April 9, 2020

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Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Cayo District is on lockdown; GOB releases official Statutory Instrument
After two new cases of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) were reported from San Ignacio Town in the Cayo District, on Monday, April 6th, Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow declared the entire district under quarantine. Two days later, a Statutory Instrument (SI) dubbed No. 52 of 2020 was released with detailed regulations to the locking down of Belize’s largest district.

GOB clarifies “movement at sea and waterways” during National State of Emergency
The Ministry of National Security clarifies the movement of persons traveling at sea, rivers, lagoons and waterways within the country of Belize. Statutory Instrument No. 46 of 2020, along with its subsequent amendments, categorizes those travelling conditions as emergency cases and essential needs only. Commercial fishers are fishers with a valid fisher’s license which they must be able to produce when encountered by the authorities.

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund donates $100K to Ambergris Caye Families
On Tuesday, April 7, Hope Haven Children’s Home and Community Center, located on Ambergris Caye, received a donation of $100,000 from the Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund. The donation was provided to assist families in need of assistance during the pandemic crisis, and to assist with supplementing grocery donations to these families. Bringing the total amount of cash donations for relief in Belize to over $10,000,000BZD, Lord Ashcroft has proven that his loyalty to Belize and its people sit at a prioritized level of concern during this time of crisis.

Ambergris Today

COVID-19 Patient #8 Ramsley Gillett Issues Public Statement
Corozal resident and Belize’s COVID-19 patient #8, Mr. Ramsley Gillett, has issued a public statement through his sister’s Facebook profile. He shares his situation with the nation and urges Belizeans to support his family and follow the advice of the authorities, stay at home and practice social distancing. Below is his statement delivered by his sister Krishna Gillett:

Eighth Case Of COVID-19 Confirmed In Corozal District
A further 31 samples, which included primary contacts of patients #6 and #7, were tested on April 7th, for COVID-19. Out of those, the Ministry has confirmed another positive case. The patient is a 50-year-old male who is currently in the isolation area of the Corozal Community Hospital. The patient was referred from the private sector and has been hospitalized since yesterday. A mapping exercise has started for this patient and further details will be provided later on in the day.

Lord Ashcroft Donates $100K To Ambergris Caye Families Via Hope Haven
On Tuesday, April 7, Hope Haven Children’s Home and Community Center, located on Ambergris Caye, received a donation of $100,000 from the Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund. The donation was provided to assist families in need of assistance during the pandemic crisis, and to assist with supplementing grocery donations to these families. Bringing the total amount of cash donations for relief in Belize to over $10,000,000BZD, Lord Ashcroft has proven that his loyalty to Belize and its people sit at a prioritized level of concern during this time of crisis.

Various Belizean Sources

Kindly click the link below to access Statutory Instrument No. 52 of 2020 which took effect on April 7, 2020

The public is hereby reminded that the following Government entities are closed to the public until further notice

The public is hereby reminded that the following Government entities are closed to the public until further notice
1. Office of the Prime Minister, including the Government Press Office 2. Attorney General’s Ministry, including the Vital Statistics Unit, Belize Intellectual Property Office (Belipo), and Companies and Corporate Registry 3. Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation 4. Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation CAYO OFFICE 5. Office of the Ombudsman...

Eighth Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Corozal
A further 31 samples, which included primary contacts of patients #6 and #7, were tested on April 7th, for COVID-19. Out of those, the Ministry has confirmed another positive case. The patient is a 50-year-old male who is currently in the isolation area of the Corozal Community Hospital. The patient was referred from the private sector and has been hospitalized since yesterday. A mapping exercise has started for this patient and further details will be provided later on in the day.

Public Notice: Belmopan City Council Closure
In alignment with the stipulations of Statutory Instrument Number 52 of 2020, and in particular Regulation 8.-(1)(h) which dictates the closure of offices listed in Schedule 2 situated in the Cayo District for a period of fourteen days, the Belmopan City Council regrets to inform the general public that the business hours announced for Thursday, April 9th no longer apply. A determination on whether the Council will resume operations, even on a limited basis, will be made at the end of the aforementioned two week period.

Two Month Extension for Contribution Payments
Notice from the Belize Social Security Board: Effective immediately, SSB has extended the deadline for all Contribution Payments for the months of March and April 2020. • Employers are required to submit their monthly Contribution Statement (FIN15A) for these months via our Online Portal at www.socialsecurity.org.bz. Self-Employed Persons can submit their monthly Contributions Certificate (SE-FIN15A) electronically to info@socialsecurity.org.bz.

No InterDistricet, City, Town, or Village Movement
The latest S.I. states no one is to move inter district, city, town or village. This is NOW law. If any community members see someone new on the island, please call the police or nurse immediately as they will be dealt to the fullest extent of the law of Belize. As community members, we have an obligation to keep OUR community safe

BEL does not train or certify electricians
Beware of false representations

Be sure and say thanks to all those on the front line
A Statement from the Special Envoy for Women & Children, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, on being thankful and grateful for our Frontline Workers. Many of our Frontline Workers are safeguarding the nation during this COVID-19 crisis. They are providing vital services to all in our country, not only making sure that we are prepared for COVID-19 but also ensuring that we are receiving the necessary care, services, and treatment nationwide.

UB Job opportunities
The University of Belize is looking for some deans.

Free Caribbean Films
Here is the link to access the free Caribbean Films being shared with us this week by our friends over at the Trinidad+Tobago Film Festival.

Movement at Sea and Waterways
The Ministry of National Security clarifies the movement of persons traveling at sea, rivers, lagoons and waterways within the country of Belize. Statutory Instrument No. 46 of 2020, along with its subsequent amendments, categorizes those travelling conditions as emergency cases and essential needs only. Commercial fishers are fishers with a valid fisher’s license which they must be able to produce when encountered by the authorities. The SI further defines the essential services relating to riverine and maritime activities as follows:

U.S. CITIZENS INTERESTED IN RETURNING TO THE UNITED STATES
Travel Alert – U.S. Embassy Belmopan, Belize (08-APR-2020) Event: We have a confirmed flight departing Belize. United Airlines Flight UA3024 departing Belize City on Tuesday, April 14, 2020 at 12:00 pm (noon) and arriving in Houston, TX at 15:28 pm. United Airlines is providing a repatriation flight for U.S. citizens and family members departing Belize City. If you would like to depart on this flight, please make a reservation directly with United Airlines at www.United.com for information or to change a prior United reservation send an email to unitedbelizesales@united.com or WhatsApp message to +501 614-2613. Please note that flights are subject to change.

CONTROLLED PRICES FOR LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS
The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce, through the Supplies Control Unit (SCU) of the Belize Bureau of Standards, has been made aware of a press release dated April 8, 2020, as issued by Belize Western Energy Ltd., Gas Tomza Ltd. and Zeta Gas (Southern Choice). Based on the fact that the matters contained therein are currently live before a court of law, the Government and the Ministry responsible for Supplies Control will refrain from publicly engaging on any of the issues which touch and concern those live claims until the determination of those matters.

Ministry of Health Condemns Sexual Violation of Vulnerable Persons
It has come to the attention of the Mental Health Unit in the Ministry of Health that a perverted video is being circulated on social media in which persons are being instructed to perform sexual acts by unidentified persons. The Unit is aware that at least one of the victims suffers from a severe mental disorder. The Ministry of Health is appalled at this assault on human dignity and is dismayed that these persons felt comfortable enough to record and share this video. The Ministry calls on all human rights actors to denounce this violation of the rights and dignity of mentally disabled persons and to strongly advocate for the most severe punishment to be levied against these violators by the appropriate authorities.

Forest Department Urges Public to Cease Burning During Fire Season
The Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, through the Forest Department, hereby reminds the public that it is the middle of the fire season, which is observed from February 15th to June 15th annually. The dry season is a dangerous time to be lighting fires. The risk of wildfires is high during the dry season and wildfires can lead to severe smoke pollution that poses environmental and health concerns, as well as destruction of property and natural habitat. On April 4, 2020, the Forest Department observed as much as 73 fires in just one day.

Belmopan Market Day Hours
BELMOPAN CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC NOTICE: The general public is advised that Belmopan's Market Day will be staged between the hours of 6 a.m. and 4 p.m., tomorrow, Thursday April 9, 2020 at the National Agriculture Trade Showgrounds under the joint management of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Belmopan City Council. Patrons are asked to kindly ensure to adhere to social distancing and hygienic protocols as advised by Health Officials both in queue as well as once inside the compound. Kindly refrain from congregating in groups and please attempt to be as expeditious as possible in obtaining your produce and exiting the area.

Virtual Town Hall for U.S. citizens in Belize on Facebook Friday
U.S. Embassy Belize Virtual Town Hall: U.S. Embassy Belmopan will be host a Virtual Town Hall for U.S. citizens in Belize on Facebook Live on Friday, April 10 at 2:00 PM. We will answer questions about U.S. citizen flight repatriation options, health and safety, immigration concerns, and available services for U.S. citizens. Come with your own questions to the Facebook chat as well! Submit questions in advance in the comments below or by sending a message to our Facebook page. See you on Friday at 2:00pm!

FLIGHT TO US TUESDAY 14 APRIL
We are pleased to advise you that a United Airlines flight will be departing Belize for Houston in the USA on Tuesday 14 April. From there you will be able to transit for flights going back to the UK. We would recommend in the strongest terms that, if you want to get back to family and friends in the UK at this difficult time, you take this flight. We have no idea if the opportunity will arise again. Flight Details: United Airlines from Belize to Houston. Flight No: UA 3024. Date: Tuesday 14 April. Time ETD: 12:00. Please note the flights are subject to change.

Fire in Corozal
Earlier this afternoon, a small wooden bungalow house structure at Finca Solana in Corozal, caught on fire due to a neighborhood bush fire. The bush Fire was left unattended and it spread threw the yard and into the wooden bungalow house structure. Lucky, no one was injured at this neighborhood bush fire. Two dogs was managed to be saved at the scene.

Post Office Closed
The Belize Postal Service hereby informs its customers that in an effort to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 PANDEMIC, it has temporarily suspended the delivery of Postal Services at all post offices. The Belize Postal Service will however, facilitate customers who may wish to pick-up a Registered Mail, a Package or Parcel containing medications, or those who may wish to encash a Postal Money Order. Customers will be facilitated between the hours of 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 MD Monday to Friday.

Corozal Police Officers Receive Food Donation from Commmunity
Compassion and love goes a long way. Today, our Corozal Daily Blog and our Rainbow Park Neighbourhood Watch Group dropped off 25 plates of food to our Corozal Police Officers on their day shift. Officer Nessie McNeil was there to receive our small token. Please note that our Corozal Police Officers are on the frontline, battling COVID-19 while we are asked to stay home and be safe. If anyone or any group is interested in donating plates of food or water to our officers, please call the Corozal Police Department at 402-0022 to make arrangements. They will wholeheartedly appreciate it.

The U.S. Embassy is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the following position: Security Investigator
(Foreign Service National Investigator) EXTENDED CLOSING DATE: April 20, 2020 To view and apply for this vacancy announcement, please visit the ERA site. Note: If you previously applied for this position you need not re-apply as your application will be considered.

Channel 7

Belize Turned Down COVID-19 Test Kits?
"Test, test, test" - that's what all the experts say is the key to stopping or slowing COVID 19. And, compared to countries that are having success against the virus, Belize isn't testing nearly enough of the population. But, tonight 7News has learned that sometime after March 12, Belize turned down the donation of as many as 25,000 testing kits from South Korea. A leaked SICA memo says quote, "The tests are 99% accurate and are compatible with those used by all SICA member countries, with the exception of Belize, which is why they declined the donation. The tests are on their way to Honduras to be distributed equitably among SICA member countries."

Breaking The Corona Stigma: Patient 6 Speaks
Tonight, finally two of Belize's COIVD-19 patients are breaking the stigma wrongly associated with contracting the virus. Nigel Espat and Ramsley Gillett are patients #6 and #8. Tonight they are each speaking out in their own way to share their experience of the symptoms with Belizeans, and to say it's an opportunistic virus, and not anything to be ashamed about. We spoke to Espat via phone at his home in Cayo where he told Cherisse Halsall that he's doing well, all things considered:

Patient 8 Emerges,
And while Espat is discouraging the spreading of rumours, so is Patient 8. He's Ramsley Gillett, a 50 year old Lands Inspector at the Minister of Natural Resources in Belmopan. He lives and works in Corozal with a wife and two children and he is now in the isolation area of the Corozal Community Hospital. Via his sister page, he put up a compelling personal statement on Facebook this afternoon. It says, quote, "It is my belief that I contracted the coronavirus while regularly engaged in my duties as a public servant.

DHS: Patient 8 Is Immuno-Compromised w/ Diabetes
In a very measured statement, Gillett makes it clear that his interaction with the public health system has been less than optimal. Reports to us suggest that he was not tested until he exhibited serious symptoms. That is notable, but today the Director of Health Services did not comment on his experience because the statement was posted just as this afternoon's "Ask the Experts" session was about to start. Dr Manzanero did, however, speak at length about his present condition in the hospital - including the fact that he has diabetes:

Community Spread, Yet?
So now, with cases 7 and 8 - both not linked directly to any imported case - can we finally pronounce that there is community spread of CVOID 19 in Belize? That's what we asked Manzanero today, but he didn't seem quite ready to make that concession: "We can now say clearly and definitively we have community, clearly and definitively is a strong words, it seems to indicate so and the mapping exercise we will complete with patient number 8 would guide us to that because it's not also how they became ill, the potential of them having infected others, who are the asymptomatic carries that have sought or will never seek medical attention. I think that is something our mapping exercise today for patient number 8 will be to see."

Encouraging Returns From Contact Tracing For Patients 6 & 7
And the mapping exercise for patients #6 and #7 has been encouraging so far. A total of 31 samples of their primary contacts have come back negative for COVID-19.

The Grim Realities of COVID Infection
And while those family members are negative, but remain under quarantine, the terrible reality is that the relatives of patient 7 - who is hospitalised at the KHMH - cannot visit their loved ones in the isolation ward. That is because, first, they are under quarantine and, second, because the highly infectious nature of COVID 19 makes it so that - all over the world - those who are infected cannot have visitors. More than that, there is a strict and unforgiving protocol for dealing with those who die from COVID-19, Manzanero discussed this difficult subject today:

COVID Patients Not Perpetrators
Indeed, COVID 19 has remapped all our realties, and many of us find ourselves cooped up with stress, paranoia, and fear. But as Manzanero pointed out today, it only makes their work harder when we turn a virus - which can infect anyone - into a badge of shame, treating a patient like a perpetrator. Well, that's not how it works; and as you heard, two COVID-19 patients are speaking up to end that stigma. Manzanero did the same today:

Compol Comes Down On Cops Who Coerced Sex Act
Tonight, we return to a story that is not suitable for kids. So, if they are watching, either excuse them from the room or change the channel. Last night, we showed you a very blurred version of three police officers coercing two individuals into performing a sexual act. It's evidence that only exists because it was filmed and shared by the perpetrators. And on Monday night when the vile video started making the Whatsapp rounds it was brought to the attention of Commissioner of Police Chester Williams.

COMPOL Says Victims Were Of Sound Mind
But there was even more alarm over the act of recorded sexual coercion when it was alleged that at least one of the victims suffers from a mental disorder. That's a characterisation that Commissioner Williams has outrightly disputed, here's what he said today about the mental capacity of both victims:

Compol Clashes With Mrs. Barrow On Comparison
Williams also outrightly rejected any similarities drawn between the act of sexual coercion and the week's other major incident of public police misconduct. That one happened in San Martin where an elderly man was badly beaten by police. But, Williams said that the act of sexual depravity could never be put under the same heading as the incident in San Martin.

Waiting For San Martin Complaints
And it seems that Williams can't catch a break because the Special Envoy for Women and Children, Kim Barrow in a press release this evening lumped both incidents together calling them incidences of police brutality against women and elderly persons. Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow called for the elimination of all acts of violence at this trying time, claiming that they only serve to quote: "inflict bouts of fear and mistrust."

SOE Arrests To Decline
And while that man received a beatdown for breaking curfew, almost 500 others will pay a massive fine. But Williams is optimistic that with such an expensive deterrent, arrests will start to decline. "We had 59 arrests over the course of the 24 hours so we'll be just about 500 but we're seeing a decline now in the number of arrests. I think last yesterday was 70 something and today is 59 so the arrests are going down. I hope that it is an indication that fewer and fewer persons are now on the street

Curfew Now Effectively Rolled Back
Fewer people on the streets is the ultimate goal in the battle to stop the spread of COVID-19. And to accomplish that goal, the State of Emergency's most recent statutory instrument limited the opening hours of grocery stores and effectively eliminated the only excuse to leave home.

Exercise Allowed, Mornings Only
And essential workers are not the working out. That's right, the Commissioner says you cannot even exercise after 4:00 pm! Now outdoor exercise was permitted under the State of Emergency last week, but the Commissioner says it is only for those who exercise in the morning:

COMPOL's Curfew Proposal Shot Down
And if Commissioner Williams had it his way, even those caught exercising after 4:00 would be sent straight to jail! That's right, jail. Over the weekend on Facebook Commissioner Chester made a public proposal to the Prime Minister, and an open threat to curfew violators that they should be sent straight to Hattieville - just like the 100 + alleged gangsters who are locked up. Today he told us that that the proposals which he floated publicly, was shot down:

LPG Importers On the Offensive
2 Days ago, we told you how the 3 Central American Butane Importers filed for an injunction against the Government in the courtroom of the new Acting Chief Justice, Michelle Arana. The 3 importers, Gas Tomza Limited, Southern Choice Butane, and Belize Western Energy Limited, say that the government threatened to take action against them for simply wanting to lower the prices of their butane to give Belizeans a small break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

National Gas Company Ready
The National Gas Company, which is the public/private entity that will take over the importation of butane from those Central American Importers, is also speaking up in this wide open dispute. They aren't weighing in on the dispute between Government and the Central American importers. National Gas Company is instead assuring the public that they will continue their preparations to become Belize's only importer of butane.

Guat Fugitive Expelled To Face Murder Charge
7News has learned that a Guatemalan fugitive, who was wanted in his home country for the crime of murder, was caught in Belize and was today returned to his country to face charges. He has been identified to us as Walter Jerome Rosales Garcia, and we are told he was caught several days ago in the Stann Creek District.

Free Zone, Smugglers On The Move? No Says CEO
The Corozal Free Zone has been ordered shut during the national state of emergency, but reports reaching our newsroom is that it is still being used to smuggle goods across the Rio Hondo to Mexico. This is because a large part of what comes out of the zone does so through means of informal trade - in other words, it goes through the back.

Public Officers Mid Month Pay Delayed
Public servants will not be paid until after easter. It's an unprecedented 6-day salary delay and one that Financial Secretary Joseph Waight says only became necessary quote: "As the economy grounded to a halt, and revenues dried up." The salaries which had been set to be paid today, April 8th for the 15th pay period will not be paid until April 14th.

NICH Helping Health
As you probably know by now, the Ministry of Health has a hotline set up to take calls from the public during this COVID-19 crisis. They have advised persons not to show up to the hospital if they suspect that they may be infected with the coronavirus. That can cause those patients to put other Belizeans at risk of contamination. Instead, the Ministry wants them to call the hotline and seek advice on how best to address the situation.

The Borders to A Homecoming
If you've ever returned to Belize via Cancun you'll know the feeling of relief experienced at the sight of the welcome to Belize signs as you cross the Rio Hondo. But if you were to try to come back right now you wouldn't be welcome, because as of Sunday, April 5th Belize's borders were closed, even to nationals. And in the second part of Cherisse Halsall's chat with three Belizean students abroad she asked them how it felt to hear that, at least for now, they can't come home:

The Warpspeed "Wop"
And turning now to much lighter news - we have to laugh after what may otherwise might make us cry. The Belize we are all living in today seems to many of us like it's out of some dystopian novel. Indeed, if we had told you one month ago that in Holy Week, you'd have to be locked up in your house by 4:00 pm or face arrest, you would have laughed. But, such are the times we are living in - and dying by with COVID 19.

Fear No More
And Finally tonight, a faint glimmer of hope from the City that became global ground zero of the Coronavirus has ended its lockdown after 11 weeks. Just after midnight on Wednesday, March 8th, the City's 11 million residents were told that they are finally free to travel in and out of the City.

Statement from Patient #8, Ramsley Gillett
“As the latest person to contract the COVID-19 virus in Belize, I want to share my situation with the nation. I am Ramsley Gillett, a 50-year-old Belizean working as a Land Inspector with the Ministry of Natural Resources. I am a resident of Corozal, where my wife, two children and I reside. It is my belief that I contracted the coronavirus while regularly engaged in my duties as a public servant. I have decided to make this public declaration with the hope of ending the stigma and discrimination that I’ve seen displayed against other COVID-19 patients and their families.

Channel 5

Belize Refuses Donation of Testing Kits from the Republic of Korea to the Region
There is a most worrisome report coming out of the region tonight. Heads of Government of SICA met in March and adopted a Regional Contingency Plan to combat the novel [...]

Belize Running Low on Viral Swabs
There will be an increase in sampling and testing countrywide especially in the Cayo and Corozal Districts for the COVID-19 virus. However, supplies such as swabs to collect samples are [...]

COVID-19 Patient 8 is Lands Inspector Ramsley Gillett from Corozal
There is a second confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Corozal District.  The patient is Ramsey Gillett, a brave public officer who works at the Lands Department in Corozal Town [...]

Dr. Manzanero Says Patients 6, 7 Stable
Mapping and testing of other persons infected by the virus continues by the Ministry of Health.  On ‘Ask the Experts’ today, Director of Health Services, Doctor Marvin Manzanero provided an [...]

Evidence Points to a Community Spread
There are now a total of eight Belizeans who tested positive for the virus. And it is expected that the number will increase in the days to come. While the [...]

Three Policemen Detained for Sexual Coercion
Turning to a despicable sex video in circulation; three officers, including a corporal, have been identified as the policemen behind the most appalling act of sexual coercion that was recorded [...]

Senior Expert Investigating Despicable Incident
According to ComPol Williams, the despicable act perpetrated by the officers undermines the work of the police department, as well as the individual efforts of their colleagues in shaping the [...]

Corporal’s Resignation to be Rescinded, He Still Faces Disciplinary Action
The officers involved have been identified as a corporal and two police constables.  Notwithstanding the tendering of his resignation a week or so ago, ComPol Williams will be withdrawing that [...]

MOH Says it is Appalled at the Assault on Human Dignity
The Ministry of Health has also weighed in on the issue, saying that its Mental Health Unit recognizes one of the victims as a person with a severe mental disorder. [...]

Patient Four Infected Patient Six
Patient six is San Ignacio businessman, Nigel Espat, who says he is recovering from the deadly virus. Espat spoke to News Five on Tuesday evening and this morning, he described [...]

Patient 6: “It’s Not a Death Sentence”
Nigel Espat is expected to be re-tested early next week to determine if his body has been able to dispose of the virus. He will be re-tested twice according to [...]

M.O.H. Address (Some) Concerns Raise by Nurses Association
Tensions are decreasing between the Nurses Association of Belize and the Ministry of Health.  Both parties met today to discuss concerns brought up by the association related to the equipment [...]

‘Flimsy’ Tents Replaced with Wooden Structures
According to Darrell Spencer, communication between both parties will continue in the days ahead. As for the flimsy tents used for the COVID-19 areas in hospital countrywide, Spencer says that [...]

A Delay in Salaries for Public Officers
There is news tonight which public officers will not be happy about and that is because those members expecting salaries today, for the April fifteenth pay period, are not getting [...]

Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund Donates 100K to Hope Haven in San Pedro
The Lord Ashcroft COVID-19 Relief Fund has made another donation; this time, it is befitting Hope Haven Children’s Home and Community Center located on Ambergris Caye.  The donation is in [...]

G.O.B. Threatens LPG Importers Over Emergency Discounts To Belizeans During COVID-19 Crisis
G.O.B. and the LPG importers are sparring again. Three of the six liquefied petroleum gas companies in Belize—namely Belize Western Energy Limited, Gas Tomza, and Southern Choice Butane (Zeta Gas)—are [...]

Attorney Audrey Matura Says it is A Scheme to Protect Government’s Interest in National Gas Company
The Bureau of Standards regulates the retail price of butane, but not the wholesale price; it is the importers and wholesalers who control that. World oil prices have been plummeting [...]

Lawsuits Filed on Behalf of LPG Importers Against G.O.B.
Two lawsuits have been filed in respect of the matter in which the importers are seeking judicial review of S.I. fifty-seven of 2019 and a constitutional challenge against the government. [...]

The Number of S.O.E. Arrests Dwindles
On Tuesday night, Cayo District which has reported three cases of COVID-19 went under an additional lockdown. The police continue to do their rounds in other parts of the country [...]

Virtual Court Appearance for S.O.E. Offenders
The Kolbe Foundation recently introduced a system where inmates can make virtual court appearances from the Belize Central Prison.  It’s a system that is also being considered by the Belize [...]

Vicious Beat Down of Elderly San Martin Resident Still Under Investigation
The vicious beating of seventy-seven-year-old Alejandro Chavez, as well as another resident of the San Martin community in Belmopan, at the hands of police officers, remains under investigation.  While both [...]

Face Shields for Frontline Workers – a Generous Donation!
All non-essential establishments are closed and that includes businesses that sell stationery items. Although the Stationery House Retail Outlet on Slaughterhouse Road in Belize City is closed for Belize City [...]

What Do We Do With Deceased COVID-19 Patients?
The body of fifty-five-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh, the first casualty of COVID-19 in Belize, was reportedly cremated on Monday night.  The disposal of the remains of patients who succumb to complications [...]

Moses Sulph Says Total, 24hr Lockdown Should be Mandatory
Social activist Moses Sulph is weighing on the state of emergency and how it adversely affects the entire population of Belizeans who are living below the poverty line.  While there [...]

Another Drought on the Horizon!
Is another drought on our horizon? That’s what’s it shaping up to be – according to the National Meteorological Service’s seasonal rainfall forecast for April to September. That forecast shows [...]

Amandala

Belize’s first coronavirus death: Hubert Pipersburgh
The coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc around the world, with more than 1.2 million persons being infected worldwide and over 70,000 having died from the virus, as of today, Monday, April 6. The novel coronavirus was imported into Belize, which had been free of the virus prior to March 23, when the government announced that a 38-year-old woman had tested positive. Since then, three other cases have been confirmed by the Ministry of Health, with Patient #4 being announced on Friday, April 3.

Two more men from Cayo test positive for COVID-19
Less than 24 hours after San Ignacio resident Hubert Pipersburgh died from COVID-19, government announced this morning that two other men from San Ignacio have tested positive for the coronavirus. The Ministry of Health said in its press release that it has “scaled up testing for COVID-19 and a further 26 samples were tested on Sunday, April 5.” The press release went on to say that one of the two men who tested positive was “a contact of Patient #4 [the Ministry’s reference to the deceased Pipersburgh].”

3 COVID-19 cases in Cayo lead to lockdown
The National Oversight Committee met for most of today and, following the meeting, Prime Minister Dean O. Barrow took to the airwaves in a live broadcast to announce that the entire Cayo District was being placed under lockdown, and government will increase random testing for COVID-19. The new quarantine measures that government announced for the Cayo District were introduced after the first COVID-19 death occurred in the country yesterday, Sunday.

Holy Saturday without Cross Country
Easter weekend is near, but like in 1932 when the September 1931 hurricane caused a cancellation of the subsequent Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic, once again a generation of Belizeans is about to experience a Holy Saturday without Cross Country, thanks to the untimely intervention of the dreaded Covid-19 coronavirus, which claimed its first victim inside the Jewel yesterday. (Our sincere condolences to the family of brother Hubert Pipersburgh.)

78-year-old man beaten by police in Belmopan
Francisco Chavez, 78, a resident of Uruguay Street, San Martin, Belmopan, has been released from the Western Regional Hospital after he was beaten (and allegedly shot) by police who went to his house to arrest some men who had violated the curfew at about 9:00 Friday night. During the incident, shots were fired, and three men were beaten and arrested.

PM Barrow addresses the nation after 1st COVID-19 fatality
Following the very unsettling news of Belize’s first recorded death due to COVID-19 on Sunday, April 5, and two more confirmed cases in the Cayo District, Prime Minister Dean Barrow issued an urgent message to the public live on Monday evening. He began by addressing the allegations of negligence aimed at the Department of Health Services by the spouse of Hubert Pipersburgh, the fourth COVID-19 victim who passed away due to respiratory complications.

Mayor Bernard Wagner and various CitCo members of staff tested negative for COVID-19
Belize City mayor, Bernard Wagner and various members of the staff of the Belize City Council all tested negative for the coronavirus, said a press release that the City Council issued yesterday, Sunday. The tests that were done on Mayor Wagner and those staff members were carried out on Friday and Saturday, and well into Sunday and Monday.

Compol Williams will recommend prison time for curfew violators
One component of the national state of emergency that came into effect at midnight on Wednesday, April 1, is a curfew to ensure that Belizeans remain indoors. The curfew hours run from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. and this will remain in effect for the duration of the state of emergency. At the onset of the curfew, sirens sounded across Belize City to announce that the curfew hour had arrived and citizens must remain inside their homes.

Ismael Jacobs executed at home
Ismael Jacobs, 27, a laborer of Indianville, Punta Gorda, was at his home, a one-flat elevated timber house, at about 7:30 last night along with other members of his family, when an armed gunman barged through the front door. The gunman, who was wearing a mask, fired multiple times at Jacobs, who was hit in the head and chest, while his other family members scrambled for cover. The gunman then escaped from the house as easily as he entered.

National Met Service says drought likely for 2020 “rainy” season
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) issued a release today warning that “the seasonal rainfall forecast for April to September 2020 is showing a probability of drier than usual conditions across much of the country.” The driest conditions are expected over northern and central areas, while rainfall over the Stann Creek and Toledo district is expected to be normal to slightly below normal.

Editorial: The battle for our health
The discovery of four COVID-19 cases since the state of emergency was called on April 1, and the subsequent death of one of those infected persons, is a major setback. The authorities were hopeful that the measures they had put in place had stopped the disease in its tracks, but they were not surprised when these new cases were discovered. Fighting a virus is no easy thing. It takes only one person to be missed when health personnel are doing the mapping of contacts of an individual who is infected with the disease, or one infected person entering the country and not following the disease prevention measures, for the disease to spread.

44,000 signed up for COVID-19 government unemployment benefits
GOB’s unemployment relief program was rolled out on Friday via an online portal, which became so heavily congested with online traffic that the site went down within its first day of operation. It was restored by the following day, however, and continued to see increased activity. It was determined that within a matter of one weekend, about 44,000 Belizeans and counting had already submitted applications to receive the monthly $300 from the government as of Monday, April 6. Those 44,000 persons are residents living across the entire country, with the majority hailing from Belize City.

Easter 2020 declared National Days of Prayer
The Easter week has this year been declared National Days of Prayers in view of the ravaging effects of the deadly COVID-19 virus that is causing death and havoc globally. A curfew and a State of Emergency have been enacted to combat the spread of the deadly disease, and in light of the dire circumstances, the nation is urged to pray.

Investigation into Hubert Pipersburgh’s COVID-19 death has begun
The government of Belize has responded to a Facebook post by the wife of the late Mr. Hubert Pipersburgh, in which she recounts her experience while seeking care for her husband. The release says that “all complaints and criticisms regarding COVID-19 in Belize are taken very seriously. Especially concerning is the experience Mr. Pipersburgh’s family recounts …Ms. Recinos’ report and any information that can assist in ensuring that Belize’s response demonstrates respect and care for citizens are welcome and appreciated.

Prison takes measures to protect from COVID-19
The Belize Central Prison in Hattieville, which has about 1,100 inmates in close proximity with each other, has a high chance of the inmates catching and spreading the dreaded COVID-19 disease, if it should come into the institution. The prison, therefore, has taken a proactive approach to the problem. Virjilio Murillo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kolbe Foundation/ Belize Central Prison, said that the prison has implemented measures and a partial lockdown to combat the dreaded disease, and it is confident that the prison is COVID-19 free.

