Hurricane Melissa, now a Category 5 storm, continues to wreak havoc across the Caribbean, with Haiti and neighboring nations bracing for severe impacts. As of October 29, 2025, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that Melissa’s center was located near latitude 20.3°N and longitude 76.1°W, with maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching even higher speeds. The hurricane was moving westward at 12 mph (19 km/h), with a projected path that would take it across eastern Cuba, the southeastern Bahamas, and near Bermuda by late Thursday.
作者： admin
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Jerome Palma is New SSB CEO
The Social Security Board (SSB) has officially named Jerome Palma as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Palma, who has been serving as Acting CEO since February 2025 and Deputy CEO since October 2024, brings a wealth of expertise in executive leadership, risk management, organizational governance, and investment strategies to the role.
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Jamaica Declared Disaster Area After Hurricane Melissa Devastation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic onslaught, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has officially designated Jamaica a disaster area. The Category 5 storm, which struck the island with ferocious intensity, has left a trail of widespread devastation and severe flooding in its wake.
Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Jamaica’s southern coast early Tuesday, unleashing relentless torrential rains and winds surpassing 175 mph. The storm later exited near Trelawny on the northern coast, leaving behind a landscape of destruction.
Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie revealed that the disaster declaration was based on recommendations from the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. Reports of extensive damage have emerged from several parishes, including Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, and Westmoreland.
McKenzie further confirmed that the hurricane’s impact has been exacerbated by severe flooding and multiple landslides, which have rendered numerous roads impassable and isolated several communities. “By late Tuesday, many areas remained cut off due to rising floodwaters and debris,” he stated.
Meteorologists predict that Hurricane Melissa’s eye will continue to move away from western Jamaica by Tuesday evening, with its trajectory shifting toward southeastern Cuba overnight. The storm’s aftermath has left the nation grappling with the immense challenge of recovery and rebuilding.
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![Sports : The Atlas Lionesses «devour» our Grenadières [3-0] (video)](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/82521859f7816d63e729ee9d7b564f53.jpg)
Sports : The Atlas Lionesses «devour» our Grenadières [3-0] (video)
In a one-sided friendly match held on October 28, 2025, at the Père Jégo Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, the Haitian national women’s football team, known as the Grenadières, faced a crushing 3-0 defeat against the Moroccan Atlas Lionesses. The match, part of both teams’ preparations for upcoming international competitions, highlighted the Grenadières’ ongoing struggles as they suffered their fourth consecutive loss. Despite their higher global ranking (49th compared to Morocco’s 64th), the Haitian team was outplayed from the outset. Morocco’s Imane Saoud opened the scoring in the 18th minute, followed by goals from Ghizlane Chebbak in the 49th minute and Ibtissam Jraidi in the 70th minute. The Grenadières, lacking cohesion and offensive effectiveness, failed to challenge the Moroccan defense or goalkeeper Khadija Er-Rmichi. Haitian coach Malou Quignette made several substitutions in the second half, but these changes had little impact on the game’s outcome. The Grenadières now look ahead to the Concacaf Women’s Championship 2026 qualifying phase, beginning with an away match against Belize on November 30, 2025.
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China pleit voor vrede en dialoog in Palestina en Oekraïne
At the 23rd Lanting Forum in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated China’s stance on the ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Ukraine, emphasizing the need for peace, dialogue, and international cooperation. Addressing the Middle East situation, Wang Yi welcomed the first-phase agreement regarding the Gaza conflict, which has helped alleviate the humanitarian crisis. However, he cautioned that regional peace remains fragile. China advocates for a sincere, comprehensive, and lasting ceasefire, stressing the importance of Palestinian self-governance and the pursuit of a two-state solution to ensure enduring peace and stability. Recently, China has expressed hope for a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza to further improve the humanitarian situation and reduce regional tensions, underscoring its commitment to supporting Palestinian self-determination and promoting Middle Eastern stability. Regarding the Ukraine crisis, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s objective and impartial position, highlighting its active support for peace negotiations and willingness to collaborate with the international community to advance peace efforts. In April 2025, China urged the involved parties in the Ukraine war to avoid irresponsible remarks after Ukrainian President Zelensky claimed that Chinese citizens were recruited by Russia to fight. China reiterated its neutral stance and dedication to a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Wang Yi emphasized the importance of maintaining a world of universal and shared security as a fundamental responsibility of the international community, calling for the avoidance of escalation and the pursuit of peaceful solutions to conflicts.
