the law and i decided to make this video using some clips before the lockdown and on the day of my birthday which was when the lockdown started. made the most out of the Day and Im grateful for being blessed with another year of life from the almighty.
BELIZE- MOREY EEL- POMPION CAYE, 1min. This was a saucy one
The green moray is actually brown! The yellow tint of the mucus that covers its body, in combination with the drab background color, gives the fish its namesake green color
Snorkelling with sharks in Belize, 1.5min.
Went diving and snorkeling in Belize, along the second-largest barrier reef in the world. The video shows me in the water with sharks, turtles and other species. Watch to the end!
Belize Trip March 2020, 6min.
Traveled to Las Terrazas Resort located on Ambergris Caye and dove the northern barrier reef, and then traveled to Hamanasi Resort located in Hopkins, Belize.
March 24, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Belize Registers First Coronavirus Case: San Pedro Town Resident tests positive for COVID-19
At a press conference on Monday, March 23rd, Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow announced that a Belizean has tested positive for COVID-19 (Coronavirus). According to the prime minister, the person is from San Pedro Town and frequently travels to the United States of America. The person in question reportedly returned to Belize on Thursday, March 19th and went into isolation a day after arriving in the country.
The positive patient is a 38-year-old female and according to Barrow, she seems to be experiencing the mild version of the disease and has not required hospitalization. According to his statement, she is recovering and appears that she had very minimal contact with others.
Ambergris Today
Belize Announces First Case Of COVID-19 In San Pedro
The Prime Minister of Belize, Rt. Hon Dean Barrow, announce this morning that Belize has its first case of COVID-19. He stated that the case involves a 38-year-old Belizean woman who returned to the country from Los Angeles last Thursday.
At the press conference it was said that at the time of her arrival she had already being presenting with the symptoms. She was treated by a doctor and has been in self-isolation ever since then. It appears that ntt btwn th wmn nd thr r t b mnml t th tm. The positive test came in at about 10:45 pm last night, Sunday, March 22, 2020. The mapping and tracing of her activity is being present conducted to trace whom she may have been in contact with since her arrival.
Various Belizean Sources
Tropic Air Temporarily Suspends Flights to/from San Pedro
At the request of the Government of Belize, effectively immediately all flights to/from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye are suspended except for those to the Belize International Airport. Please note all passengers on this route must be foreign nationals with onward tickets traveling out of Belize.
We anticipate this suspension to be for less than 72 hours, and we will update as soon as we can.
TROPIC AIR TEMPORARILY SUSPENDS ALL CARGO OPERATIONS
Effectively immediately all cargo services are suspended. We hope to resume by midday Thursday March 26th, 2020. Please monitor our Facebook and Twitter social media accounts for further updates.
What Does a State of Emergency Mean for Ambergris Caye?
A Statutory Instrument was signed today, March 23, 2020, by the Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young on the proclamation of Ambergris Caye as an emergency area.
The Statutory Instrument enforces the following Regulations:
1. Emergency area refers to the area declared to be under a public state of emergency. Every person is expected to practice social distancing, which includes the practice of staying home, avoiding crowds, and refraining from touching one another.
Prohibition of Sailing - San Pedro, Ambergris
Caye, COVID-19 Emergency Response
To: Owners and Operators of Motor Vessels
RE: Prohibition of Sailing — San Pedro, Ambergris Caye COV1D-I9 Emergency Response
In accordance with the quarantine order issued hy the Government of Belize, the following directive is issued for immediate implementation;
1. Vessels are prohibited from departing and proceeding to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye with immediate effect. This includes commercial passenger and cargo, as well as private vessels.
COVID-19 Measures to be taken by
the Attorney General’s Ministry
The Attorney General’s Ministry informs the public of the following conditions in respect to the delivering of services, effective immediately:
A. Legal Advice and Services Centre:
The provision of all services to the public from the Legal Advice and Services Centre country-wide is suspended effective today, March 23, 2020 until Friday, April 10, 2020, except those ongoing or new applications that fall under the Domestic Violence Act, including:
i. Protection Orders;
ii. Occupation Orders;
iii. Custody applications; and
iv. Maintenance applications.
Additional Measures Following the Announcement of First Case of COVID-19 in Belize
The Government of Belize continues to make decisions based on science, facts, and lessons learned from other countries for the safety and well-being of all citizens.
Coming out of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee meeting held today, March 23rd, the following additional measures are going into effect:
1. A state of emergency has been declared for Ambergris Caye for 72 hours to allow the Ministry of Health to conduct the proper mapping and tracing of contacts following the announcement of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Therefore, no person will be allowed to leave or enter Ambergris Caye during this time. Unauthorized vessels will be banned from leaving or arriving to the island.
OFFICIAL ADVISORY FROM THE SAN PEDRO TOWN COUNCIL ON THE FIRST CONFIRMED CASE OF COVID-19
The San Pedro Town Council is strongly advising our residents and visitors on the island to please stay at home. This is a result of the CONFIRMED case of COVID-19 on Ambergris Caye.
The Ministry of Health is conducting a mapping investigation on the victim and the victim’s travel history to determine who all may have come in contact with the victim during the time of the victim’s arrival to the island until this present day.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH CARE PATIENTS FOR THE COROZAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL AND COROZAL POLYCLINIC II
Due to to the COVID19 situation, the following regular services will be discontinued for preventative measures at the Corozal MCH:
Prenatal And Postnatal Services,
Family Planning Services,
Vaccines,
Papsmears/VIA,
Patients will be visited at home or contacted via phone by the nurses.
Pregnant women with appointment for gynaecologist will still be seen on Thursdays. Patients will also be informed when such services will no longer be offered.
NOTICE TO TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS
COVID-19 Update
Monday, March 23, 2020
As the official destination marketing organization for the country, the utmost priority of the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is the safety and comfort of our residents and visitors. In an overabundance of caution, we understand and respect the concerns surrounding travel at this time. BTB has been made aware that an individual has tested positive for COVID-19 in the country as of Sunday, March 22nd, 2020, and is currently in isolation. We are taking this situation seriously as we gather additional information from health officials.
As COVID-19 continues to spread, our hearts go out to all who have been impacted. With the outbreak of COVID-19, the BTB assures our partners and tourism stakeholders that we remain vigilant in monitoring the situation in order to provide the most reliable trustworthy, and useful information so that you can make the best decisions for your health and safety:
Photography from the southern Belizean rainforest
This weekend, to mark International Day of Forests, our friends Ya'axché Conservation Trust sent us some uplifting photography from the southern Belizean rainforest that we just had to share with you.
ALL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE CLOSED TO VISITATION WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT
THE INSTITUTE OF ARCHAEOLOGY, NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CULTURE AND HISTORY (IA/NICH) HEREBY INFORMS THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT ALL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES ARE CLOSED TO VISITATION WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT.
THANKS FOR YOUR COOPERATION WITH ALL OUR ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESERVES STAFF.
A message from E&L Butane Gas Services in San Pedro
Want to inform our clients that E & L Butane Gas is closed as of now. We will be opening tomorrow March 24th from 8-10 am ONLY. Pick up and delivery services will not be available. Only onsite refills will be available. We will be limited with staff and are asking for patience and consideration while waiting for your refill. Thank you for your support and apologize for change in schedule and services. We will try our best to continue offering our services but we do have to consider the safety of not only our clients but our staff as well. Our schedule will be determined on the advisory of our local authorities. If you have any questions you can contact us on our emergency phone: 671-2339. Once again thank you and take care.
San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Notice
In compliance with the Government of Belize ALL runs have been temporarily ceased effective immediately, therefore there will be no more runs to/from mainland and the island of Caye Caulker and San Pedro.
Channel 7
First COVID Case Confirmed In Belize
Tonight, Belize has joined the rest of the world: the Ministry of Health has confirmed the presence of COVID-19.
Up until last night, Belize had been among the last five counties in the world which had not seen a positive test.
Well, last night, a positive was confirmed - and the Prime Minister held a special press conference this morning to make the announcement:
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"I have the very unpleasant duty of announcing this morning that we have our first confirmed case of a Belizean citizen testing positive for COVID-19".
The positive test result came in last night at 11:00 from San Pedro. The patient, a 38 year old female who lives in San Pedro:
The San Pedro State Of Emergency Means Island-Wide Shutdown
So what does that Sate of Emergency mean? Well, it remarks Ambergris Caye as an emergency area. And, that emergency area is under a public state of emergency where, quote "Every person is expected to practice social distancing, which includes the practice of staying home, avoiding crowds, and refraining from touching one another." End quote.
Next, no person shall enter nor exit Ambergris Caye during the state of public emergency.
Also, gatherings of more than 10 persons are not allowed anywhere on Ambergris Caye.
Panic At The Water Taxi
So, going back to San Pedro town - you can imagine the public panic this morning at 8:45 when news broke that the first case of COVID-19 had been detected in that island town.
Non-residents rushed to get off the island as quickly as possible. And it seems many ignored the Prime Minister's caution. Cherisse Halsall has the story:
Ministry of Health Starts Investigation
That panic at the water taxi episode was addressed this afternoon at the Ministry of Health's regular "Ask The Experts" session. Manzanero explained that the health team just needs a stable setting in order to do its health tracing:
Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services:
"I know after we made the announcement, there was a lot of people who were simply just wanting to get off the island, it doesn't mean everybody who was in San Pedro is automatically at risk..."
Searching The Flight Manifest
And the first group that had that contact would have been on the flight coming into Belize from the United States. The authorities have not disclosed what US city that flight came from, but Manzanero disclosed some of the details:
Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services:
"People that came on the plane with her could be affected by her. As I said, we have done that mapping exercise..."
Did Patient Zero Socialize on Saturday?
And the next stage of contact after the flight, is the immigration officer, and then the domestic flight this patient zero took to from the PGIA to San Pedro, and then to her immediate family in San Pedro. Manzanero addressed the report that this first patient wasn't self isolating but socialising on Saturday night:
Dr. Marvin Manzanero - Director of Health Services:
"According she was in a party at San Pedro on a Saturday night, how true is that, we have spoken with her, she did interact with other 8 family members as I understand on that Saturday..."
DHS Says San Pedro Not A Risk
And indeed, the reaction on San Pedro has been almost as if you'd heard there was a case of the plague, or ebola - such is the state of public terror.
Surely, this patient zero has not infected the whole island. Manzanero says that town - with a population of about 12,000 remains at low risk overall:
"Not everybody who is San Pedro is at risk, so it doesn't mean that because you're in San Pedro two weeks ago and now you're visiting here because we're getting all these calls and people are going a little bit over board in terms of the reaction..."
COVID Scare Awakens Dark Instincts
But, whether the risk is low or not, even the rumour of the presence of COVID in any community, has awakened dark instincts for violence in some.
Manzanero spoke about suspect patient in Sarawee and Arenal where law enforcement had to get involved:
"We had a case of a child from a village down in Stann Creek district where he was screened for flu viruses and somewhere along the line there was a miscommunication to the point that the family was threatened, they wanted to kill the family..."
Men Charged For 5 Year Old's Murder
Last week, the public was outraged over the spike in violent crime in Belize City which left 6 people dead in 48 hours. Two of those victims were the innocent 5-year-old children: Kia Herbert, and Dominque Rhamdas. Police are reporting tonight that they have charged 2 men for Kia Herbert's murder.
They are 27-year-old Lyndon Hinds, and 25-year-old Kendale Flores. They were arraigned today before Senior Magistrate Tricia Pitts-Anderson on the offenses of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, grievous harm, and use of deadly means of harm.
Weekend Murder Mystery
So, while Police in Belize City are making headway with the murders from last week, investigators from Independence don't know what to make yet of a weekend killing which occurred on the Southern Highway.
Police say that at around midday on Saturday, they were called to an area between miles 45 and 46 on the highway. That's when they discovered the body of a Hispanic man. It appears that he was chopped several times and left for dead in that location. The officers did a bit of digging, and they were later able to identify the victim as Reydarius Sho, a resident of Bladden Village in the Toledo District.
Last Flight Out of Miami
Tonight, The Philip Goldson International Airport is closed. It's an extreme measure that has probably only been taken once before in the country's independent history. Reports suggest that this closure will be in effect for 30 days in the first instance after which time it will be reassessed.
That's because of concerns over potential imported cases of COVID-19. As we've reported the first Belizean to test positive for the virus returned to Belize through the P.G.I.A. just last Thursday.
Supermarket Owner Says Leave The Kids At Home
Supermarkets in Belize City implemented social distancing measures this weekend, limiting the number of shoppers who can be in the store at any given. It caused major lines to build up outside - but when we spork to the Managing Director of Publics Supermarket said it's more than just social distance. He said, leave the kids at home; families should only shop one person at a time:..
Long Lines At Country's Biggest Credit Union
And while crowd control is important, a big part of social distancing is also keeping persons in lines a safe distance form each other - at least three feet. But this morning as folks lined up at the Holy Redeemer Credit Unions - presumably to have cash available for necessities in the COIVD era, we saw them, at most one feet apart. The lines lasted for hours, and went halfway down Hyde's lane - almost spilling unto North Front Street.
SSB Mechanism May Be Used To Pay Laid Off Tourism Workers
And, indeed, in uncertain times, many are trying to scrape up whatever funds they have. Thousands of Belizeans stand to lose their jobs, and face dire times ahead. Today, the PrimeMinister said that the Social Security Apparatus may be used to give COVID-affected workers, a marginal income in troubled times:
tc."
PM & LOO Will Talk Money On Wednesday
The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition will have a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the financial measures that will be invoked to help those who have lost their jobs. Today the PM said finding money is their top priority:
PM Says FECTAB Missed The Point
And, speaking of money, you'll also remember how FECTAB's vice president, David Almendarez mauled the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition at their press conference on last week Friday.
FECTAB's leadership was concerned that their membership would be shared out of the relief funds that the government is making available, and the press asked the Prime Minister about that.
Man Dies Three weeks After Accident
At the beginning of the month, we told about a traffic accident that happened in front of the FFB headquarters in Belmopan.
On March 1st, at around 5:30 p.m., a Toyota Tacoma pickup flipped and was found with its 4 wheels in the air. The driver had 3 passengers at the time of the accident: 1 in the cab and 2 in the pan of the pickup.
