MIC Central FC Reboot began their 2025-2026 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) premier division campaign on a high note, clinching a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Point Fortin Civic in their opening match at the Arima Velodrome on October 26. Daniel David opened the scoring for Central FC in the 28th minute, giving his team a slim lead at halftime. The second half saw a flurry of action, with Junior Asson of Central FC and Nathaniel Garcia of Point Fortin both finding the net in the 55th minute, ensuring Central FC maintained their one-goal advantage until the final whistle. In other matches, Club Sando narrowly defeated FC Eagles 1-0, thanks to a 47th-minute goal by Marc Wharfe. Meanwhile, Prison Service FC overcame a late scare to secure a 3-2 win against Caledonia AIA, with Jeremiah Vidale scoring the decisive goal in the 79th minute. Defending champions Defence Force were held to a goalless draw by Athletic Club Port of Spain, while Miscellaneous Police FC dominated San Juan Jabloteh with a 4-0 victory. The match between Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and FC Phoenix was postponed due to logistical issues. The league action continues on October 31 with Police C facing Central FC and AC PoS taking on Jabloteh.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Fire officers hold teens after theft at fire station
On October 27, fire officers at the Sangre Grande Fire Station apprehended four teenagers suspected of stealing several items while the officers were asleep. The incident unfolded during a routine security check in the early hours of the morning when a fire officer noticed missing items. Upon alerting his colleagues, it was discovered that personal belongings were also stolen. Nearby witnesses reported seeing a group of six teenagers loitering near the station before leaving the compound. The officers, with the assistance of the police, located and detained four of the suspects a short distance away. All stolen items were successfully recovered. Keone Guy, President of the Fire Officers Association, expressed relief over the recovery but highlighted long-standing security vulnerabilities at fire stations, including inadequate fencing, lighting, and technological investments. He emphasized that such incidents could have severe consequences, including potential harm to officers. Guy called on senior officials to address these security challenges and announced plans to engage with relevant authorities to improve security measures. He also expressed concern over the young age of the suspects and the officers’ willingness to assist in guiding them toward better life choices.
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Maduro accuses Trinidad and Tobago, US of plotting Caribbean conflict
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has leveled serious accusations against Trinidad and Tobago, alleging collaboration with the United States and the CIA to incite military tensions in the Caribbean. In a televised address on October 28, Maduro claimed that recent joint military exercises involving a US Navy destroyer were part of a broader strategy to destabilize Venezuela. He further announced the suspension of all gas and energy-related agreements with Trinidad and Tobago, citing strained relations with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the country’s acceptance of US military presence in the region. Maduro also asserted that Venezuelan security forces had intercepted a group of CIA-funded mercenaries, uncovering plans for a high-level attack involving US naval units near Venezuelan waters. Although he provided no specific timeline for the capture, Maduro claimed to have shared ‘some clues’ with Trinidad and Tobago but refused to present evidence to the US, accusing them of collusion with the CIA. He referenced historical grievances, suggesting Trinidad and Tobago were once part of Venezuelan territory before British colonization. Drawing parallels to past US military incidents, Maduro likened the current tensions to the sinking of the USS Maine in 1898 and the Gulf of Tonkin incident in 1964, both of which he described as self-inflicted provocations. He accused Persad-Bissessar of supporting conflict and praised Venezuelans for protesting against what he termed ‘imperialist threats.’ Maduro also claimed Venezuela had thwarted three terrorist operations in recent months, including a plot to bomb Victory Square in Caracas, and vowed to defend the nation’s sovereignty and peace.
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Ex-cricketer Ramnarine’s claim thrown out against ex-Sport Minister
In a significant legal ruling, High Court Judge Justice Nadia Kangaloo has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by former West Indies cricketer and ex-president of the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA), Dinanath Ramnarine, against Manohar Ramsaran, a former Sport Minister under the UNC administration. The case, initiated in December 2019, stemmed from a series of published articles that criticized Ramnarine’s leadership at the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB), his role in the decline of West Indies cricket, and his suitability for administrative roles in sports. Ramnarine sought exemplary and aggravated damages for reputational harm. Ramsaran, however, defended his statements, asserting they were made during official TTCB board meetings, where media coverage was authorized by the board secretary. He argued that his comments were necessary and truthful, addressing governance and leadership issues. Justice Kangaloo ruled in Ramsaran’s favor, stating the statements were evaluative opinions rather than defamatory facts. The judge emphasized that public figures must endure scrutiny and criticism, and found no evidence of malice or recklessness in Ramsaran’s remarks. Consequently, Ramnarine’s claim was dismissed, and he was ordered to cover Ramsaran’s legal costs, to be determined later. Ramsaran was represented by Navindra Ramnanan, while Ramnarine’s legal team was led by Kiel Taklalsingh.
