A devastating road accident in Roaring Creek has resulted in the death of 70-year-old Daniel Puerto, a well-known community member. The incident occurred on Sunday night when Puerto, reportedly intoxicated, was struck by a minivan while attempting to cross the highway. Witnesses described the scene as harrowing, with Puerto being dragged several yards before the vehicle came to a halt near the Frogman Warehouse. The driver, Michael McFadzean, a taxi driver, immediately stopped to assist and alert authorities. Police confirmed that McFadzean showed no signs of impairment, but residents noted that Puerto was often seen drinking by the roadside. Puerto was declared dead upon arrival at the Western Regional Hospital. The minivan has been impounded, and McFadzean has been served a notice of intended prosecution. Puerto’s niece, Arlette Young, expressed that while her uncle was loved by his family, his public drinking habits had long been a concern. The community is now urging the government to enhance highway safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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150 New Buses to Modernize Belize’s Public Transportation
In a significant move to revolutionize public transportation, Belize’s Ministry of Transport has announced an ambitious initiative to introduce 150 new buses into the National Bus Company’s fleet. Spearheaded by Transport Minister Dr. Louis Zabaneh, the project aims to modernize the country’s aging bus system through a public-private partnership (PPP) involving 21 operators. To secure funding and technical expertise, Minister Zabaneh recently led a delegation to Taiwan, where the Taiwanese government pledged substantial support. The Taiwanese authorities shared insights from their own 2002 experience of consolidating and improving public transport, offering valuable lessons for Belize’s modernization efforts. Minister Zabaneh expressed gratitude for Taiwan’s assistance, emphasizing the trip’s success in garnering manufacturer interest and securing commitments. The project is on track to meet its timeline, with plans to finalize PPP agreements and draft protective legislation by the end of the year. This initiative marks a pivotal step in enhancing Belize’s public transport infrastructure, promising improved service quality for commuters.
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U.S. drops tariffs on Dominican agricultural and industrial exports
The United States government has enacted a significant tariff reduction, eliminating duties on more than 1,000 products by amending Executive Order 14257. This policy change, signed by President Donald Trump and effective from November 13, updates the Harmonized Tariff Schedule for imported goods and directly benefits the Dominican Republic. The Caribbean nation exports approximately $581 million worth of these goods to the U.S. market annually. The updated list includes a wide range of products such as cocoa, gold, medicines, semiconductors, avocados, bananas, coffee, tomatoes, mangoes, guavas, coconuts, plantains, and papayas. Dominican Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, Víctor ‘Ito’ Bisonó, hailed the decision as a major cost-saving measure for Dominican exporters. He emphasized that the government would continue negotiations with U.S. agencies to secure zero tariffs for additional exports. President Trump justified the move by citing a review of trade data, domestic production capacity, and ongoing negotiations with trading partners, deeming the expansion of tariff-exempt products ‘necessary and appropriate.’ The revised order notably removes certain agricultural goods from the list of tariff-affected items, further enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
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Duchess of Edinburgh Kicks off Three-Day Visit in Belize
On November 17, 2025, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie Rhys-Jones, commenced a three-day visit to Belize, marking a significant moment in the ongoing diplomatic and cultural exchanges between Belize and the United Kingdom. The Duchess arrived at the Philip Goldson International Airport on Sunday evening, where she was warmly greeted by Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño and Rossana Briceño, the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children. This visit, orchestrated by Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade, Culture, and Immigration, is part of a broader tour across South and Central America. During her stay, the Duchess engaged with key initiatives, including a visit to the Belize Council for the Visually Impaired and the House of Culture. Her agenda focused on critical issues such as eye health, the empowerment of indigenous women, and the preservation of Belize’s UNESCO-listed barrier reef. Discussions also centered on enhancing bilateral relations between Belize and the UK, underscoring the shared commitment to mutual development and cultural preservation.
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Garifuna Awareness Exhibit Showcases Culture and Talent in Belmopan
As Belize prepares to celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day, the City of Belmopan has become a hub of cultural vibrancy with the launch of the Garifuna Awareness Exhibit. Organized by the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs, the event showcased the rich heritage of the Garifuna people through traditional foods, colorful attire, and the captivating rhythms of Garifuna drums. The exhibit, themed “Garifuna Moving Forward: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Change, Strengthening Identity,” aims to highlight the enduring legacy and contributions of the Garifuna community to Belizean society. Gwen Nunez-Gonzalez, Co-chair of the Garifuna Language Commission, emphasized the importance of such events in fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. She noted that exhibitions like this allow Belizeans to experience the unique aspects of Garifuna culture, from its cuisine to its music. Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of Indigenous Affairs, underscored the significance of celebrating Belize’s diverse heritage, stating that cultural events like this strengthen national unity and mutual respect. The exhibit, which drew attendees from various sectors, including the Ministry of Transport, remained open to the public throughout the evening. As Garifuna Settlement Day approaches, Belizeans are encouraged to embrace and celebrate the Garifuna culture, further enriching the nation’s cultural tapestry.
