Brazil’s state-owned oil company, Petrobras, announced on Monday that it has secured approval to commence drilling for oil near the mouth of the Amazon River. This decision has sparked widespread criticism from environmentalists, who argue that it undermines Brazil’s commitment to combating climate change, especially as the country prepares to host the COP30 climate talks in the Amazon city of Belem next month. The drilling in the Foz de Amazonas region, set to begin immediately and last for five months, follows a five-year battle for exploration rights. Petrobras claims it has met all environmental requirements set by Brazil’s environmental watchdog, Ibama, and is optimistic about discovering oil in what it calls a ‘new global energy frontier.’ However, the move has drawn sharp rebuke from conservationists, who warn of potential ‘massive biodiversity loss’ in the ecologically sensitive area. The Climate Observatory, a Brazilian NGO, has vowed to challenge the decision in court, citing ‘illegalities and technical flaws’ in the licensing process. Despite these concerns, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has defended the project, asserting that oil revenues will fund Brazil’s climate transition. The decision has also reignited debates over Brazil’s role as a global climate leader, with critics accusing the government of prioritizing economic gains over environmental preservation.
标签： Jamaica
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Sagicor increases fee for ABM withdrawal from other banks
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Sagicor Bank has announced a significant change in its fee structure for automated banking machine (ABM) withdrawals, effective Monday, October 20. The fee for withdrawals from other local banks will rise from $59.23 to $61.53. This adjustment impacts Sagicor customers who utilize ABMs at other local banking institutions through the multilink network. The bank attributes this increase to recent adjustments made by JETS Limited, the operator of the Multilink network. Additionally, earlier in October, Sagicor reduced the maximum cash retrieval limit per transaction from $100,000 to $50,000. However, the daily withdrawal cap remains unchanged at $100,000. These changes are expected to influence customer behavior and banking practices in the region.
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Halima Haughton takes Miss Jamaica World Top Model prize
The 2025 Miss Jamaica World beauty pageant has seen four young women secure automatic top 10 placements, with Halima Haughton emerging as the latest fast-track winner. On October 18, the University of Technology freshman clinched the prestigious Miss Jamaica World Top Model title in a fiercely contested competition held at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium. Haughton, who represents Birdshack Fried Chicken, triumphed over 18 other contestants, showcasing poise, confidence, and the elusive ‘x factor’ that impressed the judging panel. Her victory was announced alongside runners-up Kalea Roman, Miss Rituals Coffee House, and Nevaeh Allen, Miss Reggae Jamaica Village, who secured second and third places, respectively. This year’s fast-track competitions have already crowned other winners, including Asia Wright (Miss Jamaica World Fitness), Nevaeh Allen (Miss Jamaica World Beach Beauty), and Danece Jacas (Miss Jamaica World Talent). Fashion designer Bill Edwards, the chief judge, emphasized the difficulty in selecting a winner, noting that the criteria extended beyond mere beauty to include stage presence and charisma. Haughton, a regional winner from the Northeastern Region, shared her holistic approach to preparation, which included physical fitness, a balanced diet, and mental readiness. Her journey marks a remarkable turnaround from last year’s pageant, where she failed to secure any fast-track placements. Haughton, an environmental science student, expressed her joy and determination, stating that her participation was driven by a desire to inspire others and advocate for meaningful causes. The Miss Jamaica World pageant, sponsored by the Jamaica Observer, continues to provide a platform for personal growth and community engagement, offering more than just a crown to its participants.
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Tropical wave expected to move into Caribbean Sea, rain forecast for Heroes’ Day
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in the United States has issued a bulletin highlighting the movement of a tropical wave over the Windward Islands. As of its 8:00 am update on Sunday, the NHC anticipates heavy rainfall and gusty winds across the region. However, the system’s rapid progression is expected to hinder significant development over the next 24 to 48 hours.
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NCB Foundation, UNICEF hand over $14.8m in WASH Shelter Kits to emergency shelters
In a significant move to enhance disaster preparedness and public health resilience, the NCB Foundation, in collaboration with UNICEF Jamaica, has donated 400 Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Shelter Kits to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Valued at J$14.8 million, the kits were officially handed over during a ceremony at ODPEM’s headquarters last Tuesday. This initiative is part of the broader Strengthening WASH Resilience to Climatic Events Post-Hurricane Beryl Programme, a J$43.8 million project aimed at supporting vulnerable communities across Jamaica. Perrin Gayle, CEO of NCB Foundation, emphasized the importance of compassion and preparedness in disaster recovery, stating that clean water and sanitation are critical for rebuilding efforts. Food for the Poor (FFTP), the executing partner, sourced the kits, which include essential items like disinfectants, soap, and sanitary supplies. Nakhle Hado, Director of Operations at FFTP, highlighted the life-saving impact of ensuring clean water and sanitation in shelters. Michelle Edwards, Acting Deputy Director General of ODPEM, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting its role in safeguarding lives during crises. The kits will be distributed to municipal corporations for allocation to shelters island-wide. UNICEF Jamaica, serving as a technical advisor, is working with local parish councils to ensure sustainable management of these resources. Mohammad Mohiuddin, UNICEF Jamaica’s Officer-in-Charge, underscored the initiative’s alignment with global sustainability goals, particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). The project, funded by NCB Foundation, reflects a commitment to climate-smart, inclusive development and national disaster resilience.