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14 more killed in 3 alleged drug-trafficking boat strikes by US
In a decisive move against drug trafficking networks, the United States has carried out three targeted strikes in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals allegedly involved in narcotics operations. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operation on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing that the strikes were executed under the directives of President Donald Trump. The operation, conducted on October 27, targeted four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organisations (DTOs) known for trafficking narcotics. Hegseth detailed that the vessels were identified by US intelligence and were traversing established drug smuggling routes. The strikes, which occurred in international waters, resulted in no harm to US forces. Hegseth also noted that the US Southern Command initiated search-and-rescue protocols, with Mexican authorities taking over the coordination. He underscored the US commitment to combating narco-terrorism, stating that these groups have caused more American deaths than Al-Qaeda and will be treated with the same severity. ‘We will track them, network them, and then hunt and kill them,’ Hegseth declared.
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Nadine Prada returns to Studio Joli with Origin Stories
Renowned international artist Nadine Prada is set to unveil her latest exhibition, ‘Origin Stories,’ at Studio Joli in St James, Trinidad and Tobago. This highly anticipated showcase follows the success of her previous work and delves deeper into her profound connection to her birthplace. Born in Trinidad but raised in Canada, Prada’s art has always been influenced by her Caribbean heritage, a theme she continues to explore in this new collection.
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USS Gravely welcomes Lochmaben RC students aboard
The USS Gravely, a US naval vessel, has been actively fostering US-Trinidad and Tobago (TT) relations through a series of collaborative initiatives. Docked at the Port of Spain since October 26, the ship is part of a joint training exercise with the TT Defence Force (TTDF), aimed at enhancing regional security cooperation. On October 27, 35 students and 15 teachers from the Lochmaben Roman Catholic School in Cedros were given an exclusive tour of the ship, hosted by the vessel’s sailors and leadership. This visit underscores the longstanding partnership between the US and TT, as highlighted by the US Embassy in a recent news release. The USS Gravely’s presence in TT is part of the US Southern Command’s (US Southcom) broader efforts to strengthen ties with the Caribbean nation. Earlier this year, US Navy Seabees completed critical infrastructure upgrades at the Lochmaben RC School during Operation Continuing Promise, which included structural repairs and improvements to water, sewage, and electrical systems. In September, US Southcom, through the US Embassy, donated educational materials and equipment to the school, including 13 computers, a printer, office furniture, and other resources to enhance learning opportunities. Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz, US Embassy chargé d’affaires, emphasized the significance of the USS Gravely tour, calling it a testament to the deep ties between the US and TT. She noted the enthusiasm of the students and teachers, describing their presence on board as a delight for the sailors. Beverley Findley, principal of Lochmaben RC School, expressed gratitude for the US Embassy’s support, describing the tour as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’ that broadened students’ horizons. The USS Gravely’s visit follows other US Southcom engagements in TT this year, including the USNS Comfort’s medical and humanitarian mission in August and the Tradewinds exercise co-hosted with the TTDF in April and May.
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Blindness Awareness Month: Early detection key to saving sight
Every year, millions worldwide lose their vision, not because their conditions were untreatable, but because they were detected too late. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that at least 2.2 billion people globally suffer from near or distance vision impairment, with one billion of these cases being preventable or yet to be addressed. In observance of Blindness Awareness Month, the Trinidad Eye Hospital is emphasizing the importance of early detection and awareness in preventing vision loss.
Dr. Vachel Luces, a consultant ophthalmologist at the Trinidad Eye Hospital, highlighted that the leading causes of vision loss—refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy—are manageable if detected early. ‘Cataracts cloud the lens, glaucoma damages the optic nerve, and diabetes affects retinal circulation,’ he explained. ‘But early intervention can make all the difference.’