COVID-19 cancels Easter travel
The Easter holidays are the time of the year when Belizeans become tourists in our own country. Customarily, as soon as the annual Cross Country Cycling Race is finished, those who have not yet left the city usually do so. This year, however, the COVID-19 pandemic has not only shut down Belize with a state of emergency which came into effect on April 1, but it has shut down the entire world, as hundreds of millions of people are forced to remain in their homes in the fight against the spread of the virus.

How could we forget!? Notable ballers of the past
It is a work in progress, indeed; and our preliminary list last Friday was shockingly deficient, as “the ink was hardly dry” before some other giant names came to mind. And, predictably, we received a complaint from a fan in Cayo about our omission of a few top players of the 60s and 70s, namely Timmy Bedran, Arturo “Turo” Azueta and Jorge Vargas of Avengers, as well as one “Barrelito” of Chitos. (Thanks, Eduardo Luna.) And we have quite a few others to add.

Life interrupted as COVID-19 dominates, and we are not prepared!
“What if Dr. Manzanero had conceded for a test to be done on him on Friday the 27th? Maybe he would have received treatment and would be safe. How can he make such a decision when someone has the majority of the symptoms. Just because he had not been in touch with other patients? Because he had not travelled recently? The questions asked were more about who he had been with and not how he is doing, what were the symptoms. He can’t be so naive to deal with the situation as per contact of the first three cases, we do not know exactly how many of us are walking around without symptoms as yet.

We’ll still have something for Easter
Those of us who are less than octogenarians have never seen an Easter as somber as this one we’re experiencing now. Many have said that the Easter season, Holy Week, had lost its reason, that we had made it into a season for partying instead of a season for reflecting on the sacred journey of Jesus the Christ, from the Triumphal Entry on Palm Sunday, the cleansing of the Temple on (Holy) Monday, to the Cross on Good Friday, and then the Risen Christ on Easter Sunday.

Mr. and Mrs. Jerome …
I had not had an opportunity to speak with Jewel face to face until the following year, at which time I had been given her full account of the wedding, although Jerome, through the magical facility of Polaroid, had placed a photograph of the event on the table of my work station on the Monday afterwards and many of the details had emerged in the course of telephone conversations.

Hope in times of despair
Dear Editor, Chapter 4 in the Gospel of St. Mark, in the 35th to 41st verses, presents a very chilling yet inspiring tale. Let’s recall that frightful evening when Jesus had fallen asleep and a storm emerged: “One evening Jesus and his disciples set out to get to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus fell asleep. A great windstorm arose, and waves were spilling into the boat...”

Because of the COVID-19 crisis, the US will be weakened as the global hegemony
Dear Editor, As of today, April 4, 2020, the price of oil is US $28.34 a barrel. The price of oil has been less than US$30 and as low as US$20 for about a month now. The Russians refused to cut production, and then Saudi Arabia said they will sell, in April, 12.3 million barrels a day, more than their production capacity, which means that they will use their reserves.

US seizes ventilators destined for Barbados
The United States government seized 20 ventilators destined for Barbados, the island’s Minister of Health and Wellness Jeffrey Bostic informed Sunday. “They were seized in the United States. Paid for, but seized, so we are trying to see exactly what is going to transpire there,” Bostic said, explaining that the ventilators donated to the Barbados government were barred from exportation.

LOVE FM

Amended Statutory Instrument requires all stores to close at four
Statutory Instrument Number 52 of 2020 was signed yesterday bearing amendments to the Emergency Powers Regulations of the Belize Constitution. The amendments are related particularly to the movements of residents in the Cayo District.

FinSec speaks on the unusual delay of salaries for public officers
Public officers have come to enjoy the luxury of being paid well before the actual pay period is over. For this pay period and perhaps several more to follow paydays may be somewhat delayed. Ordinarily, government workers would be seeing their salaries deposited today, April 8 for the period April 1 to April 15.

Public officer is the eighth person to be infected with COVID-19
The Ministry of Health has identified the eighth case of COVID-19 in Belize. Patient Number Eight is a 50-year-old Belizean man of Corozal Town. The patient’s family has decided collectively to go public with Patient Eight’s identity and his situation.

Dengue cases starting to increase
While flu symptoms could be the first sign of COVID-19, health officials are warning that there is also an increase of dengue cases that could be confused for COVID-19. Dr. Marvin Manzanero spoke of this earlier today on the Ministry of Health’s webcast.

How will the bodies of persons who pass away due to the COVID19 virus be handled?
55-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh is the first victim of COVID-19 in Belize. He passed away on Sunday, April 5 at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.

Director of Health Services says don’t bank on the BCG Vaccine report just yet
The Ministry of Health is expecting a shipment of medication that would assist patients who develop bacterial pneumonia as a result of COVID-19. According to Dr. Manzanero, the shipment is earmarked for pregnant women and children only. He also spoke of medications in stock in Belize.

Ministry of National Security clarifies regulations of travel on sea, rivers, lagoons and other waterways
In a release from the Ministry of National Security, clarification was made regarding persons who travel on sea, rivers, lagoons and other waterways within Belize. According to the release, Statutory Instrument No. 46 of 2020, along with its subsequent amendments, categorizes those traveling conditions as emergency cases and essential needs only.

Is Belize experiencing a COVID-19 community spread?
Concerns are abounding when it comes to the community spread of COVID-19 in Belize. The issue of community spread arose when the source of infection for Patients Four, Seven and Eight are yet to be identified in the mapping exercise.

Twin Town streets empty after the lock down of the Cayo District
Starting at 8 o’clock tonight, the entire district of Cayo will be under a 2-week lockdown. This announcement was made yesterday by the Prime Minister and comes as a result of three COVID-19 patients who reside in San Ignacio Town. The town, which is usually bustling with residents and tourists, has come to standstill since the State of Emergency was enacted. Today, we spoke with the Mayor, Earl Trapp, on how this has been impacting them.

Breaking Belize News

Mahogany Heights man douse in gas and lit on fire
Floyd Escarpeta, 25, was doused in gasoline and lit on fire. He suffered burns from […]

PUP calls on GOB to “come to its senses” over butane issue
The People’s United Party (PUP) is calling on the Government of Belize (GOB) to refrain […]

Ministry of Health condemns sexual violation of vulnerable persons
The Ministry of Health issued a statement condemning the sexual violation of vulnerable persons. The […]

Belize Bureau of Standards refrains from engaging with gas companies
The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Commerce, through the Supplies Control Unit (SCU) of the […]

Commissioner shares struggles of policing during State of Emergency
It’s hard out here for a cop, no less the top cop. Commissioner of Police Chester […]

Commissioner condemns ‘exploitation’ of assault victims on social media
The Commissioner of Police Chester Williams condemned the actions of one social media proprietor who attempted […]

Forest Department urges public to cease burning; halts issuance of burning permits
The Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development, through the Forest Department, reminds […]

Quality Poultry Products donates chickens to frontline workers in national Covid-19 response
There is no doubt that the COVID-19 outbreak has caused major economic strain in Belize […]

Wuhan Province in China opens up after 76 days of severe lockdown due to Covid-19
The deadly virus, Covid-19 that has affected over 1 million people around the world began […]

Statements pending in San Martin beating incident
The two individuals who accused police in the San Martin area of Belmopan last week […]

Ministry of National Security clarifies movement of persons traveling at sea and waterways
The Ministry of National Security issued a statement clarifying the movement of persons traveling at […]

Lord Michael Ashcroft makes $100,000 donation to Ambergris Caye families
Keeping with a pledge made back in March Lord Michael Ashcroft has donated $100,000 in […]

Government reminds public of closed offices
The public is reminded that the following Government entities are closed to the public until […]

ComPol: “Idiot” police officers behind sex video to be dealt with
A chagrined Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, says police are dealing with the vile incident […]

Miss England hangs up her crown to return to work as a doctor during coronavirus pandemic
The COVID-19 worldwide pandemic has brought out both the best and worst in humanity, but […]

Unclear contagion link for 3 patients may mean community spread
On Tuesday, Director of Health Services Dr. Marvin Manzanero shared that the late Hubert Pipersburgh, […]

Belize’s 8th case of Covid-19 confirmed in Corozal
The Ministry of Health has confirmed an eight case of Covid-19 in Belize. The Ministry […]

New Statutory Instrument provides for 2 years imprisonment for breach of regulations
The entire Cayo District has been placed under quarantine due to the COVID-19 threat. As […]

New changes to business hours in Cayo District
Beginning 8 last night, the entire Cayo District was placed under quarantine due to the […]

Blogs

Belize’s Best Honeymoon Resorts
Start your new chapter as newlyweds making blissful and everlasting memories in Belize! Look no further for your honeymoon destination with this list of breathtakingly gorgeous honeymoon resorts in Belize. Your honeymoon is the icing on the cake after the many months of planning details for your big day! Location matters, and a honeymoon in Belize is just what newlyweds need. Choose Belize – a blissful, English-speaking Caribbean country with breathtaking resorts. Booking, traveling, and arriving couldn’t be any easier. Undoubtedly, your honeymoon experience in Belize is sure to be remembered for a lifetime together.

Hot Cross Buns for Easter
Hop into Easter with a batch of warmly-spiced and perfectly-sweetened Hot Cross Buns! These yeast-based sweet buns filled with spices and raisins are a traditional Easter delicacy. Above ‘Peeps’ and all else, they’re the one thing that stands out as the food of the season. This year, Easter is going to look differently – there’s no doubt about that – but it doesn’t mean we can’t try our best to keep certain traditions going. Rich in flavor and history, these buns date back to the 12th century with numerous theories on how they originated. Widely enjoyed worldwide, Hot Cross Buns gets its name from their signature cross, baked right on top the dough or etched with icing.

International Sources

How This Belize Hotel Is Rethinking the “Virtual” Vacation
More and more hotels and destinations are looking to take their offerings virtual right now, with the current climate leading to a surge in “digital vacations.” The latest to launch one is the legendary Lodge at Chaa Creek in Belize, which has revealed its new “Virtual Belize Vacation.” And they’re doing it in a different way — by getting travelers not just to dream, but to learn. “Travel restrictions, business closures and other measures currently in place to fight the Coronavirus pandemic will pass. And preparing for your Belize vacation now will help you and your family enjoy it to the fullest when you finally are able to visit us,” said Denise Duran, a spokesperson for the resort.

Dr Bill Griggs gives tips on how to avoid bringing coronavirus home
This is a good, quick read. One of South Australia’s top doctors has compiled a 25-point checklist for how to avoid bringing coronavirus home after venturing out. The Royal Adelaide Hospital’s former trauma services director, Dr Bill Griggs, said he devised the list in response to requests from “non-medical” friends. It begins with wearing nothing below the elbows, including watches, when going out, and ends with wiping down the gearstick and seatbelt once home again.

Videos

April 8, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

BCG Commandant retracts comments regarding people returning to Ambergris Caye
On Monday April 6th, the head of the Belize Coast Guard (BCG) Captain Elton Bennett stated during a television talk show that there is no limitation based on a private vessel moving at sea with a purpose, going so far as to say that persons planning to travel to Ambergris Caye can do so if they have a valid reason. This information raised concerns on the island, as cases of COVID-19 have increased on the mainland. While the Emergency Operation Center (EOC), voiced their disagreement on the idea to have free movement between the Cayes and the mainland, Commandant Bennett quickly changed his position after he was provided with information from the latest amended Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 47 2020, which prohibits people from traveling within districts.

Governor General swears in Acting Chief Justice Michelle Arana and Ombudsman Lionel Arzu
Acting Chief Justice Michelle Arana makes history as the first female to be appointed to this post in Belize. Also sworn in for another term is Ombudsman Lionel Arzu.

25 Latin American and Caribbean countries coordinate to support the regular functioning of the food system during the COVID-19 crisis
25 Latin American and Caribbean countries expressed their commitment to coordinate the supply of sufficient, safe and nutritious food for the 620 million inhabitants of the region during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over 450 persons arrested countrywide for breaching curfew regulations
Despite urgent pleas to stay home during the COVID-19 crisis in Belize, 458 people have been arrested countrywide for breaking curfew, being out past 8PM and before 5AM.

Some construction sites allowed to operate despite restrictions set by island authorities
Ambergris Caye joins the rest of the country in a State of Emergency following an increase in cases of COVID-19. Free movement during certain hours of the day and the banning of certain activities have been set in place to mitigate the spread of the deadly disease. To further ensure the safety of islanders and to encourage social distancing and staying at home, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) extended some stringent regulations, also prohibiting activities like fishing and construction. Despite such rules announced by SPTC, specific construction projects are being allowed to continue in different parts of the island, while others remain grounded.

Ambergris Today

Drought Conditions Expected Through September In Belize
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) of Belize hereby informs the general public that the seasonal rainfall forecast for April to September 2020 is showing a probability of drier than usual conditions across much of the country.

Various Belizean Sources

Closure of the Belmopan City Council Office
In alignment with the guidelines and press releases from the Government Press Office and Ministry of Health, and in an effort to safeguard members of the public and our staff during this ongoing COVID-1g pandemic, the Belmopan City Council hereby informs the general public thatThursday, April gth 2020 will be the final business day for the month of April. The prevailing circumstances will be assessed at the end of April to determine whether business will resume as normal on Monday, May 4th 2020. We strongly encourage anyone with a driver's license or vehicle license which expires in the month of April to take advantage of the opportunity to renew on Thursday, April 8th.

Temporary Closure of the Vital Statistics Unit
The Attorney General’s Ministry hereby informs the public of the temporary closure and suspension of services offered by or at the Vital Statistics Unit, effective immediately. Tentatively, the office will re-open to the public on April 20, 2020. This temporary suspension of services and closure is imminent taking into consideration the current state of affairs in the wake of COVID-19. The office apologizes for this closure, but it is necessary to safeguard the staff and to prevent persons from having to be outside for the duration of the state of emergency.

Governor General Swears In Ombudsman and Acting Chief Justice
In a brief ceremony held today, April 7th, at the Belize House in Belmopan, the Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young swore in Justice Michelle Arana as Acting Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Belize. Mr. Lionel Arzu was also sworn in today for another term as Ombudsman. Mr. Arzu has served as the Ombudsman since 2012.

Development Finance Corporation Offices to close
Effective April 7, 2020 our offices countrywide will be closed but we're still serving you remotely!

Belize Observes World Health Day
April 7th of each year marks the celebration of World Health Day. From its inception at the First Health Assembly in 1948 and since taking effect in 1950, the celebration, through a specific theme, has aimed at creating awareness of a priority area of concern for the World Health Organization. The theme for World Health Day 2020 is to support nurses and midwives, highlighting their contribution in making the world a healthier place.

Candlelight Vigil Thursday night for Frontline Workers
Join the country and show support to all of our frontline workers! Thursday, April 9th at 7:00 p.m. We are asking the entire country to join us on Thursday, April 9th at 7:00 PM by turning off the lights in your home, then come outside on your porch, step or yard and light a candle or hold up a light for five minutes in honor of our frontline workers. On that day, please take pictures of you and your family while holding up your candles/lights, post it on facebook and hashtag the Love Foundation Belize.

NEW OPENING HOURS FOR "LAGUNA SECA" AND "PUEBLO NUEVO FERRY"
THE MINISTRY OF WORKS WOULD LIKE TO ANNOUNCE THE NEW OPENING HOURS FOR "LAGUNA SECA" AND "PUEBLO NUEVO FERRY" AS OF WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8TH. FROM 7AM TO 12 NOON, DAILY. APOLOGIES TO ANY INCONVENIENCE CAUSED BY THIS SITUATION, BUT IT IS NECESSARY FOR THE CONTROL OF THE CORONA VIRUS IN OUR COUNTRY. ANY FURTHER CHANGES IN REGARDS TO THE FERRIES WILL BE COMMUNICATED TO THE COMMUNITY.

The Pink Moon on Corozal Bay this evening April 7TH, 2020

Travellers Sani-Bel
PRODUCED LOCALLY - Call 223-2855 for wholesale orders of Sani-Bel hand sanitizer by Travellers Liquors. Sami-Bel hand sanitizer is also available at www.belizeon.com, G&G, Twins and SAV-U supermarkets in Belize City.

BEL Suspends Printed Bills
Belize Electricity Limited advises customers that the delivery of printed bills is suspended until further notice as a precautionary safety measure.

Supplies Delivered Around Cayo
The Cayo Chinese consortium teamed up with the SISE TC to get much needed supplies to families around Cayo. Thanks to all involved in this marvelous community effort! "Chinese community along with SISE Town Council giving back to those in need within the twin towns. Stay Safe!"

THE FAKE XTABAY: (Legends of Tekal of Venegas)
Passing the corner of the store the "El Mosquito", along the old road to the San Isidro estate is a square known as Chen Kaj, in Mayan well of the village, there was a leafy ceiba, which according to the advice of Grandparents shelter their branches this matter. On this course lived a newly formed marriage of a widower with single woman, who at the same time as beautiful, was the pupil of the old widower, who fulfilled all his whims. One day, the lady decided to stop wearing her Mayan huipiles, and use fashion of the village dzules, the new catrina was bought several dresses among those white silk, which she wore on Saturday afternoon when she attended the Hail in the village church.

Traditional Yucatec recipes of the Cocina Yucateca cookbook published in 1980 in Merida, Mexico
This beautiful book by Lucrecia Ruz is a tour of the stories and flavors of Yucatan, which are not limited to the already well-known pibil pibil, panuchos, salbutes and papadzules.

Channel 7

COVID Patient #7 Transferred To Isolation Unit
Tonight, Belize's COVID 19 patient #7 is at the isolation unit of the KHMH, which is reserved for critical care COVID 19 patients. He was transferred from Belmopan's Western Regional Hospital last night - and his admission to the KHMH clearly indicates that he needs a higher level of care. But, he is not on a ventilator. This afternoon on "Ask the Experts," The Director of Health Services gave a briefing on patient 7's condition. He started with patient #6, another San Ignacio resident who is at home with no major symptoms. Unlike patient 7, he has a known connection to patient #4. The DHS says they found him through contact tracing:

DHS Manzanero: Patient 1 Had No Contact With Patient 4
And so while patient 7 is conscious and not on a ventilator, three Ministry of Health teams in San Ignacio are tracing his contacts. And, contact tracing also has to do with rumour tracing. This weekend, after Hubert Pipersburgh died, that meant following a social media story that Pipersburgh and patient 1 had contact at a birthday party in San Ignacio on the day she arrived in the country, March 19th. The story went that this was being kept a secret from health authorities, so that she would not be charged for violating her quarantine.

Manzanero Refutes Claim of Contact By Recinos
And turning from rumour to allegation, Dr. Manzanero gave a brief, but pointed reply to the allegation Maria Estella Recinos. She's Hubert Pipersburgh's grieving wife, and she claimed that on March 27th, she called Dr. Manzanero, who she knows personally and asked him to take a Covid19 test on her husband. She claims, quote, "Dr. Manzanero told me my husband doesn't qualify to take the test. I was surprised as symptoms point out that it wasn't any simple infection." Today, Manzanero said it's untrue:

PPE Inventory Under Lockdown Due To Siphoning
Turning now to what's next - which is the continued, sustained response to COVID-19, the Prime Minister stressed yesterday evening that there are ample tests available and a stockpile of PPE's. Here's his statement made 24 hours ago: "We have a number, an ample number of testing kits for the moment. We are in the process of procuring more, so a part from the ramped-up sampling and testing that we will do in the Cayo District..."

# Of COVID Tests Available?
Today, Dr. Marvin Manzanero provided specifics on how many COVID-19 tests are available, and how many are on order: "Yesterday when I checked we had 732 tests that we could still do and we are still pending 3,000 more tests to come in and we had requested for 15,000 more tests that are pending are processed..."

303 Tests Performed
And while Manzanero outlined the number of testing kits that are stored up and on under, we also have an update on the number of COVID-19 tests that have been performed. The latest figures show that 303 tests have been performed, 296 of them were negative and 7 of them were positive.

Manzanero Not Convinced On Mask Strategy
The Director of Health Services also commented on one other area of public interest - and that is the use of masks. In many other countries, use is widespread, and it is said to contain the spread of the coronavirus. But, in Belize, their use has not been encouraged by the Ministry of Health and Manzanero explained why today:

First Woman CJ Sworn
3 weeks ago, we told you how Justice Michelle Arana was about to be elevated to the post of Acting Chief Justice of Belize. Well, that appointment became official today at a small ceremony in Belmopan. Justice Arana was sworn into office by the Governor-General, Sir Colville Young, at the Belize House. She now formally takes over from the former Chief Justice, Kenneth Benjamin, who attained the age of retirement at 65 in March.

Number of Curfew Arrests Drops
After hundreds were locked up this weekend for violating the curfew, last night was a little better: 60 persons were picked up countrywide.

Cops Engaged In Depraved Act of Sexual Coercion
First, our next story is not suitable for kids. So, if they are watching, either excuse them from the room, or change the channel. It's about a gross police abuse, allegedly during curfew hours. At least two police officers are said to have gotten up to this most depraved of activities, orchestrating what can only be called a Police sanctioned rape of two adults.

Bus Runs in Jeopardy With Nat'l SOE
At the start of the COVID-19 scare in Belize, just before the first confirmed case of the coronavirus was detected, we told you how there was a disruption in the regular services. Bus companies were already prepared to discontinue operations until further notice. But, the Ministry of Transport was able to smooth things over with the operators countrywide for the re-establishment service. This weekend, the bus operators announced again that they would stop running after Sunday.

Students Stranded On The Outside?
On Sunday Belize extended the closure of its borders to apply even to citizens. It's a controversial decision but one that the Prime Minister assured was completely legal. And it's had a major effect on those in the diaspora, many who just got stuck, and the hundreds of Belizean students studying abroad. The only choice they have now is to sit out the pandemic in foreign countries that may just be very far from home. Cherisse Halsall reports:

Cuban Medical Brigade Deployed
Turning back now to the national response to COVID 19, The Director of Health Services today informed that the Cuban Medical Brigade of 62 health professionals is out of quarantine and deployed to the field. He outlined where they are going:...

Who Can Intubate?
And, the internal medicine specialists from among those Cubans - may also be key in assisting critical patents with intubating for mechanical ventilation. Belize has a limited number of doctors who can do it, and Dr. Manzanero said do it remotely by camera instruction:

Making Masks For Police
Last week, we showed you how local companies were switching things up the solve the country's shortages in hand sanitizer and personal protective equipment in the fight against the spread of COVID-19. Well tonight, we report on another business entity that has repurposed its operations to manufacture masks. That company is known as Aligraphics Limited, which specializes in printing. They began exploring the idea of producing face guards about 2 weeks ago, and right now, they have a massive order to mass produce face guards for the police department.

Mayor Forfeits Salary Due To COVID Financial Crunch
In all the news about COVID 19, we didn't update you on the mayor's COVID test. He tested negative for the virus - important. Because Hubert Pipersburgh - who died from it - was his economic advisor. And while that is one great relief for the mayor, he still has many troubles ahead. Like most municipal bodies, the city council is in a financial vise. Employees have gone on half pay and the mayor told us on Friday that he is on no pay. Here's his phone video interview via ZOOM:..

More COVID Cuts, Belize Bank Slashes Salaries
The Belize Bank is also announcing across the broad cuts. A release from the Bank today says, quote, "The Belize Bank is strongly placed to weather the Coronavirus storm. We are a well-capitalized financial organization with extremely robust systems and have made extensive contingency plans in response to the significant challenges that the country is currently undergoing. Nonetheless, we will continue to be adversely affected."

Philoughby Helping With Holdover Supplies
And while Citco employees and Belize Bank employees have had to take a pay cut, others in the City who have fallen on hard times are receiving subsidies in the form of food packages. We followed UDP standard bearer Phillip Willoughby today as he handed out eggs and beans to serve as holdovers for those waiting patiently for long-awaited government assistance. Phillip Willoughby, UDP Std. Bearer, Port Loyola" "What you see here is something that is ongoing with a view to help the wider Port Loyola constituency..."

Dr. Sergio's Story Pt 2
And continuing our COVID-19 coverage, the United States is preparing for the most COVID deaths this week. According to the Washington Post, Ttday the US reported more than 1,800 coronavirus-related fatalities, a new one-day high, with some states still to release their totals. Belizean American doctor Sergio Garcia, Dr. Sergio Garcia, a critical care specialist with en emphasis in pulmonary medicine is on the frontline of that war in Oklahoma. This weekend via video call, he told us how he has been handling all the trauma and loss associated with the corona virus:

Vital Stats Closes
If you thought the COVID-19 downtime would be the break you needed to waste a day in line at vital stats, think again. The Vital Statistics Unit is temporarily closed.

Channel 5

Police Allegedly Force Man and Woman to Have Sex While They Recorded
A state of emergency, amid the coronavirus crisis, remains in effect for the entire country of Belize.  The police are expected to enforce the law but tonight, many are questioning [...]

P.U.P. Outraged About Video; Officers Should Be Removed from Department
Late this evening, the People’s United Party issued a statement in respect of the graphic video about which the complainant spoke at the top of the news. The P.U.P. says [...]

COVID-19 Patient 7 Hospitalized at the K.H.M.H.
The Ministry of Health conducted thirty-five tests on Monday, all of which resulted negative for the COVID-19 virus.  So far, three hundred and three persons have been screened and thirty-one [...]

Patients 1, 2 & 3 to be Swabbed
According to Doctor Marvin Manzanero, while patient seven is hospitalized at the K.H.M.H., he is doing well. Patient one and two are recovering in San Pedro Town and are expected [...]

MOH to Ramp Up Testing; More Test Kits on the Way
The Ministry of Health says that it will step up its COVID-19 testing. Director of Health Services, Doctor Marvin Manzanero says that they are expanding their screening efforts as they [...]

Equipment List for COVID-19
There are many questions on people’s minds. Are there enough ventilators, personal protective gears or test kits?  As you’ve heard and seen, the pandemic is always evolving and so is [...]

Cayo District Locks Down for Fourteen Days Beginning Tonight
Of the seven confirmed cases, the Cayo District accounts for three COVID-19 infections, including one deceased person. So at eight tonight, that district goes on lockdown to prevent the spread [...]

Cayo Mayor Says G.O.B. Should Provide Monthly Grants to Councils
Mayors across the country are facing financial problems created by the impact of the COVID-19.  Like businesses, councils are not able to conduct business and collect revenues. The entire Cayo [...]

Belize Bank Committed to Well-being of Employees, Customers and Communities During Crisis
The impact on the economy resulting from the virus is being felt across the country; in fact, one indicator is the number of persons who are jobless and applying for [...]

DHS Says “It Wasn’t Me!”
On Monday we reported on the death of fifty-five-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh, the Economic Advisor to the Belize City Council, who died as a result of complications related to the COVID-19. [...]

Are Frontline Medical Personnel Prepared to Respond to COVID-19?
COVID-19, that’s what the Belize Medical and Dentist Association said today. On Monday the association sent out a release sharing the concerns of doctors, nurses and other medical staff on [...]

BMDA Calls for Better Communication for Medical Workers to Respond COVID-19
In our interview with Doctor Atanacio Cobb, he shared that the problem appears to be a lack of communication from top managers to clinicians and other workers on the ground. [...]

COVID-19 Patient 6 Says He is Doing Well
Patient Six remains in self-isolation in his home in San Ignacio Town. The middle-aged male is believed to have contracted COVID-19 from patient four, Hubert Pipersburgh, who died from the [...]

Public’s Cooperation Needed to Battle COVID-19
To defeat the COVID-19 Prime Minister Dean Barrow says that the public’s full cooperation is needed. Doctor Marvin Manzanero’s team will be boosted by health professionals from the private sector [...]

60 More Persons Arrested for Breaking S.O.E. Regulations
Sixty more persons were arrested on Monday night for breaking the rules declared under the State of Emergency Powers Regulations. According to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, thirty-nine persons were [...]

What About Repeat Violators of the State of Emergency, Curfew?
Police are under scrutiny for the way some have been conducting arrests during the state of emergency. One resident told News Five outside the courthouse on Monday that he was [...]

Police Officer Charged for Dangriga Resident’s Death
A police officer has been charged for the tragic death of Dangriga resident Giovanni Villafranco. Corporal Elton Alexander Elijio is charged with manslaughter by negligence, causing death by careless conduct, negligent grievous [...]

Justice Michelle Arana is Belize’s First Woman CJ
Madam Justice Michelle Arana is the first woman in Belizean history to hold over as presiding judge of the Supreme Court.  This morning, at Government House in Belmopan, she was [...]

The Experts Give Their Take on Use of Protective Gears for Public and Frontline Workers
One more issue from Ask the Experts. To wear a mask or not to a wear a mask – it’s the question that’s on most people’s mind at some point [...]

Mandatory Use of P.P.E.s for Police Officers
Even though several officers are under fire for questionable and deplorable behaviour during the state of emergency and curfew, there are others who are holding their own as frontline persons [...]

Protecting the Homeless During COVID-19 Crisis
In Belize City, one of the efforts to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus involves the vulnerable homeless population.  A number of agencies are collaborating and have picked up [...]

Belizean American Shares Story of Battling COVID-19
There is a large group of Belizeans living in the US which has become the epicenter for the novel coronavirus. Belizeans now wishing to return home are not able to [...]

LOVE FM

Update on the medical supplies brought into the country as part of the COVID-19 response
A variety of medical supplies recently landed in Belize for the use of the health facilities as part of the COVID-19 response. Lizett Bell is the Director of Policy Planning and Project Management in the Ministry of Health. She provided a listing of the supplies they have procured to date including those on the way to Belize.

MOH expanding the number of tests being carried out for COVID-19
In today’s Ask the Expert, the Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero explained that they are expanding the number of tests being carried out for COVID-19. He explained that even health care workers who are displaying flu symptoms as well as random testing for frontline workers.

Director of Health Services speaks on the mapping processes across the country
The mapping process in the COVID-19 pandemic has been described as challenging by the Director of Health Services. Earlier today, Dr. Manzanero spoke of the extent of mapping health officials have conducted with the seven confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Belize.

Patient 7 speaks to the media about his experience
Patient 7 who is the last to be confirmed to date, is 28-year-old media personnel of San Ignacio Town, Cayo District. Reports reaching our news centre are that Patient Seven may have gotten infected at the Western Regional Hospital. He spoke with us this afternoon on the origin of the infection and his current symptoms.

Did the family of Patient Four lie on the Director of Health?
55-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh lost his fight against COVID-19 on Sunday. As we reported yesterday, the patient’s wife, Maria Estella Recinos issued a statement on Facebook with a timeline of Pipersburgh’s illness.

ComPol gives update on latest murders
Yesterday, the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, gave an update on the two murders that occurred over the past week. The first was 57-year-old Raymond Cherestral who was killed on the morning of April 2 in Ladyville, Belize District.

Elderly man beaten by police officers
The public has expressed their outrage at a video that surfaced on social media, purportedly showing the police using excessive force on individuals in Belmopan. It then became apparent that 78-year-old Alejandro Chaves was badly beaten in the process.

Police officer charged for car accident that killed one
Giovanni Villafranco, a resident of Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District, was killed after he was involved in a road traffic incident on Sunday, just before 6pm. Villafranco was driving a motorcycle with another passenger when he collided into the passenger side of a 4Runner.

Belize Peace Movement wants transparency in death of COVID-19 patient
The Belize Peace Movement (BPM), like many other Belizeans, are asking for answers in the death of Hubert Pipersburgh, the first patient to die from COVID-19 in Belize. The BPM stated via a press release that, based on a statement given by Pipersburgh’s wife, there were some aspects of his case that do not adding up.

Belize’s first female acting Chief Justice sworn in
Belize now has its first female acting Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Belize. Justice Michelle Arana was sworn in today by Governor General H.E. Sir Colville Young at the Belize House in Belmopan City.

Patient Six Speaks Out On Their Symptoms And Mapping Excercise
To date, Belize has confirmed seven cases of COVID-19. The last three confirmations came over the weekend with one in Corozal and two in San Ignacio. Yesterday we spoke with Patient Three who says he...

Patient Three speaks on his COVID-19 experience
The third person to have tested positive for COVID-19 is a 38-year-old man of Belize City who remains under self-isolation. Love News spoke with him earlier today on his current condition and the ordeal of having the virus.

