标签： Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has taken a decisive stand against child sexual exploitation in its tourism sector, with First Lady Raquel Arbaje spearheading a groundbreaking initiative. At the launch of the ‘Comprehensive Protection of Children and Adolescents against Commercial Sexual Exploitation (CSE)’ project, Arbaje declared, ‘The Dominican Republic cannot and will not be a haven for pedophiles or those who seek to exploit our nation.’ The initiative underscores the country’s commitment to family-centered tourism and the safeguarding of minors.

In a deeply emotional tribute, Melba Grullón, a philanthropist from Santo Domingo, shared a heartfelt message dedicated to her daughter Alexandra, one of the 230 victims of the tragic Jet Set nightclub collapse on April 8. Grullón expressed that, despite her daughter’s physical absence, she feels her presence daily and remains grateful for the 26 years they shared. She recounted how Alexandra’s loving gestures, such as preparing small bottles of water for her mother, continue to resonate in their home, symbolizing the silent yet constant affection her daughter always showed. Grullón also reflected on Alexandra’s professional legacy, noting that her colleagues still remember her decisiveness, problem-solving skills, and compassion for others. To honor her daughter’s memory, Grullón highlighted the ALE Scholarship Fund, which supports underprivileged youth. Currently, 21 university students and nine high school students, some of whom were affected by the April 8 tragedy, are continuing their education through this initiative. Grullón announced the second call for scholarships for students entering university in January, emphasizing that her daughter’s mission to impact lives will endure. She concluded her message with a prayer of gratitude for her family and a Bible verse that sustains her: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).

The Dominican Republic is facing a dire road safety crisis as the provinces of La Altagracia and Santiago witness a sharp rise in motorcycle-related fatalities. Over the second half of 2025, these regions have been plagued by a series of devastating accidents, many of which have resulted in deaths and severe injuries. The root causes of these tragedies include reckless driving, illegal street racing, and a widespread neglect of basic safety measures, such as helmet use. Recent incidents underscore the gravity of the situation. On November 3, a late-night collision in La Otra Banda claimed the life of Felipe José Wade Salas and left 21-year-old Jhon Manuel Jiménez hospitalized. Earlier, in Higüey, 50-year-old Eduardo Antonio Lorenzo de los Santos died in a hit-and-run accident while riding without a helmet. The crisis is further exacerbated by a dangerous culture of illegal street racing. In Santiago, 16-year-old José David Montilla lost his life in October after crashing into a guardrail during a high-speed race. Similarly, in May, two young men, Luis Ángel Rodríguez Ramírez and Joandri Francisco, died during a clandestine race in Navarrete. Official statistics reveal the scale of the problem: La Altagracia recorded 3,144 traffic fatalities in 2024, with un-helmeted motorcyclists accounting for the majority. Authorities are now under increasing pressure to implement stricter traffic controls, enforce laws against illegal racing, and promote helmet use to prevent further loss of life.

Santo Domingo is set to become a focal point for discussions on the digital transformation of cultural and creative industries as the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Culture organizes the inaugural International Congress on Cultural Innovation. Scheduled for November 11 at the Catalonia Hotel in Santo Domingo, the event will convene a diverse group of participants, including artists, cultural managers, entrepreneurs, academics, technologists, and policymakers. The congress aligns with the country’s National Development Strategy 2030, Digital Agenda 2030, and National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and cultural inclusion. Key topics will include the digital cultural economy, content monetization, sustainable business models for creative industries, and the challenges of expanding cultural production from the Caribbean and Latin America. The program is structured around five themes: digital cultural economy, public policies for digital transformation, heritage management and digital memory, creative entrepreneurship and innovation, and gamer culture and interactive narratives. The Ministry aims to enhance digital skills, ensure equitable access to technology, protect cultural rights, and foster a global ecosystem that connects local creativity to international cultural networks.

Santo Domingo has welcomed a new haven for senior citizens with the inauguration of La Casa de Don Carlos, a recreational club designed to promote holistic well-being, socialization, and happiness among the elderly. The project, launched on Thursday, aims to honor the wisdom and contributions of older generations while providing them with a safe and enriching environment.

San Cristóbal – In a significant move to enhance regional connectivity and economic integration, President Luis Abinader officially inaugurated the rehabilitated Sabana Toro–La Rosa highway on Thursday. This long-awaited project, executed by the Dominican Hydroelectric Generation Company (EGEHID) under its social responsibility program, represents a transformative step for one of the province’s most productive areas. With an investment of RD$200.9 million, the project was developed by Grupo Gil Calro SRL and spans five kilometers. It features upgraded infrastructure, including new sidewalks, curbs, asphalt paving, drainage systems, road signage, and the relocation of electrical poles. EGEHID’s General Manager, Rafael Salazar, emphasized that the project addresses a “historical debt” owed to communities such as Sabana Toro, La Rosa, Villegas, Telín, and El Pueblecito, which have long struggled with limited access to markets, schools, and essential services. The new highway will streamline travel between Cambita, Los Cacaos, and Villa Altagracia, bypassing San Cristóbal’s center and significantly reducing travel times and transportation costs. Local resident Asunción Brito, speaking on behalf of the community, expressed heartfelt gratitude, highlighting that the road “brings real development and new opportunities for the families who live and work here.”