2 of the passengers suffered minor injuries, but the third, 66-year-old Rupert Herrera Garcia, ended up in an unconscious state at the KHMH.
A Fatal Collision On Melinda Road
Police from Dangriga are also investigating a fatal traffic accident. This one happened on the Melinda Road, near to the well-known Marie Sharp's Pepper Factory.
On Friday afternoon at around 1:35 p.m., officers visited an area about three-quarter miles off the Stann Creek Valley Road. That's where they found a blue Freightliner truck, which was being driven by 29-year-old Daren Castillo, a resident of Hope Creek Village. Near to the truck, the officers found a mangled bicycle, and the body of a man later identified as 22-year-old Shon Dee Emmanuel, who is also a resident of Hope Creek.
Gang Member Allen to Court Again
He was remanded to prison last week Thursday for robbery, but, 22-year-old Ulide Allen was back in Magistrate's Court today. That's because police believe that he was the gunman who shot a man back in January.
Police say that at around 10 p.m. on Sunday, January 12th, 2020, Michael Pook, a 31 year-old security guard, was on duty at the corner of Tibruce and Poinsetta Streets.
Will Police control The COVID Crowds?
Earlier on, we showed you the crowds at the Holy Redeemer Credit Union not keeping proper social distance in their line. Aren't that isn't the only thing that the authorities are concerned about in the violation of the social distancing best practices.
Police are now actively trying to discourage the gathering of crowds bigger than 25 people at business places and any public spaces. They told us today that what they are doing to ensure that Belizeans comply with social distancing rules:
American Tourist Tested Positive After Leaving Belize
Tonight, we have all settled into the very unsettling reality that Belize has now confirmed its first case of COVID-19. But we all knew it was coming, and on Saturday night - a first warning came across.
That was when the Ministry of Health confirmed that an American national - reportedly a young male - who left Belize on the 17th of March tested positive for COVID-19 in New York. He had visited two hotels in Belize City and one in San Pedro.
Only ICU Cases Will Go To KHMH
And while so far no positive cases have come out of those tests, when the first cases which require care do appear, the PM today explained that they will not immediately go to the KHMH:
KHMH In Emergency Mode
The KHMH has entered emergency mode. A press release this afternoon laid out adjustments that the nation's only tertiary hospital is making in preparation for COVID-19 response.
These adjustments are being made across the board affecting the hospital's visitor's policy, elective services, and even its clinic schedule.
But it's the Visitors policy has taken the hardest hit in terms of restrictions. One salient adjustment is the immediate barring of visitor's with respiratory illnesses.
The Logic Of Border Closures
The Government also released a statement yesterday reminding the general public about the decision to close the country's borders.
They are strongly advising Belizeans not to leave the country unless it is an emergency for which outside travel cannot be avoided.
The western border is closed. Belizeans, diplomats residing in Belize and foreigners with legal residency in Belize will be allowed to enter. That entry may come the 14-day period of quarantine to prevent the possible transmission of COVID-19. Guatemalan nationals are allowed to depart from Belize to return to their home country.
Why Proposed Caye Caulker Curfew Was Illegal
Viewers will have noticed that the Prime Minister and the Government are asking residents San Pedro not to travel to the mainline at this time. This is to hopefully prevent an active spread of coronavirus from the part of the country that the first case of COVID-10.
This weekend, the Caye Caulker Village Council was attempting to implement measures to keep the island safe. One of those planned measures was a travel ban for non-residents. The government has since clarified that the Village Council does not the jurisdiction to institute that kind of travel restriction.
Channel 5
Belize Records First Case of COVID-19 in San Pedro
The first case of COVID-19 was confirmed today. The woman is currently under quarantine in San Pedro, while her family members are in isolation. The individual, who is a Belizean, [...]
DHS Manzanero Outlines Contact Mapping for First COVID-19 Case
A thorough investigation, which includes retracing the journey of the San Pedrano affected by COVID-19, is being undertaken by the Ministry of Health. Her travels included a layover in Texas, [...]
Cuban Medical Brigade This Way Cometh
Cuban doctors are being deployed to various countries where COVID-19 has been established. A group is already in Italy where the death count continues to increase. A Cuban Medical Brigade [...]
Cleopatra White and Matron Roberts Polyclinics are Listed for COVID Hospitalization
Several health facilities in Belize City have been identified by the Ministry of Health should there be a need for persons suffering from COVID-19 to be hospitalized. Karl Heusner Memorial [...]
San Pedro is Under 72 Hours State of Emergency
Earlier today, Governor General Sir Colville Young signed a statutory instrument bringing into effect a state of emergency for Ambergris Caye. Under the regulations for the state of emergency everyone [...]
Belize’s Top Tourist Destination Confirms First Case of Deadly COVID-19
When official word came of the first positive case in San Pedro, residents scrambled to get off the island. Hundreds work in the tourism industry, but are not permanent residents [...]
COVID-19, Public Transportation and What You Should Do!
While measures are being tightened in San Pedro through a state of emergency, restricting travel, the Department of Transport is putting in place preventative measures that will help in containing [...]
Tents Erected on La Isla Bonito Amid COVID-19 Detection
In the wake of today’s announcement of the presence of COVID-19 in San Pedro, several military tents have been erected in an area of town. Doctor Marvin Manzanero explains that [...]
M.O.H. on Top of Mapping for First COVID-19 Patient
During today’s “Ask the Expert” live webcast at three this afternoon, the Director of Health Services shared more information about the investigation into the first confirmed case. As a part [...]
D.H.S. Updates on COVID-19 Prep
The panelists during the webcast, D.H.S. Doctor Marvin Manzanero and the Minister of Health Pablo Marin, also spoke on a number of other issues raised by viewers. Doctor Manzanero touched [...]
Sarawee Family Threatened by Fake COVID-19 News About 4 Year-Old Boy
A man in Stann Creek is appealing to the public to stop the fake posts about persons allegedly infected with the novel coronavirus. Derrington Ramirez says that he and his [...]
Reydarius Sho is Hacked to Death in the South
Since the round-up of gang members in Belize City, the gun violence has subsided. But there was a murder recorded over the weekend in southern Belize. Around midday on March [...]
Lindon Hinds & Kendale Flores are Charged for Murder of 5 Year-Old Kia Herbert
It’s been almost a week since five-year-old Kia Herbert was senselessly murdered inside her house on Pitter Street in Belize City; she was with her mother, Frances Herbert when shots [...]
A Fatal Accident on Melinda Road
A traffic accident claimed one life in southern Belize. A Hope Creek resident perished on the Melinda Road when he was heading to work. Shon Dee Emmanuel was riding his [...]
Man Dies 3 Weeks After Car Accident on Hummingbird Highway
An elderly man also perished as a result of a vehicular accident. Back on March first, sixty-six-year-old Ruperto Garcia was involved in a road traffic accident on the Hummingbird Highway, [...]
K.H.M.H. Goes into Emergency Mode
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital goes into emergency mode now that the first case of COVID-19 is known. Visitation procedures have been adjusted as part of the hospital’s response to [...]
Caye Caulker Residents Become Stranded in Belize City
After the confirmation of Belize’s first COVID-19 case in Belize, transportation to and from San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye was discontinued. San Pedro has been placed on quarantine and residents [...]
COVID-19 Oversight Committee Meets Following First Case Confirmation
The Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition will be co-hosting a press conference scheduled for Wednesday and we will bring that to you as it happens. But this [...]
More Questions for the Experts!
One more issue coming out of from Ask the Expert session. The public posed a number of COVID-19 questions to the panel, including the case of Michigan, U.S.A. tourist, as [...]
How Prepared Are Frontline Law Enforcement Officers for COVID-19 in Belize?
At today’s police press briefing, News Five took the opportunity to ask the Commander of the Crime Investigation Branch in the Eastern Division about the preparedness of the police department [...]
Preventive Tips for COVID-19
Because of the prevailing circumstances and to comply with social distancing and with the protocol for the number of persons allowed at gatherings, our usual segment, Sports Monday, has been [...]
Amandala
Northern bus runs have been suspended effective Tuesday, March 24
Breaking news: According to press releases issued by O-Tillett, R-Tillett, Valencia’s and Morales Transport, all their runs have been suspended until further notice due to COVID-19.
State of Emergency Declared for Ambergris Caye
The Government of Belize has declared a state of emergency for Ambergris Caye with immediate effect for 72 hours. This will allow the Ministry of Health time to conduct the proper mapping and tracing of contacts following the announcement of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye.
Residents of Ambergris Caye are being placed under mandatory quarantine. People will not be allowed to leave or return to the island over the next 72 hours.
BELIZE CONFIRM ITS FIRST CASE OF COVID-19, IN SAN PEDRO
According to an official report, a 38-year-old Belizean is in self-isolation after confirmation that she has been infected with COVID-19. She had just returned from Los Angeles last Thursday and she went to San Pedro, where she lives. Health officials are now mapping her path to see if anyone has been infected.
LOVE FM
Police Officers gearing up to protect themselves from COVID-19
Police Commissioner Chester Williams in an on-air interview today on Love FM, spoke of the safety and precautionary measures being taken by the department for the police officers. According to the commissioner, the officers are being equipped with gear and equipment for their own protection whilst having to deal with the public.
Hispanic man murdered in rural toledo
The body of a Hispanic man was found on Saturday afternoon near the Swasey Bridge between miles 45 and 46. The victim, later identified as Reydarius Sho of Bladden Village, Toledo District, bore chop wounds to the neck, face, and arm.
Director of Immigration says Belizeans allowed entry into Belize
A press release issued by GOB yesterday reminded Belizeans that borders are closed for entry. As such, Belizeans are being strongly advised against leaving the country, unless it is a case of bona fide emergency.
PM committed to assisting those who have lost their jobs
Last week the Prime Minister spoke of austerity measures that the Government and the private sector will be forced to undertake including the laying off of employees. In that vein, he committed to assisting those who have lost their jobs through monies being sourced from multiple agencies.
Police probe into fatal RTA in the Stann Creek District
On Friday, March 20 there was a fatal traffic accident on Melinda Road in the Stann Creek District just after 1:30 pm. The motionless body of 22-year-old, Sho Dee Emmanuel was seen lying on the road.
First Confirmed COVID-19 case in Belize
Almost twelve weeks after it was first detected in Wuhan, China, the COVID-19 strain of the coronavirus has been detected in Belize. It is the first confirmed case and it has been detected on Ambergris Caye.
Two men arrested for murder of 5-year-old
Two persons have been arrested and charged for the murder of 5-year-old Kia Herbert. They are 27-year-old Lindon Mark Hinds and 25-year-old Kendale Flores.
Caye Caulker Town Council puts preventative measures in place
The Caye Caulker Village Council and the Caye Caulker Liquor Licensing Board notified the public that starting Sunday, they would be implementing several measures to minimize the potential spread of COVID-19. These measures will see public and special license holders required to shut down operations; all shops and convenience stores will need to close at 9pm sharp while restaurants are encouraged to offer take-out services.
Belize Mayor’s Association meets to discuss COVID-19
The Belize Mayor’s Association got together this morning to discuss the way forward now that a case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in the country. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz has the story.
New measures put in place after first case of COVID-19 is confirmed
Apart from the State of Emergency implemented on Ambergris Caye, the National Oversight Committee implemented new measures after their meeting held today. The first is that all bars, clubs, lounges, and casinos countrywide will be closed.
Multiple Law Enforcement Agencies Deployed To San Pedro
According to the Police Commissioner, Chester Williams, his officers are on alert and are working with all hands on deck. Love News has since learned that all water taxis have been grounded and flights out...
Changes To Belmopan Market
The popular Belmopan market is seeing some changes in an effort to comply with measures to stop the spread of COVID-19. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz filed this report...
US Chargé D’ Affaires Advisory For US Nationals In Belize
US Chargé d' Affaires, Keith Gilges released an advisory for US citizens in Belize yesterday as it relates to COVID-19. US Chargé d' Affaires indicated that US nationals should remain calm and that the embassy...
Medical Help Is Coming For The People Of Belize
In recent weeks, perhaps one of the top concerns expressed was the lack of human resources or health personnel to address any presence of COVID-19 in Belize. During this morning’s press brief the Prime Minister...
Queen Conch Season To Close Soon
The Belize Fisheries Department has announced that the Queen Conch season will be closed at the end of business on March 27, 2020. This is necessary due to the realization of the Queen Conch production quota...
State of emergency declared for Ambergris Caye
The Government of Belize has declared a state of emergency for Ambergris Caye with immediate effect for 72 hours. This will allow the Ministry of Health time to conduct the proper mapping and tracing of contacts following the announcement of the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye.
Residents of Ambergris Caye are being placed under mandatory quarantine. People will not be allowed to leave or return to the island over the next 72 hours.
Belize confirms its first case of COVID-19
A Belizean citizen has tested positive for COVID-19. The person came to Belize from LA last Thursday. The test result came in at 10:45PM yesterday (Sunday March 22 2020) . The patient is a 38-year-old Belizean woman of San Pedro Town and is in self isolation. This case is being labelled as […]
Breaking Belize News
San Marcos villagers demand residents coming from San Pedro to self isolate
Photo Courtesy: PGTV Our colleagues at PGTV reported today that some villagers from San Marcos […]
Sugar Industry Commits to continue 2020 crop
Already off to a late start due to the lingering effects of a drought last […]
What Does a State of Emergency Mean for Ambergris Caye?