Globally, refractive errors and cataracts are the primary causes of vision impairment. However, WHO estimates that only 36% of those with refractive errors and 17% with cataracts have received appropriate treatment. The financial burden of vision impairment is staggering, with $411 billion lost annually in productivity.
Dr. Luces stressed that limited public understanding remains a significant barrier to eye health. ‘Most people only have a surface-level understanding of conditions like cataracts or glaucoma,’ he said. ‘This lack of awareness is why we focus so heavily on community education and free screenings.’
Josiah Ambris, an optometrist at the hospital, noted that many patients only seek help when their vision has already deteriorated. ‘Conditions like glaucoma develop silently, while diabetic eye disease may show early signs like floaters,’ he said. ‘Comprehensive eye tests are often the only way to detect these issues before permanent damage occurs.’
While some vision loss can be reversed—cataracts through surgery and refractive errors with corrective lenses—glaucoma causes irreversible damage. ‘Glaucoma is called the ‘silent thief of sight’ because it affects peripheral vision first, and by the time it’s noticed, the damage is permanent,’ Dr. Luces warned.
Children are also at risk, with some born with cataracts or glaucoma or developing them after injuries or other medical conditions. ‘Annual eye exams are essential for children, not just when they need glasses,’ Dr. Luces emphasized.
Good nutrition, including foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and E, can support eye health. However, Dr. Luces cautioned against relying solely on diet. ‘Some eye diseases have contributing factors that only medical exams can detect,’ he said.
Both experts agreed that sudden floaters or flashes of light should not be ignored, as they could signal serious conditions like retinal tears. ‘Floaters are a symptom you don’t wait on,’ Dr. Luces stressed.
Lee Ann Lazarus, the hospital’s eye screening manager, emphasized the importance of regular screenings. ‘Screenings are quick, painless, and can save your sight,’ she said. Throughout October, the Trinidad Eye Hospital hosted free community and school screenings, urging everyone to prioritize their vision health.
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Baptiste: National recruitment drive could inject up to $3b into economy
In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, Minister of Labour, Small and Micro Enterprise Development Leroy Baptiste announced that the National Recruitment Drive, launched on October 19, has the potential to inject up to $3 billion into the nation’s economy. This revelation came during the Senate’s budget debate on October 27, where Baptiste emphasized the initiative’s potential to restore employment, stimulate consumption, boost GDP, and reduce poverty. The recruitment drive aims to fill 20,000 vacant positions in the public sector, with a second phase expected to address private sector vacancies. Baptiste highlighted the multiplier effect of job creation, estimating that 20,000 direct jobs could indirectly generate 30,000 additional jobs, resulting in a total of 50,000 new employment opportunities. He projected that even with modest salaries, this could add approximately $1.8 billion to the economy. Furthermore, Baptiste underscored the importance of business community support for the initiative, which he believes will contribute to economic stability and increased contributions to the national insurance framework. The minister also criticized the previous administration, attributing a decline in workforce participation and employment rates to their policies. The budget debate also saw criticism from Vishnu Dhanpaul regarding the government’s proposed ten per cent wage increase for public service employees, though Baptiste did not address this issue in his presentation.
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Rovman Powell trying to bat more responsibly for West Indies
West Indies batsman Rovman Powell delivered a match-winning performance in the first T20 against Bangladesh on October 27, earning the Player of the Match award. Powell’s strategic approach to pacing his innings proved pivotal as he unleashed a barrage of boundaries in the final overs, guiding West Indies to a commanding total of 165/3. His explosive batting, particularly in the last two overs, saw him smash three consecutive sixes off Bangladesh pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib, propelling the team past the 150-run mark. Powell’s unbeaten 44 off 28 balls, including one four and four sixes, was instrumental in securing a 16-run victory for the West Indies. Reflecting on his performance, Powell credited his success to a batting template he has honed over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of a steady start followed by aggressive hitting in the final overs. The victory was also a milestone for Powell, who celebrated his 100th T20 International match with this standout performance. He acknowledged the support of his family, friends, and teammates, as well as the crucial role played by the West Indies bowlers in restricting Bangladesh to 149 all out. The second match of the three-game series is scheduled for October 29.