Belize Confirms three new COVID-19 cases
In the last fifteen days, Belize has confirmed seven cases of COVID-19. Two of them are on Ambergris Caye; one in Belize City; one in Corozal and three in San Ignacio Town. The most recent three confirmed cases were announced over the weekend.

Ministry of Transport creates new Bus schedule
The Bus Terminal in Belize City was closed over the weekend, surprising many Belizeans. Minister of Transport, Edmund Castro spoke about this matter on our COVID-19 Update Belize show yesterday. He stated that limited bus runs would be authorized to create a backbone in the transport system.

First COVID-19 death in Belize
Belize City Council’s Economic Advisor, Hubert Pipersburgh, is the first person to have died after being infected with COVID-19. The 55-year-old Belizean American was tested positive on April 3, 2020, and by Sunday, April 5, Pipersburgh lost his fight against COVID-19.

Roaring Creek Bridge closed for non-essential purposes
This morning, Love News received information that the Roaring Creek Bridge would be closed to non-essential workers. This bridge, which has been under construction for months, was just opened to vehicles on March 20.

ComPol clarifies charges under State of Emergency
Today, the police department issued a memo clarifying the charges they have levied against persons who are found breaching the laws that govern the nationwide State of Emergency. It is not simply a matter of breaking the curfew, but rather, there are various charges a person may face if found on the streets after 8pm.

PM Locks down the entire Cayo District
The National Oversight Committee on COVID-19 met online earlier today to discuss further actions in light of the first fatality and three additional cases detected over the weekend. The Prime Minister delivered an address late this evening on new measures being implemented including the lockdown of the entire Cayo District with limited movements allowed.

Almost 400 persons arrested during State of Emergency
The State of Emergency was placed in effect on April 1, 2020. Since then three hundred and ninety-eight persons have been arrested for breaching its regulations.

Breaking Belize News

Tiger King’s husband, Dillon Passage, rates Belize experience; hopes to return
The highly-rated and super salacious Netflix true-crime documentary series “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness” tells […]

PUP demand investigation into disturbing allegations against police officers
The People’s United Party (PUP) issued a statement today demanding an investigation into allegations against […]

Top-level management at Belize Bank takes 20 percent pay cut
The Belize Bank announced today that upper-level management will be taking a 20 percent reduction […]

Why Consider Belize to Invest, Live or Retire?
Belize lives up to its reputation as a tropical paradise. Known for its ancient Maya […]

Police officer charged for fatal traffic accident
Police officer, Elton Elijio, has been charged with manslaughter by negligence, causing death by careless […]

San Pedro resident charged for possession of controlled drug
San Pedro resident, Dray Mossiah, was arrested and charged for possession of controlled drugs with […]

National Gas Company appeals to Belizeans to stay home to help fight COVID-19
The National Gas Company (Belize) Ltd. (NGC), has joined the ranks of entities appealing for […]

Belmopan City Council closing for the month of April
The Belmopan City Council announced today that it will be closing all operations for the […]

Governor General swears in Ombudsman and acting Chief Justice
In a brief ceremony held today at the Belize House in Belmopan, the Governor-General, Colville […]

Vital Statistics Unit closes office
The Attorney General’s Ministry informs of the temporary closure and suspension of services offered by […]

Minister of Health: Patient 7 transferred from Western Regional to KHMH
This morning, Minister of Health Pablo Marin informed the public that a total of 35 […]

60 people charged for violating the state of emergency regulations
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams informed this morning that a total of 60 people […]

Blogs

6 Reasons Not to Cancel Your Belize Trip after Coronavirus
But, skeptics agree that there is a light at the end of this long tunnel. What can you do while the world waits for coronavirus to morph from pandemic to history? Look on the bright side and list your own personal reasons to not cancel your Belize trip.

International Sources

The Caribbean Now Has Over 3,700 Cases Of The New Coronavirus
The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, continues to climb steadily across the entire Caribbean region with the number of confirmed cases as of last night surpassing 3,700. An analysis of the latest reported number of cases by News Americas Monday night showed the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases was at 3,759. That’s up from 2,968 on Friday. The number of deaths across the region is now at 166, up from 115 on Friday. The number of new deaths on Monday was 12 with Belize and Bermuda recording their first deaths from the virus. Belize had one and Bermuda, 2. Only 12 countries now in the region have reported no deaths to date even though they have confirmed cases.

Belize nominated for Best Destination in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers Choice Award!
We have some good news to share during these uncertain times: Belize has been nominated for Best Destination in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers Choice Award! As the tourism industry grapples with the current situation, this is the best time to vote for Belize as Best Destination to help promote the Belize tourism product. Here’s how you can vote for your country to win: 1.Click the link and select “Vote” on the “countries” tab. 2.Sign up and enter details. 3.Search for “Belize” as the location. 4. Complete Survey. 5. Submit! We encourage all fellow Belizeans to share with friends so they can vote, too!

Around the Caribbean...
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves says his Administration plans to bring home Vincentian sailors who have been stranded on cruise and other ships due to the new coronavirus pandemic. “There are Vincentians who are still out there who want to come home, just as Vincentians, overwhelmingly, took the opportunity to come home between the 18th and the 28 [of March] when we had the last flight,” said Prime Minister Gonsalves on the weekend.

Belize With Tiger King’s Husband, Dillon Passage
In this edition of Gay-Listers Guide, Dillon Passage, the soon-to-be 23-year-old husband of current pop culture sensation Joe Exotic, better known as “Tiger King,” gives us an inside look at his recent trip to Belize. "I visited Belize in December of 2019 with a close family friend, Anne, who is basically like a grandmother to me. The water there was absolutely beautiful and like nothing I had ever seen before. Being near the ocean has always been my happy place so getting the opportunity to travel there was life changing and gave me a chance to clear my head while dealing with a stressful situation back home."

Videos

April 7, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

COVID-19 claims the life of Belize’s Hubert Pipersburgh
Belize has registered its first COVID-19 related death, after Mr. Hubert Pipersburgh, 55, passed away on Sunday, April 5th. He was the fourth patient to be recorded in the Belize COVID-19 statistics, and the first case registered in the Cayo District (San Ignacio Town). According to the Government Press Office, after Pipersburgh was diagnosed early on Friday, April 3rd, he was transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) that evening, as his health was deteriorating rapidly.

National Days of Prayer and Fasting
The Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow has approved three National Days of Prayer & Fasting, from Good Friday, April 10th to Easter Sunday, April 12th, 2020. Throughout the nation, the Council of Churches will celebrate the three days with combined times for prayer, repentance, worship, and celebration.

Drought Press Release #1
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) of Belize hereby informs the general public that the seasonal rainfall forecast for April to September 2020 is showing a probability of drier than usual conditions across much of the country. Driest conditions are expected over northern and central areas while rainfall over the Stann Creek and Toledo district is expected to be normal to slightly below normal. One of the main climatic drivers in our region is the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Whenever there is an El Nino, as was the case in 2019, there is high confidence that our region will see less than normal rainfall.

Update on COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program
As of this morning, April 6, more than 44,000 applications have been received via the portal, and about 7,000 hard copies of the applications have been distributed and will be manually entered into the system. The team is diligently working on the verification and approval processes for these applications to ensure that all are given attention in the shortest possible time so that financial relief can begin to flow to qualified applicants. It is expected that the first payments will be made to approved applicants before the end of this week. Applicants will be updated via SMS or email notifications about the status of their application.

Belize Bus Association announces national shutdown; James Bus Line and Westline Bus Co. continue operating
As COVID-19 (Coronavirus) continues to make its presence in Belize, and the current National State of Emergency is slowly bringing the country to a halt, many services are now limited to the general public. On Sunday, April 5th, most bus companies across the country ceased operations. The only bus companies that continue operating are James Bus Line, which runs from Punta Gorda, Toledo District to Belize City, and Westline Bus Company operating from the Benque Viejo del Carmen Town in the Cayo District to Belize City.

Ambergris Today

Two More Cases Of COVID-19 Confirmed In Cayo District, Belize
The Ministry of Health has continued to scale up testing for COVID-19 and a further 26 samples were tested on Sunday, April 5th. That scaled up testing has identified two further cases, both males residing in San Ignacio. One of the males identified is a contact of patient #4. He developed minor signs and symptoms that included diarrhea and loss of sense of smell.

Various Belizean Sources

Two More Cases of COVID-19 Confirmed
The Ministry of Health has continued to scale up testing for COVID-19 and a further 26 samples were tested on Sunday, April 5th. That scaled up testing has identified two further cases, both males residing in San Ignacio. One of the males identified is a contact of patient #4. He developed minor signs and symptoms that included diarrhea and loss of sense of smell. This patient, the sixth case, has not required medication and is currently in self-isolation at home. Another male person, who is being treated as a pneumonia case, was also swabbed this weekend and is also positive for COVID-19.

Update on COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program
On Friday, April 3, 2020, the Government of Belize launched the COVID-19 e-Services Portal through which persons may apply to receive benefits from the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program. As of this morning, April 6, more than 44,000 applications have been received via the portal, and about 7,000 hard copies of the applications have been distributed and will be manually entered into the system. The team is diligently working on the verification and approval processes for these applications to ensure that all are given attention in the shortest possible time so that financial relief can begin to flow to qualified applicants.

Wife of First Person to Die from COVID-19 in Belize Speaks Out
Last night, Sunday, April 5, Maria Estella, wife of 55-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh of San Ignacio (Belize’s first COVID-19 related death), took to Facebook to share her family’s ordeal. She says based on their experience Belize is not ready to handle this pandemic. She wrote on here Facebook page: “Esteemed family and friends and general public, I am sharing my story, so you know of our experience and not by rumors spread around by third parties. This is my declaration. March 21st: My husband showed the first symptoms with sore throat and dry cough. He was like that in the days to follow with highs and lows but stable.

Please note these closures
BWS, Atlantic Bank in San Ignacio, BEL

Protocols Following First COVID-19 Death
The Government of Belize has been made aware of the social media post by the wife of the late Mr. Hubert Pipersburgh in which she recounts her experience while seeking care for her husband. The nation is deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Pipersburgh, a beloved Belizean, both at home and abroad. The Government reiterates its deepest condolences to his wife, Ms. Maria Estella Recinos and their family as expressed last night by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow.

Belize Intellectual Property Office – Closure of Office
The public is hereby notified that effective today, April 6th, the Belize Intellectual Property Office is closed for business and will resume services on April 20th. Nevertheless, e-filings and any other queries may be sent to the following addresses: belipo@btl.net or adelita@belipo.bz.

Belize Water Services Changes to Opening hours effectively immediately, today April 6, 2020

Prime Minister Announces Lockdown of Cayo District and Additional Nationwide Measures
This evening during a live address, the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow announced additional measures including a 14-day lockdown and ramping up testing for the Cayo District in order to locate persons who may have COVID-19. Random testing will be done in the Cayo District. These measures will go into effect at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2020.

Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council work with Chinese Community
Mayor Rigo Vellos and the Corozal Town Council working together with the Chinese Community to assist the needy and poor in these difficult times. Join us in extending a heartfelt thank you for donations received by our Chinese Business Community. Due to Social Distancing Measures, we will be delivering packages to the respective homes.

Corozal Market Day Rescheduled to Thursday April 9
The Corozal Town Council wishes to inform the General Public that Market Day will be rescheduled to Thursday, April 9th 2020 for this week as Friday the 10th is Good Friday. We kindly asked that the protocols set in place are followed for the Market to be available to consumers. Operating Hours are as of 8:00 am as stipulated under SI 47 of the Belize Constitution (Emergency Powers) Regulations, 2020. Only 5 people allowed inside the building at a time. Everyone inside and outside the Market must be practicing social distancing of at least 6 feet from each other. Vendors are recommended to have their produce bagged in 1Ib and 2lbs packages to reduce the time a Customer spends inside the building.

The new Roaring Creek bridge should only be crossed by essential personnel
The Roaring Creed Bridge has been closed to non-essential workers and non-essential travels.

Channel 7

COVID Community Spread, Cayo District On Lockdown
Just a fe minutes ago Prime Minister Dean Barrow finished a live address to the nation. He spoke after an all day meeting nay the national oversight committee responding to the death of the first COVID 19 patient in Belize, San Ignacio resident Huber Pipersburgh, and then the emergence today of two more cases, also from San Ignacio. The PM says that this has forced them to lockdown the entire Cayo District - and sharply increase testing:

Belize Now Has 7 COVID Positives
So, as you heard, as Belize confronts COVID-19 tonight, the situation is a lot more serious than it was on Friday. A round of 26 samples tested on Sunday have yielded two more positive results, they now become cases 6 and 7. They are both men from San Ignacio, one of them is a direct contact of patient #4, the now deceased Hubert Piperburgh. A press release says he developed minor signs and symptoms that included diarrhea and loss of smell. But, apart from that he seems to be doing okay and has not required medication. He is currently in self-isolation at home in San Ignacio.

Patient #5 Came From Florida
The Cayo and Belize districts have each produced three of those positive results. In Cayo, there appears to be community spread - which is the significant reason that has led to a district wide lockdown.

Well Loved Pipersburgh is First COVID Casualty
And - while the news of his positive test emerged on Sunday morning, but the afternoon, the news came like a body blow of Belize's first COVID casualty. The well known and loved city council employee Hubert Pipersburgh died on Sunday at the KHMH from respiratory complications. A ministry of health release says "The patient was diagnosed in the early morning of Friday, April 3rd, and transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital on Friday evening as his health began rapidly deteriorating.

Pipersburgh's Wife Lashes Out At Health System
Of course, since that statement last night, there have been two more positive tests coming out of the Cayo District, patient #6 and #7. And, one of them was in contact with patient #4, Hubert Pipersburgh. Pipersburg's wife is in mourning but outraged at the manner in which health workers treated her husband's case, she isn't mourning in silence, and in a long-form Facebook Post, this Weekend Maria-Estella Recinos recounted the last days of her husband's life and the ordeal she went through trying to get him adequate care for his frightening symptoms that were, until far too late, flat out dismissed.

PM Won't Fight With Grieving Family
And the Prime Minister also responded to her this evening in his address which ended 40 minutes ago. Here's what he said: "There is no way we are going to quarrel with people that are in a state of bereavement. No answer will therefore be made to the charges that have been hurled at us..."

Nurses Slam KHMH
And while the PM doesn't want to fight with a grieving family - will he fight with the nurses? Starting tomorrow Nurses will report to work in T-shirts. It's a quiet attempt at metaphorical industrial action designed to affect change, in this time of utter crisis. In a press release today the Nurses association said that quote: "It is echoed at every opportunity that the nurse is the backbone of the health system but the actions of the department speak nothing to that statement." That's because the nurses of Belize are not satisfied with the materials and equipment being provided for the current Covid-19 crisis. They claim that the health facilities of Belize are not prepared to protect their staff and patients.

PM To Nurses, "I Heard You!"
That's a whole lot complaints. Here's what the PM said in response today: Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "Public or personal protective equipment, again, I see that there is an outcry on the part of the nurses. We dealt with that this morning and I hope successfully and I imagined that even now the authorities are in the process of communicating this to the nurses..."

Patient #3 Speaks Out
And while the Prime Minister is trying to smooth things out with the nurses, patient 3 today made his first public statement - and he's trying to clear the air for himself. Numerous rumours have been floating around about The Belize City Northside resident, that he's roaming the streets, driving around and risking thee safety of many. So, to counter these rumours that he was showing blatant disregard for the wellbeing of others, he made an attempt to do so today when he called into Love FM's COVID watch. Here's what he told the host, and the commissioner of police, who was on air:

The Curfew Count On Arrests Increasing
As you've heard in our first segment, there are now 7 patients who have tested positive for COVID-19. As a result of this the Prime Minister this evening announced a 14-day lockdown for the Cayo District. A press release a few minutes ago says these measures will go into effect at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. The PM also hinted at enhanced measures to keep people at home during the nation-wide curfew; hundreds have been arrested since it went into effect on Thursday.

Are Police Abusing SOE?
So, while the cops do their part to enforce the State of Emergency and now the Cayo District lockdown to keep the community spread of the virus to a minimum, the police department is already coming under fire for alleged abuse of that authority given to them by those regulations. This weekend, a group of families living in an apartment complex in the San Martin area of Belmopan accused police officers of using the curfew as an excuse to harass them. They're also claiming that officers put a severe beatdown on the elderly landlord for no apparent reason.

City Men Say Cops Use Curfew As Opportunity
So, while the police get ready to investigate their own about that incident in Belmopan, a group of residents from Belize City are accusing police of maliciously enforcing the curfew regulations in unintended ways for harassment purposes. This morning, a number of the newly charged defendants showed up to the Belize City Magistrate's Court, which, as viewers are aware, is basically operating only downsized capacity due to the COVID-19 threat. Several of those defendants complained bitterly that they are hardworking Belizeans who still need to put food on their tables, even though there is a State of Emergency in effect.

44k Sign Up For COVID Relief Program
As of this morning, 44,000 Belizeans had signed up for GOB's Unemployment Relief Program. The Government of Belize launched the COVID-19 e-Services Portal on Friday, April 3, 2020, It had a few bugs at first but by Saturday it was back online working on the verification and approval processes for all applications. It is expected that the first payments will be made to approved applicants before the end of this week. Applicants will be updated via SMS or email notifications about the status of their application. , once filled out, be manually entered into the system.

LPG Importers Go To Court Against GOB
Last week Friday, we told you how the major Central American Importers of Liquified Petroleum Gas, which we know as butane, were announcing that they were dropping their price in this time of the COVID-19 crisis. Well, those companies, Gas Tomza Limited, Southern Choice Butane, and Belize Western Energy Limited, have now gotten into a legal battle with the Government of Belize. Information on the dispute is limited at this time but we understand that these companies are taking issue with Statutory Instrument #80 of 2019. We understand that their import licenses for LPG expire at the end of April and that the Government won't renew it.

Unlicensed Cop Killed Man In Accident
A man was killed in a traffic accident in Dangriga Town yesterday, and a police officer without a valid license, in an unlicensed vehicle is to blame. Police say that at around 5:40 p.m, they responded to an accident report on George Price Drive. When they arrived they found a black and blue Lifan motorcycle with its front portion wrecked.

Another Decade Another Drought
The COVID-19 pandemic has already claimed the life of 1 Belizean and 6 more have tested positive. It's cause for great concern and anxiety all across the nation tonight - but, regrettably, it's not the only dark shadow on the event horizon: the meteorology experts are announcing that the country may be hit by another drought this year. A press release from the National Meteorological Service says, quote, "The seasonal rainfall forecast for April to September 2020 is showing a probability of drier than usual conditions across much of the country.

CDB Supports Drought Relief
But, help is on the way for those cane farmers in the north who were devastated by last year's extended drought. The Caribbean Development Bank announced today that they have approved a loan for more than 1 million US dollars to the Belize Government to help cane farmers. In a press release, the CDB says, quote, "One key component of the project is a Drought Recovery Scheme, a specially designed voucher programme, which will help farmers get needed inputs (planting material, fertilizers, and pesticides), and services such as land clearing and preparation.

Dr. Sergio's COVID Cautionary Tale From Oklahoma
Last week, we spoke to a Belizean American nurse in Brooklyn, New York, who's on the frontline of the COVID fight, and at the epicentre of the US outbreak. She described a harrowing situation of many lives lost, in the face of limited resources and personnel. Most gripping was her account of persons dying alone, with no family around because the coronavirus is so infectious.

Private Providers Brought In to Boost Effort
And while Dr. Garcia works at a private hospital in the US, here in Belize, private doctors will now join the effort to assist the senior technicians from the Ministry of health in strategizing, and in a hands-on capacity. The Prime Minister explained in his press statement an hour ago. "The quarantine headed by Dr. Manza is under severe pressure and there is a need to provide assistance to them. These private sector, healthcare personnel that we have now drafted are prepared to assist, not just in terms of strategizing..."

A Provision For The Homeless In Curfew
Last week we spoke to three homeless men who were concerned for their health and safety having nowhere to shelter during curfew hours. At the end of that story, we told you that the Welcome Resource Centre had joined the National Sports Council and the Belize City Council to take care of the homeless population of Belize City during the National State of Emergency.

The King Is Dead, Long Live the King
It's Holy Week and while a global pandemic means you won't be heading to Church this Sunday, tonight we're turning back the calendar tonight to tell you the story of a man who took much more than a leap of faith from one of the country's most well known churches. It's the story of Edgar Sanchez, known in Orange Walk as "El Rey", or "The King." He died sometime this weekend and when we saw the facebook post about his death, we went into our archive for a look at this man that had a singular imprint on his town's history.

Channel 5

Belize Records First COVID-19 Related Death
There are seven known cases of COVID 19 now, the first Belizean to die here from the virus is fifty-five-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh; he passed away on Sunday at the isolation [...]

Pipersburgh’s Wife Claims Neglect by Health Professionals
While Prime Minister Dean Barrow says that herculean efforts were done to attempt to save him, Pipersburgh’s wife says otherwise. In an emotional Facebook post, Maria Recinos shared her family’s [...]

Patient Five is a Belizean Student
On Sunday, Belize confirmed its fifth COVID-19 case. Patient five is a Belizean student who returned from the U.S.A. via Mexico and remains in strict quarantine.  The student arrived in [...]

Two More COVID-19 Cases Brings the Total to 7
Belize has confirmed seven cases of the deadly novel coronavirus so far. Two hundred and sixty-eight persons have been tested so far.  Patient four, fifty-five-year-old Hubert Pipersburgh, died from the [...]

Cayo District Placed Under Enhanced Quarantine
Late this afternoon, the Prime Minister released a recorded statement after today’s meeting of the National Oversight Committee. PM Dean Barrow announced new measures. The first is that the entire [...]

Enhance Measures for Countrywide Lockdown
The National Oversight Committee took additional measures with respect to the rest of the country.  Hardware stores that were allowed to keep their doors open in the first list are [...]

Belize City Mayor Mourns Passing of Hubert Pipersburgh
The Belize City Council, the Belize Territorial Volunteers and many others are mourning the passing of Hubert Pipersburgh, the first casualty of COVID-19 in the country.  The fifty-five-year-old returned to [...]

Mayor Wagner in Isolation Despite Testing Negative for COVID-19
Mayor Bernard Wagner is among a group of employees at City Hall who have been sequestered inside their homes after being swabbed over the weekend.  They remain in mandatory isolation [...]

Police Beat Down San Martin Residents
Did cops take the enforcement of the curfew law too far on Friday night in Belmopan? That’s what many have concluded after a video and photos of an elderly man [...]

Traffic Accident Leaves Dangriga Resident Dead
Another police officer is under scrutiny – this time for a traffic accident on Sunday in Dangriga which resulted in the death of Giovanni Villafranco.  It happened at around five-forty [...]

Over 400 Charged for Violating State of Emergency, Curfew
The full force of the law is coming down on persons who violate the measures of the state of emergency. Countrywide, more than four hundred persons have been arrested and [...]

Infected Persons Who Fail to Comply with Quarantine Directives Can Also Be Charged
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams also told News Five that infected COVID-19 persons, who fail to comply with quarantine directives, can be charged for negligent behaviour if they do not [...]

Patient Three Says he is Recovering Well
Earlier in the newscast we had details on the COVID-19 patients. Belize confirmed its third case of the novel coronavirus on March twenty-ninth. As it relates to Patient Three, he [...]

Bus Service – Ceased or Reduced?
On Saturday afternoon the news of the countrywide suspension of bus service took off like wildfire online. That’s because there was an announcement made by the Belize Bus Association. The [...]

When is the COVID-19 Bus Relief Coming?
So – the decision was a suspension of bus service countrywide which was to go into effect on Sunday. But a few hours later, James Bus Line and West Line [...]

Nurses Association of Belize Vex with Ministry of Health
This afternoon, the Nurses Association of Belize sounded an alarm saying there is lack of material and equipment to deal with an outbreak of COVID-19. NAB says it has concluded [...]

PM to Nurses: “We not only hear you, we will address your difficulties”
Responding to the concerns of the Nurses Association of Belize was Prime Minister Dean Barrow today during live video statement. Barrow says that the Association’s concerns will be addressed including [...]

Belize Central Prison Aims to Remain COVID-Free
The Belize Central prison is bursting at its seams with the number of inmates behind bars. The recent arrests of state of emergency offenders have swollen the number to about [...]

2 Persons Detained for the Murder of Ismael Jacobs in Punta Gorda
There were three fatal shootings over the course of four days last week, two of which have been recorded as murders. The most recent occurred on the night of April [...]

Police Believe Robbery was Motive in Murder of Haitian National
In the murder of Haitian national Raymond Cherestal, the motive seems to be robbery. Commissioner Williams says that an ongoing investigation has not led to any arrests. The former cab [...]

Accidental Shooting Death of Rafael Sansores
Commissioner Chester Williams also gave an update on the shooting death of Rafael Sansores in Corozal. The Chula Vista resident was with friends at a house he frequented in the [...]

Breaking Belize News

Belize: “Masking” the Pandemic
By Abner A. Recinos: In light of this pandemic, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends self-isolation for 14 days after travel […]

Belize Medical and Dental Association raises major concerns for medical practitioners
The Belize Medical And Dental Association (BMDA) has made public its major concerns for the […]

Prime Minister promises answers in death of Hubert Pipersburgh
Prime Minister Dean Barrow acknowledged the level of upset of the family of the late […]

Changes made to opening hours on list of approved and essential businesses
Making the distinction between essential services and approved businesses, Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced some […]

Prime Minister announces stringent quarantine for Cayo district
Prime Minister Dean Barrow in a live-stream on Facebook just now informed that authorities are […]

Court conducts hearing for LPG importers by WhatsApp
The Supreme Court at last minute this morning called off an in-person hearing of an […]

Police investigate fatal traffic accident in Dangriga
Police are investigating a road traffic accident that claimed the life of a man on […]

Brightest super moon for 2020 visible tomorrow night
The brightest super moon for 2020 is going to be visible tomorrow night. It is […]

Belize Intellectual Property closes office
Effective today, April 6, the Belize Intellectual Property Office is closed for business and will […]

Nurses Association sounds alarm: ‘Health facilities not prepared to care for staff or patients’
The Nurses Association of Belize issued a statement informing the public that the nurses are […]

British PM Boris Johnson now in intensive care unit after Covid-19 symptoms worsen
News sources in the United Kingdom (UK) are reporting that UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, […]

Belize Territorial Volunteers honor fallen brother
The Belize Territorial Volunteers (BTV) issued a statement expressing condolences to the family and friends […]

Guinea Grass resident charged with possession of controlled drugs
Police conducted a search at the home of Guinea Grass resident, Orlando Guerra, 24, yesterday. […]

Drought intensifies: Authorities call for water conservation
The National Meteorological Service (NMS) of Belize is calling for Belizeans at all levels to […]

A time of Courage
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

GOB notes social media post by Maria Estella Recinos on her husband recent passing with COVID-19
The Government of Belize issued a statement saying that it has been made aware of […]

Roaring Creek Bridge closed; only essential travel allowed
Our newsroom has confirmed that the newly built Roaring Creek Bridge has been closed to […]

Motorcyclist from Dangriga dies after being involved in traffic accident
Giovanni Villafranco of Dangriga died during the night while receiving treatment at the Karl Heusner […]

Ministry of Health: The two patients that tested positive with COVID-19 are from San Ignacio Town
The Ministry of Health has continued to scale up testing for COVID-19 and a further […]

Two more Covid-19 cases confirmed in Belize; total cases now at 7
Just one day after Belize recorded its first covid-19 patient death, the country has confirmed […]

100 people arrested in the last 24 hours for State of Emergency offenses
The latest arrest figures released from the Belize Police Department show that 100 people were […]

Over 44,000 Belizeans apply for Covid-19 unemployment relief program
On Friday, April 3, the Government of Belize launched the COVID-19 e-Services Portal through which […]

Blogs

9 Must-Sees That Make Belize The Best Place You’ve Never Been
Belize’s famous coral reef, tropical beaches, and green rainforests make it a paradise for nature lovers. It’s also home to ancient Mayan ruins,exotic wildlife, and friendly natives. All year long, travelers come to its shores for adventures like snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. With its street festivals, gourmet seafood, and warm welcome, the country is one of the most popular spots in the Caribbean.

Forbes ranks Belize in 1 of 3 top destinations to retire post-Coronavirus
Considered from a post-crisis perspective, where in the world will offer the best options for repositioning yourself overseas? Diversifying your lifestyle and your investment portfolio is a more important agenda now than ever. Embrace the many opportunities our world continues to offer. How to make sure you’re prepared for whatever tomorrow brings? Expand where you spend your time and money. This way, you’re not at the mercy of any single government, economy, marketplace, or currency.

Thinking & A Timeline In Lieu of An April Newsletter
It’s Hard to Write The Same Old Monthly Newsletter When the World has been Turned on Her Head in Less Than A Month This is the time of month when I would sit down and put together my April Newsletter. A look back on the previous month…my most popular posts, my favorite pictures…and I’d look ahead. But…now what? Easter has been canceled, said our Prime Minister, except for a time of quiet reflection and prayer. Caye Caulker announced that they would not hold their Lobster Festival at the end of June and…everything is now in a strange sort of limbo. THE MOST strange sort of limbo. Belize is in a National State of Emergency and we are all required to shelter at home unless on essential errands or business.

International Sources

20 of the worst epidemics and pandemics in history
Throughout the course of history, disease outbreaks have ravaged humanity, sometimes changing the course of history and, at times, signaling the end of entire civilizations. Here are 20 of the worst epidemics and pandemics, dating from prehistoric to modern times.

SAC: Caribbean sugar in good shape but more protection is needed
The Caribbean’s sugar industry has been described as healthy by the Sugar Association of the Caribbean (SAC). Loop News interviewed a spokesman from the regional body and he said: “This is an exciting time for regional sugar producers.” Belize, Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica and Guyana are the only Caribbean countries still cultivating sugar on a large scale.

Videos

April 6, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Hope Haven - Belize, in conjunction with Human Development (& NEMO) is working to ensure citizens in need get assistance
Currently, we have 6 volunteers making calls and over 600 people waiting for assistance. ONE text needs to be sent to 670-7030. It should include name and location. Our volunteers will get back to you. There is no need to text or call multiple times, as weeding through multiple texts from the same person only halts our progress. We understand the frustration and need but are working with what we have. Threatening to blast us only further serves to delay our work as we deal with the fallout. We are trying our best.

Mainland residents previously screened and on standby leave Ambergris Caye; others still waiting to get off the island
On April 4th a group of about 60 persons was able to leave the island via five separate boats, and an additional nine on Sunday, April 5th. According to a source with the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Ambergris Caye, the groups that managed to leave were not part of the scheduled run that was postponed. Those allowed to leave had previously been identified, screened, and their departure cleared by MOH.

Ministry of Health Confirms Fifth Case of COVID-19 in Belize
Today, at 03:19 a.m., the expanded testing protocol of the Ministry of Health identified a fifth case of COVID-19. The patient is a Belizean student who returned from Florida. The patient arrived in Belize on Friday, April 3rd, and is in self-isolation at a quarantine facility. He is without symptoms and stable.

Ambergris Today

Fifth Case Of COVID-19 Confirmed In Belize
Today, at 03:19 a.m., the expanded testing protocol of the Ministry of Health identified a fifth case of COVID-19. The patient is a Belizean student who returned from Florida. The patient arrived in Belize on Friday, April 3rd, and is in self-isolation at a quarantine facility. He is without symptoms and stable.

Various Belizean Sources

All Borders Closed to the Entry of Belizean Nationals
Effective today, April 5th, all borders are also closed to Belizean nationals seeking to enter the country. This decision was made by the Government of Belize with unanimous support from the National Oversight Committee to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Belizeans will only be allowed entry into the country for the purposes of an emergency or seeking emergency medical care. This new measure will last for the duration of the national state of emergency.

Ministry of Health Confirm Fifth Case of COVID-19 in Belize
Today, at 03:19 a.m., the expanded testing protocol of the Ministry of Health identified a fifth case of COVID-19. The patient is a Belizean student who returned from Florida. The patient arrived in Belize on Friday, April 3rd, and is in self-isolation at a quarantine facility. He is without symptoms and stable. In reference to patient #4, the mapping exercise of the Ministry of Health has allowed for the identification of close contacts of that patient in both San Ignacio and Belize City where swabs were taken on April 3rd and 4th.

Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry - Closure of Office
The public is hereby notified that effective today, April 5th, the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry is closed for business until further notice. The public will be informed when services resume. The Registry apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Government of Belize Extends Condolences to the Family of COVID-19 Patient
The Office of the Prime Minister and the Government of Belize extend their deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Hubert Pipersburgh who died in his battle against COVID-19. This is the first death associated with COVID-19 in Belize. The patient was diagnosed in the early morning of Friday, April 3rd, and transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital on Friday evening as his health began rapidly deteriorating.

Revised Bus Schedule Effective April 6, 2020

Tapir was "stuck in the mud" at a water hole
We were contacted by a farmer who was concerned that a tapir was "stuck in the mud" at a water hole on his farm. Upon arrival, we observed that the tapir was not moving and indeed appeared to be stuck in the mud. However, as we got near to her, we noticed that her mobility was limited in her hind legs. We were able to get a strap around her and moved her from where she was in the water. Further observations revealed that she had been shot!!! Veterinarian Dr. Orlando Amir Baptist later confirmed traumatic spinal injury due to gunshot wound resulting in rear leg paralysis. Sadly, after evaluating the case, the difficult decision of euthanasia was made.

TROPIC AIR AMENDS CARGO STATION OPERATIONAL HOURS
Cargo flights continue on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between Belize City Municipal, San Pedro, Caye Caulker and Corozal. Effective today, April 5th, the operational days and hours for the stations to receive and distribute cargo have been amended and are as follows. Cargo Station Hours (Monday, Wednesday & Friday only) Belize City Municipal: 10AM to 2PM. San Pedro: 7AM to 2:30PM. Corozal: 7AM to 2PM. Caye Caulker: 9:30AM to 2:30PM.

Collared Peccary AKA Javelina in San Pedro
With San Pedro residents, for the most part, being confined to their homes the critters are beginning to roam the neighborhoods. This isn’t my shot - credit goes to Kate Corrigan for that. So what do you think... Wild pig, right? Apparently there are goats wandering through town too, and a big osprey flew directly over me at most 15 feet up and with a big fish in its grasp. Beautiful! All the other birds are coming in closer too.

COMPOL RECOMMENDS IMMEDIATE JAIL TIME FOR CURFEW VIOLATORS
According to Commissioner of Police Chester Williams, since the start of the curfew the police have made over 300 State of Emergency related arrests. Each day the number of arrests increase. He said it is evident that some of our Belizeans are still not taking heed to the measures put in place to minimize or stop the spread of this deadly COVID-19. COMPOL Williams said people are finding all sort of ways to beat or dodge the system. He went on to say it is in that spirit, that he will be recommending to the Prime Minister that all those who continue to breach the regulations be sent directly to prison until the state of emergency is over.

BEL's Adjusted Customer Services
Belize Electricity Limited advises customers of our adjusted customer services, effective Monday, April 6, 2020. All BEL Branch Offices will be closed until further notice. Cashier services will open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Corporate Headquarters in Belize City. These changes are precautionary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers and employees. Customer Service representatives remain available remotely to assist with service requests or queries between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays.

The Cayo Traffic Department has shortened hours for now

Westline Bus Schedule effective Sun. April 5th, 2020 as announced by Min. Transport
There's a new bus schedule, effective Sunday.

San Ignacio Mayor Earl Trapp Jr. calls on community to take more precautionary measures
As the Mayor of San Ignacio and Santa Elena Town, I would like to inform you, that as a result of the stringent measures taken by the Government of Belize in light of the Global Pandemic of the COVID-19 and having a potential case within our community, we have made a crucial decision to close our Town Council offices as of April 6th, 2020 until further notice. It is in this regard that I humbly appeal to all the residents of the municipality, to adhere to the advisories issued by the Government Press. We can control this deadly virus by following the proper preventative measures, especially in isolating ourselves and staying at home for the best interest of all.

TEAM DOWNTOWN REJUVENATION PROJECT
For over a little more than four years, The Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project (otherwise simply known as the Downtown Rejuvenation Project) has been busy working on various components of the Project. In the past, we have shared our progress concerning individual components we have been working on as they progressed over the last four years on our Facebook pages. Here is a comprehensive list of the components we have completed and are in progress as of today:

Channel 5

Minister of Health Tested for Covid-19 Virus
Health Minister Pablo Marin says he was tested for COVID-19 and the result was negative. Marin posted on social media this morning the following statement: “A total of 102 tests were performed yesterday of which 1 resulted positive to COVID-19. The Belizean male student who returned home from Florida, USA has since his arrival been in self-isolation at a designated COVID-19 Quarantine Center in Corozal, under the supervision of the Ministry of Health. We now stand at 5 confirmed COVID-19 cases in our country. Those who are in self-isolation or quarantine need to continue doing so for the safety of all.

BELIZE CITY MAYOR TESTS NEGATIVE FOR COVID-19
My fellow Belizean residents, following extensive Covid-19 sample tests conducted on April 3rd and 4th on a number of Belize City Council employees, including the City Administrator and myself, I am pleased to report this morning that those samples were all found negative for Covid-19. I am told that a number of other Council employees and councilors will be tested today. We continue to pray for our fellow employee and pray God's continued healing, in this the fight of his life. We remain committed to cooperate with the Ministry of Health in their efforts to contain the spread of this dreaded virus in our beloved Belize.

LOVE FM

Ministry of Health Confirms Fifth Case of COVID-19 in Belize
Ministry of Health confirms Fifth case of COVID-19 in Belize. Now more than ever it is important for people to stay home, practice social distancing. Be safe. Below is the Press Release by the Goverment of Belize Press Office in Full: Belmopan. April 5, 2020. 8:15 a.m. Today, at 03:19 a.m., the expanded testing […]

Breaking Belize News

PM confirms death of Hubert Pipersburgh
Prime Minister Dean Barrow, offering condolences to the family of the late Hubert Pipersburgh by […]

Tapir put down after mortal gunshot wound
Photo Courtesy: The Belize Tapir Project Environmentalists had to make a tough decision Saturday after a […]

Belize records first Covid-19 death
Reports reaching Breaking Belize News is that patient #4 died this afternoon of Covid-19. The […]

San Ignacio/Santa Elena Town Council closes all operations
Today, the San Ignacio/Santa Elena (SISE) announced that it would be ceasing all operations following […]

Health Minister Pablo Marin and Western Regional Hospital staff all tested negative for Covid-19
Minister of Health Pablo Marin says he is negative for COVID-19 after tests performed on […]

Belize City Council staff cleared after Covid-19 tests
After a Belize City Council employee tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, offices of the […]

All borders closed to the entry of Belizean nationals
Effective today, April 5, all borders will also be closed to Belizean nationals seeking to […]

Two bus companies decide to make runs despite collective decision to discontinue
While the Belize Bus Association ( BBA) agreed to discontinue run until further notice, James […]

Source of infection for patient number 4 still unknown
Today the Ministry of Health (MOH) provided an update on its mapping and testing exercise […]

Blogs

Cook a ‘Sunday Dinna’ at Home
As we push through another week of quarantine and curfew, there’s plenty to miss. Of that, maybe your mother’s cooking or a local street vendor whose rice and beans may be extraordinary compared to most. Thanks to the Flavors of Belize Cookbook, you can make your own rice and beans for a Sunday dinna while staying at home! What Belizean recipes would you like to see next? Let us know in the comments below. We’re here with you, and we’re here for you.

Expat Diary: What Is Life Like In Belize During The Covid-19 Pandemic?
I run two businesses in Belize, so the last two weeks have been very busy. Here in Belize, we have small villages and towns so it is a bit of a unique experience. We are better able to handle the needs of the community, because we are not dealing with millions of people. Most business owners are concerned with being able to pay their employees at least something during this time. So much of my time now is spent figuring out a plan so that we can reopen as soon as possible, and to be financially prepared.

Snorkeling the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in Belize
Last year, we only stayed in Caye Caulker for two nights, underestimating how great snorkeling the barrier reef is, we opted to skip it and do the ATM cave on the mainland instead. However, after hearing so many backpackers rave about the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, we regretted not going snorkeling. So when we somehow found ourselves back in Caye Caulker last week, we knew what we had to do!

Big Cats List Of Belize – Five Beautiful Species
A little while back we did a piece on the international efforts to establish and maintain a green corridor running from Mexico down to Argentina to protect the region’s jaguar population, and some people registered surprise that Belize actually has a jaguar population. That population not only exists, but is hopefully growing today thanks to efforts from conservation groups such as Panthera and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Well, we thought that if people were surprised that Belize had jaguars, they’d be even more intrigued to hear that there are actually five major big cats species running around Belize. So here’s an introduction to Belize’s big cats.

Nación de aves
A través de diversos paisajes se encuentra el grande y brillante mundo de criaturas emplumadas de Belice. Desde las cordilleras montañosas hasta los humedales, bosques y cayos, la observación de aves en Belice es emocionante. El mejor momento para observar aves es entre febrero y mayo, la temporada de reproducción de las especies residentes. Es un momento en que los senderos y las carreteras secundarias son secos y accesibles. Octubre y noviembre ofrecen una oportunidad espectacular para observar las aves de corral migratorias y las rapaces a lo largo de la costa.

International Sources

Around the Caribbean...
Just over two weeks since Barbados confirmed its first COVID-19 case, the Government has revealed that one person has died as a result of the virus. Minister of Health Colonel Jeffery Bostic made the disclosure during a national briefing yesterday. Bostic said the deceased is an 81-year-old Barbadian male who travelled to the United Kingdom and returned to the island on March 22.

Videos

April 5, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Arrangements to return mainland residents back home postponed
The evacuation of mainland residents off the island scheduled for today Saturday, April 4th, was postponed until further notice. The decision was reportedly taken by the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) in San Pedro Town, who reconsidered this action. According to a message from the EOC, they are asking those that had signed up to leave San Pedro today, to be patient as proper procedures must be finalized and put in place to ensure the safety of all. The new evacuation date will be announced as soon as all plans have been confirmed.

Various Belizean Sources

National Days of Prayer and Fasting
The Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow has approved three National Days of Prayer & Fasting, from Good Friday, April 10th to Easter Sunday, April 12th, 2020. Throughout the nation, the Council of Churches will celebrate the three days with combined times for prayer, repentance, worship, and celebration. For over 72 hours, clergy will lead the nation in prayer from televised and streamed services from Friday, 6:00 a.m. to Sunday, 6:00 p.m. Many other clergies will, in faith, join in virtual prayer groups across the nation.

Belize Police Department's Curfew Update:
On 3rd April 2020, a total of one hundred & five (105) persons were arrested and charged countrywide for various offenses under the Curfew Regulations. The following is the breakdown of the persons & the offenses: 53 persons for unable to provide reason for movement outside of curfew, 43 persons for breach of curfew, 1 person for keeping establishment open during curfew hours...

A manatee at Secret Beach!
Around 11:30am this morning one of our owners Ms. Tracey Greer spotted the most incredible thing! A medium sized manatee swam underneath our dock going towards our neighbours. How amazing this that?! When was the last time ANYONE saw manatees up here at Secret Beach? Hol Chan Marine Reserve can you believe it?! First we had seahorses and now manatees! Mother Nature is truly out doing herself We have been at Secret Beach for 3 years and we have NEVER seen one this far North! So amazing and a rare sight to see

Hundreds of food relief supplies were distributed to needy families all across Ambergris Caye
What started as a conversation with the Harmouch family members, quickly became a humanitarian food relief supply exercise, thanks to the big efforts of the Lebanese community on the island. Thanks to the volunteers that joined in who are friends of the Lebanese - your efforts is greatly appreciated. I wish to thank The Lebanese community for inviting and allowing Richy Cordova and myself to join and be a part of this project. Richard had his own food-drive project going but his genuine love towards his community is big and in unity there is strength and success.

Message to Canadians in Belize from High Commissioner Rita Rudaitis-Renaud
Please remember: -Please consider the options that remain available to return home. These are dwindling. -If you need assistance, contact our Honorary Consulate by e-mail at Belize-City@international.gc.ca or by phone to +501-610-5223 -If you decide to stay in Belize, take the time to review your medical insurance coverage, among others

BEL, in collaboration with the Anglican Diocese of Belize and Love FM, brings Sunday School to children countrywide

The postal service is down for now
Effective immediately the Belize Postal Service suspend all services.

Succotz Archaeology and Culture Fair cancelled
We are very sad to announce that we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year's Succotz Archaeology and Culture Fair. But, we plan to see you all back for our fair in 2021! In the meantime, if you want to keep up with our efforts, we have teamed up with Craboo Creative Travel to create the platform Heritage Education Network Belize where we share free, original and community-made content relevant to anyone in any of the heritage-related fields or industries (i.e., tourism, art and artisan business, archaeology, anthropology, etc.). Stay safe and healthy!

The Rotary Club of Benque teamed up with the Succotz Chinese Association to distribute goods to those in need
We assisted the Benque Viejo & Succotz Chinese Association in the distribution of goods for the most needed in Benque Viejo, Succotz, Arenal & Corozalito. Thank you again Chinese Association for giving back to our community.

URBAN GARDENS IN THE CITY
You know, we don't know how and when this Pandemic is going to end. One of the things that could be affected if we have a long drawn out pandemic is food supply. That is why at the end of 2018 the Downtown Rejuvenation Project created an Urban Garden at ACC. The project was executed at the end of 2018 and the main goal was to teach the students and some community members how build and maintain an urban garden.

Northern Maya Peasants of Belize and the weather
Our Maya tatitos who did milpa or sugar cane gave us their knowledge on the weather and when to plant . Today many Paseants of Yucatec Maya Descent in Corozal and Orange Walk continue watching the behaviour of the animals like ants to predict rain . Another method used by the Maya paseants is Xok k'iin known in Spanish as " Cabanuelas" . Also our Mayero Grandparents taugth us to observe Uh(Luna) to know when to plant and what to plant . Today Mayeros continue observing the Tuulis Uh(Full moon) or Paal Uh(New Moon). Also some Maya in Northern Belize continue doing the tradition known as Cha Chaac primicias to ask for rain and blessings .

Channel 5

Busses to Stop Running Countrywide Today
The Belize Bus Association suspends bus service countrywide until further notice. The buses will stop their runs effective tomorrow, Sunday, April 5th. President of BBA Thomas Shaw told News Five that this move has become necessary because bus operators cannot afford to keep their buses on the road. He says that GOB has not yet committed to any relief for the bus lines. He says operators regret the decision but their hands are tied. Shaw noted that the terminals were not open today for buses to park and he was informed that the transport staff all called in “sick”. The BBA umbrella includes large operators such as West Line, James, BBOC and others!

LOVE FM

BUS RUNS CEASE
All bus operations have been suspended until further notice. Love News has received confirmation that several employees from the Transport Department failed to show up for work out of fear of contracting COVID-19. According to the Minister of Transport, Edmond Castro they are currently in meetings attempting to come to an amicable solution to accommodate all parties involved. So, effective tomorrow, no buses will be running.

Breaking Belize News

Easter weekend designated National Days of Prayer and Fasting
Chances are prayer and/or fasting will be on the agenda of most Belizean Christians next […]

What’s the big deal with Covid-19 when it hasn’t killed as many people as the flu?
By Julian Sherrard An acquaintance was asking, What's the big deal about COVID19 when it hasn't killed as many people as the Flu […]

Is cutting of grass by Ministry of Works personnel an essential service?
BBN has received reports from concerned public service workers who claim they are being unduly […]

Bus Association closes runs effective Sunday after impromptu worker sickout
President of the Belize Bus Association, Thomas Shaw, has confirmed to Breaking Belize News that […]

Fire reported on T Street in Belize City
BBN has received reports of a fire currently happening on T Street in Belize City. […]

Public Service Union President: Public servants to the rescue
Public Service Union (PSU) President, Gerald Henry, has addressed his fellow public officers on the […]

Health officials: Preliminary mapping of patient #4 complete
The Office of the Director of Health Services informed that as of 4:00 p.m. yesterday, […]

KHMH receives first patient at Covid-19 isolation unit
The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital (KHMH) informed that yesterday it received its first patient at […]

Police charge 105 persons for curfew offenses
A total of 105 persons have now been arrested and charged countrywide for various offenses […]

ComPol condemns police brutality in Belmopan and beatdown of elderly man
A video has gone viral of police officers beating a group of men including an […]

Blogs

The Best Little Zoo in the World Needs Your Help
If you want to support the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center’s important work, you can do so through a special arrangement with Reimers Feedmill company. Make a payment online or by bank drop to one of the accounts below. If donating directly to The Belize Zoo, email a copy of payment to frontdesk@belizezoo.org. If donating animal feed, email a copy of payment to sales@reimersfeed.com. Please include how much the donation amount, the bank account where it was deposited to, and which charity the payment should go to. For example, “$100 to the Belize Zoo.” We would also recommend sending a message to the zoo with how much you have deposited. Thereafter, they’ll arrange for a food credit with Reimers Feed Mill.

Belize’s 1st Eco-Resort: The Lodge at Chaa Creek
In the 1970s a couple of travelers, Mick and Lucy Fleming, settled in Belize’s Cayo district. Converting an old citrus farm on the banks of the Macal River to an eco-friendly establishment. From humble roots, Chaa Creek became Belize’s first eco-resort in the 1980s. Today, the Flemings continue to uphold those values with their eco-resort.

International Sources

CDC shows you how to make a face mask in 45 seconds
Don't despair: In just 45 seconds, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams demonstrates how to make your own cloth facemask. It's lo-tech. You can use a T-shirt, hand towel, or bandana. The only other thing you need is rubber bands. The CDC now recommends wearing cloth face masks in public places where it's difficult to social distance from others — meaning staying at least six feet away.

Videos

April 4, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

74 arrested and charged across the country for breaching curfew regulations; six are from Ambergris Caye
On Wednesday, April 1st at mid-night, Belize went into a 30-day countrywide State of Emergency following the confirmation of the third COVID-19 (Coronavirus) case in the country. One of the measures put in place was a curfew to be implemented from 8PM to 5AM every day. Failure to comply would see persons being arrested and charged. The first evening of the curfew saw 74 persons countrywide being arrested and charged for various offenses under the curfew regulations. Out of those 74, six were arrested in San Pedro Town for failing to adhere to the law.

NEMO San Pedro conducts mock drill as Belize registers fourth COVID-19 case
On Friday April 3rd, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) Belize Rural South held a mock drill in San Pedro Town. This exercise included transportation of a person acting as an ill patient to the new San Pedro Care Center via the designated ambulance on the island. This practice was done to ensure the care team is prepared to handle all aspects of protocol. Shortly after 10AM, the wailing sound of sirens filled the air as the ambulance made its way from the San Pedro Care Center to pick up the ‘patient’.

COVID-19 eServices Citizens Portal for Unemployment Relief Program
The Government of Belize announces the launch of the COVID-19 eServices Portal through which persons may apply to the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program which is being established through the agreement of the co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee. The Central Information Technology Office posted the application form at 10:00 p.m. April 2nd, and within the first half hour over 60 persons made applications for unemployment relief.

FRAUD ALERT – Counterfeit Belize Currency Notes
The Central Bank of Belize and the Financial Intelligence Unit issue this alert to inform the public of the circulation of counterfeit Belize currency notes. The public is urged to become familiar with the security features of the currency notes issued by the Central Bank of Belize. Recognizing the security features will protect the public from fraud committed using counterfeit Belize currency notes.

Puerto Secreto Foundation and SPBE join in relief efforts for Ambergris Caye
Relief efforts continue on Ambergris Caye, as she was the recipient of two separate shipments of goods (groceries) on Thursday, April 2nd designated for the less fortunate during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) crisis. The first shipment was donated by the San Pedro Belize Express (SPBE) Water Taxi, which delivered over $30,000 worth of food items to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye.

Ambergris Today

Hidden Treasure Feeds Frontline Workers On Ambergris Caye
Today the staff of Hidden Treasure volunteered selflessly prepare lunch for the San Pedro policemen, health care providers and the sanitation workers who are keeping the island safe during this difficult time we are all experiencing on our lovely Isla Bonita. A total of 160 meals were distributed altogether. Thank you Hidden Treasure staff! You all Rock! And a special thank you to all our frontline workers who serve our island so proudly! We will win this battle united!

Belize Ministry Of Health Confirms Fourth Case Of COVID-19 In Cayo
The enhanced surveillance system of the Ministry of Health has identified a fourth case of COVID-19 in a 55-year-old male who resides in San Ignacio, Cayo District. The patient tested positive in a confirmatory test ran earlier today, April 3rd, 2020, at 1:16 a.m.

Various Belizean Sources

Saga Humane Society looking for foster homes
At the moment Saga Humane Society is looking for foster homes for 14 dogs and 12 cats! We are asking for the community’s assistance during this time, foster care means you will temporarily house either a dog or cat. Saga humane society will provide all necessary supplies during this time. If you would like to foster kindly send us a message on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SagaHumaneSociety/ to arrange meet up times or call 226-3266 and Walter will assist you.

Ministry of Health Confirms Fourth Case of COVID-19
The enhanced surveillance system of the Ministry of Health has identified a fourth case of COVID-19 in a 55-year-old male who resides in San Ignacio. The patient tested positive in a confirmatory test ran earlier today, April 3rd, 2020, at 1:16 a.m. The person had a fever, mild cough, and difficulty breathing five days ago, and was referred for medical care at a public care facility on Tuesday, March 31st. A swab was taken, and screening and confirmatory tests were done on the sample confirming the results. He is currently in an isolated area within the Western Regional Hospital compound.

COVID-19 eServices Citizens Portal for Unemployment Relief Program
The Government of Belize announces the launch of the COVID-19 eServices Portal through which persons may apply to the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program which is being established through the agreement of the co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee. The Central Information Technology Office posted the application form at 10:00 p.m. April 2nd, and within the first half hour over 60 persons made applications for unemployment relief. On March 16th, the co-chairs agreed to establish the Economic Oversight Team to oversee the establishment and operationalization of the Unemployment Relief Program, among other things.

Application for COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program
Kindly click the link to access the application form for the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program. The form can be printed, filled out, and a clear photo or scanned copy of the application can be emailed to info@covid19.bz

Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry – Closure of Office
The public is hereby notified that the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry is closed for business today, April 3, 2020. The Registry apologises for any inconvenience caused. Members of the public are strongly advised to take precautionary measures and adhere to the restrictions under the declared state of emergency. The Registry thanks the public for its understanding and cooperation.

Looking for a way to make your homeschooling a little more interesting?
Why not learn about crocodiles! Check out what ACES / American Crocodile Education Sanctuary is offering!Want to do something to switch up the homeschool routine during this turbulent period? In an effort to alleviate some of our financial burden, we are offering Skype (or WhatsApp) educational sessions for you and/or your kids. For $10usd, we’ll do 15 minutes of education where you’ll meet Bhudda, one of our unreleasable croc ambassadors. We can cater the education to any age, and can focus the session on behavior, biology, physiology, habitat, the world of wildlife conservation, or all of the above!

Koroanavairos #1
How to talk about the virus in Kriol! Something to practice today. English: COVID-19 Precautions from the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention Kriol: Tingz fi du fi help mek yu noh geh sik fahn COVID-19, fahn di “US Center for Disease Control and Prevention”

BELIZE CITY COVID-19 STATE OF EMERGENCY
(Friday, April 3, 2020) Recent amendments have been made to the Statutory Instrument governing the state of emergency which, prior to today, did not consider municipal body operations to be essential. Consequently, the following operational measures for the Belize City Council reflect that adjustment and take effect as of today, April 3, 2020: 1. Our cashiers at the Belize City Hall will be open and available from Monday to Friday 9:00am — 1:00pm. In the interest of social distancing, we encourage residents who have the ability to make Property Tax and Trade License payments online to do so at www.belizecitvcouncil.org. Payments can also be made via Scotia Bank Account, (Ace. Name: Belize City Council Ace. No. 9133780 Transit No. 91595) or our Atlantic Bank Account (Ace. Name: Belize City Council Ace. No. 100225187)...

Sailboat approaches Utila from Colombia
During the early hours of the night of April 1st, one of our volunteer patrollers spotted a sailboat coming towards Utila. He quickly notified the rest of the team and they headed down to the public dock to see what was going on. After finding out the sailboat had came all the way from Cartagena, Colombia, red flags went up in our community. The captains all got in their boats and headed towards the sailboat to find out what they were doing in our waters since all borders are on lock down. They told our team that they were here legally and authorized. They were asked repeatedly to leave the island since our borders are on lockdown but they refused to go.

Oxygen Safety & Training Services. in San Pedro
This past Days have been very good in everyway possible Visited the Dr. Otto Polyclinic to assist with the Adaptation of Oxygen Regulators to be able to be used with The Humidifier, also Checked their portble oxygen Cylinders to ensure they are in good working condition, also donated to them an infant BVM, 2 Oxygen Hand Wheel Wrench to be able to smoothley open portable Oxygen Cylinders. Yesterday went to the Quarantine Area at The old Aces Building and assisted with the Installation of the Oxygen Regulators with the Humidifiers, also Adapted a Oxygen Regulator to be used with the Humidifier and build a small fixture which was placed on the Emergency Cart to be able to have an oxygen Cylinder with a Regulator Ready for the Patients that will be treated there if the need Arises.

CROSS-BORDER LEFT OPEN BETWEEN BELIZE AND CHETUMAL
After the "closure" of the border by Belize on March 21st, as a result of the COVID-19 health emergency, the flow of Belizeans and undocumented persons on the banks of the Hondo River has increased. In fact, Mexican taxi drivers arrive to drop off people all the way from Playa del Carmen , Cancun and Campeche. Many off them to continue their journey or to simply drop of contraband merchandise to the border town of La Union. The area is also close to the border with Guatemala connecting to 18 nearby communities, so it also becomes a passage for undocumented migrants of that nationality, including Hondurans, not only through La Unión but through other communities such as Rovirosa Enriqueta Cruz Naranjo.

BELIZE CITY COUNCIL MISSING IN ACTION FOR CORONAVIRUS RELIEF EFFORTS!!!WORKERS PAY TO BE CUT IN HALF!!!
We have in our possession a leaked copy of an internal Belize City Council Memo. The memo outline a list of financial moratoriums that the council will be effecting over the next six months (in the first instance) However, the list of things that the Council will discontinue pales compared to the 50% SALARY CUT the workers will have to endure come the 15 April. The other things on the list include the freezing of • Salary Advances & Employee Loans; • Increments and salary adjustments; • Creation and/or filling of new posts; ...

Tour and explanation of Manuel Villamor's Historical Mural
One of our most popular requests is a tour and explanation of Manuel Villamor's Historical Mural located at the Corozal Town Hall. This Belizean treasure tells the history of Corozal Town. The Corozal House of Culture is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of this iconic artwork. Every couple of years we touch up any paint that has fallen off (minimal) and we have sealed it with a protective latex coating. Below is a brochure we produced several years ago. The brochure shows the three different versions beginning in 1953, up until its final version in 2003, along with an detailed explanation and a short biography of the artist. The photo of Mr. Manuel in the brochure was taken in 2012 as he did he final restoration of the mural at age 84. Mr. Villamor passed away in 2018 in Chetumal, Mexico where he had been residing for years. We are so very thankful and grateful for this iconic mural, his legacy continues to live on. Rest in Peace dear Manuel.

Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation – Closure of Cayo Office
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation hereby advises the public that its Cayo office is closed until further notice. Persons in Cayo needing assistance can instead contact the Belmopan office at one of the following numbers: (501)822-2246, (501)822-2161, or (501)822-2684.

LPG IMPORTERS LOWER THE PRICE OF BUTANE
Our families are facing tremendous challenges during the State of Emergency caused by COVID-19. The three main suppliers of Liquid Petroleum Gas in Belize are concerned about the health and well being of employees, as well as our customers. The world prices are shifting and we have amended our prices to reflect the change. We see the long lines for supplies at the stores. Cooking your own food and stretching your dollar is important and that is why Zeta Gas, Gas Tomza LTD and Belize Western Energy Limited have put competition aside to offer you prices that will keep your stoves burning as we do our best to feed our families during these hard times. The new prices for LPG for each district are listed below. Stay safe and keep the fire burning.

Mayor Trapp will be addressing Cayo this morning at 9:00am
Tune in this morning, Saturday 4th April at 9AM when we talk to San Ignacio/Santa Elena Mayor, Earl Trapp as he clarifies misinformation regarding the timeline of the contact of Belize's 4th Covid19 case with the town council. Channel 13 - Central TV & Internet. Channel 52 - Centaur Cable Network. 100.7 FM Cayo District.

Sunday Services Online
The National Channel continues to air live Sunday service for you to enjoy in the comfort of your home during this state of Emergency. Tune in on April 5th at 9:00 AM for live mass in English

U.S. Embassy EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The U.S. Embassy is seeking eligible and qualified applicants for the following position: Security Investigator (Foreign Service National Investigator) Closing date: April 8, 2020

Corona Virus Music Video Competition
Make Belize Films in consultation with the San Pedro EOC bring to you the Corona Virus Music Video Competition. All Belizean youths are invited to participate in this fun and educational competition. Win great prizes while you help spread awareness and stop the spread of the virus! Start shooting and enter your music video for a chance to win some great prizes!!!!

Learn about Archaeological Illustrations
Attention to all tour guides, artists and artisans!! Be sure to tune in tomorrow, April 4 2020 @ 10:00 AM (Belize Time) for the first installment of the lecture series on the Heritage Education Network Belize by Dr. Shawn Morton and Dr. Meaghan Peuramäki-Brown of the Stann Creek Regional Archaeology Project to learn about archaeological illustrations!

Active Women in our village: returning to the roots
A picture tells a thousand tales of society and culture. Yesterday, I found an image that sends various messages of resilience, Maya identity, and hope. The Image above was taken on March 31st 2020 at a farm in San Antonio, Cayo. It shows two females smiling for the picture as they go through the process of picking peanuts. For some it may be just an image shared on social media, however, the image represents many things in the context of Maya and San Antonio, Cayo identity.

A look back at Street Art Festival this past February
Great to see some of our Corozal artists who participated that day. Beautiful images by the fine people at ISCR.

Channel 7

Fourth Confirmed COVID Case
Belize has its recorded its fourth COVID-19 patient, and this one may represent a critical tipping point. By that we mean, this Patient 4, a 55 year old man from San Ignacio may be the first instance of community spread COIVD 19, meaning he had no recent travel history; he apparently contracted COVID-19 here in Belize. The implications of that are serious and far reaching, and while we will tell you all we know about him and his contacts, the first update tonight is on his condition. Reliable reports suggest that patient 4 is having breathing difficulties and was this evening sent from the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan to the isolation ward at the KHMH - which is only to be used in the case of critical care patients.

Patient 4 Has Respiratory Problems
So, tonight patient 4 is a serious situation in more ways than one - ways in which we will fully explore on tonight's news. But we start at the beginning, where the tension of what has been a heavy day for Belize started to unfold just before 9:00 this morning when the Director of Health Services broke the bad news with a Facebook video post. He outlined all the basic facts about patient 4: "The fourth case is that of a 55 year old San Ignacio resident who was diagnosed confirmed at 1:16 this morning. The patient initially started with fever and signs of respiratory distress on Tuesday. He was isolated at the regional hospital on Tuesday evening. A swab was taken from him on Wednesday, and that test was screened and confirmed earlier today."

PM On Patient Four
As you heard earlier, he is on antibiotics because of that underlying pnuemonia. And, at midday in a national address, the Prime Minister disclosed a little more about patient 4 - including the fact that he lives in San Ignacio but works in Belize City: "The infected person is from the Cayo District, but up until about 11 days ago, had been traveling to and from Belize City where he worked."

#4's Covid Footprint
So, as the PM says, the medical tracing starts with the medical professionals who examined this 55 year old male both in san Ignacio - at a private clinic, and in Belmopan at the western Regional. But, it also spreads out into the community - the patient is known as a socially active man - and it extends to Belize City - where he worked at the City Council, which has 460 employees. This evening on Ask The Experts Dr. Manzanero outlined the large footprint of contacts patient 4 had when he was asymptomatic:..