A Statutory Instrument was signed today by the Governor-General Sir Colville Young on the proclamation […]
Scotiabank announces temporary changes at San Pedro Branch
Scotiabank today announced changes to branch operations in an effort to protect customers and staff […]
KHMH activates emergency protocols in wake of coronavirus confirmation
The Karl Husenser Memorial Hospital Announced today that, following the announcement of a positive case […]
Armed robbers get $200 and escaped on bicycles
It occurred at a Chinese shop in the Trench Town area of San Ignacio. Businessman, […]
Government implements additional measures to fight COVID-19 in Belize
The Government of Belize says that it continues to make decisions based on science, facts, […]
Conch Season closes on Friday, March 27th
The Belize Fisheries Department announced today that the fishery season for Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) […]
Ministry of Health implores public patience as investigations continue in San Pedro
The Ministry of Health took to social media this afternoon asking for the public patience […]
State of Emergency declared for San Pedro; residents placed under mandatory quarantine
State of Emergency declared for San Pedro; residents placed under mandatory quarantine The Government of Belize has declared […]
Tropic Air suspends all flights to and from San Pedro; except to the international airport
Tropic Air announced today that at the request of the Government of Belize, effectively immediately […]
First Covid-19 patient in Belize is San Pedro resident
The Ministry of Health today announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Belize. The […]
Ministry of Health to implement additional measures to contain any community spread
Today, the Ministry of Health confirmed the first case of Covid-19 in Belize. The patient […]
The Many Faces of Belize - Part 2
The moment you meet Paulette Salo, you feel wrapped in the warmth of her smile and the aura of her personality. This was the feeling my wife and I had when we first met Paulette on a staycation on Caye Caulker, our sister Belizean island. I would later discover this was for good reason, as you will soon understand for yourself. Be that as it may, don’t be misguided into thinking she is meek. To the contrary, Paulette is and always has been a maverick; charting her own course on the road less traveled and blissfully tossing aside the need for approval and structure.
Paulette owns and operates The Red Flower Gallery on Caye Caulker.
Ancient Maya Discoveries in Belize that Will Blow Your Mind
While Belize is a beautiful Central American nation with a rich history of Maya culture, that history only continues to grow. Two recent finds have come to the public’s awareness and only further intrigued people interested in the Maya or Belize’s early history.
Update From San Pedro, Belize: Asked to Shelter in Place
The first unconfirmed case of COVID 19 has been identified in San Pedro. A woman who has returned from the US last week – and went into immediate self isolation. The GOB is mapping this person’s contacts.
Just 2 weeks ago, our country was flooded with visitors – it is our busy season – and cruise ships were coming in daily. I don’t think anyone is surprised that the virus is here – it has spread around the world. The GOOD news is that we have information from countries that are dealing with much larger outbreaks and there is a TON to learn on how to slow this down.
Handmade shopping bags are a great alternative to single-use plastic ones
Even if it’s just switching from plastic shopping bags to cloth or canvas, it’s a step in the right direction. It becomes the easiest thing if you have something fun and sturdy, but foldable and ready to toss in your general use purse or backpack. Pull it out when your groceries start adding up at the counter, and you eliminate the need for a plastic bag.
I’ve used my Chill’s Creations bag countless times – it is strong, folds right back up, and easily washable so it can be used time and again. It doesn’t feel like going back to the old days, it just feels right! Chill’s Creations can be contacted via 622-0357, where Cecelia lives in Corozal Town.
International Sources
The ventilators made from snorkelling masks
Italian engineers are making ventilators out of diving masks and fitting them with 3D-printed respiratory valves in an inventive plan to keep hospitals supplied at the height of the coronavirus crisis.
A Brescia-based startup firm has offered the contraptions for free to local hospitals in the region of Lombardy which is at the centre of Europe's worst virus outbreak.
The crucial part of the equipment is the 3D-printed 'Venturi valve', a device named after 18th-century physicist Giovanni Battista Venturi which connects the mask to an oxygen tube.
These Caribbean Countries Are Coronavirus Free No More
For weeks two Caribbean countries managed to stay coronavirus free as the Americas and the world battled the first cases of the virus. But that changed Monday as the countries reported its first case of the dreaded COVID-19.
The Turks and Caicos and Belize now both have their first case of the disease, after spending weeks free of the virus.
The news comes as the number of new coronavirus cases in the Caribbean continues to spike to 648 last night with one dozen deaths to date and as most countries closed their borders.
What Happened to the Maya?
The Maya civilization was a Mesoamerican civilization that was located in Central America. The beginnings of the Maya civilization have been dated to the 2 nd millennium BC. Around the 9 th century AD, however, the Maya civilization went into decline.
More precisely, however, it was the Maya cities of the southern lowlands that were abandoned one by one. Whilst the exact reason for the mysterious decline of the Maya is still unclear, several competing theories have been developed by scholars based on the available archaeological evidence.
Videos
This what the Experts Know so far about Patient Zero and San Pedro, 5min.
Prime Minister's Press Conference - March 23 2020, 22min.
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Area Representative Heredia, 40min. Mayor Daniel Guerrero and Area Representative Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. Speaking on the Coronavirus.
Conserving the Maya Forest Corridor, 2min.
Conserving the Maya Forest Corridor, 13min.
Golf Cart (ClubCar) Review in San Pedro, Belize, 8min. Me and my dad reviewing the Club Car Golf Cart on Ambergris Caye in San Pedro, Belize.
We are normally about speed and fun cars but we were on an island for spring break that has 85% golf cart travel and it's the coolest thing ever! Might as well get a #cruisincash video in.
Belizean Stew Chicken, 20min. One of our favorite dishes when we go to Belize. I learned to make Belizean Stew Chicken from a village elder on one of my trips to Belize. Fast forward a few years, one afternoon, a group of my friends gathered at my house and I served them Belizean Stew Chicken. Yummm
Night Dive Spearfishing Belize | Pesca con Arpon, 9min.
Belize Sailfish 2/26/20, 4min. Kevin And Lowen land Sailfish while fishing out of Placencia Belize with Prince and Richard with the Black Pearl.
Bruk It Down Jenny - The COVID-19 pandemic, 41min. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a lot of panic and increased anxiety among communities as the severity of the threat grows. Mental Health Therapist, Jenny Lovell talked with us about maintaining our mental health in this time of crisis and how we can practice social distancing in a healthy way.
International Social Workers Day, 32min. Social Workers are a crucial element in the assistance and support the state offers to families and children. The profession is the important link between the program and its intended beneficiaries.
The Ministry of Education & Partners National Hand Washing Day, 37min. The Ministry of Education & Partners are coordinating a National Hand Washing Day in schools. Our guests talked with us about what's planned for the day. On our couch:
Yvonne Codd - Health & Nutrition Coordinator, MOE.
Jessie Young - Coordinator, The Belize Red Cross.
Women in Art exhibition for Women's Month, 19min. The Museum of Belize representatives talked with us about the Women in Art exhibition for Women's Month. On our couch:
Adriana Smith - Curator.
Chelsea Johnston - Artist.
Preschool teacher to share a lesson on germs and hand washing, 15min. Children will be at home as schools will close as a preventative measure to slow the potential spread of COVID-19. We invited a preschool teacher to share a lesson on germs and hand washing that you can learn to teach your children to talk to them about the COVID-19 virus. On set:
Jacqueline Molina - Preschool teacher, Wesley Preschool.
Salam and Keandron Dawson - Students.
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital - preparing their response in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak, 47min. The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital is preparing their response in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak. We talked with representatives of KHMH and the MOH about the preparation process. On our couch:
Michelle Hoare - CEO, KHMH.
Melinda Guerra - Regional Health Manager, Central Health Region.
Dive Belize, 3.5min. Three tank dive courtesy of Amigos del Mar. Our first stop the Blue Hole. Swimming through the stalactites was epic. We also saw a turtle and had a large shark stalk us. I can’t wait to make this dive again
Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, 12min.
Waterslide at Coco Beach Resort in Belize, 2.5min.
Sunrise over Crooked Tree in Belize, 3min. View from Crooked Tree Lodge in Belize, 6am.
Deep drop fishing belize, 2.5min. Catching deep water snappers and a wahoo.
Jungle Plantation Belize, 2min. Drone footage
Baile en Belize, 3min.
March 23, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
COVID-19 – Alert Regarding Border Closures
The Government of Belize reminds the public that Belize’s borders are closed for entry. Belizeans are being strongly advised against leaving the country, unless it is a case of bona fide emergency. This is being advised for the safety of all.
What do border closures mean? Belizeans, please stay in Belize.
Kindly take note of the border closures below:
Wolfe’s Woofer: Fiancée
“Hey Dennis, are you coming to Ma’s birthday party tonight?” Reuben asked. “We’re renting the whole restaurant and bar.”
I ran into my young friend Reuben at Tropic Air as I was coming in from a flight to Belize City. He graduated university in the US and after five years of working in Texas he was coming back to Belize to settle down.
“I wouldn’t miss it,” I said. “Will I get to meet your fiancée?”
Ambassador Nestor Mendez Re-elected as Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States
The Office of the Prime Minister of Belize is pleased to announce that H.E. Nestor Mendez, former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, was today re-elected as the Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) for the period 2020-2025.
Today’s elections mark Ambassador Mendez’s second term as he was previously elected in March 2015. The post of Assistant Secretary General is the second highest office in the OAS and holds senior responsibilities in that hemispheric organization.
Doctor Love: My Time
Dear Doctor Love,
Last year was a banner year in my life and marriage. Our oldest child gave us our very first grandchild. Our youngest child graduated university and moved to her new home across the country. My husband became senior partner in his firm and we paid off our house.
For the first time in nearly thirty-five years I can relax. I can join my husband on business trips to exotic places I was not able to go when we had four children at home. I was looking forward to a whole new adventure.
Various Belizean Sources
Office of Director of Health Services COVID-19 update
This is a snapshot of the Barbados' plan for COVID-19.
This is exactly like the one we presented at a press conference 10 days ago and mirrors what all countries in the region have in terms of planning.
You will note that despite not having a confirmed case, we have moved as a country to implement actions from stages 1-3 and this will be scaled up as we move along so please remain alert and attentive to any further information in this regard. For now, if you are ill, please stay at home. We encourage all to continue to practice safe hygienic practices to/from work, at work and at home.
Government of Belize Clarifies Municipal Curfew and Entry Ban Notice
It has come to the attention of the Attorney General’s Ministry that there is a public notice circulating which states that Belizeans will not be allowed entry to the island of Caye Caulker and Sarteneja Village in the Corozal District.
The public is advised that only the Government of Belize can restrict the movement of Belizeans within Belize. Unless such restriction is enacted by the Government, municipal bodies should refrain from doing so. Any entity found guilty of doing such will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law. Also note that it is not within the purview of any municipality to institute a mandatory curfew. This can only be done by the Government of Belize.
Alert Regarding Border Closures
The Government of Belize reminds the public that Belize’s borders are closed for entry. Belizeans are being strongly advised against leaving the country, unless it is a case of bona fide emergency. This is being advised for the safety of all.
What do border closures mean? Belizeans, please stay in Belize.
Kindly take note of the border closures below:
• Western Border – Closed.
Travellers:
Belizeans, diplomats residing in Belize, and foreigners with legal residency in Belize are allowed to enter. Please be aware that those seeking entry to Belize may be subject to a period of 14 days in quarantine to prevent the possible transmission of COVID-19. Guatemalan nationals can depart from Belize to return to their home country.
C.C. Health Team and The Village Council Notice
The C.C. Health Team and The Village Council would like to inform the public that we are continuing our efforts to prepare the island for the COVID 19 Disease, But we need your HELP!
We would like to ask the business communuty especially the Hotel Owners if they can kindly cooperate in offering isolation rooms to those who do not have the proper conditions to self isolate at home. We also ask the community to kindly help with donations for medical supplies such as face masks, gloves, oxygen tanks( even those used by the dive shops, can then be filled with oxygen) and isolation gowns to proper equip our isolation building.
Every helping hand will be highly appreciated and ensure Caye Caulker be well prepared for the safety of our island.
Thank You. God Bless!
Tips for Co-Existing with Crocodiles, by ACES / American Crocodile Education Sanctuary
Crocs in Belize are typically non aggressive towards people and don’t see us as a food source. Unless an individual has been hand fed by people, they will shy away from us and keep their distance. Their food source is mainly aquatic based, hunting prey items such as fish, shrimp, crabs, with a bit of birds, small mammals and reptiles thrown in for good measure.
But a croc is still a croc and it always pays to be cautious, so here’s a few safety tips to ensure safe and harmonious coexistence if you live in or near croc territories. Be sure to share these tips with your children!
MAYA STORY: ITZAMNA , THE MAYAB AND THE PROPHECY
Long ago, but a long time ago, Itzamná created the universe and the world. Then Itzamna decided to create a land that was so beautiful that everyone who knew it would want to live there, in love with its beauty. Then he created El Mayab, the land of the elected(Chosen people) and planted in it the most beautiful flowers that adorned the roads, created huge cenotes whose crystalline waters reflected the light of the sun and also deep caverns full of mystery.
Later, Itzamná gave the new land to the Maya and chose three animals to live forever in El Mayab and whoever thought of them would remember it immediately. Those chosen by Itzamná were the pheasant, the deer and the rattlesnake.
Morales Transport Revised Bus Schedule until further notice
As part of our commitment in offering the best service to our valued customers, we have decided to have the above runs, however, that is pending on what is advised by our Health Service Department. We will keep you posted. Feel free to join our newsletter to receive our latest information and updates. Our thoughts are with all whose lives have been affected by the virus so far. We are continually looking at other ways we can support those in our community and those in need, and will keep you updated as things evolve.
The Western Regional Hospital has some new guidelines for checking in
The management of Western Health Region would like to inform the public that additional
measures are being taken at the major hospitals in the Cayo District, Western Regional Hospital
and San Ignacio Community Hospital, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. These actions are
being taken to protect the public, health workers and patients presently admitted in the hospital
and will be effective March 23, 2020. Below please find changes:
BELIZE FISHING REPORT: MARCH 15, 2020 THROUGH MARCH 22, 2020
Last week, fishing improved with more favorable weather conditions. Bonefish were around in good numbers, and Tarpon were rolling in a number of locations. We enjoyed the company of a great Father and Daughter team this week. Gordon & Meris McHaney both caught really good Tarpon of around 70 Lbs with Capt. Cesar. Meris also took a beautiful Permit of 20 Lbs.
The Reporter
American National Tests Positive for COVID-19 in US After Leaving Belize Last Week
The Ministry of Health informed late Saturday night that the US has notified them that an American national who was in Belize one week ago has tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus in the US.