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US defence chief announces another attack on alleged drug-running boat
In a decisive move against international drug trafficking, the United States has executed a targeted strike on a suspected narcotics vessel, resulting in the elimination of three individuals identified as ‘narco-terrorists.’ The operation, announced by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth via a post on X, took place on Friday in international waters under the jurisdiction of the US Southern Command, which manages military activities across Latin America. The vessel, reportedly linked to Colombia’s ELN guerrilla group, was intercepted along a well-documented drug-smuggling route and was found to be carrying significant quantities of illegal narcotics. While Hegseth did not disclose the precise location of the strike, he emphasized the operation’s success in disrupting a critical node of the global drug trade. This action underscores the US government’s ongoing commitment to combating transnational organized crime and narco-terrorism in the region.
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Robbers steal French crown jewels from Louvre in 7 minute heist
In a brazen daylight robbery, thieves armed with power tools targeted the Louvre Museum in Paris on Sunday, making off with some of France’s most valuable crown jewels. The audacious heist, which lasted a mere seven minutes, saw the culprits flee the scene, leaving behind a damaged 19th-century gem-encrusted crown near the museum. Authorities have launched a manhunt, but the perpetrators remain at large. The incident forced the immediate closure of the Louvre, the world’s most-visited museum, which houses iconic treasures such as the Mona Lisa. Armed soldiers patrolled the area around the museum’s glass pyramid entrance, while evacuated visitors and tourists were kept at bay behind police tape. Witnesses described the scene as reminiscent of a Hollywood movie. The robbers reportedly used a powered, extendable ladder—typically employed for moving furniture—to access the gilded gallery housing the crown jewels. The stolen crown, belonging to Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, is adorned with 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez confirmed that three or four thieves targeted two displays in the museum’s ‘Galerie d’Apollon,’ though the full extent of the stolen items remains unclear. The Louvre’s management stated that the closure was necessary to preserve evidence for the ongoing investigation. Experts fear the stolen jewels may be dismantled for their precious materials, as they would be ‘completely unsellable’ in their current state. This incident highlights a growing concern over museum security in France, following a series of high-profile thefts in recent months. French President Emmanuel Macron has pledged to enhance the Louvre’s security as part of a broader renovation plan.
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T&T opts not to endorse Caricom position amid US military strikes
In a notable divergence from its Caribbean Community (Caricom) counterparts, Trinidad and Tobago has opted not to endorse a unified regional stance on critical security and stability matters, particularly concerning the increasing presence of U.S. military forces in the Caribbean. This decision emerged during a recent Caricom meeting where regional leaders convened to address pressing issues, including the security buildup in parts of the Caribbean and its implications for member states. While other Caricom nations reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and emphasized dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, Trinidad and Tobago reserved its position, offering no immediate explanation for its dissent. The meeting followed a series of U.S. military strikes targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels off the Venezuelan coast, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of two Trinidad and Tobago nationals. Caricom leaders also reiterated their dedication to combating narcotics trafficking and the illegal arms trade, underscoring the need for international cooperation and adherence to international law. Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has remained silent on both the regional security discussions and the fatalities, drawing criticism from opposition figures who have accused her of evading her responsibilities. Persad-Bissessar has previously expressed support for the U.S. military campaign, praising its efforts to curb drug trafficking and protect regional stability.
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Manning Cup round of 16 groups decided
The ISSA Wata Manning Cup has reached a pivotal stage as the round of 16 teams have been determined following a series of intense matches on Saturday. Defending champions Kingston College (KC) experienced their first setback of the season, settling for a 0-0 draw against Tivoli Gardens High School. Despite this, KC secured the top spot in Zone B with 28 points, while Tivoli Gardens claimed second place with 21 points. Meanwhile, Charlie Smith clinched third place in Zone B with an 18-point tally after a narrow 2-1 victory over Haile Selassie High, who finished fourth with 14 points and missed the cut for the next round. In Zone A, St George’s College edged out Hydel High in a thrilling 4-3 encounter, securing second place with 21 points. Hydel, despite their fourth defeat, advanced as the best fourth-placed team with 16 points. Excelsior High emerged as Zone A leaders with 24 points after a hard-fought 2-2 draw with St Jago High, who slipped to third but still progressed. In Zone D, St Catherine High maintained a flawless record with 10 wins from 10 games, finishing top with 30 points after a 1-0 victory over Eltham High, who secured second place with 24 points. Campion College, third in Zone D, also advanced. The round of 16 has been divided into four groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals. Group 1 features Excelsior High, Tivoli Gardens, St Andrew Technical High, and Wolmer’s Boys. Group 2 includes KC, Calabar, Campion, and Hydel. Group 3 comprises St Catherine High, St George’s College, Charlie Smith, and Vauxhall High. Group 4, arguably the toughest, pits Mona High, Jamaica College, Eltham High, and St Jago against each other. The round of 16 kicks off on Tuesday, October 21, promising exciting matchups.
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Denyque’s back
Jamaican singer-songwriter Denyque is making a powerful comeback with her latest single, *Who Dem*, a deeply personal track that resonates with her journey of overcoming self-doubt and insecurity. Despite being out of the musical spotlight in recent years, Denyque has been tirelessly working behind the scenes, and her efforts are now paying off as her fan base grows exponentially.