Government
Rising construction costs push San Pedro hospital project over budget
Almost a year ago, during a site visit, progress on the San Pedro/Caye Caulker General Hospital was described as positive, on schedule, and within budget, with funding facilitated by a grant from the Republic of China (Taiwan). However, by May 2026, construction costs for the hospital had reportedly increased significantly, pushing the project above its original budget. Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño addressed the matter on May 20th, stating that the government will continue discussions with Taiwanese officials.
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We’re Hiring: Red Rock Ltd. is seeking a qualified Yacht Captain for operations based in the Stann Creek District. The position involves safely operating and navigating a yacht locally and internationally while overseeing vessel maintenance, voyage planning, crew supervision, and compliance with maritime regulations. Applicants must possess a valid Yacht Master or Captain License, experience with luxury yachts, strong knowledge of marine systems, and the ability to travel internationally. Additional preferred qualifications include marine engineering knowledge, First Aid/CPR certification, and multilingual skills. Interested candidates are asked to submit their resume, certifications, and references by May 29, 2026.
Job Vacancy: Accounting Associate – Rhaburn Consulting has a vacancy for an Accounting Associate. The Accounting Associate will be based on San Pedro, Belize and the position requires bookkeeping and other accounting duties such as data entry, preparing accounting reports, and reconciling accounts, tax and payroll. Travelling and working outside normal working hours are required. Please email cover letter, resume, transcripts, two (2) references and police record to info@consultingbelize.com before June 5, 2026.
Vacancy: La Fonda De Nilo Restaurant, located on Flamboyant Street in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is now accepting applications for an experienced chef. Applicants must be registered chefs with previous experience in the culinary field, strong knowledge of food preparation and kitchen operations, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Interested persons can contact 629-1859 for more information.
To submit a liquor license, please e-mail janelle@sanpedrosun.com or spsun@sanpedrosun.com
Business & Economy
Future of Sugar Industry in Belize Continues to Face Challenges; May Affect Tourism Sector
In January of this year, the 2026 sugar crop season officially opened, with production projected to increase by up to 20%. As the crop season nears its end, production and cane quality are reportedly up; however, concerns about the industry’s future continue to grow. The main issues are rising fuel prices and limited access to fertilizers, factors that are believed to affect next year’s crop and markets nationwide.
Business & Economy
Nine San Pedro women complete holistic massage training
On April 16th, the Holistic School of Massage & Spa Therapy celebrated the graduation of nine young women from San Pedro Town at La Divina Restaurant. The event marked the completion of a four-month training program designed to equip participants with professional skills for Belize’s growing wellness industry. The ceremony took place on the evening of Thursday, April 23rd, with graduates receiving certificates after completing a comprehensive curriculum.
Crime & Violence
Government officials support public Belize Sex Offenders Registry
Following the arrest and charging of a Cayo teacher for assault and rape of a student, the Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, headed by the wife of the Prime Minister, Her Excellency Rossana Briceno, is once again advocating for the establishment of a national Sex Offenders Registry. The move is being supported by the Ministry of Human Development, as well as current and former Ministers of Home Affairs responsible for the police department.
Crime & Violence
Bartender shot in San Pedro; one person detained
On Thursday, May 7th, 32-year-old bartender Winston Cayetano was shot in the shoulder following an argument with a man on the street. Cayetano was rushed to the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, where he was treated and later released. Police have detained one person as they investigate this latest shooting incident on the island.
Crime & Violence
Family claims wrong suspect charged in San Pedro triple murder
The family of 22-year-old San Pedro fisherman Shelby Jonathan Hernandez, who has been charged in connection with a triple murder on the island, is disputing the allegations, claiming police have arrested the wrong person. Hernandez has been charged with the fatal shooting of Karim Nazim Espat, 28, Oscar Modesto Mas, 35, and Honduran national Yerlin Marisol Bueso Alvarez, 21. He has since been arraigned and remanded to the Belize Central Prison until his next court hearing, scheduled for May 27, 2026.
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Education
Young Entrepreneurs Take Center Stage at ACES Expo
Ambergris Caye Elementary School (ACES) hosted its second annual Kids Entrepreneurship Day Expo on Thursday, May 14, from 8:30AM to noon. More than 25 booths featured student-led ventures offering food, pastries, lemonade, custom cooking, and games. Parents assisted the children throughout the event, drawing families and community members to the San Pedro campus for a morning of hands-on business lessons and financial learning.
Community and Society
Our World Project brings real-life lessons to SPHS students
A group of first-form students from San Pedro High School (SPHS) participated in an educational workshop on April 29th, hosted by long-time island visitors Larry and Debbie Heimgartner. The session formed part of their Our World Project and featured a scripted play highlighting real-life issues relevant to San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The script, titled “One Thought,” was developed by Larry Heimgartner in collaboration with SPHS counselor Alexis Guerrero, island resident Natasha Stuart, and members of the school’s staff and student body.
Sports
Softball tournament head into semi-finals
After weeks of competitive softball action, the regular season of the local tournament is coming to an end as teams prepare for the semi-finals scheduled for Sunday, May 24th, at the Honorable Louis Sylvestre Sporting Arena.
Sports
Sea Bulls FC crowned back-to-back Island League champions
For the third consecutive year, Sea Bulls FC has won the championship title of the Island Football League 2026 season. The championship match was played on May 16th at the Ambergris Stadium between Sea Bulls FC and Joker FC. The highly anticipated final delivered another memorable football showdown, with plenty of action, before heading into extra time and ending in a 2-0 victory for the defending champions.
Community and Society
San Pedro’s Mighty Blue Jaguars celebrated after Band Fest championship win
The San Pedro Roman Catholic School marching band, the Mighty Blue Jaguars, was celebrated on Friday, April 17th evening with a victory parade, award ceremony, and live performance at Ambergris Stadium following their first-place win in the school category at Band Fest 2026. The parade began at the south gas station at 5PM and ended at the stadium, where the performance commenced at 7PM following an awards presentation.
Entertainment
San Pedro welcomes 2026 with New Year’s Eve celebrations
San Pedro Town ushered in 2026 with a New Year’s Eve celebration at Saca Chispas Field on Tuesday, December 31, beginning at 10PM. The event was organized by the San Pedro Town Council and featured DJ Jash and the Gilharry-7 Band as the main entertainers, and a fireworks display at midnight. The festivities transformed the Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sporting Arena, commonly known as Saca Chispas Field, into a lively hub of music and celebration. Live DJ sets carried through the night, drawing residents and visitors alike to dance under the stars as anticipation built toward the midnight countdown.
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