Breaking Belize News
Popular restaurants change food service options due to COVID-19 threat
Two popular restaurants in Belize City are changing the way they are serving their customers […]
Health officials: “Not recommending rapid tests for covid-19”
The Office of the Director of Health Services issued a statement saying that it is […]
U.S. Chargé addresses American residents and Belizeans
Charge’ d’affaires at the United States Embassy in Belize, Keith Gilges, today issued an update […]
Government of Belize clarifies municipal curfew and entry ban notice
The Attorney General’s Ministry has stated via press release that contrary to announcements by the […]
Cuban doctors head to Italy in coronavirus fight
Al-Jazeera reports that Cuba is sending its medics to the Lombardy region […]
Government issues reminder of border closures
Today, the Government of Belize issued a reminder about the closure of borders due to […]
Grenada announces first positive case of COVID-19
As the COVID-19 global pandemic continues, Grenada has become the latest country to announce its […]
Police making intervention to ensure compliance with social distancing measures
The Belize Police Department is mobilizing to ensure that the social distancing measures recommended by […]
Immigration officials: “Belizeans will be allowed to come home”
Earlier today, a group of Belizean students returning home contacted BBN to share their experience […]
How to Experience Belize Like a Local
Some people like to vacation without a firm schedule or plans. They say it makes them feel more like locals and less like visitors. If that’s how you want to approach your Belize vacation, here are some tips.
One of the best ways to experience Belize like a local is to travel the way locals do. Instead of jumping in a cab, use the bus lines to travel. This is also a cheap way to get around. Although local airlines crisscross the country, there are times you should skip them and enjoy a slower form of travel. Some of Belize’s highways are wonderfully scenic, and driving along them gives you the chance to check out some new places.
International Sources
WestJet Schedules Extra Repatriation Flights For Canadians
Canadian airline WestJet is providing additional flights in order to repatriate Canadian citizens from abroad in the coming days. The airline has said that 34 flights will operate with the sole purpose of bringing Canadian nationals back onto home soil. The news comes as travel restrictions around the world get tighter and international services are cut.
Videos
Belizean Chimole | Black Soup, 12min. I show Joe how to make one of our authentic Belizean dishes called chimole. It uses a special spice called black recado that can be found in my Amazon store here:
Have you ever heard the sound of Howler Monkey's in Belize?, 1/2min. Volume up to hear the amazing howler monkeys! They are considered to be the loudest land animal and can usually be heard howling in the morning and evening.
The Children of Xaibe with the help of To'one Masehualo'on NGO are learning the basics of the Yucatec Maya language, 1min. A boy from Xaibe village counting in the Yucatec Maya language . The children are exited to learn the language of their granparents through songs and games
Belize Cycle Tour Video For YouTube, 26min. This video is a combination of time spent with my mother and brother on Belize's San Pedro + Caye Caulker and my cycling touring adventures around the country.
Belize March 2020, 15min.
Paddeling in Orchid Bay Belize, 5min.
Cozumel & Belize, Cruising, 10min.
Down In Belize by Pat Foley, 4.5min. Pat Foley Music Video Down in Belize, filmed in Hopkins Village, Beliz
Beautiful Belize, Kings Park, 3.5min. Beautiful aerial video of Belize.
Belize COST 2020, 12min. This is my student teaching experience at Concepcion RC School in the Corozal District of Belize.
Hol Chan, Belize, 4min. Snorkeling in Hol Chan, Belize, March 2, 2020.
Above Water In Belize, 10min.
Tiniest Lizard in Belize! I want to hold it!, 1.5min.
Caye Caulker, Belize! Feb-2020 “Before The World Shut Down”, 8min.
The VandeBerg's go to Belize 2020, 13min. Belize Grand Caribe 2020
Belize, Caye Caulker | Travel Vlog, 7min. This vlog captures some of my experiences in Caye Caulker, Belize. This was my second time in Caye Caulker, and I had an incredible time!
A message to U. S. Citizens in Belize from the Chargé d' Affaires, a.i. Keith Gilges at the U.S. Embassy Belize, 2.5min.
March 22, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Ministry of Labour Calls for Compliance with Social Distancing Directives
The public is reminded of the Government of Belize’s directive on social distancing as a primary precautionary method to mitigate the potential spread and transmission of COVID-19. The public is also expected to continue these practices if a confirmed case is detected in Belize.
Blood Drive postponed amid COVID-19 concerns but raises the question: does San Pedro need a blood bank?
Originally scheduled for Saturday March 14th, the Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch (BRCSPB) postponed their blood drive at the Polyclinic. The San Pedro Sun spoke to Phillip Ramsey, a representative of BRCSPB about the sudden postponement. He said that he received notification via email from the Blood Bank Unit in Belize City that the drive needed to be postponed, “due to the nature of the COVID-19 situation”. The email stated that they were making necessary arrangements to prepare for possible progression of COVID-19 and that they would follow up about rescheduling. The cancellation however, highlighted an issue affecting San Pedro: the lack of a blood bank. Residents have to rely on organized blood drives, instead of being able to go to a designated donation center at any time.
New Measures Announced to Protect Against COVID-19
The COVID-19 National Oversight Committee held its second meeting today, March 20th, and agreed to take additional measures to further protect the health of Belizeans and reduce the threat of transmission of COVID-19 in Belize.
As of today, March 20th, Belize does not have any confirmed case of COVID-19. The developments on the international and regional fronts, however, have informed the Committee’s decisions.
Effective 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, March 21st, the Northern Border of Belize, which includes the Corozal Free Zone, will be closed for traveling but will remain open for cargo transportation. This means that only Belizean nationals, residents, and diplomats residing in Belize will be allowed entry into Belize subject to inspection and possible quarantine for 14 days.
Chase the Ace continues to benefit charities in San Pedro Town
Since its inception, Chase the Ace has donated thousands to multiple charities on Ambergris Caye. Chase the Ace is a form of lottery that gained popularity in 2013 in some parts of Canada. It is also known as ‘Crown the King’ and ‘Jig the Joker’. While the game has been postponed amid COVID-19 concerns, organizer Rhonda Westman Brown shared with The San Pedro Sun details about how the game works. According to Brown, the rules are simple. Each day, tickets are sold for two dollars at a different location and at 7 PM, a ticket is drawn from the daily sales. The holder of the winning ticket wins 20% of the pot and gets to draw a card from the deck.
Triple R donates ambulance to Ambergris Caye
As Ambergris Caye prepares for any possible case of the pandemic COVID-19 (Coronavirus), an ambulance has been secured on the island for the sole purpose of transporting persons suspected to be infected with the deadly disease. The ambulance is a donation from the Rickilee Response and Rescue (Triple R) Emergency Response Team. The vehicle, a Mercedez Benz, has sealed compartments separating the driver from the medical personnel, minimizing any potential contamination.
Various Belizean Sources
LATEST UP DATE BY DIRECTOR OF HEALTH SERVICES MADE TODAY - BELIZE REMAINS CORONAVIRUS FREE
"A further 4 samples have been processed at the Central Medical Laboratory, all negative so that we there are still NO CONFIRMED cases in Belize, these samples processed through the night.
Our staff continues to monitor the situation across the country but we NEED the cooperation of ALL in this if we are to continue to have a successful intervention.
Despite our calls and explanations to all those returning from abroad to self isolate, to not be out in public and minimize exposure to others - this is still not happening!
URGENT WILDTRACKS APPEAL - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
As with much of the world, we have had to move into crisis planning to ensure that we are able to continue operating the wildlife rehabilitation activities over the next few months, with crisis management strategies identified for moving forward in the face of uncertainties. We have completed an assessment of the situation to protect and maintain our Wildtracks Team, the fifty-three primates, eight manatees and various other species in our care.
We are currently down from fifteen to a team of five for the wildlife care, supported by the three tracking team members. With incoming volunteers unable to travel, we are already very short of hands. We are also losing the volunteer contribution towards animal food costs at a time when we urgently need to stock up on both animal and people supplies and fuel to ensure continued operations, before travel restrictions are imposed.
Persons with COVID-19 can claim sickness benefit
In the effort to share as much information with the public as possible, we may have caused some confusion. For clarity, COVID-19 along with its related incapacities such as isolation and quarantine, certified by a Medical Practitioner, ARE COVERED by SSB under our Sickness Benefit process following the same procedures currently in place for any other illness.
Orange Walk Town Council COVID-19 Prevention Plan
The Orange Walk Town Council hereby informs the General Public that certain preventative measures will be put in place for the safety of our Children, and all residents.
The following measures will be implemented in agreement to the press conference held on Monday, March 17. 2020. by the Prime Minister of Belize. Hon. Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition. Hon. John Briceho. 1. The Orange Walk Municipal Traffic Authority will be limiting the amount of customers within the offices. 2. The Orange Walk Municipal Traffic Authority will be limiting the time customers spend within the offices by allowing them to apply and pay for transactions and return for finished documents. 3. All offices of the Orange Walk Town Council will be off bounds to Children ...
San Pedro Town Council Preventative Measures for COVID-19
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council hereby informs the general public that preventative measures will be applied in order to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors from the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In agreement with the press conference held yesterday, Monday, March 17, 2020, by the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition, as they men-tioned, "Limit Social Gatherings no more than 100 persons", the San Pedro Town Council is forced to cancel the following events and activities: Mother's Day Extravaganza, Teacher's Day, All Easter events/activities and the International Costa Maya Festival.
Corozal Free Zone Board Closes Tonight
Based on the decision made by the National Oversight Committee on Friday 20th March, 2020 to close the Northern Border effective Saturday 21st March, 2020. The Administration has decided to close its gates to the general public effective Saturday 21st March, 2020 at 9:00 p.m.
All administration services will be provided accordingly.
CFZ Management
COVID-19: Liquor License Extensions Suspended
Dear Mayors/Chairpersons.
Sen. Hon. Carla Barnett, Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour. Local Government and Rural Development, is informing Councils and District Liquor Licensing Boards that the granting of "Extensions" for liquor license establishments are suspended with immediate effect until further notice.
The suspension is aimed at preventing mass gathering and to minimize the spread of COVID-19 if it reaches our country.
The Ministry of Local Government encourages all license holders to practice proper hygiene and to abide by this directive.
Live mass will be aired on Sunday morning
Live mass will be aired on Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m on The National Channel (TNC10). All are welcome to tune in.
Repeats of the mass will be aired throughout the day.
Celebrating the International Day of Forest!
Ya’axché protects 151,000 acres of forests in 3 protected areas. Within the critical forests, wildlife is kept healthy, freshwater clean and the sustainable use of resources. Our team carries enforcement patrols and research and monitors biodiversity to ensure our forests for future generations.
Koko King Restaurant & Wet Lounge Closed
Due to the recent COVID-19 Pandemic, and the mandatory safety measures put in place for our country, Koko King regretfully announces the closure of our establishment effective today March 21,2020 until further notice.
We take this moment to thank our valued customers and hotel guests for their support throughout our years of service. We hope to serve you all in the future when we overcome this worldwide devastation.
The safety of our customers, and employees is of paramount importance to us. We plea to all, to responsibly prepare, and practice proper hygiene, social distancing and isolation. Please keep yourself and families safe at all costs.
THE OLD TREE AT GOVERNMENT HOUSE
This magnificent old tree was once slated to be taken down. I am not sure what type of tree it is, but it is probably over a hundred years old and it survived two category 4/5 hurricanes and tsunamis. I couldn't let them cut it down. They said it was dangerous since some of the limbs were rotten out and it would eventually fall on someone. They had already placed an X on it. All of the trees that were slated to be removed from the property had an X on them.
The base of this tree is about 15 feet in circumference. The only other tree that is as old or larger than this one in downtown are the mahogany tree on South Street and the flamboyant across the street in the St. John's Cathedral property (already cut).
No Masses at San Pedro RC Church
During this time the public Masses will not be offered. Adoration will continue with about 2 persons per hour with at least 6 feet (2m) between persons. We will have further guidance later. Kindly prepare physically and spiritually. For now, there will be no large gatherings at church on Sundays but, the church will remain available. God Bless
CCVC Notice Number two, read and take note
The Caye Caulker Village Council and the Caye Caulker Liquor Board would like to notify the general public that effective tomorrow. March 22"1. 2020, the following measures will be implemented as additional measures to minimize the potential spread of COVID-19.
• All Public and Special license holders will be required to close completely. • All shops and convenience stores will need to close completely at 9:00 P.M sharp. • Restaurants are encouraged to do take-out and are reminded that only a minimum of 25 people are allowed at the establishment. • Additionally, all gatherings including the number of persons at restaurants, shops or supermarkets should not exceed more than 25 persons...
American National Tests Positive for COVID-19 After Departing Belize
The Ministry of Health was today notified of an American national who was in Belize and tested positive for COVID-19 in the U.S. after departing Belize one week ago.
The Ministry is, therefore, tracing all persons that were in close contact with the American. All of those found so far are without any symptoms but all have nevertheless been placed in isolation for 14 days. Nevertheless, the mapping exercise to identify other potential contacts continues.
BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE HOSPITAL CLOSURE
The Ministry of Defence informs the public of the closure of the Belize Defence Force Hospital at Price Barracks, Ladyville.
The Belize Defence Force health system must reconfigure its military medical personnel to support operational medicine and combat COVID-19 with a goal to maintain a healthy force. Therefore, the closure of the Hospital will reduce the footprint of its non-uniformed beneficiaries.
The Force Hospital will remain closed to the public until further notice.
Corozal Town Council Notices on COVID-19 Measures
Ministry of Labour Calls for Compliance
with Social Distancing Directives
The public is reminded of the Government of Belize’s directive on social distancing as a primary precautionary method to mitigate the potential spread and transmission of COVID-19. The public is also expected to continue these practices if a confirmed case is detected in Belize.
Please be reminded to limit gatherings in public spaces and business environments to a maximum of 25 persons at any given time. This directive is applicable to RESTAURANTS, LOUNGES, CLUBS, BARS, MARKETS, SUPERMARKETS and all other public spaces.
RF&G Insurance Statement on COVID-19
The Management and Staff of RF&G Insurance have made preparations for the arrival of COVID-19 to ensure the safety of our staff and minimize disruptions to our clients. Our goal is to remain operational during this difficult time by utilizing technology. This will allow both our staff and customers to observe good social distancing guidelines by working with us remotely. Below we have included the different communication options we have made available to our clients. We encourage you to contact us so that we can facilitate your insurance electronically.