Patient 4 Worked At City Hall
And, as we said, that workplace in Belize City is City Hall, home to 460 employees. Reports say he had only been into the office a few times since mid-March, but, still, the possible contacts are in the dozens. And, the Mayor of Belize City, Bernard Wagner is one of them. He also has to be tested because of his contact with this patient 4, who is a senior employee. We spoke to him via video call this afternoon:

San Ignacio Council Had Contact
And so, while those are the concerns of the Belize City Mayor and his staff about patient #4, the staff at the San Ignacio Santa Elena Town Council are worried that they may have also been exposed to the virus. Mayor Earl Trapp told us that his staff recently interacted with patient #4, and now, they are concerned that he may have passed the COVID-19 virus to them. We spoke with him today via telephone from the town hall building in San Ignacio:

Belizeans Banned From Borders
And, we apologies for that abrupt break due to a technical glitchwe start back up where we left off with the other nationally important measures benign taken to cope with COVID 19. The border closure, as we have reported, the airport and borders were closed to visitors in the week of March 23rd, but it remained open to Belizeans who cannot be denied entry to their country of citizenship. But, under a state of emergency, they can be, and the Prime Minister said that is the measure that the appearance of patient 4 has forced them to take:..

Next Week's Drastic SOE
And apart from that drastic step of closing the borders at 12:01 am on Sunday morning, the Prime Minister says there will also be other measures to add to the National State of Emergency next week. He didn't say exactly what they are, but we know they will be serious: Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister "I hope that this fourth case will help to persuade them of the absolute gravity of the situation."

Don't Try to Cheat the SOE
And so now with a fourth case representing what may be a community spread of CVOID 19 in Belize, the Prime Minister says it should be a sobering wake up call to all those who have been trying to play games, or work around the state of emergency:.. "The circumstances of the Cayo case make clear that the danger of extensive human-to-human transmission is now upon us. I, therefore, reserve the right to come back to you next week to announce even more stringent shutdown directives."

Despite Curfew, Man Killed
Welcome back to 7News - if you're just tuning in, welcome - this is our second segment, the news started at 6:00 tonight, so we can all be home before the curfew starts... But last night's curfew didn't stop a killer in in Punta Gorda Town - he struck before the 8:00 pm lockdown.

Curfew Crackdown: 74 Locked Up
Last night many Belizeans experienced their first night of countrywide curfew from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. It's a measure put in place under the state of emergency and at least in Belize City, it was announced by the chilling drone of cold war era sirens. Even so there were some who didn't get the message. And tonight police are already reporting that they have had to enforce curfew measures against those who were ignoring them.

Finally, The Forms Are Out
That is a steep fine to pay in hard times, and, right now, the most many who just lost their jobs are thinking about is that 75 dollars weekly in financial assistance that the government promised And they've been waiting for the forms for financial assistance had gone live on COVID-19.com. The form was uploaded to the site at 10:00 pm Thursday night, but demand on the site seems to have been too great and it crashed around 8:00 am today. Still, 5,000 applications for financial assistance had already been received.

Chef Ainslie Feeding 12 with $20
But while you wait for that direct deposit or for the website to come back up, you might need to do major budget stretching just to keep food on the table. And in this, the month of quarantine 7News has asked some friends to share recipes to help folks prepare meals on a tight budget. It's cooking for hard times like Michael Finnegan did with his Ketchup and Curry Corned Beef, and tonight, the well known Chef Ainsley shows you how to make Ramen miracles and feed a dozen people for twenty dollars.

What About The Homeless?
We've told you that last night saw 75 people arrested for breach of quarantine those were the "ears hard bikini" who refused to stay home. But what about those who don't have a home? For homeless people, covid-19 is horror on top of horror. That's because As the coronavirus spreads, unhoused people are among the most vulnerable to infection.

San Pedro, The Island Town of Firsts
Last night, we took you to both San Pedro and Caye Caulker for a 30,000-dollar donation of food items that the San Pedro Belize Express presented to both communities. Given the hardship of the COVID-19 pandemic, the water taxi company was giving back to the residents, who've given them success. Well, that donation's handing over gave us the opportunity to speak with the leaders about how the two islands are coping with the shutdown of all commercial activity since the tourism season has been abruptly terminated by COVID-19.

Caye C's Covid Scenario
While we were on Caye Caulker, we also spoke with the Chair of the Village Council about how this island is coping with the pandemic. Last year, they were chosen as the BTB's #1 Tourism Destination. As a community that also depends heavily on tourism as its main income earner, Caye Caulker is also experiencing the same financial ruin that other top destinations around the country are faced with. The Chairlady told us that the islanders are doing their best to look after their needs in this time of crisis:

Health Inspectors on Caye Caulker
The residents of Caye Caulker are hoping that they won't have to be concerned with any COVID-19 cases being discovered in the island village. But, as you've heard, they have taken precautions for that worst-case scenario, and a team of medical professionals from the Central Health Region traveled there yesterday to inspect their quarantine and isolation facilities. We got a chance to speak with the team leader about the vigilance that the Ministry of Health is maintaining on the island:

Police Adjust For COVID Reality
And with the community spread of COVID-19 likely in Belize, Police have had to tweak standard operating procedures. Today commissioner Chester Williams shared the various areas in standard operating procedures in which changes have and will continue to be made:

Police More Permissive on Passes?
Some have said that the tone being taken by the AG and the Commissioner of Police have been very different in reference to state of emergency passes. The AG has said there will be none for a week, and very few issued at all, because no one should be out during the curfew. The COMPOL on the hand has been a little more permissive in his overview. This evening commissioner Williams told us that while he agrees with the AG's stern opinions when it comes to the movements of essential workers, law enforcement quote; "Must allow common sense to prevail."

Babylon By the Rivers
And while the movements of City dwellers are being closely monitored. What's happening in rural areas? We wondered if the draconian measures are reaching every dirt road and riverbank. We put the question to the commissioner today. "Each district formation are told that they must do rural patrols..."

The Risk Of Contraband and COVID-19
And while police are covering as much ground and even river banks with patrols, and the government has locked down the borders to all persons - including Belizeans - what about those illegal border crossings, which contraband smugglers use?

Sagicor Saw A Need
And whether urban or remote area Police will need their version of personal protective equipment to carry out duties with minimum risk of exposure. But that's a challenge financially, one that the Commissioner has been raising funds to complete.

Face Masks For Many
And, another donation was made to the police yesterday. That's for face masks from the Belize Chinese Association. They made an initial donation of 1000 medical masks each to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and the Belize Police Department.

Chinese Community, No Longer About Business
We also asked Ou about how the Chinese community, businesses in particular, are handling the COVID crisis at their retail and restaurant outlets. He said it's no longer about business:

The Tests So Far
And, as we wind down the news, back to our headline story. Belize's COVID patient four, a 55 year old man from San Ignacio is reportedly having respiratory difficulties and has been transferred to the KHMH isolation unit in Belize City. He is the first COIVD patient in Belize to require hospitalisation. Today, on Ask The Experts, we got an update on the number of tests done so far:

LPG, Going Down
The Central American LPG companies that supply Belize: Zeta Gas, Gas Tomza Limited, and Belize Western Energy Limited are announcing tonight that they are dropping the prices for liquified petroleum gas, better known as butane. They say that they see the struggle that Belizean families are facing right now due to the State of Emergency and the COVID-19 pandemic.

There Is a Place For The Homeless
Earlier in the news, we told you about the plight of the homeless who are not only extremely vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic but could, if infected, pose a threat to the health and well being of the entire populace.

Channel 5

COVID-19 Hits City Hall, Belize City Mayor to be Tested
At one-twenty-five this morning, a fourth case of COVID-19 was confirmed following a battery of tests of twenty-five persons.  The announcement was made before nine o’clock this morning to the [...]

Mayor Earl Trapp on Cayo COVID-19 Case
At least twenty persons have been included so far in the mapping exercise relating to the fourth person carrying the virus; this includes his immediate family members and those individuals [...]

Travel Ban in Effect Internally; Easter is Off
The month-long state of emergency is on its second day and includes a restriction on all out-district travel.  With Easter vacation only a week away, plans to visit other parts [...]

Belizeans Abroad to be Prohibited Re-entry
The National Oversight Committee, a multi-agency taskforce chaired by Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Opposition Leader John Briceño, has together agreed that all frontier points and ports of entry must [...]

MOH Undertakes Mapping for COVID-19 Patient Four
This afternoon, the Director of Health Services provided more details to the fourth case of the corona virus. Mapping started soon after the results were known involving the San Ignacio [...]

MOH Provides an Update on COVID-19 Testing
One hundred and forty persons have been tested from all over the country for the corona virus. Four are positive: two in san Pedro, one in Belize City and now [...]

COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Application is Ready!
Thousands have been left jobless in the tourism industry, as well as other sectors, as business comes to a halt. So, in Belize City and the districts, the unemployed persons [...]

Thousands Apply at S.S.B. for COVID-19 Unemployment Relief
As you heard, today many unemployed Belizeans applied for the COVID-19 unemployment relief from the government. We spoke with General Manager of Corporate and Customer Relations, Chandra Cansino about this [...]

74 Persons Arrested for Breaking Curfew
The state of emergency came into effect on April first and by Thursday night, the streets of the City and around the country were virtually empty of people and there [...]

Ismael Jacobs is Shot and Killed in PG
There was a murder on Thursday night in the Indianville community of Punta Gorda.  Sometime around seven p.m., PG police were called out to the area where they found twenty-seven-year-old [...]

DHS Speaks on Masks & Ventilators
As you know, during the Ask the Experts webcast the panelists field questions from the public. Two of the frequently asked questions today were about the use of masks and [...]

CitCo Running on Skeleton Staff Amid Coronavirus Crisis
The economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis is widespread and across the country municipal administrations are feeling the financial crunch.  Of the four hundred and twenty employees on staff at [...]

To Mask or Not To Mask?
Every sector is grappling with the impacts of COVID-19; municipalities are no exception. In Orange Walk, Mayor Kevin Bernard says the town council is adjusting to survive the months ahead [...]

COVID-19 Affecting Revenue Stream for City/Town Councils
Orange Walk Mayor Kevin Bernard is pleading to Prime Minister Dean Barrow to afford city and town councils across the district financial relief. Most councils have closed down and only [...]

Fishing – an Alternative in the Wake of Collapsed Tourism Industry?
The tourism industry has shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic and now domestic tourism is also on hold for the upcoming Easter holidays. It is forecasted that the industry [...]

Sagicor Gives $10K for COVID-19 Response and Protection to the Police Department
Earlier in the month, Sagicor Financial Company Limited announced that is committing one million U.S. dollars to aid in the fight against COVID-19 in the Caribbean. The focus will be [...]

Amandala

COVID-19 locks down Belize
Belizeans all across the city were seen in lines at grocery stores, banks, credit unions, utility companies, and everywhere else in between where business is conducted, as the city prepared for what became the new normal after midnight last night, when the country of Belize slipped into a national State of Emergency that the government declared in its fight against the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic. At midnight last night, the ordinary freedoms that Belizeans have become accustomed to and which are guaranteed under the Belize Constitution were put on hold, as the Emergency Powers Regulations 2020 came into effect.

Mystery murder in Ladyville’s Milpa area
There was an early morning shooting in an isolated area of the Milpa area of Ladyville that left one man dead. When police went to the area, they found the body of a man who had recently moved into the area, according to neighbors who spoke on condition of anonymity. One neighbor told us that the man, identified as Raymond Cheristal, 57, in a police report today, had only moved into the unfinished house about two to three weeks ago.

Lotteries and all other games of chance suspended
The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has been plunging the world into economic hardship as more countries implement lockdown measures in the effort to fight the virus that has swept across the countries of the world. At midnight last night, Belize entered into a national state of emergency in its fight against the virus. Beginning at 8:00 p.m. tonight, the curfew that accompanies the national state of emergency kicks in until 5:00 tomorrow morning, and during that time Belizeans who venture outside must have a Ministry of National Security pass or have some compellingly good reason to be outside, or risk being charged for curfew violation.

Fire destroys house in Dangriga
A house was completely destroyed by fire at about 1:30 this morning and another house in its close proximity suffered minor damages on its side. As a result, the house and all its contents were destroyed, and one person was left homeless. Information to us is that at about 1:30 this morning, the neighbors were sleeping when they were awakened by heat and smoke, and saw a house burning. The firemen were called, but by the time they came, the house already was engulfed in flames.

Media granted essential service status, but needs pass during curfew hours
During the national state of emergency, media workers have been granted essential service status. This basically means that reporters and camera crew and other support staff of the various media houses can traverse to and from work, but those who are able to work from home are being encouraged to do so. Late this evening a press release was issued on essential service workers. The release said, ”Authorized essential workers as outlined in Schedule One of S.I. No. 46 of 2020, who are required to work and move without restrictions during the curfew hours, will be allowed to move freely at any place or any time, while observing social distancing protocols, with a pass, authorized and signed by the Minister of National Security.”

Government explains parameters of national state of emergency
Following a press statement by Prime Minister Dean O. Barrow yesterday, in the wake of the confirmation of Belize’s third positive case of the coronavirus, the government called a press conference this morning in Belize City to explain measures that would be put in place as part of the national state of emergency that Barrow announced would be in effect for one month in an effort to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The national state of emergency, which will lead to an almost complete shutdown for most businesses in the country which are not considered as essential services, will be accompanied by a curfew which will run from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily. Belizeans are being asked to stay in their homes and should only come out during the daylight hours to buy essentials.

Attorney Arthur Saldivar released on bail for firearm offenses
On Saturday, Belmopan police arrested attorney Arthur Saldivar for spreading “fake news” after he had made a Facebook post that suggested that people were being allowed into the country at the northern border in Santa Elena. After his arraignment on that charge, Saldivar was again arrested, and this time, his family home was searched. What should have been routine police work would later turn into an ordeal for Saldivar, who would remain in police custody from Monday until today, Wednesday, when he appeared in court and was released on bail.

6 charged in Libertad for violating COVID-19 Safety Regulation
Six men have been detained in Libertad, and charged with drinking in public and disobedience of the COVID-19 Safety Regulations, and a bar owner has been charged with failing to close a bar when ordered to do so. The men are Isaiah Sedacy, 26; Jose Velasquez, 42; Eugene Fuentes, 23, Jeremy Martinez, 31; and a minor 17. All the men are laborers of Libertad, while the bar owner, Jose Quintanilla, 55, is of Libertad.

Friend kills friend with pellet gun
A man who was reckless in handling a loaded pellet rifle caused the death of Rafael Sansores, 20, a laborer of the Rodney Moguel area of Corozal Town. The incident occurred at about 5:00 this evening. Reliable reports indicate that Sansores and his friend, Lloyd Usher, 21, and two others, all three of whom are of the White Cocal area of Corozal Town, were socializing at a house when they got a pellet rifle and began to shoot at birds.

Editorial: COVID-19 forces State of Emergency in Belize
The entire country of Belize was placed under a state of emergency on Wednesday, April 1, a measure the authorities believe is necessary at this time to help us defeat the disease called COVID-19, which is battering the health of people and the economies of countries across the globe. The state of emergency was set for 30 days, but it was mentioned that the duration could be reduced if our health authorities believe we have things (the disease) under control. God forbid, the state of emergency could last longer if more cases emerge, which could happen if all of us don’t follow the regimen prescribed by our health authorities, or if the measure wasn’t taken soon enough.

Amandala wants you to be safe when handling our newspaper
In this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amandala understands that some people may have concern about the safety process the primary handlers of our newspaper employ, before it reaches your hands. We have therefore implemented the necessary safety measures, as recommended by the Ministry of Health, at our production site to ensure that our product is safe when it reaches its end destination—our readers and advertisers’ hands.

Dr. Ron Hyde posts on fb about COVID-19
“Being infected with COVID-19 is a misfortune but no SHAME. For goodness sakes, ANYONE can be unlucky. But CONTROL requires complete transparency and vigilance. That is why all the famous people (in the USA) are openly sharing their diagnosis.” That bit is a response to my post on fb that our authorities are worried about the stigma surrounding COVID-19, but it isn’t practical in the fight against this disease. I also applauded American heroes who are making their diagnosis known.

Government’s assistance to persons unemployed due to COVID-19 crisis begins this week
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit world tourism extremely hard, and in Belize, where the economy is heavily dependent on cruise and overnight tourism, that sector of the economy suffered a devastating blow on Friday, March 13, when two cruise ship lines announced a one-month suspension of their calls to Belize. According to the figures mentioned by Dr. Carla Barnett, who is one of two “economic czars” with responsibility for the disbursement of government financial assistance to those affected by the resulting economic slowdown, around 20,000 Belizeans in the tourism industry find themselves suddenly unemployed.

Football flashback – Recalling some stars of the past, towards a Belize Football Hall of Fame
The country is on lock-down with a State of Emergency, including night-time curfew, with all sporting competition and activity on pause due to the silent battle against the COVID-19 Pandemic. It is surely a time for reflection and reminiscing, and some of that is being done in major publications as well as on our local social media, especially Facebook, where already there have sprung up debates on the relative rating of star players in years past.

FROM THE PUBLISHER
Facebook and other social media have made experts of many people in many things. In the age of social media, we humans are looking for entertainment, more than information per se. At least, that’s my opinion. (Incidentally, I am not a participant in the social media world. I have made my living and raised my children through my income as a professional writer. Now then, on the matter of the coronavirus, which is threatening to send some of us crazy before it actually infects and kills us, they say the best advice is to stay home and wait out the COVID-19’s regime, which may be several months.

SOE — Selective Owners Exempted
The acronym “SOE” seems to no longer mean State of Emergency, but it apparently means “Selective Owners Exempted”! While I am being facetious, it is not without basis, since it appears that, under our State of Emergency regulations, as stated in Statutory Instrument No. 46 of 2020, the meaning of what is essential was seemingly bent and broken to allow certain, specific businesses to continue to generate revenue while we cope with the threats of COVID-19.

Jerry Lee Lewis’s woman
According to a bio I’m reading, Jerry Lee Lewis was a hot commodity, a musical star on the rise, on pace to supplant the Rock and Roll king, Elvis Presley, when at 23 he married his 13-year-old cousin and his flame burned down to ashes. Elvis, the bio said, had been drafted into the army, and Lewis was tagged as the white singer to fill the space. Before I go on, I’m no fan of the guy’s music. I looked at a list of his best songs and I don’t know one of them. I’m not saying that to hurt the gentleman’s feelings.

Courtship and young love in Toledo …
Lucille told me that that Saturday afternoon had been one of the most nerve-wracking in her life, from the time that Jewel had reached home until hours later when she and Jerome had walked hand in hand towards the house at dusk! It had soon dawned on her that, if Jerome had not come to see Jewel about work, it could only be for one other reason, and that he must be the person about whom she had told her father.

How the Rockefellers eliminated natural medicine to create the modern pharmaceutical industry
People these days see you as a weirdo if you talk about the healing properties of plants or any other holistic practice. Like everything else, there is a lot of politics and money behind the modern medical system. Around the 20th century, when the possibility of creating everything from oil was discovered, the Rockefeller lineage opted for obtaining pharmaceutical drugs from petrochemicals.

Appeal to Opposition Leader
Dear Editor, 2019 was a tough year for Belizean small businesses to survive. As small business owners, we have to feed our families with income from the business; hence, we have no choice but to make hard business decisions to be able to pay our recurrent bills, which include utility bills, water, light, rent and labor of employees. We barely survived in 2019, and now for 2020, January and February, the two toughest months of the year, harder measures had to be put in place.

Elimination should be the goal
Dear Editor, The lockdown of the entire society with restricted movement only slows down the spread, but it cannot stop SARS-Cov-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Testing will be a more effective and data-driven way to stop the spread of COVID-19. Countries such as Israel and South Africa still have the spreading of COVID-19 and deaths, even though they have strict laws that quarantine their populations.

A tiny nation and a global crisis
Dear Editor, The world as we once knew it, say three months ago, is not the world we see today, which is now a much different place. This is largely because of the global pandemic COVID-19 that has been ravaging many countries all over the world. With the virus upon us, what is now apparent is that we, as a tiny nation, must get our gloves and prepare for the inevitable battle that lies ahead.

If this global crisis does not weaken Belize, it will make her stronger
Dear Editor, COVID-19 induced an interruption to global trade, because at least 40% of the world’s population is in some kind of lockdown and therefore not gainfully employed. The international Labor Organization (ILO) estimates that about 25 million additional people will be unemployed globally during this financial crisis. In 2008-2009, there were 22 million additional persons unemployed due to the crisis.

PAHO appeals for $95 million to help Latin America and the Caribbean cope with the COVID-19 pandemic
A donor appeal from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is seeking $94.8 million to fund priority public health measures to help countries in Latin American and the Caribbean face the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19).

LOVE FM

Man murdered in the south
Less than 24 hours after the State of Emergency was enacted over the country of Belize, gun violence claimed another life. 27-year-old Ismael Jacobs was shot inside his home in Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District sometime before 7pm yesterday.

Persons who test negative are subject to another round of testing
The Ministry of Health has decided to test persons who have already been testing to ensure that the previous test was not a false negative. Doctor Marvin Manzanero explained this on today’s edition of Ask the Experts.

Police officer involved in traffic accident
A police officer is recovering after he was involved in a road traffic accident on the George Price Highway. Cayo Correspondent Fem Cruz has the details.

Ventilators to arrive in country next week
Doctor Manzanero also explained that the long awaited ventilators are still on their way. They are expected to arrive next week, but according to the doctor, the delay is not surprising.

No one allowed to be out during curfew hours
Curfew passes! Is it really a thing? And who are the persons that will get them? According to Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte there will be none; at least for the next week or so. In speaking on the issue, Peyrefitte made mention of a case just this morning where a person was complaining on social media of being approached by police as she went for her morning run at a quarter pass four.

Attorney General and Police Commissioner contradictory on the State of Emergency regulations
The contradiction in what the Attorney General noted on Facebook earlier today came in the Police Commissioner’s address also on Facebook. According to the Attorney General essential workers and their employers must make adjustments to their shifts so that they are not on the streets once the curfew sets in.

Belize Chinese Association donates over 1000 face masks
Today, the Belize Chinese Association (BCA) donated 1000 medical masks to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and the Belize Police Department. In speaking with the President of BCA, Johnston Ou, he explained that the donation aims to assist those in the front line in the fight against COVID-19.

Oversight committee suspends boledo, lottery and games of chance
Up to last night Boledo buyers were in luck as the State of Emergency regulations had only required that the Boledo and lottery draws be done earlier than usual. This morning that changed and all games of chance were suspended for the next 30 days.

Identifying Counterfeit Belize Currency notes
The Central Bank of Belize and the Financial Intelligence Unit has issued an alert on the circulation of counterfeit Belize currency notes. They have issued a press release with guidelines that will allow the public to recognize counterfeit currency.

Public Service Union to respond to Government’s proposed budget cuts
The Public Service Union is preparing to submit a response to the Government of Belize on a list of cutbacks within the public service proposed by the Financial Secretary. The letter was sent earlier this week with four measures aimed at producing savings for the Government of Belize for the fiscal year 2020/2021.

Belize confirms 4th case of COVID-19
Director of Health Services, Dr.Marvin Manzanero, confirmed that the 4th infected person is a 55 year old man of San Ignacio Town. The patient is currently in isolation at the Western Regional Hospital. Reports are that he began with a fever and had gone to 2 private clinics for care. He was referred to the […]

Breaking Belize News

LPG importers lower price of butane
The importers of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Belize, Zeta, Tomza and BWEL informed today […]

Belize City Council extends prayers for colleague
The Belize City Council issued a statement earlier today extending prayers for an employee of […]

Minister of Health takes Covid-19 test as precautionary measure, remains in isolation
Minister of Health, Pablo Marin, has been tested for Covid-19. He posted to social media […]

CitCo revises operations hours for State of Emergency
Some of the Belize City Council’s operations remain open with effect from today after amendments to […]

Education Minister says students can learn from Covid-19
The views expressed in this article are those of the writer and not necessarily those of Breaking Belize […]

Prime Minister pleads with public to adhere to emergency measures
Following the announcement of Belize’s fourth case of COVID-19, Prime Minister Dean Barrow released a […]

COVID-19’s 4th case did business at San Ignacio Town Council this week
The fourth case of COVID-19 has been confirmed. He is a fifty-five-year-old man employed by […]

Belize Covid-19 website down due to increased traffic; maintenance currently being undertaken
The government of Belize announced earlier that its COVID-19 website is currently experiencing technical problems. […]

Ministry of Human Development closes office in Cayo
The Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation advised the public that its […]

Belize’s borders closed to all
The Prime Minister of Belize has announced that the borders of Belize will be closed. […]

Commissioner of Police: 74 persons charged for breach of curfew regulations
The Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams informed today that 74 people countrywide were arrested and […]

Citizens can now apply for unemployment relief program
The Government of Belize announced the launch of the covid-19 eServices portal through which persons […]

Ministry of Health: 4th confirmed case of covid-19 is a San Ignacio resident
The enhanced surveillance system of the Ministry of Health has identified a fourth case of […]

Vybz Kartel loses murder appeal
Popular dancehall icon, Vybz Kartel, real name Adidja Palmer and known affectionately to his fans […]

Belize confirms 4th case of Covid-19
The Office of the Director of Health Services just confirmed that a 55 year old […]

Ismael Jacobs shot dead at home in Indian Village
Ismael Abel Jacobs, 27, was shot and killed at home last night sometime around 7:00 […]

Covid-19 unemployment relief program forms now available
Belizeans who lost their jobs and income due to the Covid-19 pandemic affecting the world […]

Blogs

Bring a Taste of Elvi’s Kitchen Home
Though closed during the pandemic, you can bring a taste of Elvi’s Kitchen home by making their famous Coconut Shrimp Curry! Elvi’s Kitchen has been amust-visit favorite and five-star restaurant on Ambergris Caye for over 40 years. Renowned for its inviting atmosphere, sand floor, and authentic menu, Elvi’s Kitchen decided to close its doors for the protection of its staff and customers. Thousands of Belizeans are now quarantined given the national state of emergency, which has also brought along it’s own stressors. Many at home are now turning to cooking not only for sustenance, but for comfort and entertainment too.

How Coronavirus has affected the Caribbean and Latin America
The coronavirus pandemic has had widespread effects on travel to many countries. If you had plans to visit Latin America or the Caribbean, should you reconsider? You may be surprised to learn that once the crisis is over, countries like Belize remain an excellent destination. The virus has been drastically striking Latin America. Most of the cases have occurred in Brazil, which has overcrowded cities and high rates of poverty. Following it are Ecuador, Chile, Peru, Panama, Argentina, and Mexico. Many of these countries are instituting curfews, quarantines, and other measures.

International Sources

How Will the Coronavirus End? - The Atlantic
hree months ago, no one knew that SARS-CoV-2 existed. Now the virus has spread to almost every country, infecting at least 446,000 people whom we know about, and many more whom we do not. It has crashed economies and broken health-care systems, filled hospitals and emptied public spaces. It has separated people from their workplaces and their friends. It has disrupted modern society on a scale that most living people have never witnessed. Soon, most everyone in the United States will know someone who has been infected. Like World War II or the 9/11 attacks, this pandemic has already imprinted itself upon the nation’s psyche.

Minnesota food blogger stuck abroad in Belize
About a year ago, Brent Timm quit his job in sales to sample the cuisine of all 195 countries around the globe. After eating his way through Europe and Africa and video blogging his foray on social media, the former Oakdale resident and part-time actor arrived in Belize in mid-February hoping to cross Central America off his gastronomic tour.

Videos

April 3, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Ambergris Caye’s quarantine rules differ from Central Government; Mayor asks residents to wait for 14-day clearance
In a statement issued via their Facebook Page, The San Pedro Town Council made the bold declaration that some of their rules for Ambergris Caye would over-ride the latest Belize Constitution (Emergency Powers) Regulations, 2020 in place due to COVID-19. On Tuesday, March 31st, following the announcement of a third coronavirus case, Prime Minister Dean Barrow declared a State of Emergency for the entire country of Belize. The PM gave directives to Governor General Sir Colville Young to sign and gazette Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 46 of 2020 on April 1ST.

Suspension of All Lotteries including Games of Chance and Government Lotteries
The Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce, as the Ministry responsible for Lotteries, informs the public that due to the state of emergency in place in response to COVID-19, all lotteries, including games of chance and Government Lotteries (Boledo, Jackpot and Ordinary), are suspended until further notice.

The COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program
The co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee, the Rt Hon. Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, agreed on March 16, 2020, to establish the Economic Oversight Team (EOT) comprising Dr. Carla Barnett and Mr. Christopher Coye, to, among other things, oversee the establishment and operationalization of the Unemployment Relief Program.

Ambergris Today

SPBZE Express Water Taxi Delivers Relief For Sister Islands
San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi made its way to both Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, today, Thursday, April 2, 2020, with a donation of over $30,000.00 in food items to assist during the lockdown due to the impact of the COVID-19 virus. The transport company says that it is proud to give back to the communities of both San Pedro Town and Caye Caulker Village. “It is a small gesture in such a big situation,” stated the company. “Our dedicated customers have stood the time with us over the last 11 years and during this time we’d like them to know we have them in our thoughts and prayers.

Various Belizean Sources

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID- 19: GOB Declaration of National State of Emergency
In accordance with the precautionary measures implemented by the Government of Belize to contain the spread of COVID-19, the public is hereby informed that the Ministry of Natural Resources will be closed to the public effective today, April 2, 2020, until further notice. The Ministry will continue to provide services to the public, where possible, via its website. The public is encouraged to utilize the online facility to submit applications, make payments and submit queries. To access the online facility, kindly visit https://naturalresources.gov.bz.

Caye Caulker Lobster Fest Committee cancels festivities for this year 2020
In light of the current situation our country is facing with Covid-19, Caye Caulker Lobster Fest is cancelled for this year. No one knows how long this will last and the community will slowly take its time to recover from all loses incurred. To those businesses who had already sponsored us please know it will be carried over to the next festival. Thank you for your continued support and we hope to once again bring life to our little island! Caye Caulker Lobster Fest Committee.

NOTICE FROM THE Social Security Board
Effective today, April 2, 2020 all Branch Offices countrywide will discontinue in-person services until further notice. Kindly access our services through the following: 1. Benefit Claims Submission via email claims@socialsecurity.org.bz 2. General Queries via email: info@socialsecurity.org.bz; or Facebook messenger: ssbbelize 3. Contact the Branch in your area via the numbers provided below for over the phone assistance.

A solo offering for Biix by the Maya Máasewal community of Cristo Rey (Corozal)
The prayers are done in Yucatec Maya language and Spanish . Our beautiful Maya Culture of Northern Belize .

SUPREME COURT OF BELIZE NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC GENERAL REGISTRY
IN LIGHT OF THE DEVELOPMENTS WITH REGARDS TO COVID•19, INCLUDING THE RECENT DECLARATION OF A STATE OF EMERGENCY. THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS HEREBY NOTIFIED OF THE FOLLOWING FOR THE PERIOD APRIL 02, 2020 TO APRIL 30, 2020. 1. OPENING HOURS • MAIN OFFICE 9;0D A.M. TO 2:00 P.M., MONDAY TO FRIDAY. 2. OPENING HOURS • CASHIER 9:00 A.M. TO 1.00 P.M. MONDAY TO FRIDAY. 3. CORRESPONDENCE CAN BE SENT BY EMAIL TO info@belizejudiciary.org. 4. DROP BOX FOR DOCUMENTS IS AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE MAIN OFFICE DURING OPENING HOURS. ANY QUERIMCONCERNS MAY BE ADDRESSED BY EMAIL TO, info@belizejudiciary.org OR BY CONTACTING US AT 227.7377 DURING THE ADJUSTED OPENING HOURS.

MINISTRY OF FINANCE PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT (COVID -19)
In accordance with the Government's Press Release on the 261 March, 2020, in which the Prime Minister declared a Nationwide State of Emergency for the entire country, the Ministry of Finance would like to announce that services will be provided as follows:- • Foreign Exchange Permit - Monday — Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. • l'rocessing of duty exemption will have a minimum time of two weeks from the date of receipt. • The public is encouraged to utilize a drop box placed on the first floor of the Sir Edney Cain Building for those wishing to drop off their mails. Those who require other services should forward their request via e-mail to covidamofgov.hz or call the number 822-3493. The Ministry apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Suspension of All Lotteries including Games of Chance and Government Lotteries
The Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce, as the Ministry responsible for Lotteries, informs the public that due to the state of emergency in place in response to COVID-19, all lotteries, including games of chance and Government Lotteries (Boledo, Jackpot and Ordinary), are suspended until further notice.