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When “Zero Tolerance” Meets Silence in Belize’s Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Belize is under intense scrutiny following two tragic deaths that have exposed systemic failures in medical care. The first incident involved two-year-old Kaleel Nah, who died while his parents attempted to transport him from Ambergris Caye to Belize City for treatment unavailable on the island. This heartbreaking event highlighted the severe shortages of trained staff, medications, and emergency equipment in rural and island communities. Over a month later, on October 25, 92-year-old Eusebio Espinosa Sr. passed away while waiting for medical attention in the triage area of the Northern Regional Hospital. His son, Eusebio Espinosa Jr., recounted how he pleaded with nurses to attend to his father, only to be told they were ‘too busy.’ By the time help arrived, it was too late. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has promised thorough investigations into both cases, but updates have been scarce. Dr. Jorge Polanco, Director of Hospital Services and Allied Health, stated on September 12 that the ministry is examining potential flaws in the system. However, no further details have been disclosed. On October 26, Minister Kevin Bernard emphasized a ‘zero tolerance’ policy for staff failing to provide timely and dignified care. Despite these assurances, the lack of transparency and accountability has left many questioning the effectiveness of Belize’s healthcare system.
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China Now Requires Influencers to Have Degrees
In a significant move to combat online misinformation, China has enacted a new regulation mandating that social media influencers possess verified professional qualifications to discuss specialized topics such as medicine, law, education, and finance. The law, enforced by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), took effect on October 28, 2025, and has reportedly rendered up to 90% of influencers ineligible to continue their work. Influencers are now required to demonstrate expertise through recognized degrees, certifications, or licenses, while major platforms like Douyin, Bilibili, and Weibo are responsible for verifying these credentials. Additionally, content must include clear citations, disclaimers, and transparency about sources. While the CAC asserts that the regulation aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of online information, critics argue that it may suppress free speech and restrict the diversity of voices sharing knowledge. Influencers, often valued for their relatability rather than formal qualifications, have become trusted sources on topics ranging from finance to mental health. The new law has sparked debate over the balance between curbing misinformation and preserving open discourse in the digital age.
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PM: “We Are In Trouble Right Now With Mexico”
Belize is grappling with escalating electricity prices and strained relations with Mexico, its primary energy supplier. Prime Minister John Briceño has openly acknowledged the challenges, stating, ‘We are in trouble right now with Mexico, as much as you might not want to accept it, we are in trouble.’ During peak demand periods, Mexico’s Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) has reportedly increased electricity prices to US$1 per kilowatt, exacerbating the financial burden on Belizeans. Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has expressed deep concern over these developments. To address this crisis, the Belizean government has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with U.S.-based Energy Transfer. The agreement proposes generating 50 megawatts of power locally, aiming to reduce reliance on imported electricity and enhance long-term energy security. Prime Minister Briceño emphasized that this initiative would not only improve domestic energy reliability but also position Belize as a potential energy exporter to neighboring Central American countries. This project is part of a broader strategy to diversify Belize’s energy portfolio, which includes the recent acquisition of Fortis hydroelectric dams, currently supplying approximately one-third of the nation’s power. While still in its early stages, the initiative reflects Belize’s commitment to achieving energy independence and mitigating the impact of external market fluctuations.
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Sister of Ryan Hyde Says: “We’re Still in the Dark”
The family of Ryan Hyde is grappling with grief and uncertainty following his untimely death. Hyde, a resident of Cotton Tree Village, Cayo, was shot in the head on Friday night and succumbed to his injuries at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City on Monday evening. His sister, Christie Cruz, expressed the family’s anguish and confusion, stating, ‘We’re still in the dark. We’re still trying to figure out the pieces.’ Cruz revealed that social media was the first source of information about the shooting, highlighting the disconnect between public knowledge and family awareness.
Hyde, originally from Roaring Creek, was not at home when the incident occurred. Cruz recounted the emotional rollercoaster of seeing him in the hospital, initially hopeful for his recovery, only to face the devastating news of his passing. ‘It’s really gut-wrenching,’ she said.
Addressing rumors surrounding the motive, Cruz believes her brother was unfairly targeted due to his last name. ‘With that last name, we’re just blatantly branded as bad… gun, drugs. We don’t have the ability to come from under that banner,’ she lamented. Despite public perception, Cruz described Hyde as a loving and kind individual, cherished by his family. He was in the process of opening a meat shop and was the father of two young boys.
The family is now awaiting the results of the police investigation and postmortem as they prepare to lay Hyde to rest.
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Police Announce Temporary Closure of the Willikies Police Station
The Willikies Police Station in Antigua and Barbuda has been temporarily closed effective October 28, 2025, due to significant infrastructural concerns. The decision, made in collaboration with the Police Welfare Association, prioritizes the safety and well-being of the officers stationed there. Until further notice, operations have been relocated to the Parham and Freetown Police Stations. Residents of Willikies, Glanvilles, Seatons, Pares, and surrounding areas can still access police services by contacting the Willikies Police Station at 463-2000 or the Parham Police Station at 463-2060. Individuals on bail who were required to report to Willikies must now report to Parham. To ensure public safety, the Police Administration has increased patrols in the affected areas. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the issue swiftly while maintaining public safety. The community’s cooperation and support during this transition have been acknowledged and appreciated.