Notice from Atlantic Bank:
In light of Covid-19, we are taking proactive steps in encouraging the well-being of our customers, staff and communities.
We remind you to use any of our digital products and services; such as, Atlantic Online, GoMobile, your debit and/or credit cards.
Belize Audubon Society COVID-19 Update
At Belize Audubon Society, one of our primary concerns is the health and safety of our staff, guests, and partners, along with operations of our co-managed protected areas. With this in mind, we are closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic globally, while simultaneously bracing for a 1st confirmed case in Belize. We are committed to welcoming guests while we can and facilitating open communication to supporting our needs as the situation develops day-by-day and often, hour-by-hour.
Recently, we have taken extra measures to ensure compliance of the guidelines provided by the Government of Belize, Ministry of Health, and the World Health Organization.
Thunderbolt Water Taxi Notice
"We would like to thank everyone for your continued support as we try our best to continue operations during this time. We would like to ask that only passengers with a ticket or a boarding pass are to stay on the dock in San Pedro and the pier in Corozal. All other persons, please refrain from lingering as we want to comply with SOCIAL DISTANCING.
So far no confirmed cases of COVID 19 in our country and we are still operating on our scheduled runs until any official further notice.
Thank you very much and please stay safe."
Westrac 2020 Cycling Race
Pictures from the 4th annual Westrac Cycling Race. Congratulations, Oscar Quiroz!
"The first major 10-man break was established by the time the race reached Cotton Tree, and shortly after a chase group of the main contenders had separated themselves and were on their way to join the front break..."
Westrac Ltd Cycle Race
Westrac Ltd was proud to sponsor our 4th Annual Cycling race this past Sunday, March 15th. We started sponsoring this race so that we could help prepare our Belizean cyclists better for the Cross Country. This year we had to cancel our original scheduled date because of too many other activities. Unfortunately, the usual Belmopan Cycling Classic was also postponed due to funds being redirected for Coronavirus preparations. Westrac took the opportunity to still host their race on this date. Due to this, we had a very good turnout of riders. We want to thank M&M Engineering ( sponsoring the aged 35+ prizes ), Minister Castro (traffic support vehicle), Belmopan City Council (traffic control) and Best Care Pharmacy (station prizes) for assisting us in this race.
Maya Independence
The Yucatec Maya (Máasewal) had the last Independent Maya Nation from 1850-1901 . The British recognized the Maya nation and the Maya kept the Yucatecans and Mexicans away . 1892 The British betrayed the Maya nation of Noj Kaj Santa Cruz (Chan Santa Cruz) by signing a treaty with the Mexicans without asking the Indigenous Yucatec Maya . The treaty succeeded the nearly all the land of the Maya nation to Mexico and the British agreed not to sell weapons to the Máasewal army . The Yucatec Maya of the Maya nation called themselves Máasewal or Cruzo'ob . The descendents of the Maya nation of Chan Santa Cruz can still be found in the Quintana roo state of Mexico and Northern Belize especially Corozal district .
NOJOCH CHIICH ANSELMA YAM POTT: PART 2 by Edith Yam de Vellos
The second part of the story of the Great Yucatec Maya grandmother Nojoch Chiich Anselma Yam Pott.
The Reporter
Criminal Dereliction Of Duty!
By Major Lloyd Jones (Ret’d) - “Orientation is maintained through the body’s sensory organs in three areas: visual, vestibular, and postural. The eyes maintain visual orientation. The motion sensing system in the inner ear maintains vestibular orientation. The nerves in the skin, joints, and muscles of the body maintain postural orientation...”
Job Terminations Must Be Reported Beforehand, Says Labour Ministry
The Ministry of Labour issued the following advisory yesterday evening to all employers and employees in respect to job terminations in light of COVID-19:
“The Ministry of Labour informs all employers, employees and the public that ALL EMPLOYERS are required by the Substantive Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2011) to inform them prior to terminating the employment of any worker.
Corozal Free Zone to Close At 9 Tonight
In tandem with the COVID-19 Oversight Committee’s decision to close facilities that pose a potential health risk, such as the Northern Border, the Administration of the Corozal Free Zone advises that the free zone will be closed to the public as of 9:00 tonight until further notice.
Editorial: March 22nd. 2020
This week the Hon. John Saldivar posted on Facebook a statement in which he says that he would be willing to endorse the Hon. Omar Figueroa for Party Leader at the up-coming UDP leadership convention, but he would compete for the position if his rival, the Hon. Patrick Faber competed.
Editorial #2 – March 22nd, 2020
US biochemists have created a 3-D atomic scale map of key portions of the corona virus, opening up prospects for an effective vaccine.
The invading virus delivers a genetic code which changes the way body cells behave. The sabotaging genetic code causes mutations which expand and block the pathways that send oxygen into your lungs.
Belize Brace For Impact Of COVID-19 Virus
All schools were ordered closed for a fortnight from Friday, March 20, and tighter border restrictions, and a ban of all social gatherings of 100 persons and more were announced by the Government of Belize, as preventative measures against the transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
Market Day Activities Significantly Reduced
The buying frenzy that normally occurs on Saturday mornings at the Michael Finnegan (formerly the Queen’s Square Market) came to almost a screeching halt today. Notably, there were no vendors who ordinarily line the two sides of West Collet Canal selling their products. In fact, pedestrian traffic was so light that there was no need to close the street to vehicular traffic.
Breaking Belize News
American national tests positive for Covid-19 one week after departing Belize
Late tonight, the Ministry of Health reported that several persons who had come into contact […]
Man shot on Antelope Street
A man was shot moments ago on Antelope Street Extension. BBN understands the man, identified […]
Ministry of Labour urges everyone to comply with social distancing directives including in supermarkets
The Government of Belize reminds the public of its directives on social distancing as a […]
Central Bank and financiers encourage less face to face encounters in wake of coronavirus
The Central Bank of Belize, Credit Unions League and Bankers’ Association have issued guidelines for […]
Body found in southern Belize
Minutes ago a man was found dead in Southern Belize. His identity remains unknown but […]
St. Michael R.C. Primary School breaks ground for new school building
A ground-breaking ceremony was held on Friday to commemorate the start of construction works of […]
Louisiana Government Primary School breaks ground for building extension
A ground-breaking ceremony was held on March 18, to officially commence the construction of an […]
Corozal Free Zone to close gates tonight
The Government of Belize yesterday informed of additional precautionary measures in light of the Covid-19 […]
SSB clarifies: persons with COVID-19 can claim sickness benefit
The Social Security Board (SSB) has clarified its initial social media post on benefits associated […]
Southwest Airlines cuts 1,000 flights from schedule including flight to Belize
The Government of Belize announced that on Monday, March 24, the Philip Goldson International Airport […]
Four samples return negative; still no confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Belize
This morning, the Office of Director of Health Services issued a statement informing that a […]
“Courts announces support for credit customers”
Unicomer (Belize) Ltd. is reaching out to its credit customers to offer much-needed relief during this critical time. […]
Ministry of Natual Resources to reopen on Monday
The Ministry of Natural Resources issued a release this evening informing the general public that […]
Caribbean Travelers Note: Southwest suspends all Int’l flights
Southwest Airlines will end all international flying on Sunday March 22nd, 2020 as the carrier slashes a quarter of its schedule, its latest reduction in light of the widening coronavirus crisis. This means over 1,000 flights will be cut from the carriers schedule.
Videos
AREA REPRESENTATIVE HONOURABLE MANUEL HEREDIA ADDRESSING COVID19, 12min.
Requirements for Compensation when on Sick Leave, 1min. The Social Security Board in collaboration with the Labour Department, takes this opportunity to remind Insured Persons of the requirements for compensation when on Sick Leave.
Market Day in Corozal, 19min.
Snorkeling Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize, 4min.
Drone view of Carrie Bow Cay - Belize, 1min.
Belize - 2019 | Let it Happen, 8min.
Belize 2020, 8min. During the February Reading Break of 2020, a handful of Rotarians and Rotaractors headed down to Belize on the annual trip in support of Literacy Without Borders. During this week long trip, we support the building of playgrounds at local schools to promote the attendance of students.
Belize - Aggressor Sun Dancer 2014, 14min.
March 21, 2020
FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE
Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.
Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.
The San Pedro Sun
Public Transportation Protocol for COVID-19
The Department of Transport has been working closely with the Ministry of Health to address the challenges of COVID-19 in order to safeguard and protect the health of the public.
The following protocols have been put in place by the Department of Transport:
1. The public is advised to report over-crowding of public transportation, including buses, busitos, “dalla vans”, taxis, and water taxis. Report all cases to 610-8163.
2. Daily commuters are encouraged to take alternative buses in the morning and evening to avoid travel during rush hours. Employers are encouraged to be flexible with working hours to accommodate their staff as this situation continues to evolve.
Ambergris Caye students observe National Hand Washing Day
Thursday, March 19th was declared National Hand Washing Day in Belize. The Ministry of Education reportedly sent out soap to all the schools countrywide for students to wash their hands. The activity is expected to sensitize the general public to continue practicing proper hand washing in order to avoid the spread of diseases. Students at the Ambergris Caye Elementary School cheerfully celebrated the occasion and washed their hands with the soap sent by MOE.
Brads Gaming Group donates golf cart to San Pedro Police; new Police Constables receive bicycles
While a surge in crime activities in south side Belize City has prompted the Ministry of National Security to declare a state of emergency, San Pedro Town continues to register low levels in major crimes. This achievement has caught the attention of the business community on and off the island. As a result, on Wednesday, March 18th the San Pedro Police Formation was the recipient of a brand new golf cart courtesy of Brads Gaming Group from Belize City. The island police department was also provided with eight bicycles for its newly installed constables to support the current bike patrol. The bicycles were donated by the Embassy of the United States of America in Belize.
KHMH union wants COVID-19 Isolation Unit located apart from KHMH
The Government of Belize’s (GOB) recent edict banning any assembly of more than 100 persons, obliged the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) workers’ union to postpone a protest demonstration they had planned for Tuesday, March 17th.
The KHMH workers are concerned that GOB and the Ministry of Health decided to set up a COVID-19 Isolation Unit inside the KHMH, without first consulting with the staff, as to whether this would be the best approach. The Union feels that they should have been consulted first, rather than merely having a decision made without them.
Ambergris Today
Belize Tourism Board Advises Stakeholders On Airlines Flight Suspensions To Belize
The Philip Goldson International Airport and the Santa Elena Border (Northern Border with Mexico) remain open. Belize's Western Border with Guatemala will be closed for 15 days effective immediately, as are all other small ports of entry. The border closure does not apply to our sea ports; these remain open for cargo traffic.
United Airlines - Effective April 1st, 2020, United has announced that there will only be one daily afternoon flight from Houston.
Avianca - Effective immediately, Avianca has suspended its operations to Belize at the direction of the Salvadoran government for fifteen (15) days in the first instance.
Various Belizean Sources
Philip Goldson International Airport Closing Monday March 23
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize (March 20, 2020). The Department of State has issued a Global Level 4 Health Advisory for COVID-19.
The Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. While there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Belize, the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee announced today additional border closings as outlined below.
The Philip Goldson International Airport will be closed effective Monday, March 23rd, after the last scheduled flight departs. Again, these measures only apply to the movement of people and do not apply to cargo trucks or cargo planes. U.S. citizens who live in the United States should arrange for immediate return to the United States, unless they are prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens who live abroad should avoid all international travel.
CCVC action plan to minimize potential spread of COVED-19
The Caye Caulker Village Council and The Caye Caulker Traffic Department continues to closely follow the developments concerning the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-2019). The health and safety of our members, staff, visitors and community members are of great importance to us. Therefore, we are working on an action plan to help minimize the potential spread of COVID-19 by minimizing person to person contacts.
We are kindly asking customers/community members/visitor, to be pro,ti5 with the following measures:
Notice to Belizean students abroad
Belizean students abroad are advised to submit their name, contact details (email/mobile) and study information to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the email address provided below. Please also include an emergency point of contact/family member in Belize.
Students are further advised to contact their universities for guidance and to observe the Ministry of Health recommendations in the countries where they reside.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 4, HOW COVID-19 WILL AFFECT IMMIGRATION AND BORDER CONTROL
Which borders have been closed?
• The Belize Western Border Station with Guatemala is closed. • The Belize Southern Border Station, including Hunting Caye and Jalacte, is closed. • The Belize City Seaport is closed with the exception of cargo vessels. • The San Pedro Seaport is closed. • The Dangriga Seaport is closed. • No informal border crossing in Blue Creek and Santa Cruz in Orange Walk is allowed.
Which borders remain open? Only two major ports of entry remain open. • The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport ; • Belize Northern Border Station at Santa Elena
PHOTOS OF THE DAY: GOVERNMENT HOUSE
The Government House is 206 years old this year and doing well. Lots of important meetings and decisions were made inside those walls. Many people have walked up and down that grand stairway from common folks to monarchs.
Ryoya Oyama's environmental initiative to keep Corozal clean!
Congratulations to JICA volunteer Ryoya Oyama with his environmental initiative in keeping Corozal clean! Last year we collaborated with paint, materials and a location for children to be creative! Thank you to students from St. Paul's, Corozal Nazarene, St. Francis Xavier and Marry Hill for participating in the poster competition and creating beautiful art work with an important message. Special thanks goes out to our community member Mr. Lester Hudson who donated the plywood and Tilt a Dock Resort for donating the 4x4 posts. Town Council supplied the accompanying garbage cans and installation.
Tropic Air Suspends Flghts to San Ignacio & Belmopan
Tropic Air has taken the difficult decision to suspend all flights to Belmopan and San Ignacio. The last flight for Belmopan will be on Saturday, March 21st. The last flight for San Ignacio will be on Sunday, March 22nd. Cargo service for both stations is suspended immediately.
Unfortunately, these cuts have become necessary due to the extraordinary circumstances being brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to continuing to serve Belize as we recover from this worldwide challenge.