Employers Submission Request
An Economic Oversight Team was established on March 16, 2020 to oversee the establishment and operationalization of an Unemployment Relief Program. This program offers financial assistance to meet the needs of workers who have been terminated or laid off as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple verification levels will be applied to the application process to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability of the Unemployment Relief Program. In view of this, employers who have laid off employees as a result of COVID-19 are being asked to kindly complete the Excel spreadsheet available on the COVID-19 website https://covid19.bz/employers-submission-request/ as soon as possible and email the completed form to employers@covid19.bz.

Central Bank of Belize & Financial Intelligence Unit FRAUD ALERT – Counterfeit Belize Currency Notes
The Central Bank of Belize and the Financial Intelligence Unit issue this alert to inform the public of the circulation of counterfeit Belize currency notes. The public is urged to become familiar with the security features of the currency notes issued by the Central Bank of Belize. Recognizing the security features will protect the public from fraud committed using counterfeit Belize currency notes.

COVID-19 Update from the Office of Director of Health Services
This is the first infographic of what we intended to provide on a daily basis in terms of testing. The data provided is up until 4:00 p.m. yesterday but provides a quick snapshot in terms of where the tests are coming from including a total amount per district.

San Pedro Belize Express Donates Food Suppliesto Caye Caulker
Today was a very busy day for the Caye Caulker Village Council, firstly we want to extend our deepest gratitude to San Pedro Belize Express for their selfless donation of food supply. We will ensure that those most in need get some help. The Ministry of Health and Central Health Region representatives made it to Caye Caulker and the staff of Caye Caulker Health Center received training with the personal protective equipment and the representative commended the work and effort of the health team.

ATTENTION SAN PABLO Residents
On Friday, April 3rd, 1:30PM, Hope Haven volunteers will be across from the San Pablo Catholic Church, supplying water to those in need. Water is being donated by Kevin and Nova Parel from Casa Nova at Secret Beach. Up to 1 (one) 5-gallon container per family please, and as always, we ask 1 family representative to show up. Everyone is asked to practice social distancing, a safe 6 feet apart minimum.

Donations for San Pedro by the Muslim Community
We ask that those who are truly in need reach out for help. If you have means of securing food and supplies for yourself, share this information with someone else who may be in dire need.

The San Pedro Magistrate Court will be back in session starting Monday, April 6th from 9AM - 2PM
Cashier services will be available from 9AM - 1PM

BELIZE CONSTITUTION (EMERGENCY POWERS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS, 2020
Kindly click the link below to access Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 2020 which may be cited as the BELIZE CONSTITUTION (EMERGENCY POWERS) (AMENDMENT) REGULATIONS, 2020

Employers Submission Request
An Economic Oversight Team was established on March 16, 2020 to oversee the establishment and operationalization of an Unemployment Relief Program. This program offers financial assistance to meet the needs of workers who have been terminated or laid off as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple verification levels will be applied to the application process to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability of the Unemployment Relief Program.

A collection of press releases that are in effect
Note that additional measures are in effect for Ambergris Caye. Adhere to the San Pedro Town Council permitted and restricted businesses/activities, they override the national measures. The April 1st San Pedro Town Council press releases are provided in English and Spanish.

Unemployment Relief Application Form
Notice: The application for unemployment relief is now live. Please share it around. You can apply online.

Corozal Town Council Closed Down
The Corozal Town Council would like to give notice that as of today, April 2nd 2020, the council will be officially closed down to comply with the State of Emergency currently in effect in the country of Belize. The Corozal Town Council, however, advises that we will continue to provide the garbage collection service to the Community through our sanitation department as an essential service. The CTC would kindly like to request the assistance of The residents of Corozal Town with the proper bagging of garbage so as to aid our sanitation workers who will fervently continue being at your service. The CTC also requests the residents of Corozal to desist from burning garbage as this is in contravention with the Law.

Who can benefit from the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program?
The program offers financial relief to the following persons: 1. Employees and self-employed persons who have lost their jobs and income as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, particularly but not solely, the tourism sector will receive $150 every two weeks over a 12-week period. 2. Persons who would have been unemployed prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and are now experiencing even more difficult circumstances, will receive $100 every two weeks over a 12-week period. These persons will also be referred to the Ministry of Human Development for consideration for further assistance through the social programs operated by that ministry...

Cayo was empty today
Sad to say I never Thought I would live to see a lock down of my home town !Beautiful San Ignacio! On a Wednesday Morning!!

Siren sounds 3 Times to Announce Curfew in San Ignacio
SAN IGNACIO & SANTA ELENA TOWN COUNCIL NOTICE: PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT DUE TO THE FULL EFFECT OF CURFEW TONIGHT APRIL 2ND, 2020, THE SIREN AT OUR FIRE STATION WILL BE SOUNDING THREE (3) TIMES AT 7:45 PM . THIS WILL BE DONE EVERY NIGHT FOR THE DURATION OF THE CURFEW AS A WARNING TO THE PUBLIC TO MAKE SURE EVERYONE IS INSIDE THEIR HOMES!

Maya Máasewal men from the village of San Pablo and San Jose (Orange walk) preparing a traditional Maya altar for the Holy Ch'a Cháak

Channel 7

115 Tests, Still Only 3 Positive
Good evening and welcome to 7News - we are in day one of only the second National State Of Emergency in the country's history - and we'll tell you all about that tonight.   But, we start with an update on COVID 19.  There are still only 3 positive tests in Belize.  This graphic from the Ministry of Health shows that up to 4:00 pm yesterday, there were 103 tests performed, and 13 people are under investigation.  

Solitary Streets In State of Emergency
And that is why Belize is under a National State of Emergency and curfew tonight - to make sure we contain the COVID contagion by staying home and keeping social distance. And so, today, tens of thousands of Belizeans, workers, students and those hustling in the margins to survive, stayed home, and stayed safe. But, it is not a complete lockdown like we've seen in other countries. We're calling it a soft lockdown since many businesses were allowed to open, and regular folks were allowed to go about their business without much police interference. But, in Belize city, those numbers were few. Cherisse Halsall was on the street beat today:..

AG Says Shut 'Em Down
But, like we said, a variety of retail stores were still open.  And that included Mirab, which advertised its adjusted opening hours.  That drew fire on Facebook, from many who said the Department store was not an essential service.   And, tonight, the news is that the Belize Constitution Emergency Powers Regulations have been adjusted to say that - basically - only grocery stores and restaurants should be open, not hardware or general supplies stores. The Attorney Geenral gave the breakdown on today's "Ask The Experts" show:

SOE Means Moving With Purpose
And, so while hardware stores, now have to figure out how to switch up into delivery outlets, Belizeans, the general public, has to come to terms with the fact that most of the population has to stay at home for the next 30 days.   Yes, the curfew is only between 8:00 pm and 5:00 am, but when that is over, the regulations state that you have to move with a purpose.  The AG explained:

Out-District? Out of The Question!
And moving with purpose means finding what you need in your own zone, or, at least, your home district. Underscoring what the Commissioner of Police told us last night, under the state of emergency, there should be no inter-district travel, only if it is an emergency: "If you live in Belize City and you are going to Orange Walk to purchase something, it must be something that is an essential need, you must be attending a doctor..."

An Exercise In Common Sense
And, while the restrictions on movement can be interpreted as oppressive, especially for those who live in cramped urban settings, there is some relief tonight. The national oversight committee has made changes to the regulations again, to allow exercise in the outdoors, under certain provisions. The AG explained: "Exercising by jogging, running or walking only. Gym no open, I got a call this morning, so you open the gym? Gym is not open. ."

The Science Of The Soft Lockdown
And while that provision was relaxed, as you heard, others have been tightened. But, the National State of Emergency regulations are still for a kind of soft lockdown.   AG Peyrefitte agreed today: "Well the type of freedoms and exceptions we're making here, better we no have no lockdown, some people are saying that and that's not a horrible argument, that's a valid argument. ."

AG Passes On A Plenitude of Passes
And for those who are hoping a pass can save them from such a fate, today's bad news is that there aren't going to be many passes issued - and none right now.  The often pugnacious Peyrefitte explained: "There will be no passes issued for at the very least the first week of this curfew, no passes. So anybody who is out there between 8 PM and 5 AM will be arrested and charged."

Do Not Pass Go Without Mike P
And for those who think they can evade arrest with some authorisation form the employer of an essential service, Peyrefitte says that is not allowed; any pass - the those are issued - musty come from his hand: "If you have something in your hand and it's not signed by the Minister of National Security, you are not safe and you will be arrested and charged. ."

Water Taxi Gives Back To Island Communities
Belizeans all over the country have been hurting financially ever since the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the global economy. But, for those who earn their livelihood from tourism are the ones most devastated by the pandemic. San Pedro and Caye Caulker are among the country's premier tourism destinations, and so when all international travel was cut off, they were among the first to experience the crisis. Today, San Pedro Belize Express water ferry made a gesture of customer appreciation to the suddenly needy residents of both islands with a donation of basic food items that could become scarce due to the State of Emergency.

Sign Shop's Switch-Up A Sign Of The Times
Last week we showed you how a local rum factory single-handedly solved the country's hand sanitizer shortage. It's a trend we're noticing on small and large scales, Belizeans are combining their ingenuity and creativity in a united effort against the faceless silent enemy, COVID-19. And tonight manufacturer Karim Berges shows us two new products he's put on the market for medical practitioners and the public. Berges says he was inspired by the equipment of frontline workers featured on international news. Slingshot company on Baymen Avenue is normally busy branding every new building that goes up in the old capital or wrapping corporate vehicles, they've even created major signage for rock bands.

Police And The Sleeper Cell
And the Commissioner of police would probably want Slingshot to design him some kind of cell phone shield! For weeks he's been complaining that his officers are too caught in their screens and not the streets they should be watching. This came to a head after - at least the third murder happened on the same stretch of Orange Street that has seen three murders - and all that happened in the view of a fixed police patrol. But, instead, the cops were viewing their cell phones - and that's why the COPMOL has instituted a strict ceps phone usage policy for police. He told us about it yesterday:

Did ACP Alden Get A Special Break?
And speaking of cell phones, we asked the COMPOL if he had seen a cell phone video made by his Deputy COMPOL with a special guest appearing from his Assistant Commissioner Alden Dawson. Chester had to smile on that one: "Speaking of cellphones I'm sure you saw that very entertaining video from a narrator that sounds a lot like your deputy commissioner of police Mr. Edward Broaster. Was he talking about your commander of Eastern Division 1, ACP Alden Dawson?"

Haitian Killed In Ladyville, Property Dispute?
We may be in a national state of emergency brought on by COVID-19, but, that didn't stop a killer today. There was an early morning murder of a 57 year old in Ladyville. It happened in the La Milpa area. Cherisse Halsall headed to Ladyville to find out more about the murder of a Haitian who had built a life in Belize. It was 6 hours after the start of the national state of emergency when Haitian national Ramon Chesteral was murdered in the front yard of his newly built Ladyville home. His brother who has only been in Belize for two months and speaks no English discovered the body. The only man he could call was Charles Noel Ramon's best friend. Noel spoke to his this morning and told us that Ramon had wanted to tell him something but he never got to hear what it was.

25 Possible COVID Cases Under Investigation
At the top of the news, we had the most recent COVID numbers, with the total number of tests, and suspects cases. The new stats were recently posted.  Of that 115 screened, there are still only three positive tests, but we now know that there are 25 people under investigation, more than the 13 we told you about earlier.  

Bye Bye Boledo, Yu Numba Play!
Those three COVID-19 cases have triggered a soft national lockdown, which was so soft last night, that it still allowed boledo to be drawn.  31 played to the delight of many, but that's the last numbers joy they will have in a while.  That's because with an adjustment in the regulations for the state of emergency, lotteries and Games of chance have been suspended for the duration of the state of emergency.

AG Says Cops Should Have Arrested UDP Standard Bearer
No Boledo, and no exercise - at least up until earlier today when that was allowed. But, that exercise has to happen after 5:00 in the morning. But this morning it was not allowed and Dianne Finnegan went to walk at 4:15, which is when the police stopped her and sent her home. The Attorney General today said she should have been arrested:

All That Is Essential in April
And while the regulations have been adjusted to allow exercise after 5:00 AM, the regulations still remain super tight during the curfew. Basically, no one essential services or not will be allowed out during the curfew hours from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. Here are those essential services:..

News Switches To Curfew Standard Time
And the media is included in those essential services which have to find their way home before 8:00.  That's why tomorrow night, the news will be starting at 6:00, not at 6:30 as we have done for the last 25 years.  News Director Jules Vasquez explains:..  Clarification, we have gotten zero passes so far.

Channel 5

News Five Live, Now to Start at 6:00 p.m.
We start tonight’s newscast, with the following matter. At eight o’clock tonight, enforcement of the national shutdown begins in earnest. In the past days, we have been trying our best [...]

To Date, 3 Cases of COVID-19 in Belize
As the one-month national curfew goes into effect at eight o’clock tonight, the good news is that there are no new addition cases of COVID-19.  The most recent samples carried [...]

Minister of National Security Outlines State of Emergency’s Regulations
Attorney General and Minister of National Security, Michael Peyrefitte was the featured guest on the Ask the Expert webcast today.  The hour-long programme was to talk about the regulations included [...]

AG Shares Amendments to S.I. Before it is Signed Off by the GG
As the situation evolves, Minister Michael Peyrefitte also noted that there are changes to the Statutory Instrument made by the National Oversight Committee. He explained the sections of two of [...]

No Boledo or Sunday Lottery Draw for Now
The nightly Boledo and Sunday Lottery Draw are staples in Belizean culture, but along with the thirty-day national state of emergency comes a suspension of all those games of chance [...]

List of Essential Services and Establishments Approved for Operation under State of Emergency
Essential services include national security. border management and immigration, customs, cabinet and national assembly members, medical and auxiliary services, vet services, ambulance services, public utility workers, private security services, social [...]

No Passes for First Week of State of Emergency!
On Wednesday, essential services employers were invited to submit two names of workers to operate during curfew hours of eight at night to five in the morning.  Well, those passes [...]

Curfew Kicked in Tonight at Eight
With a countrywide state of emergency now in effect, it was anticipated that all major streets and thoroughfares would be deserted, leaving cities, towns and even villages virtually abandoned.  But [...]

Public Must Work with Police During State of Emergency
The provisions within the statutory instrument governing the national state of emergency are still unclear for some persons, particularly where it concerns their movement during non-curfew hours.  The primary responsibility [...]

Popular Haitian Cabbie is Murdered in Ladyville
All across the country, people are hunkering down to avert the spread of COVID-19. But in Ladyville, a criminal was on the loose. A Haitian cab driver was murdered and [...]

The Impact of COVID-19 on Corozal
Up north in Corozal Town, lines formed at supermarkets and banks as residents conducted last minute shopping, prior to the start of the curfew. But on Wednesday, a few miles [...]

What’s Up With the Corozal Subvention from G.O.B.?
The economic slowdown is not only affecting central government, but the nine municipalities in the country. While G.O.B. can access international funding, the councils require funding for their recurrent expenses. [...]

Are Municipal Councils Essential Services?
Earlier you heard that municipalities are facing uncertainty on government subventions. Streams of revenue from traffic and property taxes are drying up and collections have dipped considerably. Under the state [...]

Chinese Association Donates Five Thousand Face Masks
An initial donation of five thousand face masks was made by the Belize Chinese Association to the police department, the Ministry of Health, as well as the Karl Heusner Memorial [...]

One Thousand Additional Masks for Police
According to ComPol Chester Williams, an additional one thousand reusable masks are being acquired through the assistance of a private businessman.   Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police “The protection of [...]

San Pedro Belize Express Donates Over $30,000 in Supplies to Caye Caulker & San Pedro
A number of companies and organizations are stepping up and joining in efforts to assist persons who are being impacted in some way by COVID-19.  Today, San Pedro Belize Express [...]

Mask Drive for Frontline Workers
Belize High School in Belize City along with St. Ignatius High School in Cayo are conducting a mask drive. More than one hundred and fifty masks have been collected. The masks are being distributed to frontline workers such as healthcare workers and police officers in Cayo, Belize City, and Caye Caulker Village.

Amandala

Murder in Ladyville
There was a murder this morning in Ladyville, in the Milpa area. The victim has been identified as a Hatian national, Raymond Cherestal.

Fisher Folks having a tough time
Today, the Fisheries Department announced that its offices in Belize City and Punta Gorda will be closed and that fishing activities will not be permitted outside of the declared curfew hours. This means that fisher folks will only be allowed to carry out fishing activities within 5 am and 8 pm.

Breaking Belize News

Belize Chinese Association donates medical masks to frontline workers
Today, the Belize Chinese Association (BCA) donated a total of 3,000 medical masks to frontline […]

Commissioner of Police addresses fellow officers on State of Emergency
Commissioner of the Belize Police Department (BPD), Chester Williams, has sent a video message to all […]

UDP clarifies misinformation about Boots Martinez leadership application
Social media went abuzz earlier today when word circulated that Anthony “Boots” Martinez had applied […]

Murder reported in PG on first night of curfew lockdown
Almost an hour ago a man was mudered in Punta Gorda, Toledo. He has been identified […]

San Ignacio will remind public of curfew with sirens
Tonight the people of Belize will experience the first countrywide curfew in light of the […]

Persons unemployed before Covid-19 shutdown can also get unemployment benefits
Belmopan Area Representative, John Saldivar, today posted to social media an update of who can benefit […]

Travellers Liquors continues to make Sani-Bel hand sanitizer available during state of emergency
While companies that produce wines and spirits are allowed to open during the state of emergency, […]

Employers asked to submit information of employees laid off
An Economic Oversight Team was established on March 16, 2020, to oversee the establishment and […]

Central Bank of Belize & Financial Intelligence Unit issue fraud alert regarding counterfeit money
By BBN Staf: The Central Bank of Belize and the Financial Intelligence Unit issued an alert to inform […]

Michael Peyrefitte: ‘Easter is canceled’ as movement is limited
Minister of National Security Michael Peyrefitte has apparently made it official: Easter is cancelled. Yes, […]

“Don’t blame me for no Boledo”: Attorney General
Attorney General and Minister of National Security Michael Peyrefitte says he cannot help anyone who […]

Belize Electricity Limited informs of new office hours
Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) informed customers today that due to the Covid-19 threat, their offices […]

Over 1 million Covid-19 infections worldwide
As of today, over 1 million people worldwide have been infected with the novel coronavirus […]

Government informs suspension of ALL lotteries including games of chance and government lotteries
The Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce, as the Ministry responsible for […]

Significant progress made toward COVID-19 vaccine
The race is on to find a vaccine for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), which has […]

Ministry of Natural Resources closes offices as precautionary measure
In accordance with the precautionary measures implemented by the Government of Belize to contain the […]

Minister of Health: 12 additional tests returned negative
Minister of Health, Pablo Marin informed last night that the Central Medical laboratory performed 12 […]

Ladyville man shot and killed in early morning incident
Ladyville resident Raymond Cherestal, 53, was shot and killed sometime around 6:30 a.m. this morning […]

Home destroyed by fire in Dangriga
A home was destroyed by fire early this morning in Dangriga while another was partially […]

Boledo sale to be suspended says ComPol
Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, in an appearance on KREM’s Wake Up Belize morning show, […]

Police investigating Ladyville shooting
Police are currently on the scene in the Milpa area of Ladyvillle investigating a reported […]

Blogs

Helping Belize Hotels from Afar
Belize’s tourism sector, along with the wider Caribbean region, has been hit hard financially as the novel coronavirus sweeps across the globe. In particular, properties in the hotel industry has had to lay off or furlough staff, or simply close their doors—potentially for good. If you’ve had a new destination or tried-and-true choice on your travel list, you can help hotels make it through this pandemic without leaving the comfort of home.

International Sources

(Reuters) - The Chinese city of Shenzhen has banned the eating of dogs and cats as part of a wider clampdown on the wildlife trade since the emergence of the new coronavirus. en bans the eating of cats and dogs after coronavirus
Scientists suspect the coronavirus passed to humans from animals. Some of the earliest infections were found in people who had exposure to a wildlife market in the central city of Wuhan, where bats, snakes, civets and other animals were sold. “Dogs and cats as pets have established a much closer relationship with humans than all other animals, and banning the consumption of dogs and cats and other pets is a common practice in developed countries and in Hong Kong and Taiwan,” the city government said in an order posted on Wednesday.

CSU Predicts Busier-Than-Average Atlantic Hurricane Season in 2020
The upcoming hurricane season is likely to be more active than usual, according to the April outlook from a team at Colorado State University that has been issuing seasonal hurricane predictions for decades. In its outlook issued Thursday, the CSU group is calling for a total of 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, compared to the long-term average (1981-2010) of 12.1 named storms, 6.4 hurricanes, and 2.7 major hurricanes. The group is also projecting an accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) index of 150, compared to the long-term average of 106. This is only the fifth time in the 26-year history of CSU’s April forecasts that the team has called for at least 16 named storms. Of those four other years, all but one ended up producing at least 14 named storms.

When Can I Start Planning a Trip?
Most of us are staying at home. It might be because we’re under a government lockdown, quarantined because we are symptomatic, self-isolating after potential exposure, or just doing everything we can to #FlattenTheCurve. If you’re not at home, it’s most likely because you’re an essential worker keeping our society going as much as possible during the COVID crisis—thank you. While the only safe places to travel to right now are within your own home, balcony, and backyard, this is the perfect time for travel dreaming and planning. Scroll through Instagram (search for #TravelSomeday), get trip ideas, read inspiring travel stories, and maybe take a virtual trip to your dream destination. Here’s what you need to keep in mind for post-coronavirus travel.

Videos

April 2, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

Island authorities make arrangements to return mainland residents back home
A large number of people confined to the island since March 23rd following the first confirmed COVID-19 (Coronavirus) case lined up by The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) on Barrier Reef Drive on Wednesday, April 1st. This was an attempt to join a list of persons who will be transported to the mainland on Saturday, April 4th. Many of the applicants were trapped on the island when a state of emergency was declared over a week ago, and no one was allowed to leave.

Three island residents charged for breaching quarantine curfew
As the entire nation heads into a state of emergency for 30 days, with a strict curfew to further avoid any possible spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), San Pedro Town continues on a mandatory quarantine, which demands islanders to stay at home, particularly after dark. The penalty for breaching this order of the quarantine saw three islanders charged with ‘Breach of Curfew Conditions’ after their children were out after 6PM. They were each fined $500 plus $5 in court costs, and were ordered to pay before March 31, 2021, or face one month’s imprisonment.

BTB offers Hoteliers COVID19 Tax Relief for the month of March
• Hoteliers are being asked to submit their Monthly Accommodation Tax Returns (MATRs) and Guest Registration Forms (GRFs) for March via the BTB Online Portal. • The BTB will automatically apply 100% tax credit for the total taxes assessed for the month of March, essentially resulting in Nil Accommodation Tax Due.

Returning to Mainland Homes from San Pedro
People are lining up at the San Pedro Town Council as they attempt to return to their communities of origin on the mainland. Persons needing to leave the island are asked to provide the San Pedro Town Council with their information. After reviewed you will be contacted and advised about a vessel that is expected to be transporting people to the mainland on Saturday, April 4th.

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19: G.O.B. Declaration of National State of Emergency
In conformity with the national effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and guided by the declared National State of Emergency and the Ministry of Health advisories, the public is hereby informed that the Fisheries Department’s Offices (Belize City and Punta Gorda) will be closed to the public effective April 02, 2020 until further notice. Fishermen are informed that fishing activities will be permitted outside of the declared curfew hours (8:00 PM to 5:00 AM). The public is also informed that the marine reserves will be closed to visitation until further notice. The public is encouraged to submit their queries online via our email addresses for the following services:

Hope Haven and Casa Nova Cabañas team up to supply San Pedro Town residents with potable water
The pandemic COVID-19 (Coronavirus) continues to affect islanders who are now unemployed and without essentials, such as water. Since Saturday, March 28th, over 300 gallons of potable water have been distributed to residents of San Pedro Town. The first beneficiaries were some of the residents from the San Mateo Area, and since then, the project has visited other areas of the island to supply the vital liquid. The project is possible thanks to Hope Haven (San Pedro Town’s Children Home), who provided Rotoplas tanks that were filled with water by Casa Nova Cabañas, a Bed & Breakfast in the Secret Beach area of northern Ambergris Caye.

Ambergris Today

PIC OF THE WEEK: Beautiful Gathering Of Spotted Eagle Rays On Ambergris Caye
Did you know a group of rays is called a 'fever'? Well, here is a large gathering of Spotted Eagle Rays near docks on Ambergris Caye. Now that the waterways around San Pedro are very quiet, the sea creatures of the coral reef are venturing closer to the shores and around the many docks. Here is a picture which Trent Turley took and shares with us. WOW!

San Pedro Town Council Says Restrictions For Ambergris Caye Remain The Same
The San Pedro Town Council's Press Release states that the regulations that were made on its previous Press Release from March 25, 2020 by Mayor Daniel Guerrero, the San Pedro Town Council, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. and the San Pedro’s EOC committee on the advice from the Ministry of Health, in order to accommodate the needs of the residents STILL REMAIN IN ORDER. These are in addition to the regulations set by the Goverment of Belize for the State of Emergency for the Enitre Country.

Various Belizean Sources

BELIZE CONSTITUTION (EMERGENCY POWERS) REGULATIONS, 2020

ENTIRE COUNTRY UNDER STATE OF EMERGENCY
On Tuesday March 31st, 2020, the Prime Minister of Belize, Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition held a press conference on update of the COVID-19 status of Belize and its measurements to ensure the safety of all the citizens of the country. In the press conference, the Prime Minister, announced a State of Emergency for the entire country; however, Ambergris Caye is in its own State of Emergency with additional regulations from that of the entire country’s one. The following regulations will be enforced according to the Country’s State of Emergency: Country State of Emergency goes into effect Thursday at 12:00 a.m. A curfew will be implemented from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Everything MUST be closed. No one will be allowed to be on the streets. No loitering, wandering, assembling or moving at any public place or any public roads...

The 1918 Spanish Influenza in British Honduras
Take note of the report from Belize which states that the men who were not showing symptoms were not quarantined and therefore passed it onto their families. THIS is exactly why individuals coming into the country were asked to self isolate! Select documents from the Minute Paper Collection (Colonial Secretary Office Files) which gives insight into the how the 1918 Influenza was imported into the country, its symptoms, measures taken by the colonial government and statistics from the districts.

TROPIC AIR AMENDS CARGO SCHEDULE. PASSENGER SERVICES TO BE TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED DUE TO STATE OF EMERGENCY
Due to the National State of Emergency brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, effective tomorrow, April 2, Tropic Air will be temporarily suspending all passenger flights. The last flights are currently scheduled for today, Wednesday, April 1. We anticipate this suspension to last for a period of 30 days. Cargo flights will continue on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between Belize City Municipal, San Pedro, Caye Caulker and Corozal only. The operational days and hours for the stations to receive and distribute cargo for these flights is shared below. Cargo flights to/from Orange Walk, Belmopan, San Ignacio, Dangriga, Punta Gorda, and Placencia are suspended until further notice.

NOTICE TO PUBLIC OFFICERS: Teletherapy Service
The COVID-19 pandemic may begin to affect our collective welfare triggering an increase in work-related stress, personal lives, anxiety/nervousness, financial management and depression. To assist public officers during this time, the Ministry of Public Service is offering teletherapy through its Employee Assistance Program.

Procedure to Manage Respiratory Illnesses in the Belize District
Effective immediately, ALL patients with respiratory illnesses such as cough, cold, fever, sneezing body aches and pains should no longer go into their regular health facility. The procedures are as follows: 1. Please call ahead to your respective clinic to discuss your case with the triage nurse. 2. Please inform the doctor and nurse of the following: a. Have you traveled outside of Belize in the last 30 days? b. Have you been in contact with someone who traveled outside Belize in the last 30 days?

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19 from the Fisheries Department

Notice from The Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry
The Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry would like to notify the public that our western Union agent locations will remain open with certain restrictions. We also want our customers to know that you can use Direct to Bank service to SEND money directly to a bank account and our Air App service to make your transaction faster and easier. For more information call us at 223-5080, 223-5330 or WhatsApp 614-3138. Western Union hours & locations.

COVID-19 - SALE OF MEDICATIONS
We had previously noted that there are no specific medications for COVID-19, that recommendation still stands! We are also getting reports on persons now procuring from certain pharmacies, two medications: hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin; both medications CAN AND SHOULD ONLY BE SOLD with a prescription. Both medications when used inadequately can have serious side effects so they should not be used by the population UNLESS approved and authorized by your treating doctor.

Precautionary Measures for COVID-19 from the Office of the Supervisor of Insurance & Private Pensions
In conformity with national efforts to contain the COVID 19 pandemic and guided by the declared National State of Emergency and the Ministry of Health advisories, the General Public is hereby informed that the Office of the Supervisor of Insurance and Private Pension (OSIPP) will be closed as of 2nd April 2020 until further notice. OSIPP will continue to provide services to the General Public, where possible, via online correspondence.

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19 from the Fisheries Department
In conformity with the national effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and guided by the declared National State of Emergency and the Ministry of Health advisories, the public is hereby informed that the Fisheries Department's Offices (Belize City and Punta Gorda) will be closed to the public effective April 02, 2020 until further notice. Fishermen are informed that fishing activities will be permitted outside of the declared curfew hours (8:00 PM to 5:00 AM). The public is also informed that the marine reserves will be closed to visitation until further notice.

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19 from the Department of the Environment
Recognizing that some persons carrying the COVID-19 virus may not be presenting symptoms, the Department of the Environment (DOE) is taking the following preventative measures to protect its personnel and the community from getting and fostering the accelerated spreading of COVID-19. While basing its response in line with the Declaration of National State of Emergency and Ministry of Health advisories, the DOE is taking preventative steps to limit exposure to its staff while keeping continued services to the public.

UK: Foreign travel advicefor Belize
As countries respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel. Any country or area may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, you are strongly advised to return now, where and while there are still commercial routes available. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.

The Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development hereby provides contact information for Labour Technical Officers and Frequently Asked Questions
Kindly click the link below for access to the Statutory Instrument and Labour Act referenced in the FAQ. https://bit.ly/2URNRzz

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19 – Notice to Customers from the Forestry Department
The Forest Department joins the country of Belize in monitoring the evolving situation as it relates to the Corona (COVID 19) Pandemic. In response to the declaration of the National State of Emergency and the advisories of the Ministry of Health, the Forest Department has activated its response plan which focuses on safeguarding the health and wellbeing of its staff, their families and the public while remaining operational remotely. The Forest Department offices countrywide will be closed to the public but will continue to provide online services only, effective April 2 2020 (until further notice) Forest Department has put in place the following measures to be implemented with immediate effect.

Fishing activities are still PROHIBITED in Ambergris Caye
Violators will be arrested as mentioned in our Press Release from March 25, 2020 (see attached). Please adhere to these measurements as it is implemented for the safety of all residents.

Registration for "Stranded" Visitors to San Pedro to Return Home
Persons that were conducting business or visiting San Pedro Town and were stranded on the island after the lockdown was announced, can register at the office of the San Pedro Town Council to make arrangements for your return home. Thursday and Friday only. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. *Must bring a form of Identification.

Covid-19 cases in Belize remain at 3 out of 115 tests
Have a blessed evening my fellow Belizeans, informing you all that our Central Medical Laboratory performed 12 tests today and all came out negative to COVID-19, a total of 115 tests have been done and we remain with 3 COVID-19 positive cases. As posted on our Ministry of Health Facebook Page, we have the PPEs and masks required for our staff and at the moment we are procuring more.

Passes for Operation during COVID-19 State of Emergency Curfew Hours
Beginning April 2nd, 2020, the Government of Belize will implement a nationwide state of emergency which will restrict the movement of essential workers within 8:00 p.m. to 4:59 a.m. Therefore, authorized essential workers. as outlined in Schedule 1 of SI No. 46 of 2020, who are required to work and move without restrictions during the curfew hours will be allowed to move freely at any place or any time while observing social distancing protocols, with a pass authorized and signed by the Minister of National Security.

