Community and Society
San Pedro Lions Club Welcomes New Members and Installs First-Ever Cubs Club
On October 21st, the San Pedro Lions Club made history by installing its first-ever Cub Club, featuring nine young members. A special ceremony was held at the Lions Den on Barrier Reef Drive, where the San Pedro Lions Cubs were officially introduced as part of the Lions family. The event also included the installation of four new members into the San Pedro Lions Club.
Community and Society
Belize Authorities Pledge Stronger Protection After Domestic Violence Tragedy
Belizean authorities and government partners have united in condemnation following the brutal killing of 35-year-old Angelita Magaña and her two children, 6-year-old Tishan and 17-year-old Shadia, who perished in a house fire in San Felipe Village, Orange Walk District, on October 20, 2025. Police investigations indicate the blaze was intentionally set by Magaña’s ex-partner, Francisco Godoy, who had a prior history of domestic violence and was released from jail just days before the attack.
Community and Society
Efforts continue to remove derelict vehicles and debris
The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is intensifying its efforts to address the growing issue of derelict vehicles across the town, a problem that hinders public spaces and infrastructure maintenance. SPTC is urging those responsible to clear abandoned vehicles that obstruct roadworks and public areas, reflecting the council’s commitment to improving the town’s environment and safety.
Community and Society
Charity Run Raises Funds for Hope Haven
At 6:30AM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, 40 registered runners and walkers gathered in front of the Grand Caribe Resort just north of San Pedro to take part in a 5K Charity Walk/Run. Hosted by Belize Water Services (BWS) and the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), the community event was held in partnership with Hope Haven Belize Children’s Home and Empowerment Center. The US$25 visitor registration fee or the $25BZ local registration fee per participant directly benefited the charity.
Community and Society
Belize Launches Country Brand Project to Strengthen Global Identity
Belize’s Country Brand Project, a major national initiative, is set to launch by early 2026 to enhance the country’s global recognition, trust, and competitiveness. Spearheaded by the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) and supported by funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the project aims to establish a unified, modern, and authentic brand that represents Belize’s distinct identity on the global stage.
Arts & Culture
Local Artists Exhibit Work at Art in the Park
Art in the Park has become a beloved cultural event in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, bringing together local artisans and artists to share their creativity with the community. The most recent edition was held on October 17th and 18th at Central Park, with support from the San Pedro Town Council and the San Pedro Cultural Committee.
Community and Society
Rescued Crocodile ‘Phineas’ Becomes ACES Sanctuary Star
Phineas, a 13-foot, nearly 500-pound American crocodile, has become one of the most recognizable residents of the ACES Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary in San Pedro, Belize. Found in a precarious situation on a local balcony after twice being captured and relocated, Phineas was transferred to the sanctuary for his safety and that of the community. His story highlights the challenges of managing large crocodiles that inhabit areas near human settlements.
Community and Society
Ken Watkins and Darrel Smith Break World Record for Most Permit Caught on Fly
A new milestone in saltwater fly-fishing has been set off the coast of Ambergris Caye. Longtime visiting angler Ken Watkins and San Pedro fly-fishing guide Darrel Smith have broken the world record for the most Permit caught on fly, landing an incredible 515 fish and surpassing the previous records of 513 and 514 held by renowned anglers Del Brown and Mike Ward.
Community and Society
Work Advances on Marina Drive to Improve Road Conditions
Paving work is now in full swing along Marina Drive in San Pedro Town as part of the San Pedro Town Council’s ongoing efforts to improve key roadways across the island. The long-awaited upgrade aims to provide a smoother, safer surface for motorists while enhancing drainage and access for residents and businesses in the area.
Community and Society
Residents Reminded to Properly Bag Garbage and Drain Waterlogged Bins
The San Pedro Town Council’s garbage collection crew continues to face challenges on rainy days, as many trash bins are filled with stormwater, and household garbage is often left unbagged. This ongoing issue, exacerbated during the rainy season, hampers waste collection efficiency and poses health and safety risks for sanitation workers on the island
Community and Society
Belize joins Taiwan in celebrating its 114th National Day
The Republic of China (Taiwan) celebrated its 114th National Day on October 10, marking over a century of history, democracy, and national identity. In Belize, the Taiwanese Embassy hosted a “Double Ten” reception on October 9th at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and special guests, reaffirming the close and enduring friendship between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan). Meanwhile, in Taiwan, Belize’s Governor General, Her Excellency Froyla Tzalam, attended the official ceremonies.