Tropic Air Suspends Flghts to Cancun
Due to the extraordinary effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tropic Air has taken the difficult decision to suspend service between Belize City & Cancun, Mexico from March 23rd through May 3, 2020. This suspension has become necessary due to the extraordinary circumstances being brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our last flight will be on Sunday, March 22nd and we expect to resume daily service on Monday, May 4th, 2020
Labour Advisory: Attention Employers
The Ministry of Labour informs all employers, employees and the public that ALL EMPLOYERS are required by section 45 of The Labour Act Cap 297 of the Substantive Laws of Belize (Revised Edition 2011) to inform the Labour Commissioner prior to terminating the employment of any worker.
The Office of the Labour Commissioner is available to address employment concerns and queries that may result because of the current and unprecedented circumstances facing Belize in relation to COVID-19. It is very important that there be full legal compliance for the benefit of all, especially during this time.
COVID- 19 Follow-up Risk Mitigation Actions
he Ministry of Natural Resources informs the public that offices countrywide will reopen for business on Monday, March 23, 2020.
The Ministry, guided by the recommendations outlined by the Government of Belize, will implement social distancing measures and encourage customers to take full advantage of its online services.
The Ministry also informs the public that effective Monday, March 23, 2020, all services offered by the following departments and units will be available online:
Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of the COVID-19 (coronavirus)
Recognizing that persons carrying the virus may not be presenting symptoms, the Pesticides Control Board (PCB) is taking the following measures to protect its personnel and the community from getting and spreading COVID-19.
Press Release from Pesticides Control Board
The COVID-19 National Oversight Committee held its second meeting today, March 20th, and agreed to take additional measures to further protect the health of Belizeans and reduce the threat of transmission of COVID-19 in Belize.
As of today, March 20th, Belize does not have any confirmed case of COVID-19. The developments on the international and regional fronts, however, have informed the Committee’s decisions.
Notice for Official Information on COVID-19
The Government of Belize reminds the public that ALL official information concerning COVID-19 (coronavirus) will come from the Government of Belize Press Office and the Ministry of Health. Information from any other source is not advised to be relied on.
Information can be verified on the Facebook pages of the Government Press Office and the Ministry of Health as well as the Government Press Office website www.pressoffice.gov.bz. If there are any queries regarding COVID-19, kindly contact the Ministry of Health’s hotline at 0-800-MOH-CARE or info@covid19.bz.
Rumour Cargo to be Stopped is Incorrect
The Belize Port Authority has become aware that a recording is circulating via social media that cargo vessels will cease calling to Belize as of 22 March 2020. This is false and an irresponsible rumour, and is to be rejected as such.
The Belize Port Authority hereby confirms to the public that cargo ships shall continue their calls to Belize and that there has been no indication of any interruption of cargo coming into Belize.
The ports remain open for ship calls for importation and exportation of all types of cargo, including petroleum. The shipping agents have also confirmed that these vessels will continue their scheduled voyages to Belize.
Ambassador Nestor Mendez Re-elected as Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States
The Office of the Prime Minister of Belize is pleased to announce that H.E. Nestor Mendez, former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, was today re-elected as the Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS) for the period 2020-2025.
Today’s elections mark Ambassador Mendez’s second term as he was previously elected in March 2015. The post of Assistant Secretary General is the second highest office in the OAS and holds senior responsibilities in that hemispheric organization.
Message to German citizens not resident in Belize
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ALL NON-RESIDENT GERMAN NATIONALS TO CONSIDER LEAVING THE COUNTRY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
Dear German compatriots in Belize,
As you know, Belize, like rnany other countries, has progressively expanded its measures to contain further spread by classifying the coronavirus crisis as a pandemic.
As Embassy, we strongly encourage you - all German citizens not resident in Belize - to consider leaving the country as soon as possible due to the travel restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). If you do not act now, you may not be able to return home for the foreseeable future.
From our San Pedro Town Council
They have amended their statement to include the following:
"UPDATE: We apologize for the oversight: bars and clubs will be forced to closed today; however, bars that sell food are allowed to operate, this includes restaurants as well."
SAN PEDRO TOWN COUNCIL UPDATE ON PREVENTATIVE MEASURES TOWARDS THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
Mayor Daniel Guerrero and the San Pedro Town Council hereby informs the general public that new preventative measures will be applied, along with the previous measures that were established, in order to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors from the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In agreement with the latest updated release from the Government of Belize, social gatherings will now be limited to twenty five (25) people. In this regard, the SPTC and the Police Formation will be closing bars and clubs, effective immediately. Only bars that sell food are allowed to operate, this includes restaurants as well.
Corozal Public Notice
Please be advised that effective Sunday 22nd March 2020 the Chinese Community has agreed to close iron doors at 6:00 pm but will still be selling up to 9:00 pm. This is a preventative measure and will change de-pending on further instructions by the Government of Belize. The Corozal Police Department will increase patrols in the community effective immediately. The Corozal Town Council working hand in hand with the Business Community and the Police to ensure your continued safety.
PRINCESS CASINO FREE ZONE CLOSES FOR 30 DAYS
PRINCESS CASINO FREE ZONE regrets to inform its customers that effective Saturday, March 21st at 8:00 P.M. it will be closing to the general public for a 30 day period.
We apologize for any inconveniences.
COROZAL BORDER TO BE CLOSED
Through a Government Press Release effective midnight Saturday, March 21st, our Corozal Northern Border of Belize will be closed for traveling but will remain open for cargo transportation. This means that only Belizean nationals, residents, and diplomats residing in Belize will be allowed entry into Belize subject to inspection and possible quarantine for 14 days. Similarly, the Northern Border will be closed for nationals and residents wishing to travel outside of Belize except for emergencies.
Additionally, our Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport will be closed effective Monday, March 23rd after the last scheduled flight departs.
Roaring Creek Bridge Opens
The new Roaring Creek Bridge is open! The first vehicle to cross the new Roaring Creek Bridge this morning, as it was opened for the first time to traffic, was driven by Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Works, Errol Gentle. The bridge is built 12 feet above the old one, and has two full lanes for vehicular traffic, as well as two pedestrian paths. Higher, wider and stronger, this massive new structure is a landmark that puts an exclamation point on twelve years of infrastructure transformation by this UDP Dean Barrow Administration. It was constructed by M&M Engineering of Belize, with supervision by IMC International based in the United Kingdom.
BTB NOTICE TO TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS COVID-19 Update
With the outbreak of COVID-19, the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) assures our partners and tourism stakeholders that we remain vigilant in monitoring the situation in order to provide the most up-to-date information available:
Status of COVID-19 in Belize:
As of today, Friday, March 20, 2020 Belize's Ministry of Health (MOH) indicates that there are NO confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Belize.
Travel Restrictions:
At present, Belize is prohibiting entry into the country by nationals of the following countries and persons who have traveled within the last 30 days from:
Ya'axché Conservation Trust Covid-19 Notice
In response to the evolving situation with COVID-19 worldwide and in Belize. Ya'axche is following closely the recommendations communicated by the Government of Belize to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Ya'axche is taking the necessary precautionary measures to keep staff safe during this time. Ya'axche's Main Office on #20A George Price Street. Punta Gorda, will be closed effective as of Monday March 23, 2020 with reopening of the office subject to an all clear from the relevant authorities. All administrative operations will be conducted remotely during this period. All field operations will proceed as normal with restricted visitor access to field facilities at our managed and co-managed protected areas.
1962 NORTHERN MAYA HISTORY OF BELIZE
After the Maya Social war (Caste war) many Yucatec Maya rebels became Cane farmers in Belize . The Maya milperos and Cane cutters own no land. All the land was own by the company and the Mayero peasants where simply cane cutters . In 1962 around 80 arm men stop the tractors from working and they telegram George Price asking for land .
THE 1962 STRIKE:
In 1962 Yucatec Maya villagers of San Pablo,Buena Vista,San Jose and Douglas decided on their own to strike . These villagers went to other villages which provided the bulk of BSI's plantation labor and told them that if they agreed to strike . They will provide them food for the duration of the strike . Jesus Ken learn of the plan and went along the workers plan.
Blue Water Grill in San Pedro Closing
We are officially closed after dinner tonight. We need to protect the health and well being of our team, our customers, and our community. We plan to reopen in May or when it is safe to do so.
Don't worry, we will not fire or layoff any of our 35 staff. We will pay them 50% of their salaries every week until we reopen. Why? Because reputations are built during tough times.
Love always,
Kelly and Mukul
Sandbar Beachfront Hostel and Restaurant Notice
Due to recent events concerning the COVID-19 virus, we are taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety and health of our customers and staff.
Effective immediately, free deliveries will be provided for ALL meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our delivery service is available daily until 11:45pm. Please note than unless mandated by the GoB, we do not have any immediate plans to close our doors!
Regarding our dining room, bar, front desk, and facilities, all surfaces, countertops, lounge chairs, door handles and sink faucets will be sanitized regularly. Our barstools, tables, and deck chairs have been rearranged with at least 6-feet in between them in order to practice social distancing.
Children's Drawing Contest
We invite children from Belize to put their imagination in motion by participating in this edition of the Children's Drawing Contest with the theme "Alebrijes," fantastic figures around the world.
Channel 7
Tourism Board Layoffs
Tonight, Belize is still free of the Coronavirus - one of about 19 countries in the whole world where its presence has not been confirmed.
But, even though it isn't here yet, the effects are being felt on a massive scale - especially in the tourism industry where layoffs have already started.
Today, the Belize Tourism Board reportedly sent home a number of staffers in a cost cutting measure - reportedly as much as 50% of the staff. Director of Tourism Karen Bevans declined an interview, but told us this via text message this afternoon: quote, "We are still meeting by Departments but the team is quite pleased. We have an agreed separation with a few of them for now, until Tourism picks back up." End quote.
COVID-19 Shutdown, Belize Moves to Close Borders And Airport
And tonight the national response to COVID-19 has taken a much more sharper focus; Belize is isolating itself and closing borders completely. The COVID-19 National Oversight Committee held its second meeting today and made a bunch of big decisions that are sure to affect every Belizean's way of life.
First off, on Saturday at midnight, the Northern Border including the Corozal Free Zone, will be closed to visitors and will remain open only for movement of cargo.
Only Belizean nationals, residents, and diplomats residing in Belize will be allowed entry into Belize subject to inspection and possible quarantine for 14 days.
Guatemalans Continue to Be Repatriated Through Belize
And for many Belizeans - the airport can't close too soon. And why is that? Because Guatemalans keep coming through to get back to their own country!
Guatemala suspended all international flights from March 16 to 30 except for cargo.
And, so, many Guatemalans trying to return home have decided to come through Belize, and head straight to the Western border. It's not illegal, since Belize has not banned the arrival of Guatemalans.
That made big news yesterday - after a taxi driver had to be quarantined. And, tonight it's news again after a SILVA's bus was taken unto the tarmac to whisk off 27 Guatemalans two had arrived on a COPA flight from Panama.
Cargo Supply to Belize Uninterrupted
But, that repatriation of Guatemalans is going to end of Monday when the airport closes - along with all other borders. But they will remain open to cargo - and so does the Port of Belize where ships will continue to arrive - and two are expected this weekend.
But while shipping and cargo operations remain as normal as they can be in the current global climate, the panic mongers just keep at it.
This morning a panic voice message went viral. It claimed that Belize is in for something serious the shipping from the United States would be halted effective Sunday, March 22nd.
FECTAB Fulminates Against National Covid Response
And if you want to talk about panic, it was writ large today at a FECTAB press conference.
And, quite understandably, FECTAB is the Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize, and its members are the small to medium sized operators servicing a cruise industry that has disappeared overnight.
So, for them, the COVID-19 pandemic means that their livelihoods have disappeared for an indefinite period.
And, today, FECTAB publicly reminded the government of this stark reality at a press conference.
Six Charged For Murder
Belize City Police have arrested and charged 6 men for two recent murders.
The first incident that they have made an arrest for is the killing of 46-year-old Keith Courtenay. You'll remember that the shooting which happened 2 weeks ago on Sarstoon Street in the Long Barracks area. Courtenay was attempting to shield his 6-year-old grandson from the sudden spray of gunfire, and he was fatally injured.
Investigators have also arrested 4 men for the brazen broad daylight shooting 3 days at the corner of Orange and West Streets. You'll remember that 21-year-old Derrick King and another Bowen and Bowen delivery man were conducting their company's business when they came under attack.
State Of Emergency Detains 102
Police Commissioner Chester Williams also spoke with the press about the ongoing state of emergency that was declared 2 days ago for 8 areas in Belize City. That's after a 48-hour crime wave struck the City, and resulted in 6 murders, including the killings of those precious 5 year old's Kia Herbert and Dominique Rhamdas - as well as his mother.
This evening, police announced that they have detained 102 persons who they strongly believe are gang members.
Among the detained persons include 25-year-old Adrian Pook, 31-year-old Aaron Lindo, 36-year-old Edwin Flowers, 20-year-old Phozhaun Lewis, 21-year-old Israel Usher, 23-year-old Brandon Young, 27-year-old Raheem McGowan, 26-year-old Byron Jeffords, 19-year-old Adam Ferguson, and 26-year-old Terrel Moreira.
Here's what the Commissioner had to say this evening about the rounding up of all these suspected gang members countrywide:
SOE Detainees Go Defiantly To Prison
And, it's been a whirlwind of activity today for the police department. They also took hundred plus detainees to prison. That created quite a scene outside the Queen Street Police Station and 7News was there:
It was very busy inside the compound at the Queen Street police station around 11:00 this morning.
Paramilitary police were there in numbers ad they processed detainees to be placed on the prison bus. We saw the detainees brought out of the holding cell, searched and then directed to the bus.
Former Williamson Exec Detained on Remand Offence
He's the well known former country manager for Williamson Industries, but yesterday 78 year old Lawrence Maclaren was arrested for trying to board a flight with a gun in his bag.
In what was likely an oversight for the senior citizen, Macalren was searched at the airport screening area and the Security found a 22 revolver with 6 live rounds in his travel bag.