Update re: immigration stamps/extensions
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and Immigration hereby notifies the public, and especially visitors holding temporary immigration status through visitors' extensions and permits, that the issuance of extensions is suspended until further notice due to the current restrictions on movement as a result of COVID- 19. Persons are reminded that this measure is being taken, not as a write-off or forgiveness of required fees, but to assist in ensuring the safety of immigration officers as well as visitors, while also encouraging observance of the restrictions of the state of emergency.

Public Transportation Bus Schedule for the Country of Belize effective 2nd April, 2020

The COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program
The co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee, the Rt Hon. Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition, agreed on March 16, 2020, to establish the Economic Oversight Team (EOT) comprising Dr. Carla Barnett and Mr. Christopher Coye, to, among other things, oversee the establishment and operationalization of the Unemployment Relief Program. The program will offer financial assistance to meet the needs of workers who, having been terminated or laid off, cannot earn all of their work income and are not eligible for another financial assistance program.

Precautionary Measures for Preventing and Slowing the Transmission of COVID-19
Recognizing that some persons carrying the COVID-19 virus may not be presenting symptoms, the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development is taking the following preventative measures to protect its personnel and the community from getting and fostering the accelerated spreading of COVID-19. While basing its response in line with the Declaration of National State of Emergency and Ministry of Health advisories, the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development is taking preventative steps to limit exposure to its staff while keeping continued services to the public.

Notice from Atlantic Bank
Dear Valued Customers, In light of Covid-19 and the country's nationwide State of Emergency we would like to assure our customers that we will continue to provide essential banking services. With ensuring the health and safety of our customers, staff and communities we have adjusted our opening hours, starting on Thursday April 2nd, 2020: • All branches except our Ladyville branch will be opened from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. • Ladyville branch will be opened from 9:00 AM — 12:00 PM. • Drive thrus will be opened from 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. • All branches and drive thrus will be closed on Saturdays.

Corozal Revenue Dept Notice
THE COROZAL TOWN COUNCIL'S REVENUE DEPARTMENT WILL NO LONGER HAVE THEIR DOORS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BUT WILL BE AVAILABLE VIA ONLINE. ONLINE WORKING POLICY 1. The Corozal Town Council will be accepting online payments for Property Tax, Trade License, Commercial Garbage, Banners and Billboards, Market Rental and Cemetery Fees. Banking information is as follows: 2. Payment Slips must be sent to the Following Contact Information: Email Address: revenue.czltc.bzPgmail.com — Eleazar N. Tobar 3. Receipts will be forwarded after Payment slips are received. 4. This Contact will also be available for any queries or concerns regarding Property Tax, Trade License, Commercial Garbage, Banners and Billboards, Market Rental and Cem-etery Fees.

BEL Office Opening Hours Effective April 1, 2020

The National Institute of Culture and History suspends access and services to the General Public
The National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) in recognition of the evolving situation relating to the Corona (COVID-19) Pandemic, the recent declaration of the National State of Emergency, and the advisories of the Ministry of Health, has activated its response plan which focuses on safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the Belizean public, our staff, and their families.

THE DAY SAN IGNACIO AND SANTA ELENA STOOD STILL. April 1st, 2020
Unbelievable, but true. - by Ripley. I have locked myself for several days now.- WHY ? - for my good and that of my beloved Wife, my Family, my Friends and my Country. We are experiencing what we never imagine would ever happen. Every thing is standing STILL. As I have stated previously, our traditional way of WORSHIPING has been abruptly STOPPED. Our very freedoms as citizens, have been curtailed under threats of STATE punishment, for our own good. I decided this afternoon to go down to see my TWIN Towns, as I have known it for some 80 years. WOW, Dead as a cemetery can be. - Columbus Park not a soul.

San Pedro Tourist Guide Association IMPORTANT NOTICE
To all tour guides, Please be patient and wait for the financial assistance process to go through. On Friday April 3rd, 2020 the form will be available on the SSB website. This form can be filled in online. If you don't have online access you can pick up the applications at the SSB office Friday afternoon. The completed form will then be vetted. This takes about a week. Your financial assistance will be deposited into your bank account. If you don't have account then you can pick it up at the treasury department.

Home care for people with suspicion or confirmation of COVID-19
Take care of yourself and your family. For the sick people 1.- If you have a fever and cough wash your hands with water and soap or alcohol based soap. 2.- Stay home, don't go to work, school or public spaces. Rest, drink lots of liquids and eat healthy foods. 3.- Stay in a separate room from your family members, but if this is not possible, use a mouths cover and keep a distance of approximately 1 meter from other people. Keep the room well ventilated and use a private bathroom if possible...

NOTICE: Precautionary Measures to Slow the Transmission of COVID-19 | Statistical Institute of Belize
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) advises its clients, stakeholders, and the general public that effective Thursday, April 2nd, 2020, its offices will not be open to the public. This is being done as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of our staff and valued clients. In keeping with social distancing requirements, data collection exercises that involve face-to-face interviews are temporarily suspended until it is deemed safe to resume such activities. Nonetheless, the work of the SIB will carry on, with staff working from home until further notice.

Channel 7

Regulations Released For National State Of Emergency
Belize goes into a 30 day nation-wide state of emergency at midnight tonight - and for a very large part of the population that means one month of lockdown. The State of Emergency and curfew has been declared to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The Proclamation Declaring a Sate of Public Emergency has been signed by the Governor General, and he also signed the regulations which were circulated this evening. Here - in a nutshell is what they say. First off, there's a curfew from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am daily. And while there is no curfew during the day, you can only move for the following reasons:

State of Emergency Means No Leisure Movement
And cooperating means not engaging in any recreational or leisure movement: whether it's taking a walk, or going to a friend's house. Commissioner Williams says it starts with no inter district travel: Jules Vasquez: "How will you all treat inter-district travel as the Easter holiday approach?"

Will Police Play By The Rules
Now, as we said, police are given broad powers during this time. But, it's not exactly like the Southside state of emergency where you can be locked up for weeks before seeing a judge. The enemy this time isn't the criminal element; it's a virus and Commissioner Williams outlined the rules of engagement for police:

Attorney Saldivar Got Bail For a Firearm Offence?
Last night, we told you about the latest developments in the police detention of attorney Arthur Saldivar. He's already facing a criminal charge for allegedly spreading fake news, and tonight, he out on bail for firearms charges because according to police, they found unlicensed guns, ammunition and a bulletproof vest at his family home in Camalote Village.

Slipping In Through The Sarstoon?
Belize's borders are all closed as part of the national effort to minimise the exposure of citizens to the coronavirus. But, that didn't stop a vessel with 2 Guatemalans and a Belizean National from trying to enter the country illegally through the Sarstoon River today. We are reliably informed that the Belize Coast Guard was contacted this afternoon by BDF soldiers who are stationed the Sarstoon Forward Operating Base. Those soldiers reported that an unknown vessel was heading in the direction of the Coast Guard's Barranco patrol. The BDF intercepted the vessel and escorted it and those on board to the Coast Guard.

A Portal For Paying Tax
Submissions for accommodation tax returns should be made via the BTB's online portal. Use of the portal is encouraged during this time of social distancing. And in more of our conversation with Tejada, he told us that the BTB is trying to reach a digital age in which it will be relatively quick and easy to know hotel occupancy levels and forthcoming hotel taxes. Ted Tejada - President, Belize Hotel Association: "The portal is something that each hotel has to report all their hotel guests checking into the hotels on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis..."

The Hospitality Census
One giant leap toward that digital age may have come through the census carried out by the BTB earlier this month. It yielded some interesting results and Tejada told us that the overarching desire of all hoteliers at this time was to support as much of their staff as possible. Ted Tejada - President, Belize Hotel Association: "The Belize hotel association ended up calling about 900 hotels out of 900 we got responses from 70% of the hotels. At that point in time, we found out that in terms of a global the way the standard is for every room that a hotel has they normally employ one employee. So we know that the country of Belize has a little bit over 9000 rooms available every single day..."

What Was Pre-Curfew Shopping Rush Like?
Have you done your state of Emergency shopping? Today was the last day to move freely without a curfew hanging over your head. Now, don't get it wrong, grocery stores will be open during the state of emergency, butidle shopping around will not be encouraged. And while empty store shelves and toilet paper shortages have become the norm in international news clips, you might be wondering how the COVID-19 crisis will affect your local grocer.

Ask the Experts About Social Security
Ask The Experts, it's a webcast hosted by the Government Press Office to provide accurate information about Belize's national COVID-19 response. In the last 3 weeks, this Facebook broadcast has become one of the Government's main communication tools. Today's featured experts were representatives of the Social Security Board and the Labour Department, and Belizeans got to ask them about what to expect when it comes to the sudden unemployment of thousands of Belizeans.

How To Get Those COVID Benefits
Social Security is also providing the public with 2 options to make claims for their benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of them is electronic, and the other is the old analog system that will be a bit challenging, due to health risks to social security employees. Nisbet-Cansino discussed both options, and she also shared why SSB is hoping that most of your benefits claims will arrive via email:

What About Your COVID Sickness Benefit?
The SSB representative also outlined what steps you would have to take at Social Security if you end up sick with the coronavirus and you were one of those employees who recently lost their job. Here's what she had to say about the safety net for those persons: "So the Prime Minister of Belize signed a statutory instrument number 43 of 2020 on Friday and what statutory instrument does is gives us the legal authority to waive the criteria of being an employed person. We're paying sickness benefits should you be diagnosed with COVID-19 and so, if you're not aware, to qualify for any short term benefit at social security, one of the requirements is that you are uninsurable employment, which means that to qualify for short term benefit for social security, you have to be employed at the time of the claim..."

Cooking on A COVID Budget, Finny-Style
Tonight, COVID - 19 has brought the Belizean economy to its knees, thousands of tourism workers across the country have lost their jobs, and tonight thousands more are in limbo, because the state of emergency has forced their place of employment to close, possibly for a month. So, a whole cross section of the society is facing very hard times. And so we've been prospecting out there for recipes on how to help folks prepare meals on a tight budget.

Making Meals For The Stranded
And while Finnegan showed you how to stretch your corned beef, one San Pedro woman is stretching resources for all those people trapped on the island town. Maresha Reid, Chef and restaurateur, is putting her talents to use by organizing a COVID-time feeding program for those trapped on the island without any cooking facilities.

Masking Port Loyola
And it seems that in crisis, philanthropy abounds. Our next story is about Mayra Munoz, a Port Loyola seamstress filling a vital need in her community. Mayra had been commissioned to make some masks for UDP Port Loyola standard...

City Council Get Pay Cut, Half-Gone!
Belize City Council employees got dealt a blow today. A letter from their city administrator dated today says, quote, "the Council is compelled to pay salaries at reduced rates for the April 1 st - April 15 th pay period. We have determined that it is currently financially feasible to pay all employees at half-salary during the State of Emergency. Note that these salary reductions are being applied across the board and for all pay scales.

Tutorial On how To Get COVID Assistance
You've been hearing about the COVID-19 financial relief that the government will be providing to the unemployed and recently unemployed. The application form for these funds will be online by April 3, 2020 and a public announcement will be made once the form goes live. A press release tonight says that once applications are received, the verification and approval process will immediately begin; Verification is being automated so it should be a quick process and Relief payments should commence in the week of April 6, 2020

What Happens to An Employment Contract in A State of Emergency?
We turn now to a few of the labor concerns that Belizeans raised with the Ask the Experts panel this evening during the webcast. One viewer asked the labor commissioner about the contractual obligations that employers have to their staff during the state of emergency. Here's how she answered that one:

What Will Employees Get?
Another Belizean asked the Labor Commissioner about an employee's financial expectations should be if their employer decides to close down business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What About Those On The Frontline?
And finally, from today's webcast, we have the response that the Labor Commissioner gave to a question about the possibility that the frontline workers - such as the police and the medical professionals - could get sick with the coronavirus while providing essential services.

Tropic Air, More Changes
Last week, we told you how Tropic Air had scaled back a significant portion of its operation to cope with loss in business that has accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic. Well, the local air carrier has downsized a bit more for tomorrow's start of the state of emergency and curfew. The company says that effective April 2nd, 2020, they will be temporarily suspending all passenger flights. The last flights were scheduled for today, and Tropic Air is anticipating that tomorrow's suspension to last for 30 days.

Fisheries Staying Afloat
The Fisheries Department is reporting tonight they are taking a few steps to remain operational during the pandemic and the State of Emergency. They say that in conformity with the national effort to contain the spread of the virus, the Fisheries Department offices in Belize City and Punta Gorda will be closed to the public starting tomorrow, until further notice. Also, all marine reserves under their care will be close to visitation until further notice.

The Regulations, Again
And, so the state of emergency goes into effect tonight at midnight. Here again are the limitations on movement and services that can be offered: Michael Peyrefitte, Attorney General: "During the hours of 8pm and 5am the next day, everything will be closed with a few exceptions: People will not be allowed to wonder on the streets or be on the streets except a few designated people. During the day hours certain businesses will be open, certain businesses will not be open. If you are going to be moving during the state of emergency, you have to be moving with a purpose..."

Channel 5

National State of Emergency is Just a Few Hours Away
It has been thirty-nine years since the last state of emergency of this kind was imposed, but at midnight, a national shutdown will kick in across the country placing restrictions [...]

Essential Workers, with Limitations, Allowed Movement During State of Emergency
The state of emergency includes a strict curfew from eight p.m. until five a.m.  During these hours, only some essential workers will be allowed to be out, but their movement [...]

Chester Williams: No More Warnings, Persons Now Being Charged for Not Adhering to Laws
As you know, a number of persons are already facing charges for not observing social distancing as is required at this time to contain the spread of COVID-19.   To ensure [...]

Returning Belizeans Up North Are Quarantined at a Hotel in Corozal Town
Even though all entry points have been closed, Belizeans cannot be left stateless and are allowed to re-enter the country.  But because persons returning from countries where the COVID-19 is [...]

ComPol Says Police Need to Know Who is in Quarantine
As you have seen, the B.D.F. is on guard at a hotel up north where a number of persons are on mandatory quarantine. This morning, the commissioner said the police [...]

MOH Threatens Pharmacies Selling 2 Medications
Today, the Director of Health Services came down hard on any pharmacy that is selling two medications: hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin. It is reported that a number of persons have been [...]

G.O.B. Cuts Back on Fuel Allocations to Designated Ministries
As part of measures to contain spending in the public sector, the government is cutting fuel allocations for some ministries. The cutback represents a twenty-five percent reduction in allocations to [...]

Make Your S.S.B. Submissions Online!
The Social Security Board was a representative on today’s ‘Ask the Experts’ live webcast. General Manager of Corporate and Customer Relations Chandra Cansino spoke about social security’s arrangements for the [...]

Sick Benefit Claims Submission Timeline Extended!
And for those who may get sick and want to submit their paperwork – well, that those persons don’t have to hurry to do so. Cansino says that they have [...]

Arthur Saldivar Criminally Charged for Firearm/Ammo Offences
Attorney Arthur Saldivar was released from detention today after he secured bail at the Magistrate Court. Saldivar is facing a slew of firearm and ammunition offenses following a police search [...]

Saldivar Claims to Be a Political Target
Attorney Arthur Saldivar believes he is being targeted. The usually outspoken lawyer was first arrested on Saturday and charged with ‘spreading false news’ and on Monday he was arrested for [...]

Saldivar Granted $20K Bail
In most cases, persons charged for firearm and ammunition offenses are automatically remanded to the Belize Central Prison. That’s because the Firearms Act makes the offense non-bailable. Saldivar’s attorney, Richard “Dickie’ [...]

Arthur Saldivar Charged with ‘Being in Possession of an Unregistered Bulletproof Vest’
Among the items found at Arthur Saldivar’s family residence in Camalote Village was a bulletproof vest.  For this, he was charged with being in possession of an unregistered bulletproof vest.  [...]

Rafael Sansores is Accidentally Shot & Killed with Pellet Gun
Police are investigating the shooting death of a resident of the Chula Vista area of Corozal Town. Rafael Sansores was at a close friend’s house in the White Cocal area [...]

Enough Foreign Exchange in the Local Market, Says PM Barrow
Supermarkets and select grocery stores will be allowed to remain open during the next thirty days of a national state of emergency.  On a needs only basis, persons will be [...]

What About Job Loss During State of Emergency?
During the national shutdown there are going to be several other businesses in various sectors that will be ceasing their operations, forcing employees to go jobless during the thirty-day interim.  [...]

B.T.B. Offers Tax Break to Hotels
With the tourism industry at a virtual standstill due to COVID19, the Belize Tourism Board is offering a tax break to hotels across the country.  Hoteliers are to first submit [...]

S.S.B. on Employers’ Contribution Payments
At the top of the newscast, Chandra Cansino of the Social Security Board spoke on ways to submit claims and the extension of submission timelines for sickness benefits. Another matter [...]

What About the Contributory Pensions?
And the Social Security Board says that they haven’t forgotten the contributory pensions. Chandra Cansino says that their pension was deposited today, a week before it’s due. But that is [...]

Domestic Violence Expected to Spike During State of Emergency
Beginning Thursday morning, all persons who are considered to be part of the essential services are required to carry a pass, including social workers.  The provision of social services, according [...]

Labour Commissioner Fields Questions on Labour and COVID-19
Labour commissioner Ann Marie Thompson was another guest on the Ask the Experts live show today.  A number of questions submitted by online users were about working during the state [...]

More Questions for the Labour Commissioner
Other questions raised during the online session focused on the enforcement of the labour laws during the State of Emergency. The online viewers were also concerned about those front-line workers [...]

Caribbean Tires Donates 100+ Cases of Hand Sanitizer
One local company has been working to keep the COVID-19 at bay while spreading some goodwill. Caribbean Tires is giving away over one hundred cases of hand sanitizers to frontline [...]

Attorney General on Media and Essential Service
This is our last newscast prior to the start of the national shutdown. Now, the media is considered essential services, but there are still limitations. So in the months ahead, [...]

LOVE FM

Businesses adjust to State of Emergency
When it comes to the nitty-gritty of the businesses that will be allowed to open and the restrictions they will have to be abiding by, it is a very wide area to cover. We broke it down as best as we could, starting with how the Attorney General explained the provision of fuels and the time restrictions.

Attorney Arthur Saldivar escapes remand for firearm charges
Since the weekend we have been reporting on Attorney Arthur Saldivar and the trouble he has found himself in with the law. When we spoke with Police Commissioner yesterday, he went into detail explaining the circumstances of Saldivar’s arrest and the charges laid against him.

Attorney General outlines the final regulations and how they apply
Under the state of emergency which activates at midnight, the Attorney General noted that while allowances will be made, they will be very limited. Police officers as confirmed by the Police Commissioner yesterday will be out in full force monitoring the movements of people and making arrests where necessary.

Police Commissioner denies rumors of a 12-hour system in the department
Reports have been circulating that with the State of Emergency, the Police Commissioner would revert to 12-hour shifts. We asked him to clarify his position on this issue.

Central Health Region outlines procedures to manage respiratory illnesses in the Belize District
The Central Health Region has outlined, via a press release, procedures to manage respiratory illnesses in the Belize District. Effective immediately all persons with respiratory should no longer go into regular health facilities.

Boledo to be drawn earlier than usual on weeknights
Yesterday our newsroom was told that the Boledo game would not be on the list of essential services. Tonight, however, that has changed and Brad’s Gaming Company will be having its Boledo draw earlier than usual on the weeknights.

Governor General signs proclamation for State of Emergency
Governor-General, His Excellency Sir Colville Young signed the State of Emergency Proclamation just before two o’clock this afternoon. The signed proclamation now makes it very official that Belize will be entering into a State of Emergency at midnight tonight.

BTB offers hoteliers a tax relief for March
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) has offered hoteliers a tax relief for the month of March. This is being done to alleviate some of the financial burdens these hoteliers are experiencing due to COVID-19.

Breaking Belize News

Issuance of extensions for temporary immigration status is suspended
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and Immigration hereby notifies the public, and especially visitors holding temporary immigration […]

Coronavirus the global picture: virus mutating, new strains emerging
The latest global statistics on the novel coronavirus now known as COVID-19 shows over 900,000 […]

Find out if you qualify for the Covid-19 unemployment relief program
The co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee, Prime Minister and the Leader of the […]

GOB announces list of essential establishments
The Government of Belize today issued the regulations governing the State of emergency to become […]

Casinos, clubs, gyms, barbers and more ordered to close during state of emergency
The State of Emergency will be enacted countrywide at midnight tonight. The Government has issued […]

Production factories and sites allowed to operate
The regulations issued by the Government governing the state of emergency also made mention of […]

Government shares Essential services schedule 1
Ministry of National Security Department of Border Management and Immigration Services Customs and Excise Department […]

Citco discounts property taxes, waives rental fees for next three months
The Belize City Council has announced plans to assist City residents whose finances are impacted […]

UB pushes re-opening date to May 4, 2020
The University of Belize has announced via a press release that classes will resume on […]

Ministry of Finance cutting gas allowances to cut costs
The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has circulated a memo indicating that fuel allocation for most […]

Country goes into State of Emergency at midnight
The nation goes into a countrywide state of emergency at midnight tonight. In a press […]

Statistical Institute of Belize closes its doors to the public
The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) announced today that it is closing its doors to […]

Corozal teen reported missing
The Belize Police Department is asking the public to be on the lookout for 17-year-old […]

Police find gun and ammunition in empty lot in Santa Elena
Authorities conducting patrol yesterday afternoon searched an abandoned house on Mariana Gonzalez Street in Santa […]

Arthur Saldivar charged for kept firearm and ammunition without a gun license
Authorities have arrested and charged Arthur Saldivar for for four counts of kept ammunition without […]

SSB can now pay sickness benefit for COVID-19
The Statutory Instrument regulating payments by Social Security Board (SSB) for unemployed persons with COVID-19 […]

ASK THE EXPERTS: Labour Department, Social Security answer concerns
The heads of the Labour Department and the Social Security Board are appearing on the […]

Director of Health services warns against selling of hydroxychloroquine without prescription; warns of revocation of licenses
The Office of the Director of Health Service informed today that there have been several […]

Department of Environment implements precautionary measures to slow the transmission of Covid-19
Recognizing that some persons carrying the COVID-19 virus may not be presenting symptoms, the Department […]

Ministry of Health informs of procedure to manage respiratory illness in Belize district
The Ministry of Health informed today that effective immediately, ALL patients with respiratory illnesses such […]

BTB issues updated notice for hoteliers regarding March hotel taxes for covid-19 relief
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) issued a statement today updating on the measures being taken […]

Corozal man dies after reported shooting incident
A Corozal man is dead after sustaining injuries, allegedly from a pellet gun shot wound […]

Unattended mosquito coil causes fire in Dangriga
Police say a late night fire on the Melinda Road outside Dangriga Town was apparently […]

Belizeans show love to Dr. Manzanero
Belize’s Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero has been leading the charge with relation […]

Ministry of Labor postpones tribunal between Christian Workers Union and Port of Belize, “good progress” made
The Ministry of Labor has postponed the tribunal for dispute resolution between the Port of […]

More bad news for tourism, cruise ship calls pushed back even further
Belize’s Tourism Industry, which is already reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic got more […]

Blogs

The I AM CARICOM Campaign
The I AM CARICOM Communications Campaign was launched in the margins of the Tenth Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Committee of Ambassadors held in Guyana, on Thursday, 21 November 2019. The #IAMCARICOM Campaign seeks to effectively and efficiently reach and engage all stakeholders, especially the general public, to create awareness and take ownership of the new Results-focused Community Strategic Plan for 2020, as well as to facilitate continuing dialogue between the Implementing partners and citizens of the Community where perspectives and information on the scope, issues, process, expected deliverables, and benefits and implications for citizens can be shared.

Best Instagrammable Moments for March
Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle is searching for 8 of Belize’s most beautiful Social Media Moments. Instagram inspires people to go and do interesting things, things they never knew existed if they hadn’t seen it in their feed. We want to see Belize through the eyes of our travelers. We’re calling all Instagrammers, Facebook friends and family, photographers, bloggers and travelers alike to share their favorite moment(s) in Belize! The Caribbean Lifestyle Photo Contest is open now through May 15th, 2020. On May 20th, 8 entries with the most likes will be the lucky winners featured online at www.caribbeanlifestyle.com and in the premier edition of the Caribbean Lifestyle ‘Belize Insta Moments’ section of the 2020 Gold Book, debuting in June 2020.

International Sources

EXPLORE NASA STEM AT HOME!
Launch rockets, build a moon habitat, solve spacey puzzles and more! These science, technology, engineering and math activities are fun for kids adults and the whole family at home.

Despite lockdown, the UK military still flies, risking the spread of coronavirus
In the past two weeks, the Royal Air Force (RAF) has flown 30 air transport planes — built to move troops around — from the UK to Belize, Cyprus, Estonia, Germany, the US and Finland, all of whom have imposed bans on UK travellers and/or flights entering the country. Some of the airports being used to move these military personnel — like Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize — are also used by civilian aircraft, raising further concerns about the spread of coronavirus.

Living And Retiring Overseas Post The Coronavirus—Three Top Options
Eventually, COVID 19 will be contained, and global markets and economies will recover. But the experience of having lived through this challenging period will leave us with a reinforced and maybe a reinvented understanding of what matters most in life. Belize remains off the world's radar. Nobody is targeting or intent on stirring up trouble in this little country that’s part Caribbean, part Central American. Most people don’t give Belize a second thought. In today's world, that's a plus.

THE TRUCK STOP
The Truck Stop is Belize's first shipping container food truck park! Come try the different, exciting food options from their food trucks, or cool off with some ice cream from their ice cream shop. They also have a swimming pool with a swim-up bar, an 18-foot movie screen, an extensive outdoor games area, and something fun going on every night.

Videos

April 1, 2020

FOR TODAY'S BELIZE WEATHER, CLICK HERE

Click for our Daily Tropical Weather Report.

Specials and Events

Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, Reef TV, KREM, and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Belize Now, Talk Ah Di Town, and other specials.

The San Pedro Sun

National State of Emergency declared for Belize; Prime Minister addresses the nation
On Tuesday, March 31st, Prime Minister Right Honourable Dean Barrow addressed the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation affecting Belize and shared details of the planned National State of Emergency. The nationwide state of emergency, which begins at midnight on Wednesday, April 1st, was triggered after the country registered its third confirmed case on Sunday, March 29th. The conference also discussed financial aid for those without employment, and how those confined to Ambergris Caye can be assisted to return to their mainland homes.

Local restaurateur partners with the community to provide meals for those in need
After an initial 72-hour quarantine that was extended to 30 days on Ambergris Caye, a lot of people on the island found themselves displaced. As the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps through the world, economies are faltering and businesses have laid off countless staff. Ambergris Caye is tourism-based, and has seen its fair share of economic downturn. Nevertheless, there has been a surge of generosity from individuals and businesses who have come together to help those who cannot help themselves. We highlight one particular person who made the call to bring hot meals to those who are in no position to feed themselves.

Cruise Lines Extend Suspension of Cruises
Earlier this month all cruise lines announced that they would pause operations for 30 days. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, many of the major cruise lines have pushed back their starting date to resume operations. The following updates have been provided thus far: • Carnival Cruise Line – all cruises suspended until May 11, 2020. • Norweigan Cruise Line – all cruises suspended until the second week of May 2020.

Ambergris Today

TODAY TUESDAY 31 MARCH - UPDATES FROM OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE'S PRESS CONFERENCE
1. $42 million dollars (BZD) from the Climate Resilience Improvement Program will be diverted to the COVID-19 Relief fund 2. $24 million dollars (BZD) will be disbursed to Boost in about 3 weeks (via IDB) 3. $50 million dollars from Social Protection Program 4. $10 million dollars that was for Infrastructure is being negotiated to have it diverted to the Ministry of Human Development to expand the Food Pantry program into rural areas STATE OF EMERGENCY 5. State of Emergency goes into effect THURSDAY at 12:00am 6. From 8pm - 5am, EVERYTHING will be closed, NO ONE can be on the streets

Various Belizean Sources

COVID-19 Guidelines for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

10am Press conference from the PM of Belize today. Here are some notes:
There was a third COVID case diagnosed yesterday in Belize City. National State of Emergency starting April 2nd at 12.01am. Thursday morning. This INCLUDES San Pedro which is currently in quarantine. Curfew from 8pm to 5am. Everything closed. NO ONE on the streets except a few designated people...

Do not visit the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic with flu-like symptoms
If you have flu-like symptoms, you can go to the new San Pedro Care Cente flu clinic, located in the Mar de Tumbo area, as show on the map below. The Care Center, has a flu clinic, a pharmacy and a temporary separate isolation unit for COVID-19 cases. Hours for the flu clinic are: Weekdays, 8am – 5pm. Weekends, 8am – 12 noon. If you have symptoms of COVID-19: fever, dry cough, shortness of breathe and difficulty breathing, you can also text or call 605-2433.

Lino’s Meats Closed Wednesday
NOTICE: Lino’s Meats will be CLOSED tomorrow Wednesday! We will be opening on Thursday.

San Pedro Businesses, Hotels, Bars, Restaurants Open & Closed
Just a few updates from yesterday: ***Tune into Channel 20 at 7am to get the latest official news about town council/gov office openings, business rules/changes, etc. You can find some live broadcasts on their FB Page - @reeftv20 or Reef tv. K Mart/ Caye Mart (near Palapa Bar) - Open Daily 7am-10am - Grocery Delivery available, WhatsApp 635-5678, or call 226-3446 to place delivery order before 10am...

A Message from the President of the University of Belize, Professor Clement Sankat, in Response to Belize’s State of Emergency
The University of Belize (UB) in line with this measure set forth by the Hon. Prime Minister of Belize, the UB Act of 2000 that governs the University’s operations, and in accordance with the previously announced date for the recommencement of the Semester, that is April 20th, 2020, the University wishes to advise that this date has to be postponed. Students, faculty, staff and the entire UB community as well as the University’s stakeholders will be guided by the University, at a later date, as to the exact date for the recommencement of classes. Bearing in mind the thirty (30) day State of Emergency, tentatively, classes may resume on May 4th, 2020 with examinations beginning on June 8th.

Belize Tourism Board Offers Hoteliers their March Hotel Taxes for COVID-19 Relief
The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) continues its efforts to keep tourism stakeholders updated on the measures being taken in Belize as it relates to COVID-19. We also recognize that the tourism industry has been tremendously impacted by COVID-19, with many stakeholders struggling to keep their staff employed. To alleviate some of the financial burden during these uncertain times, and to possibly assist with the payment of a portion of your staff salaries, the BTB will be implementing the following as a part of the COVID19 relief efforts: Hoteliers are being asked to submit their Monthly Accommodation Tax Returns (MATRs) and Guest Registration Forms (GRFs) for March via the BTB Online Portal. The BTB will automatically apply 100% tax credit for the total taxes assessed for the month of March, essentially resulting in Nil Accommodation Tax Due.

Ministry of Education, Youths, Sports & Culture ADVISES STUDENTS TO BOND WITH PARENTS AND PRACTICE EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES DURING STATE OF EMERGENCY
Classes cannot resume in April and the start date is unknown at this time. The Ministry of Education will be in communication regularly and will provide periodic updates. This is a very difficult and worrisome time for everyone. Let us encourage students, teachers, parents and the entire country to practice hand washing regularly and social distancing. To the extent that this is possible, let us engage students in activities that are meaningful. Please avoid quizzes, tests, and exams during this very stressful period. Encourage them to read and bond with parents in activities such as cleaning, cooking, sewing, and other important life skills.

Department of Youth Services Training Platform
The Department of Youth Services has 1000's of free online courses. With the quarantine in effect, now's the time to study online. Register with the DYS here, and learn about a subject that interests you. Finish 3 courses, and you'll receive a certificate of completion. "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – W.B. Yeats "Interested in learning to edit videos? How about photoshop? Something educational? We have the perfect platform to share with you! Since we now have more time on our hands, a great way to keep yourself busy is to learn something new!