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Belize’s Boxing Champ Fights for a Title and a Legacy
This Saturday, November 22, 2025, Belize City’s Swift Hall will host a historic boxing event as Amir Rudon, Belize’s national boxing champion, steps into the ring to compete for the WBC FECARBOX Silver Super Lightweight title. Facing Mexican contender Carlos Elvira, Rudon is not just fighting for personal glory but also to elevate Belizean boxing on the global stage. His journey from humble beginnings to national prominence is a testament to his grit, determination, and passion for the sport. Rudon’s story is one of resilience, as he trained under a tree in his yard with minimal resources before rising to become a professional boxer and mentor to young fighters at his Alpha Boxing Club. This fight represents a pivotal moment for Belizean boxing, with Rudon’s success potentially opening doors for future athletes. The event will also feature amateur bouts, showcasing the next generation of boxers inspired by Rudon’s legacy. Among them is Erin Sosa-Montero, the only female boxer in the group, who is continuing her grandfather’s boxing tradition. The enthusiasm and dedication of these young athletes highlight the growing popularity of boxing in Belize. As Rudon prepares for the fight of his life, he carries the hopes of a nation and the promise of a brighter future for the sport.
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Politic : UEH and ONA unite to build a stronger social security system
In a landmark move to address Haiti’s pressing social security challenges, the State University of Haiti (UEH) and the National Old Age Insurance Office (ONA) have joined forces to establish the University Chair in Social Protection and Security Law. This initiative, the first of its kind in the country, was formalized through a partnership agreement signed on November 14, 2025, by Professor Dieuseul Prédélus, Rector of UEH, and Ronald Bazile, Director General of ONA. The Chair will be housed at UEH’s Faculty of Law and Economics (FDSE) and aims to enhance academic, scientific, and professional capacities in the field of social protection and security. Rector Prédélus highlighted the dire state of social security in Haiti, where only 8.2% of the population is covered, compared to 43% in the Dominican Republic and 65% in Jamaica. The Chair sets ambitious goals, including training 300 specialized professionals within five years, producing 30 scientific publications, and fostering national and international partnerships. Director General Bazile emphasized the Chair’s role in combating misconceptions, modernizing public action, and building a sustainable social protection system. The initiative has garnered support from key stakeholders, including the Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Georges Wilbert Franck, who praised the project for its potential to transform social security from a concept into a tangible reality. The Chair, established for an initial 10-year term, will offer a range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, short-term training, and research activities, benefiting social security employees, UEH students, and professionals in the sector.
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Excellence at Every Age on Display
Good evening, Belize! This is Shane Williams with another electrifying edition of Sports Monday, where we dive into the heart of Belize’s vibrant sports community. Today, we kick off in Dangriga, the cultural capital, where the 2025 TV Ramos Cycling Classic unfolded in spectacular fashion. Riders as young as eight years old lined up for this prestigious event, which began with a ceremonial ride through the picturesque streets of Dangriga. The race kicked off on the George Price Highway, with a daring lead group including young talents Kenyon Sandford, Derek Chavariah, Shawn Codd, Goran Gabourel, and veteran Byron Pope. Sandford’s relentless pace left the pack behind, but it was Dylan Leivy of G-Flow who clinched victory in a dominant finish, securing first, second, and third places for his team at Big Bird’s Isle. Meanwhile, the William Dawson Sprite Basketball Tournament delivered nail-biting action. Team Nash overcame a late-game turnover to force overtime against God Speed, ultimately winning 45-42, thanks to Eyan Rene’s clutch performance. The weekend also saw victories for Hard Rock, Western Paradise, Class, Tuff Enuff, Don One, Trench Town, Avengers, and God Speed in various matches. Looking ahead, Belizeans are urged to support professional boxer Amir Rudon as he faces Mexican Carlos Elvira for the WBC Central American Boxing Federation Silver Super Lightweight Championship this Saturday at Swift Hall in Belize City. Sports continue to unite Belize, proving that ball is indeed life. Until next time, keep balling, Belize!
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Abinader says Dominican border under control amid Haiti protest call
Santo Domingo – President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic addressed escalating tensions along the Haitian border during his weekly press conference on Monday. In response to a protest call issued by Haitian gang leader Jimmy Chérizier, alias ‘Barbecue,’ Abinader affirmed that the nation possesses a ‘sufficient level of intelligence’ and maintains robust control over its border. He underscored the government’s vigilance in monitoring the situation, given the potential repercussions of heightened unrest in Haiti. Abinader revealed that the Dominican government is in continuous coordination with international forces operating in Haiti and domestic security agencies. This collaboration, he explained, enables authorities to anticipate and mitigate any threats to border stability. A special alert was activated on Monday as a precautionary measure. The President emphasized that border security remains a top priority, with daily monitoring and enhanced surveillance efforts. Defense Minister Carlos Luciano Díaz has been provided with detailed intelligence on activities within Haiti to prevent any spillover of violence into Dominican territory.
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222nd of Vertières : Reflections of former interim President Jocelerme Privert
On November 18, 2025, Haiti commemorated the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières, a pivotal moment in its history that led to the nation’s independence. Former interim President Jocelerme Privert delivered a poignant address, reflecting on Haiti’s enduring struggles and the urgent need for renewal. He emphasized the significance of this date as a cornerstone of national identity, symbolizing the country’s relentless pursuit of freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. However, Privert also highlighted the dire challenges facing Haiti today, including rampant gang violence, economic collapse, and social instability. Port-au-Prince, the capital, has been under siege by armed groups, forcing government institutions to flee and leaving the Toussaint Louverture International Airport abandoned. The economy has been in decline for six years, with negative growth rates and dwindling investments. Social conditions are equally alarming, with over 60% of the population living in extreme poverty and food insecurity. Nearly 1.4 million people have been displaced due to violence, and millions of children are deprived of education. Privert called for the restoration of constitutional order, credible elections, and a collective effort to reject corruption and violence. He urged Haitians to draw inspiration from their history and work together to build a stable, prosperous, and united nation. Privert’s message was a rallying cry for civic responsibility, courage, and unity, reminding Haitians that their destiny lies in their hands.