Keeping Kia's Memory Alive
Imagine you're five years old, and your little classmate, the one who you played with in the yard, the one you sang with, and learned to read withis suddenly killed, shot dead in her sleep before dawn. And on Tuesday, she just isn't there at school - and she'll never be there again. A young life snuffed out, erased, just like that.
Nestor Mendez, Re-elected To ASG Post By Acclamation
Belizean Diplomat Nestor Mendez has made us proud again. The former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, was today re-elected as the Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States for another five year term.
And, he was elected by acclamation, which means he was unopposed and enjoyed the support of all 33 Member States present.
Why Not Cancel The PSE?
The Ministry of Education held a press conference on Wednesday to announce that schools would be closed today for COVID 19 concerns, but that students should take schoolwork home.
But, what happens when they get home? Many parents will struggle to find or pay for babysitting especially or young ones. And, as of tomorrow, daycare centers will also have to close.
So, will there be any kind of provision to help parents pay for babysitting? We asked the minister - he was not encouraging:
Courts Shows Compassion In A Time of COVID
Unicomer Belize Limited, the company which owns Courts Belize and Tropigas, has announced today that they are waiving late fees for their credit customers, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic which is halting a lot of commercial and business activity.
A press release from the company says that they are reaching out to their customers to offer relief. Anticipating that their "ready-finance" customers won't be able to make payments on their accounts on time, the company has decided to wave late fees.
Channel 5
Belize Remains Free of Covid-19; New Measures Announced
As the weekend gets underway, there are zero cases of coronavirus detected within our borders but new measures are being put in place beginning this Saturday. The Oversight Committee on [...]
Alleged Gang Members Imprisoned
As the crackdown of suspected gang members continues, police today hoarded away a first group of affiliates. The men were picked up at different times and places and kept in [...]
Police Department Publishes Wanted Persons List
The full force of the law to crack down on crime came down as early as three o’clock on Wednesday morning when the round up began in neighbourhoods in the [...]
Police Make Several Arrests Following Belize City Bloodbath
Several persons were arraigned this evening in the lower courts after being charged for crimes ranging from attempted murder to murder. On Tuesday afternoon, twenty-two-year-old Derrick King, an employee of [...]
An Update on the State of Emergency
At a press conference this evening, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams provided an update on operations being conducted under the existing state of emergency, beginning with an increase in the [...]
Measured Progress in Solving Homicides Involving Two Infants
Investigators are closer to making arrests in at least three of the murders that occurred earlier this week. According to Commissioner Williams, they have made significant inroads in cracking the [...]
What’s Ahead for Citizen Security this Weekend?
ComPol Chester Williams stopped short of divulging operational details of police activities that are scheduled for this weekend, suffice to say that the ramped up presence of officers in the [...]
COVID-19’s Devastating Effects on the Tourism Industry
Tourism industries across the world continue to crumble due to the devastating effects of COVID-19. While Belize remains without a confirmed case, the tourism industry here is still feeling the [...]
Employees in Tourism Industry Feeling the COVID-19 Effects
Tens of thousands of persons rely on the tourism industry and with COVID-19 negatively affecting the industry many businesses are left to lay off employees. Hotels across the country are [...]
How Can G.O.B. Assist Hotels and Employees?
According to Tejada, the Belize Hotel Association is working with the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee to mitigate the effects of the deadly disease. A survey is being carried out and the [...]
FECTAB Demands a Seat at the Table
The first case of coronavirus is yet to be confirmed in Belize and while many are hunkering down in fear of contracting the illness once it makes landfall, stakeholders in [...]
FECTAB: “Something’s Require Wahn Dictatorship”
FECTAB’s demand for equity in the distribution of tourism relief is in the interest of small and independent tour operators who they say are constantly overlooked by government and industry [...]
CJ Kenneth Benjamin Retires; Who Takes Up the Post?
Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin has retired from the Judiciary, having reached the mandatory retirement age of sixty-five years on Thursday. This leaves the post vacant. When News Five contacted Attorney [...]
Luis Almagro & Nestor Mendez are Re-elected as Sec. Gen. & Asst. Sec. Gen. of the O.A.S.
At the headquarters of the Organization of American States in Washington today, the anticipated elections took place for Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General of the O.A.S. Secretary General Luis [...]
COVID-19 High Risk Groups
While some cases of the novel coronavirus are mild, there are some underlying conditions which make people more likely to catch it or suffer a more severe infection. The high risk group [...]
COVID-19 Tips
Tonight we bring you more information on how to prepare and protect yourself in light of the novel corona virus. Earlier this week we spoke with critical care doctor and [...]
Belize Port Authority Sets the Record Straight: Cargo Ships Continue Calls to Belize
False information has been spreading as fast as the virus elsewhere in the world and fact checking has become even more critical as is the reliance on official information. Today, [...]
K.H.M.H.’s C.E.O. on COVID-19 Preparedness
The Ministry of Health has been preparing for COVID-19 since January of this year when the first cases were being reported in China. It has acquired additional testing kits and [...]
Central Health Region Plans for COVID-19
In respect of the Central Health Region, several institutions have been identified and will be equipped and converted for various levels of care that will be needed in the event of a large [...]
Ministry of Health Screening Points
During Thursday’s Ask the Experts session, Director of Health Services Doctor Marvin Manzanero also shared that new screening points are now in place around the country. He says that they [...]
Corporal Kent Martinez is Committed to Stand Trial for Manslaughter
A police corporal, who allegedly shot and killed a teacher as he drove in a vehicle in downtown Belize City last July, was today committed to stand trial in the [...]
Bail Denied for Accused Murderer George Bull
A man, who is charged with a murder that occurred in 2017 and for whom a preliminary inquiry has still not been completed, was denied bail today in the Supreme [...]
Female Chef Charged With Illegal Gun Possession
A woman, who claims she is a chef in San Pedro, was today arrested and charged with possession of an illegal firearm and sixteen rounds of ammunition. Ana Herrera, represented [...]
Internal Investigation Ongoing into Fatal B.D.F. Helicopter Incident
We’ve been reporting on the latest reports on the B.D.F.’s fatal helicopter crash. The Honduran Air Force conducted the first investigation and has shared their findings. The Civil Aviation Department [...]
The Tale of the B.D.F. Heli Crash and the Postmortem
As you heard just now, the team is still carrying out the internal investigation. But one other point that stuck out during at Wednesday’s press conference relates to the autopsy. [...]
Amandala
Gun violence triggers State of Emergency
Between Friday night and Tuesday afternoon, Belize City experienced a deadly surge in gun violence that left 7 persons dead, including two 5-year-olds, who were shot while they slept in their homes.
Apart from the fatal shootings, at least 8 persons suffered from gunshot injuries and had to be rushed to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Emergency Room.
By the early hours of yesterday, Wednesday, authorities responded to this spike in violent crimes by declaring a state of emergency in eight areas on the southside of Belize City, where the most intense gang rivalries occur.
Belize remains free of COVID-19
Belize remains the only country in Central America where there is no confirmed case of the COVID-19 pandemic that has been wreaking havoc and death around the world in more than 140 countries on all continents.
On Wednesday, in preparation for COVID-19, the Government of Belize via the National Coordinating Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Leader of the Opposition, Hon. John Briceno, announced a series of measures to prepare Belize for the expected arrival of COVID-19 (coronavirus).
Supreme Court Justice Michelle Arana will act as Chief Justice
Supreme Court Justice Michelle Arana has become the first female judge to act as Chief Justice of Belize.
Justice Arana has become the head of the Belize Judiciary after Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin reached the mandatory retirement age of 65.
Justice Arana was also the first female judge to be appointed to the Supreme Court bench in January 2006.
Justice Arana has served in a number of judicial appointments, including Registrar of the Supreme Court, Magistrate, and Crown Counsel at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution.
Guatemalans allowed to transit through Belize
The Government of Belize came under intense criticism today in social media after it was learned that two Guatemalan officials were allowed to transit through Belize yesterday from the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA), from which they traveled by taxi to the Western border. The Western border has been closed since Monday.
Reporters caught up with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wilfred Elrington, who told them that he was unaware of any agreement to allow the PGIA and subsequently the western border to be used as a transit point for Guatemalans.
Key questions about fatal BDF helicopter crash remain unanswered
This afternoon, senior officials of the Ministry of National Security held a media briefing at the Belize Coast Guard Headquarters to highlight two of the latest reports about the ill-fated Belize Defence Force (BDF) UH 1H BDF 12 helicopter which crashed, killing 4 BDF soldiers who were on a secret mission involving the interception of a drug plane in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 27.
These two new reports on the helicopter crash, one from the helicopter manufacturer, Bell, and the other from the Belize Civil Aviation Department, come on the heels of the first report that was done by the Honduran Air Force, which pointed to pilot error as the cause of the accident.
Craziness in the city —7 murders in 5 days
A spate of shootings has left 7 persons dead, including a little girl and a little boy, both 5 years old, who died while sleeping in their homes with their mothers. The two children were killed within 48 hours of each other in separate shooting incidents.
In one of the shootings, a 2-year-old girl was also grazed.
US Embassy suspends its visa services
The global pandemic of coronavirus (COVID-19) has placed many cities and counties around the world under lockdown, as preventative measures are enforced to stem the spread of the disease.
Yesterday, Monday, the United States extended its travel ban to some 26 European countries, including the United Kingdom, which was exempt last week when the travel ban was first introduced, in response to the growing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths in the continental US.
Hon. Dr. Omar Figueroa will run for UDP leader post
The United Democratic Party (UDP) has been in limbo, regarding whom will be selected to fill the post of party leader, which will soon be vacated by the retiring Dean Barrow, who has been at the helm of the party for over two decades. This week, the race for UDP leader took a new turn when the Cayo North area representative, Hon. Dr. Omar Figueroa, submitted his name in a bid to seek nomination to the post.
Dr. Figueroa, a relative newcomer to party politics, was first elected to the House of Representatives in a by-election in January 2015, when the Cayo North seat became vacant after the PUP’s Joseph Mahmud suddenly resigned. Dr. Figueroa also won the seat in the general elections of November 2015.
50 foreigners refused entry to Belize on COVID-19 fears
About 50 foreigners, many Europeans included, attempted to enter Belize from Chetumal on a water taxi, but were prevented from doing so out of concerns about the possible transmission of COVID-19.
The water taxi entered Belize’s waters from Chetumal, Mexico, on Saturday, March 14, and was anchored off the coast of San Pedro. The passengers indicated that they wanted to remain on the boat overnight and were refusing to leave Belizean waters.
They were eventually escorted out of Belize territorial waters by the Belize Coast Guard.
KHMH Workers Union abandons protest
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Workers Union was scheduled to hold a demonstration yesterday evening to protest government’s decision to put an isolation unit for treating COVID-19 patients on the KHMH compound. When we checked with the union’s vice president, however, we were told that the protest was not going to occur because the necessary police permit could not be obtained.
Vice president of the union, Andrew Baird, told us that the union would instead write a petition to the National Referral Committee, which is chaired by Prime Minister Dean Barrow and co-chaired by the leader of the Opposition People’s United Party, Hon. John Briceño.
Editorial: Maintaining the status quo will not save us
It is not impossible that COVID-19 (new coronavirus) could lose some of its sting in the very near future. Most experts are saying it is likely that the disease will continue to be a major worry for quite some time, but there are good examples of containment in some countries — in Singapore, in Taiwan, in South Korea, and in Mainland China where the first outbreak was recorded.
The medical world knows a lot more about controlling the spread of influenza-type viruses than it did when the so-called Spanish Influenza broke out during and immediately after WWI.
UDP 2nd leadership convention – a new circus
The last party council meeting that the governing United Democratic Party (UDP) held, ended in major disarray after April 5 was set as the new date for a national convention for the selection of a new party leader.
UDP chairman, Attorney General and new Minister of National Security, Michael Peyrefitte told reporters after the meeting that if applications were received from more than one aspirant to the post of leader, they would proceed to a contested convention.
At the UDP’s last national convention on Sunday, February 9, John Saldivar (Belmopan) soundly defeated Patrick Faber (Collet) and was sworn in as “UDP-Leader elect.”
Belize and the COVID-19 in March 2020
Wow!! Today is very interesting to be alive. In Belize, our economy has tanked – It’s in an official recession – agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism are all in decline. Meanwhile, a coronavirus (COVID-19) is threating to kill millions, is already destroying the global economy and has become the trigger to bring down the global financial system. As at Monday, the pneumonia outbreak has infected 167,000 persons globally with 3,218 dead in China, 1809 in Italy, 852 in Iran, 77 in South Korea, and 292 in Spain; or a death total of 3,170 persons outside of China. Panic buying is now occurring in Belize, Hong Kong, Germany, Italy, Australia, and most other cities in the world.
No more police checkpoints; police will instead institute area patrols
This afternoon, an order issued by Commissioner of Police Chester Williams set in motion the removal of checkpoints that are operated in hot spot areas of the city.
Instead of checkpoints, police officers assigned to the area will conduct area patrols, and also, a policy of cell phone control will be put in place for officers on duty. The aim is to have effective police patrols in the communities without officers being distracted by their cell phones. Compol Williams said that a policy of limiting cell phone usage while on duty will be signed today.
Our sporting world comes to a stand-still due to COVID-19
It’s an eerie feeling this midweek, as we chronicle the remaining events of the past weekend in sports, following our Tuesday issue report on a few of them. What will be different in this Friday’s sports pages, is that for now and for weeks to come, we can look forward to no more weekend excitement from sports, that unpredictable avenue of human endeavor that brings thrills and distraction to a hard working populace in need of relief from the stress of work and the pain of lost loved ones in the spiraling orgy of reckless violence being perpetrated by a handful of lost and desperate youths in their own form of battle for survival, which has spelled the heart wrenching loss of innocent lives in our community.
Belizean Legends Shining Stars! Oscar Lamb! Providing Through An Honest Living!
My own father, like Oscar Lamb here, was one of the many Belizean vendors and independent business people around Belize City, Belize who were one of the few Belizean black men in the 1960s and 70s that were self-employed.
Just watching how neat and well-dressed Mr. Lamb was on this classic and historic photo here, erupts the nostalgic juices of pride and spirit that had embodied these constructive Belizean men that appeared to have not been affected by false pride and ambition.