Belize Water Services Public Notice: Changes to Opening Hours

Why is the United States evacuating its citizens from Belize?
A. In times of emergency, the first priority of the U.S. Department of State is the safety of American citizens overseas. For that reason, throughout the world, we are working to ensure that Americans who want to return home are able to get home. We appreciate the efforts of the Belizean government to keep everyone safe. It is also understandable that many Americans will want to return to be with their friends and family at this time, especially those who did not plan for an extended stay in Belize...

Nukuch Tat
The Nukuch Taato'ob between the Yucatec Maya (Máasewal) people of Belize are the earth guardian spirits of four cardinal points . The Nukuch Tat is the Maya guardian spirit of the forest,animals and humans . Nukuch Tat(singular) Nukuch Taato'ob(Plural). Yuumstil (God) created the Nukuch Taato'ob (Balames) to maintain the balance between humanity and Nature .

Hunab Itzamna
Our Divine creator Hunab Itzamna created the universe ,the world, Animals and humans. Yuumstil Itzamnaj assigned names to all of its features . Itzamnaj through conciousness taught humans about medicine and science . Hunab Itzamnaj also send his children the Nukuch Báalamo'ob(Tata Duendes) the earth guardians of the cardinal points to protect us .

Belize Archaeology Symposium 2020 canceled
In support of social distancing and protective measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Institute of Archaeology NICH, has made the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming Belize Archaeology Symposium (BAS) which was scheduled for July 1-3, 2020. The IA, NICH will continue its work towards the completion of the RRBA Volume 17 and will provide distribution information as soon as it is completed. Nevertheless the IA/NICH will be available via email (ia@nichbelize.org / iaresearch57@gmail.com) should you may have any questions or concerns.

Channel 7

Regulations Outlined For National State of Emergency
The National State of of Emergency and curfew starts on Thursday morning at 12:01 AM. That's about 29 hours away, and today we all learned what it will mean for your personal movement, and your workplace - whether it will be classed as essential - and be allowed to continue, or non essential meaning work will stop. The implications for national life are HUGE as Belize now faces a 30 day lockdown, but it's what we will call a soft lockdown. Basically, the curfew is only between 8:00 and 5:00 in the morning, but those who go out in the day have to do it for a reason, like heading to the shop to buy supplies, or going to work at somewhere designated an essential service.

Essential Services Will Need A Pass
These new regulations will apply to all parts of the country, including San Pedro. They are still being finalised at this hour and the final list of what is essential and what is non essential has not been circulated. But, for those who qualify as essential services, how will they get around during this time without police threatening to lock them down for 30 days? The chart of the COVID-19 task force explained the provision for passes:

When Will Financial Assistance Be Released?
At newstime, it was still not clear procedurally how those passes can be obtained. CEO Alpuche says the task force will open its own hotline to answer such questions but that has not been done yet. As you can see, developments are moving faster than the details can be filled in - and that is bad news for those unemployed who lost their jobs in tourism and are waiting for that $150 dollar bi-weekly support. Those that are able to have been checkin on the COVID19.bz website for the Financial Assistance form, but it's not there yet. We asked about it today:

PM: More Relief Funds Coming
But when disbursements of that financial assistance to the unemployed starts coming down - how long can it last? Well, today the Prime Minister announced that he has gotten encouraging signals from Belize's multilateral partners and donor friends. First, he said he spoke with the World Bank Country Director for the Caribbean who agreed that 21 million US dollars earmarked for the Climate Resilient Infrastructure Project will now be diverted to COVID relief. That money will now be put into the pot to assist the unemployed, and especially the recently unemployed in the tourism sector.

Will there Be Relief for Businesses Forced To Shut Down?
And while unemployed persons have financial assistance coming their way soon, what about employers, or, soon-to-be former employers? Will there be any relief for the sea employed or small businesses who now have to shut down, presumably for 30 days, or maybe forever? Here's the Prime Minister's answer:... "Will the self-employed be eligible for financial assistance and will small businesses that were forced to close due to poor sales and protection and precautionary measures will also be eligible?" Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister: "Remember that the central bank has been working with the commercial banks and the other financial institutions..."

Employers Will Have To Send Employees Home
So, what about those employers who have to shut down shop for the next 30 days? What will they do with their employees? In fact, what obligations do they have to those employees in terms of notice pay even - now that a National State of Emergency has been declared? Not much, according to the Prime Minister: "If a state of emergency is declared and in consequence there of businesses are forced to close - that it seems to me comes under that very useful legal category of force ma·jeure. So that really is the answer..."

Foreign Exchange Getting Scarce
And for those businesses, especially merchants and importers who do manage to stay afloat in this tough time - where will they get the foreign exchange to purchase stock? Belize's #1 foreign exchange earner, tourism has gone on an extended hiatus. So where's the hard currency going to come from. The Prime Minister says this has to be dispensed on a priority basis:

Public Service Will Have to Trim The Fat
And while importers are feeling the pinch, so will public officers. A Government circular from the Financial Secretary proposes a wage freeze, a cut in expense allowances and gratuities and reduction in leave for contract workers. By government's count, that should save 17 million dollars. PM says the senior managers are on board, and everyone else will have to be:

Briceno Supports State of Emergency
Notably, no wage cuts were proposed for government workers. Government's wage bill is almost half a billion dollars - and the initial projections are for a GDP contraction on more than 10%. Financially, it's going to be deep hole for government to dig itself out of - but don't look for the opposition to try and make cheap points off it in a time of national crisis. Today, the Leader Of The Opposition shared the head table with the PM and said he supports the National State Of Emergency unreservedly:

Marisol, The Motive Behind The Mask
And, indeed, that has been the spirit of the bi-partisan, or non partisan, all out effort to contain COVID 19 before it takes a great toll on Belize. It's a complete shift in the body politic - and only one sign of a Belize where almost everything has changed in just a few weeks. Jules Vasquez was looking for signs of the new normal in a fast changing landscape:

Fisheries Makes Out Or Season Lobster Bust
We're all preparing for the national curfew and the state of emergency. But while we do that, the Fisheries Department is still watching the seas for any illegal fishing activity. They're reporting tonight that they busted 4 Belizean fishers with 2 large crocus sacks of out-of-season lobster. It happened on Sunday when a team of fisheries officers was heading to Belize City from their base in the South Water Caye Marine Reserve. They came upon a fishing vessel with 3 men and a woman.

A. Saldivar, Seen Some Troubles
Last night, we told you about the legal troubles that Arthur Saldivar, the well-known attorney, sometimes politician, was facing after his Facebook post from this weekend. Police accused him of spreading fake news and causing unnecessary panic. But, it appears that this post has gotten him into more problems than he anticipated. We understand that since yesterday, he has been detained by police, and he could be facing firearms-related charges. Police have not decided just yet, but we understand that they may charge him for unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The Nurse On the Frightening Frontline
Last night you listened in as Jules Vasquez spoke by phone with Ishelle Miller, a Belizean-American nurse on the COVID-19 frontlines of New York City. You heard the horror in her voice as she described the events of recent and upcoming weeks as a dark, dark, time. And tonight we bring you the remainder of that conversation. This time Miller recounts the emotional toll families experience not being allowed to visit their ailing loved ones and the complete breakdowns they can suffer during the regulation 5-minute visit with a family member dying of the Coronavirus.

When Will The Ventilators Arrive?
And, you heard Nurse Miller describe the importance of ventilators. She's at a hospital in New York where they have been able to keep enough ventilators in circulation, so far. But, in Belize there are only 10 at the KHMH. No other public hospital has one. But we've been hearing that there are more on the way, 6 more, then 20 more, then 28 more.But, none cyaah reach yet! So we asked DHS Marvin Manzanero about that today: "The six that have been paid were supposed to have arrived yesterday. Two from a local supplier, 18 more, that makes 20, plus 8 more that we got from a private company. And Karl Huesner has right now 10: 6 upstairs and 4 downstairs."

The San Pedro Experience
San Pedro doesn't have any ventilator. But, right now what they have an abidance of is something we're all going to need in the next few weeks - and that is the experience of how to live within the confines of a state of emergency. Indeed, as you heard at the top, tomorrow night when the clock strikes 12:00, Belize will enter a national state of emergency. It's the first since the national security crisis sparked by the rejection of Heads of Agreement in 1981. And if you, like the majority of Belizeans, were born after that date you might be wondering what a statewide lockdown is like.

Hope On The Horizon for Those Stuck On San Pedro
For those out of towners who were trapped on the island - the grim realities of living within a state of emergency are even more stark. They got caught there a week ago - and many have been pleading, when can they get off and return home?

Tracing Patient Zero's Contacts
And they got trapped there after patient zero - a San Pedro native who had travelled to Los Angeles tested positive for COVID 19. That 38 year old female also infected her mother. But what about the other close and not so close contact she had had withy 34 persons? Manzanero gave an update today:.,

Patient Three, The Investigation Is On
And what about patient three? As we have reported, he is self isolating at a home on the Northside of the city. But, city residents want to know more, like who and exactly where. Manzanero said that is off limits - they will do the contact tracing without the gossip grapevine: "People who do the mapping are detectives. They want to go out and map out the area. I know there are concerns in terms of what happens with potential cases..."

The Quarantine Club
And while that 38 year old is allowed to self isolate at home, any Belizean re-entering the country at this time - now faces a mandatory quarantine at a Ministry of Health site. Manzanero says they have had a surprising number willingly going into å two week quarantine at the northern border: Reporter: "What is the stream of returning Belizeans even now?" Dr. Marvin Manzanero- Director of Health Services, MOH "It's fluctuating. I guess immigration has a better grasp of counting all those but it's significant. I didn't know so many Belizeans were out but even on the weekend we had at least 9 people coming back home per day."

The Problem With Public Transport
And for those not facing quarantine, and who work in essential service, they want to know how they will be moving around for the next month during the national state of emergency. Well, the bus situation is even more complicated, because while public transport will be allowed to run within daylight hours, who will get on the bus if most folks are under quarantine. The PM says they bus operators wanly GOB to pay for their runs:...

No Cruise Ship Calls Anytime Soon
And while the bus companies wait to see if GOB will save them, we turn back now to an industry that's been all but completely obliterated by COVID-19, the cruise ship industry. On March 13th the Belizean arm of that industry experienced its own armageddon when Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian cruise lines suspended operations for 30 days due to the pandemic. But if tour operators and vendors were hoping for a light at the end of that tunnel it's not so, because that initial 30 days has now been extended.

Man Burnt In Griga Fire
There was a house fire on the Melinda Road in Dangriga last night and it left a 53-year-old man hospitalized with burn injuries. Police say that they showed up at around 9:47 p.m and they found a 15 foot by 20 foot wooden home engulfed in flames. Firefighters were busy trying to put the blaze out, but the cops did not find the homeowner at the property. They later visited the home of a man, and that's where they found 53-year-old Linsford Polonio.

KHMH Adjusts Visitors' Policy
On Monday, March 23rd the KHMH informed the nation that they had entered a state of emergency. At the time the hospital said that elective services had been postponed and amended clinic hours would be announced. And today on the eve of the nationwide state of emergency the KHMH is announcing two changes to its emergency mode visitor's policy. They had already made clear that only one visitor per family would be allowed in the A&E Department and that was for special case patients: minors, those who require assistance, and those in a critical state.

No Visitors, No Revenue, Zoo Animals Need Food
This morning the Prime minister detailed just how he scrambled to secure funds with which to support the unemployed during the COVID-19 crisis and the ensuing national State of Emergency. But there's another population that will have to be fed. They are the residents of the Belize Zoo and the critters on hiatus from teaching Belize's youngest about wildlife will require fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat.

The Quarantine Kumbaya
And, so even as it seems that the world is closing in around us, all things considered, Belize is managing well enough so far with this global pandemic. OF 103 tests done, so far only 3 have come back positive - which is encouraging so far. But, many of us are in uncharted territory and face an uncertain future. But, the Chairman of the national task force and CEO of The Ministry Of Human Development says we can all use this pandemic as an opportunity to put a few things in perspective:

Containing COVID, Its On You, Community
And, the Director of Health services kind of backed that up. After outlining the over two million dollars that government has spent on purchasing medical supplies and equipment, he says it's now on the community to do its part to contain the spread:

Can The Police Contain Mayhem?
And it's also the community's responsibility to keep calm. But can the public - especially the most needy - stay calm if this thing stretches on for months? A few weeks ago we caught up with George Lovell CEO of National Security...

No Exercise During Lockdown
But, if folks are to stay under control - they will need an outlet, to at least get out of the house, and take a walk, or do some exercise. But is that even allowed under the curfew regulations? According to the Attorney General, if you're out of your house during the day, it must be with a purpose - and exercise is not one of them:

Sani-Tyres
And, whole exercise is not allowed, one business did an exercise in kindness for frontline workers during the COVID crisis. They have been going around making donations of hand sanitizers to the police, bus operators, and the hospital. This evening, they called us to pick up a donation of sanitizers for our newsroom for use on the job, while we try to keep you informed during this COVID-19 Pandemic. One of the company's representatives told us why they see these donations as important:

Channel 5

State of Emergency Described In Full Details
Belizeans across the country continue to prepare for a nationwide shutdown to come into force on Thursday morning.  Tonight, there is more clarity on the latest COVID-19 response and how [...]

PM Barrow – “No Means No!”
In light of government’s recent announcement of a countrywide lockdown, there have been dozens of business owners reaching out to the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition in an [...]

AG Says State of Emergency Can Be Lifted Before 30 Days
The legal parameters, as well as the technical details of the state of emergency, are being fine-tuned ahead of the Governor General’s assent to bring it into force.  That declaration [...]

Who Are Essential Services, Does Your Job Qualify?
The media is considered an essential service and will continue to function during the state of emergency.  Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte expressly described a number of organizations and businesses that [...]

Financial Aid is Coming from the IFIs
A significant sum of money to be borrowed from at least three international financial institutions, including the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, as well as the Central American Bank [...]

Over $2 Million Spent Already to Acquire Ventilators & Other Medical Supplies
An initially budget of nine hundred thousand dollars was set aside to acquire medical equipment, such as ventilators and other medical supplies needed for the response to COVID-19. There were [...]

32 Ventilators for Fight Against COVID-19
Earlier in his presentation, Doctor Marvin Manzanero spoke about having procured thirty-two ventilators that will be used at public health facilities for those persons having a more severe case of [...]

San Pedro Still on Lockdown
Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, reported earlier today that as many as one hundred and three tests have been conducted across the country to detect the presence of [...]

Attorney Arthur Saldivar Arrested by Belmopan Police
Tonight attorney Arthur Saldivar remains at the Belmopan Police Station in lockdown. Saldivar’s legal woes began over a Facebook post over the weekend. He was held by the police and [...]

Association of Defense Attorneys Formed
A group of attorneys have formed an association that will focus on tackling issues affecting the poor population in Belize. They are called the Association of Defense Attorneys and will [...]

3 Persons Charged & Fined for Breach of Curfew on San Pedro
Police are swiftly enforcing state of emergency regulations.  In San Pedro where a mother and daughter have the virus, three persons were charged with “Breach of Curfew Conditions.”  This is [...]

132 Out-of-Season Whole Lobsters Confiscated
Fisheries personnel were on patrol on Sunday when they came across a vessel with four persons who threw their cargo of one hundred and thirty-two whole lobsters overboard.  As you [...]

Cruise Lines Suspend Calls to Port Until May
There is no definitive period to say when the COVID-19 pandemic will be over, but most people agree that it will take months for economic activity to normalize. In the [...]

What About Cable Services & the Integrity of Internet Infrastructure?
At today’s press conference, while on the topic of essential services, the head table was asked about cable companies and internet service providers. A large chunk of the workforce will [...]

Health Workers Wahn Get Handled Good
Health workers, who are at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19, are being taken care of by the government, which has made available a compensation package that will cover [...]

Bus Association Says That They Need Help ASAP!
Unlike health workers, bus operators believe they are being left out in the cold when it comes to support during this pandemic.  Today, Secretary of the Belize Bus Association called [...]

S.S.B. Amends Benefits Regulation
The Social Security Board has positioned itself to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The S.S.B. says that it remains committed to safeguarding the health, safety and well-being of [...]

At Least 9 Belizeans Returning Home Daily
All entry points into the country were closed on March twenty-third except for cargo. As you know commercial flights, cruise ships have been suspended and the movement across the borders [...]

Has Third Coronavirus Patient Remained Self-isolated?
The third victim to have been diagnosed with the coronavirus returned to Belize from New York on March twentieth before showing symptoms of illness five days later.  While the thirty-eight-year [...]

When Will Belize Return to Normal?
At this time, there is no cure or vaccine for COVID-19. And it is not expected that one will be approved until eighteen months down the road. During his appearance [...]

“Adopt A Child with Disability”
There’s a small non-governmental organization that is making a difference in the lives of children living with a disability.  “Adopt a Child with Disability” is a non-profit operating out of [...]

Quarantine Survival – Rumajay’s Virtual Fetes
For thirty days, starting midnight on April first, the nationwide shutdown restricts non-essential businesses from opening and non-essential workers from moving around in an effort to prevent the possible spread [...]

Quarantine Survival: “Quaraoke” – Quarantine + Karaoke
One teacher says that being at home with children, who are out of school, is an opportune time to do fun, safe activities in the yard. Tremett Perriott, over the [...]

I.D.B. Discusses COVID-19 and the Caribbean
On Monday afternoon, the Inter-American Development Bank held a webinar to talk about COVID-19 and the implications on the Caribbean. During the live online show, Therese Turner Jones of the [...]

I.D.B. Invest Outlines Support for Private Sector
The private sector arm of the Inter-American Development Bank, the IDB Invest, was also a part of the webcast discussion. C.E.O. James Scriven spoke about how they are engaging their [...]

Amandala

National State of Emergency declared
This afternoon, in the wake of the third confirmed case of coronavirus, government ratcheted up its fight to contain the spread of the deadly virus by introducing a countrywide state of emergency. Prime Minister Dean O. Barrow made the announcement on a video broadcast to the country. In his press statement, Prime Minister Barrow, in reference to what he had stated at last Wednesday’s press conference, said, “I made clear that we were not then announcing a national shutdown. The circumstances at that time, in our view, did not yet warrant it. But I also made clear that we should prepare ourselves for just such an eventuality: that there were possible, indeed likely, developments that would act as triggers for a shutdown.”

Arthur Saldivar detained over unlicensed gun and ammo
Attorney Arthur Saldivar has been in the custody of Belmopan police for a number of hours today, and this evening, police descended on a home in Camalote Village, which is Saldivar’s relative’s home. This morning, Saldivar appeared in the Belmopan Magistrate’s Court to answer to a charge of spreading false information. The charge is in relation to a Facebook post Saldivar posted on his page on Saturday.

Police charge over a dozen for violating social distancing rules
Enforcing the social distancing requirements that governments in many countries around the world have established in their fight to prevent the novel coronavirus from spreading, appears to be the new “normal” in the world at present as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Belize, the Police Department is fully engaged in efforts to enforce social distancing rules that were laid down by the government to stem the transmission of the coronavirus.

Woman who transmitted coronavirus may be charged, AG Peyrefitte says
A San Pedro businesswoman who returned to Belize on Thursday, March 19, on an international flight from the U.S. city of Los Angeles, became the country’s first confirmed case of the coronavirus. The 38-year-old San Pedro resident assured authorities when she arrived that she would go into self-isolation.

Melacio Gonzalez, 34, drowns in pond on farm
Balthazar Campos, 55, a farm owner, was unable to contact his worker, Melacio Gonzalez, 34, of Santa Martha, and a search was made to locate him on the farm. Gonzalez was found floating in the pond on the farm. His body was recovered and taken to the Northern Regional Hospital. Police await the results of a mandatory autopsy to certify the cause of Gonzalez’s death, but foul play is not suspected.

Police charge attorney Arthur Saldivar for Facebook post
Heavily armed policemen descended on a property in Belmopan this afternoon, where attorney Arthur Saldivar was spending time with his young sons. Brandishing their semi-automatic rifles, the cops, who were dressed in paramilitary uniforms, escorted Saldivar to the Belmopan Police Station, where he was charged with spreading false rumors via a Facebook post.

2 persons fined $1,000 each for violating COVID-19 protocols
Commissioner of Police Chester Williams announced that police are cracking down on those persons who violate the COVID-19 safety protocols, and so far nine persons have been arrested and charged for not complying with those measures that were put in place for public safety. Today in Punta Gorda, Basilio Mes and Oscar Lara were taken to the Punta Gorda Magistrate’s Court, where they were charged for the offense and were fined $1,000 each plus $5 cost of court. They were given until June 30 to pay the fine, and if they fail to pay, they will have to serve 6 months in jail.

Minimizing our COVID-19 exposure: We must do better!
There are medical experts who believe that most of us will at some time get exposed to or infected with the virus, COVID-19. Many government leaders, based on this view, contemplated minimal measures to counter the disease, but the way in which the disease exploded in Italy, overwhelming the health system in that G-7 country, forced a re-think. Most countries in the world are now scrambling to check the spread of the virus. In Belize, the aim of our authorities is to prevent too many of us from getting sick at one time, for that would surely cause our health services to collapse.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow announces countrywide State of Emergency
Last week, the Government announced additional measures to ramp up our fight against COVID-19. At Wednesday’s press conference I made clear that we were not then announcing a national shutdown. The circumstances at that time, in our view, did not yet warrant it. But I also made clear that we should prepare ourselves for just such an eventuality: that there were possible, indeed likely, developments that would act as triggers for a shutdown.

Travellers Liquors turns its distillery into hand sanitizer plant
The novel coronavirus that the World Health Organization declared a pandemic has transformed the world economy in few short months, as countries try to contain the spread of the deadly virus that preys on the human respiratory system. Among the things that are needed to combat the coronavirus is hand sanitization. As the virus continues its spread across the world, countries began experiencing an acute shortage of hand sanitizers.

‘And People Stayed Home’
And people stayed home. and read books and listened. and rested and exercised. and made art and played. and learned new ways of being. and stopped. and listened deeper. someone meditated...

FROM THE PUBLISHER
COVID-19 is the craziest crisis I have seen in my adult years on planet earth. I have not been saying anything, because Mose is doing most of the talking for Kremandala, while Cordel is involved with the leadership of the Opposition People’s United Party (PUP). Strictly speaking, as I’ve explained before, I speak only for four percent of the Belizean people, and this is a time for mass mobilization. As a nation, we need to get this whole virus situation as right as we possibly can. Personally, my views remain pretty much the same as they have been for all my adult life, and you know what those views are. They focus on the sinister nature of white supremacy, and call for our people to open our eyes.

Sports memories and corrections
As indicated in our “1972 football flashback – Amateur Sporting Club (ASC)” story in last Friday’s issue, we invite corrections of the historical details from other individuals who were there or otherwise recall the events referred to in regard to the picture we presented. It is often the case when we look back on past events of long ago, that different people remember different things, or we remember things in a different way. Some memories fade, and some get distorted with time; but, as more of us contribute to the discussion, our memories become refreshed, and we can eventually get the solid facts settled and recorded.

Stepping it up for children while they’re out of school
There are children who study books because they really love learning, and there are children who study hard because they are natively competitive, and of course there are children who fit into both categories. Bully for these kinds of children; they will use the extra time out of school to stay on top of their game. Ah, they are the kinds who will be calling up (pestering) their teachers to ask for extra work.

Jerome and Jewel: lovers reconcile and become engaged!
Kiah had responded with humility by thanking Jewel for her concern, and the conversation had been elevated to the level of a sociological discussion when Jewel had quoted Nurse Pauline, who was familiar with the problems facing Julia and had often praised her for taking on responsibilities beyond her years, which had led to the sometimes “put to rights” attitude resented by her peers.

Check Mate Operation: Economic War Disguised As Biological War!
China became the majority shareholder of companies based in the country by Europeans and Americans. Xi Jinping took advantage of the markets’ panic over the coronavirus and when the stock price fell below the allowed limit, he ordered to buy it. The “financial sharks” of the United States and Europe realized that they had been deceived, but it was too late, according to The Herald of Baja, California, in an article titled “Operation Checkmate.” Please see the article below:

The Central Bank of Belize must buy gold to protect the country from inflation
Dear Editor, The United States has gone berserk. As the ancient proverb says, those whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad. From last September 2019, the Federal Reserve has put over US$500 billion in the banks for the Repo market. On March 15, 2020, the Federal Reserve decided to put another $US700 billion in the economy and the Fed recently announced $300 billion to keep credit following.

Viruses are older than humans
Dear Editor, Viruses are older than human existence. In 1918, we had the Spanish flu, which infected 500 million and killed 20 million to 50 million people. We had the SARS outbreak of 2002 to 2004. It infected 8,098 and killed 774 people from China, other Asian countries, the UK (4) and Toronto, Canada.

Advice from Romel Cuello on COVID-19
Dear Editor, I would like to thank Brother Colin Hyde for remembering my struggle for the single- use plastics. My issue really was that GOB, by way of DOE, was pushing bio-degradable plastic products over regular plastic products even though they were much more costly. I argued that the lower income food vendors and consumers would feel the pinch.

Five steps to kicking out coronavirus
FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have teamed up to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) by launching a new awareness campaign led by world-renowned footballers, who are calling on all people around the world to follow five key steps to stop the spread of the disease. The ‘Pass the message to kick out coronavirus’ campaign promotes five key steps for people to follow to protect their health in line with WHO guidance, focused on hand washing, coughing etiquette, not touching your face, physical distance and staying home if feeling unwell.

LOVE FM

Mapping process for third covid-19 patient completed
The mapping exercise for Belize’s patient number three concluded today. The 38-year-old man who resides in Belize City was tested positive on Sunday.

Attorney Arthur Saldivar found with unlicensed firearms
Attorney Arthur Saldivar has found himself in a pickle after a misdemeanor charge led to an even bigger charge with mandatory remand. The Arthur saga began unfolding over the weekend when he posted false information of a UDP associate being facilitated at the Santa Elena border in bringing in a group of people into the country.

PM says Belize has sufficient funds to aid the health sector with supplies
Prior to the arrival of COVID-19 to Belize, the health sector stakeholders and union leaders were concerned over the limited resources at the hospitals. The resources discussed included the personal protective equipment for the front line workers as well as the issue of isolation areas for those infected with the COVID virus strain.

State of Emergency to help mitigate transmission of COVID-19
According to Dr Marvin Manzanero, the State of Emergency that will be invoked tomorrow is in an effort to contain the transmission of COVID-19. Many countries around the world have had major increases in cases after identifying their index case.

Police Officers ready to enforce the regulations under the State of Emergency.
With the new regulations coming on stream in a few hours, Love News reached out to the Commissioner of Police Chester Williams. According to Williams, they stand ready to enforce the regulations under the State of Emergency.

State of Emergency for Belize to roll out within 30 hours
In less than 30 hours Belize will officially be under a State of Emergency of sorts. We say of sorts because the list of businesses that will be allowed to remain open is very wide. The announcement of the State of Emergency came yesterday via a pre-recorded message by Prime Minister Dean Barrow.

Update on Covid-19 patients in Belize
To date there are three persons who have tested positive with COVID-19. According to the Director of Health Services they are all on the road to recovery and have not required hospitalization.

The Fisheries Department sourced funding to assist them in their operations
The Fisheries Department is listed as an essential service and during this State of Emergency they must carry out their duties as per normal. In speaking with the Supervisor of the Conservation Compliance Unit at the Fisheries Department, Hampton Gamboa he explained that they have sourced funding to assist them in their operations during this time.

Media will be included in the list of essential services
With the Prime Minister surrounded by all major media houses at this morning’s press conference, the question as to whether the media would be considered an essential service was unavoidable. Before anyone posed the question, the Prime Minister did declare that the matter was under review. It wasn’t long after, however, that he indicated that the media would be included as an essential service.

Fisheries Department bust four fisher folks for 132 out of season lobster
Four Belizean fisher folks were busted in the southern waters of Belize for having over 100 out of season lobster. According to the Fisheries Department, on Sunday officers were on patrol from Twin Cayes to Belize City when they spotted the vessel near the reef.

Ministry Of Human Development Expecting An Increase In Domestic Disputes
With the State of Emergency going into effect tomorrow night, CEO in the Ministry of Human Development, Judith Alpuche noted that they are expecting an increase in domestic disputes. With that expectation and other factors...

Breaking Belize News

KHMH enters emergency mode, amends visitor policy
In compliance with the declared national state of emergency being implemented tomorrow, the Karl Heusner […]

Scotiabank rolls out relief services to its customers including payment deferrals
Scotiabank has joined the list of businesses countrywide that are rolling out measures to assist […]

Ministry of Education encourages bonding time with parents and students
The Government of Belize will enact a countrywide state of emergency on Wednesday at midnight. […]

Digi informs customers of new office hours and store closures
Digicell Belize issued a statement today informing all customers that as the company adheres to […]

Over 500 Belizeans have been quarantined since January; 100 more currently on quarantine
Patient Three, a 38-year old Belize City man, had gone out at least once during […]

Emergency Operations Center to be set up
CEO in the Ministry of Human Development and co-chair of the COVID-19 National Task Force, […]

Attorney General: State of emergency begins Wednesday night
April Fool’s Day will be no joke this year. Wednesday night sees Belize enter a […]

Director of Health Services: let’s continue to work together
The three individual patients with COVID-19 continue to do well, says Dr. Marvin Manzanero – […]

Leader of the Opposition: ‘real risk’ prompted declaration
Opposition Leader John Briceno says Belizeans should work toward ending the 30-day state of emergency […]

PM assures abundance of monies for COVID-19 health fight
In support of his assertion that Belize is more than adequately funded for health needs […]

Prime Minister explains plans for national state of emergency and shutdown
Prime Minister Dean Barrow says that when the state of emergency goes into effect on […]

The Covid Necessity – The Coming Invention
By Delroy Cuthkelvin: With the Covid-19 crisis rocking the world and knocking at Belize's door, one foot already in, the entire populace of this developing nation is truly on edge now, a state of national emergency having been declared with effect from midnight, Wednesday, April 1. […]

Dangriga house destroyed by fire
A home was destroyed by fire sometime after 9:00 last night in the Wagierale Jones […]

Blogs

What a Weekend in Belize Holds
Belize is an excellent destination that offers lodging and activities in lush jungles and at the beach. Belize is full of history and natural beauty. It is the perfect place to spend an awesome weekend with family and friends. Five awesome things you can do to have an amazing weekend in Belize: With a shore facing the beautiful Caribbean Sea, Belize is one of the top destinations to enjoy diving and snorkeling for all skill levels! Most spots are only accessible by boats; so, you might spend a few hours in the open sea to reach. Here are some that you should check out:

Master the Art of Working from Home
by Raphael Saul- Motivational Speaker, Business Consultant, Corporate Trainer. The present circumstances across the world have compelled us to re-examine the way we work. Some persons may have been given the opportunity to work from home by their employers. This can sound like a utopian option, but experience has taught me that working from home requires many key elements for success, including DISCIPLINE!

Coronavirus: Belize Travel Regulations
The Belize government reminds the public that its borders are closed for entry. It also strongly advised Belizeans to leave the country only in a bona fide emergency. The goal is to protect everyone and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Information about the Border Closures In a nutshell, all Belizeans should stay in Belize. Here are the specifics: 1. Cargo As of March 22, there are no restrictions on incoming or outgoing cargo.

Belizean Johnny Cakes
If you have traveled to Belize, you may be familiar with a “Johnny Cake”. A Johnny cake is to Belize what a croissant is to France. It is a delicious and relatively easy to make breakfast bread roll prepared and served hot every morning.

International Sources

virtual tour of the British Museum in London
You can walk through the British Museum digitally via Google Street View. It's almost like being there! Partly, one can click on the exhibits and get more detailed information about the piece and pictures in HD quality. We welcome the fact that the permanent exhibitions are made accessible to so many people. Here you come out directly in the Maya Department, at the famous lintel no. 24 from Yaxchilan:

More Cruise Lines Extend Suspension of Cruises
Last week, Royal Caribbean’s four cruise lines were the first lines to extend suspensions. Now, MSC Cruises, Cunard Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and P&O Cruises have pushed back their start dates for cruises. MSC Cruises – MSC Cruises has decided to extend their suspension of cruises until May 29, 2020. The original target date was April 30...

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