From The Publisher
My generation of Belizeans, those of us born after World War II, have been here before, and I am referring to the present threat of coronavirus Armageddon which is frightening, in some cases terrifying, Belizeans. The difference between back then and now is that when planet earth was faced with the terrible possibility of a nuclear war between the United States and Russia in October of 1962, we teenaged Belizeans had no idea what the hell was going on. We were living in ignorance. Perhaps, as they say, ignorance is/was bliss.
E.P. Yorke girls and Wesley College boys are Central Zone high school softball champions 2020
Last Friday at Rogers Stadium, the Central Secondary Schools Sports Association (CSSSA) held its female and male softball championships. Emerging victorious for the females was Edward P. Yorke High School, who defeated Ladyville Technical High, 24-9, in finals; while for the males, it was Wesley College winning, 10-0, over Ladyville Technical for the championship.
Cricket Corner
A pleasant time of the day to all cricket enthusiasts! What a wonderful weekend it was for cricket! These playing teams made much of it, as the body of my report tells. Before getting into specifics, may I say, thanks to the sponsors of this year’s season, Bowen and Bowen. Under the auspices of the Belize National Cricket Association, the Bowen and Bowen/Harrison Parks 2020 Cricket Competition continued over the weekend.
“NSC & FFB Youth Tournament 2020” Week 2 report; and CFA 1st Division Closing Season kicks off
Our games continued as per scheduled this Sunday, March 15. All games are being played at the Ricalde Stadium for the U11, U15, U17 M/F. This week we introduced our U17 Female tournament; a total of 4 teams are participating, i.e. Top Cats-CCC, BDF Cadets, Bacadia Warriors, and Cristo Rey. We are grateful to the club owners/managers for being very supportive to female football.
BDF Cadets U17 Female team – Sgt. Derrick Palma, Manager. Corozal Football Association (CFA) thanks you, Sgt. Palma for your continuous commitment to youth development and keeping our future leaders in positive recreational activities. We applaud you for your efforts and being a true role model to others.
Two viruses affecting Belize
Let me quickly address the virus of crime, corruption and killing. This virus has grown, and no vaccine seems to exist for it. It is a full pandemic, but we cannot get it addressed, because the very people who are supposed to address it have mutated into the virus. And the very people who are supposed to recognize the virus of crime, corruption and killing are embracing it.
In Belize, sadly, we the very people who suffer when there is crime, corruption and killings, actually promote it, propagate it, and embrace it. We have double standards, so no simple pill, or a vaccine will help us.
Jesus took our ancestors through their worst days
There is a school in the black community that keeps singing lyrics that the Europeans came with the Bible, and we accepted the Bible and in exchange we gave them our land. The truth in the Americas is that the Europeans got the land through the barrels of their guns, and the spread of diseases they brought.
I want that school to ponder on how our slave ancestors survived for 300 years of the worst punishment imaginable. Our ancestors were stolen from Africa, and they and their children would not breathe God’s wonderful air in its purest form for all of three centuries.
Mystery: common good
“Out of evil cometh good.” May we contribute this most profound idea of perhaps the greatest Christian missionary who ever lived and travelled to the ends of the earth to spread the message of Christianity? Wherever he preached he proclaimed the wisdom of the cross, crucifixion then being regarded by the Romans, the rulers of the world, as the worst penalty for the most wicked enemies of their system. Less than a century before, they had crucified Spartacus and countless other gladiators who had rebelled against Roman slavery.
Cuba rejects the pretexts of Bolivian putschist authorities to suspend diplomatic relations
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the plurinational State of Bolivia announced the decision of the putschist government to suspend diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba, claiming that the Cuban Government has systematically affected bilateral relations and has been hostile towards the Bolivian authorities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba strongly rejects the unfounded allegations of Bolivia’s de-facto government.
Jerome, Jewel, and the machinations of politicians …
Either late November or early December, things had started to move briskly, first with an interesting little incident involving Jerome and, eventually, Jewel and Victor, indicating some relaxation of the tension surrounding their relationship.
I should give some background concerning a subject not directly related but which will help to explain the circumstances. It had to do with the fishing industry and, especially, the export of the roe (eggs) of the Red Grouper, a great delicacy and one particularly appealing to my dear mother, who spoke of the deprivation caused by a moratorium on fishing for this item imposed by the government Fisheries Department.
Belizean from Italy writes
Fellow Belizeans,
I write to you from Italy. You have probably seen Italy on the headlines fighting to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The hope is that health providers will not find themselves in a situation where people who need urgent hospitalisation will be refused because the facilities just cannot cope with the number of patients.
Since the first identified infected person on February 21, in just over three weeks, Italy now has about twenty-six thousand cases and there have been about two thousand five hundred deaths in the country due to the virus. The entire country is in total lockdown. The only places open to the public are pharmacies, newspaper stands and shops that sell food stuff.
The sad case of Shadwan of Punta Gorda!
Dear Editor,
Shadwan’s community failed him. Where are the social safety nets to catch our at-risk children? What services does the Ministry of Health provide to mentally ill children and youth?
“Our friend died way too soon”, said Father Andrew Kirschman at the St. Peter Claver Roman Catholic Church in Punta Gorda Town. Father Kirschman was eulogizing 19-year-old Shadwan James Guzman on Friday, January 24, 2020.
The Covid-19 virus pricked the bubble
Dear Editor,
The Federal Reserve took its rate to zero and additional $700 billion in stimulus on 15 March, 2020. The Federal Reserve balance sheet will be at its peak of $4.5 trillion. This will be done by purchasing assets — in this case, $500 billion in Treasury securities and $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities.
The purchases will begin right away, with $40 billion in purchases set to take place on Monday, 16 March, 2020.
Barton Creek Mennonites want more government protection from robbers
Dear Editor,
In regards to an article that appeared in the Amandala last year, we in the village here in Lower Barton Creek feel compelled to respond. We feel that the public deserves a more accurate account of what happened during one of the most terrorizing acts of robbery from two policemen this young couple has ever experienced.
The COVID-19 Outbreak: Implications for Tourism-Dependent Caribbean Countries
The COVID-19 outbreak could have considerable implications for Caribbean citizens and their economies.
The magnitude of this impact will depend crucially on the spread of the virus, the duration of the outbreak, and measures countries in the region and elsewhere undertake to insulate themselves. It will also have much to do with country economic structures—particularly tourism dependence.
The Reporter
Follow-Foot ‘Belize Does Not Deserve Social Distancing, YET!
The following is the latest press release issued today by the Government...
THE SOCIAL DISTANCING CHALLENGE
By: Dr. Abigail Joseph It is natural to be concerned about the things we hear and see around us. For the moment I think the one...
H.E., Nestor Mendez re-elected as OAS Assistant Secretary
His Excellency, Nestor Mendez, former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, has been re-elected as the Assistant Secretary General of the...
Belize Free Of COVID-19, But Illegal Border Crossings Is A Problem
Belize, up to Thursday morning, was the only country in the mainland Americas that has not yet confirmed a...
LOVE FM
Roaring Creek Bridge opened for vehicles
This morning, a temporary opening for the Roaring Creek Bridge was held. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz has the story.
Four men arrested for Derrick King
Today, the police gave updates on persons who had been arrested and charged for various murders. The first was the murder of 46-year-old Keith Courtenay that occurred on Tuesday, March 3.
ComPol gives update on State of Emergency
Belize City’s second State of Emergency in two years commenced on Wednesday, March 18. Eight zones were designated as hotspots and police patrols in those areas have stepped up immensely.
FECTAB demands government help those in the tourism sector amid COVID-19 crisis
The Federation of Cruise Tourism Associations of Belize (FECTAB) is up in arms with the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and the Government again and this time it’s about the crisis tour guides are experiencing. Today, the Association held a press conference where they highlighted the issue of relief funds being mishandled by the BTB and the Government.
Seaboard Marine states that they are open and functional
The Seaboard Marine wishes to advise that our cargo terminal at PortMiami and that Jacintoport terminal in Houston remain open and are functioning normally. Although neighboring cargo terminals have announced partial closures, the Seaboard facility at PortMiami is fully operational and open.
Three persons injured in accident
Three persons were injured in road traffic today in Western Belize. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz has the story.
German tourists in Belize urged to return
The German Honorary Consul is urging Germans who are not residents of Belize to consider leaving the country as soon as possible. This is due to the travel restrictions related to COVID-19.
Nestor Mendez re-elected as the OAS Assistant Secretary-General
H.E. Nestor Mendez, former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, has been re-elected as the Assistant Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS) for the 2020-2025 period. The elections held today marks Ambassador Mendez’s second term as he was previously elected in March 2015.
Quintana Roo has 11 cases of COVID-19
As of 6 o’clock today, the Mexican State of Quintana Roo has confirmed 11 cases of COVID-19. They had tested 86 suspected cases, and of those, 52 were negative and 23 are still under observation.
San Ignacio Community Hospital prepared for the onset of COVID-19
The San Ignacio Community Hospital in the Cayo District are prepared as they could be with a quarantine area identified on the grounds of the hospital. Correspondent Elaine Berry spoke with Dr. Fidel Cuellar on the preparations they have in place.
Breaking Belize News
Social Security Board says covid-19 doesn’t qualify as employment Injury
Earlier this week, the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) met with representatives of the Social […]
“Courts announces support for credit customers”
Unicomer (Belize) Ltd. is reaching out to its credit customers to offer much-needed relief during this critical time. […]
Ministry of Natural Resources to reopen on Monday
The Ministry of Natural Resources issued a release this evening informing the general public that […]
Social gatherings in Belize now limited to 25 people
Today, the Government of Belize informed new measures amidst the covid-19 threat to Belize. Social […]
Belize remains covid-19 free; PGIA and Northern border to close
The COVID-19 National Oversight Committee held its second meeting today March 20th and agreed to […]
Belize City Council Covid-19 risk mitigation
As all residents are aware, 2020 has introduced a pandemic known as the COVID-19 Virus and the entire […]
Tropic Air suspends flights to Belmopan and San Ignacio
Tropic Air informed today that it is suspending all flights to Belmopan and San Ignacio. […]
Tropic Air suspends flights to Cancun, Mexico
Tropic Air informed today that due to the extraordinary effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tropic […]
Clarifications issued on border closures and cargo passage
The Corozal Free Zone and Port Authority have issued separate but similar circulars regarding operations […]
German officials urge nationals in Belize to leave the country ASAP
A message sent by the German Ambassador Harald Klein and addressed to all German nationals, […]
Ambassador Nestor Mendez re-elected as Assistant Secretary-General of OAS
Former Ambassador of Belize to the United States, Nestor Mendez was today re-elected as the […]
Belize Tourism Board surveying hoteliers to seek those willing to share facilities as quarantine centers
While Belize has no confirmed case of COVID-19 as of today March 20, as indicated […]
New Roaring Creek bridge opens to traffic
The first vehicle to cross the new Roaring Creek Bridge this morning, as it was opened for the first time to traffic, was driven by Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Works, Errol Gentle.
[…]
Annual Cancer Walk postponed
Today the Belize Cancer Society announced the postponement of its annual Cancer Awareness Walk, which […]
Ministry of Natural Resources closes offices amidst covid-19 threat
In the interest of public health and safety and due to circumstances regarding COVID-19, the […]
Police Commissioner warns against harboring wanted persons
As the Belize Police Department continues its upscaled operations during the declared State of Emergency, […]
Are you ready for the Easter Holidays?
From Thursday, April 9th to Monday, April 13th, the Easter holidays in Belize’s coastal communities bring in the crowds. The holiday is one of the busiest times in the tourism industry for Belize, as a bustling number of visitors from around the world seek out a tropical destination. With plenty of fun entertainment and the usual ‘sun, sand and sea’ attraction, places like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker and the Placencia Peninsula are key destinations. To make the most of your holiday getaway, we recommend some early planning.
VICTORIA HOUSE TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE UNTIL APRIL 25TH
With travel restrictions tightening and many carriers temporarily suspending flights to and from Belize, we’ve decided to temporarily close the resort to guests between now and April 25th. While there are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Belize, our number one priority is the continued safety of our employees and guests. With a large staff, Victoria House Resort & Spa supports over 90 families on Ambergris Caye. Rather than remain open right now, we want our employees to practice social distancing and be at home with their families until travel restrictions are lifted and the risk of infection has passed.
Marie Sharp Hot Sauce
The Marie Sharp Hot Sauce phenomenon started in 1981, the year of Belize’s Independence. Since then the country, as well as the hot sauce, have evolved and flourished together. It seems like there is a bottle of Marie Sharp’s hot sauce on every table in every home and in every restaurant in Belize. Today Marie Sharp Hot Sauces are known all over the world.
Marie Sharp is from the Stann Creek Valley of Southern Belize. Since the Habanero Pepper, also known as Scotch Bonnet was so abundant and being from a family who worked the land, Marie started to experiment in her own kitchen. She used fresh habanero peppers, combining them with fresh vegetables and fruits from her own farm. This was the humble beginning of the building of her food empire which now includes chutneys, jams, jellies, dressings, and more recently, barbecue sauce.
International Sources
National Geographic: Baird's tapir, facts and photos
Baird’s tapirs are large, long-nosed mammals that may look like they’re relatives of elephants, but they're actually closer kin to horses, donkeys, zebras, and rhinoceroses. Baird’s tapirs are the largest animals native to Central America. They are slightly smaller, however, than their South American cousins, the lowland tapirs.
Like all tapirs, this species has a prominent proboscis, or tube-like nose. It's made up of soft tissues, which makes the organ extremely flexible and allows it to be used to snatch leaves and stems that would otherwise be out of reach.
Videos
Belize (March 2020), 3.5min. San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
Social Distancing in Maya Beach Belize, 11min. Week 1 of this new life as we know it. Staying away from crowds and reconnecting with ourselves and nature.
Belize: South Water Marine Reserve, 2min.
Belize Snorkeling, 3min. Snorkeling in Hol Chan and Shark Ray alley, Belize
Scuba Diving Lighthouse Reef, Belize March 14, 2020, 12min.
Drone footage of Carrie Bow - Belize, 1min.
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