October, 2024 - Channel 5 Belize

Have you considered a Montessori Education?

As we dive deeper into the world of unconventional education, we’ve been captivated by some unique teaching styles that haven’t quite hit the mainstream in Belize yet. One standout is the Montessori method. Even though Doctor Maria Montessori introduced this approach back in the early 1900s, it’s only found a home in one school here. But that’s starting to change as more parents discover the incredible benefits and the special kind of empowerment it offers their kids. This week, we’re excited to take you on a tour of the Children’s House at Mother of Mercy Montessori. Let’s jump into the story.

Sabreena Daly, Reporting

The Montessori method is all about meeting students where they are, adapting to their unique learning pace and style. Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, this approach was truly ahead of its time. It uses sensory experiences to guide learning, helping kids build confidence and feel empowered. Globally, it’s a popular choice for many, known for its hands-on learning, focus on key developmental stages, and deep respect for each child’s individuality. But here in Belize, Montessori is still a bit of a novelty. We took a trip to Mother of Mercy Montessori, the only school in the country that formally embraces this innovative system.

Alma Habet, Lead Guide, Mother of Mercy Montessori

“We’ve been here for about six years now. This is our sixth year. And we’ve started with a daycare, and then we’re building, we’re moving to primary and lower elementary and upper elementary.”

Sabreena Daly
“In the Montessori method, I’m inside what is considered a child’s house. When compared to the traditional teaching system here in Belize, this would be deemed a classroom. And what we call teachers, a Montessori school refers to as guides.”

Alma Habet, the lead guide at Mother of Mercy Montessori, has the wonderful task of nurturing children of all different ages. Her calm and welcoming demeanor creates a space where the unique personalities of each child can flourish. With gentle encouragement, she leans over and invites a student to join her in a sentence-writing lesson, fostering a love for learning in the process.

Alma Habet
“Children are not interested in always telling them what to do and they’re capable of so much more. So we have small rooms where a child can do exactly what an adult is doing. That they need respect. We need to give them that dignity that every human person needs to have. So, once a child has that and they are followed, they’re observed. We know where to meet them. They come from different backgrounds. They have different experiences. So they all bring this together in the children’s house.”

Rosaline Bradley has been instrumental in bringing this forward-thinking educational method to life. With her extensive experience in Belize’s education system, she passionately underscores the value of the Montessori approach and its transformative potential for how children in Belize learn and grow.

Rosaline Bradley, First Chair, Mother Of Mercy Montessori

“One of the values that I noticed is that it’s very hands-on. And so the students make their choices and they have to stay on an activity for a length of time. And so with that, they develop that skill of learning on their own and persevering, whatever it is that they want to learn. What are some of the difficulties? Working through challenges, making decisions, choices, and so on. And I think that’s one of the things that even in the regular school as a teacher educator, one of the things that I encourage teachers to do is to not just talk to students, but students learn by doing.”

Alma Habet

“So they get everything that they need as a traditional school, except it’s just done in a different way. So, instead of maybe just using books, if they’re going to do a science experiment, they’re actually going to go outdoors and do the real experiment. It’s not going to just be like reading off from a book or studying or memorizing.”

With more students joining every year, this young school is gearing up to grow alongside its children as they move up to higher grades. They’re committed to continuing their journey with the Montessori method, nurturing each child’s development every step of the way. Parents have cited the positive impacts on their children’s development. One of these parents even mentioned that she chose Mother of Mercy Montessori for her youngest child after experiencing the benefits of Montessori education with her older children abroad.

Jocelin Carvajal, Parent, Mother of Mercy Montessori
“I love it. I already told my husband I want my kids to stay there all the way to the elementary position because I have seen them grow and it is just so amazing. I am surprised.”

Tanya Hulse, Parent, Mother of Mercy Montessori
“I remember when I had first gone to a Montessori school, they gave you a whole list of assessments that your child would be able to meet at the end of each program. And so it wasn’t just like learning ABC’s or coloring, there was a whole list of things that they give to you. So I was very happy. And my older children had a very, very good experience. So when I realized that they had a Montessori school here as well, and then those children have grown up and now I have little ones,I thought, you know, it would be perfect.”

Alma Habet

“I think if they want something different, if they’re willing to learn the method, it would be a great step forward because the children can have better critical thinking and even speak out when they need to. They have freedom with boundaries, so we still need to discipline, but it’s more of a respectful way, not what the guide wants or what the parent wants only. So there’s a lot of sacrifice on the part of the adult.”

Looking on the Bright Side, Im Sabreena Daly

If you are interested in learning more about the Mother of Mercy Montessori, you can contact info@motherofmercymontessori.com or call 223-7073

PM Briceño on Guatemalans Bribing B.D.F. Soldiers with Chicken

An investigation is currently underway into allegations that Belize Defence Force (B.D.F.) soldiers stationed at the Machakilha Conservation Post have been accepting bribes from Guatemalan loggers. These allegations, which suggest that soldiers are being bribed with something as modest as chicken, have ignited public debate about the difficult conditions faced by soldiers who patrol Belize’s remote borders.

The investigation team convened on Wednesday, October 9, and is expected to deliver its findings by Friday, October 18.

News 5 asked Prime Minister John Briceño about the allegations, specifically about claims that soldiers are taken chicken as bribes. He said, “That will happen any place. You get 1, 000, and somebody can’t give you another 100; you’re going to take it… And so it’s important to hit the reset button to ensure that these people or BDF soldiers say that we have to be able to at all times look after the interests of Belize. A chicken can’t pay to protect the interests of this country.”

Reports indicate that B.D.F. soldiers are being supplied with expired goods such as Pan Crema, Tang, peanuts, ramen noodles, rice, and granola bars and canned goods as sustenances. Given that entry-level B.D.F. soldiers earn just $40 per day and face gruelling conditions, the situation raises important questions about morale and the sufficiency of support for these soldiers. The Guatemalan bribes reportedly go back several years, with one Guatemalan logger claiming to have been bribing soldiers for more than five years. These allegations have raised concerns not only about discipline but about the broader infrastructure and support provided to Belizean soldiers patrolling its contested southern border.

Briceño pointed out that while financial pressures could exist in any institution, it is critical for the B.D.F. to maintain its discipline. “We feel that the B.D.F. was at the pinnacle when it comes to discipline,” Briceño said, acknowledging that standards may be slipping and emphasising the need to “hit the reset button.”

On September 7, B.D.F. troops detained Guatemalan loggers operating illegally in the Columbia River Forest Reserve. However, their position was quickly compromised when over 10 potentially armed Guatemalans surrounded them. Communication with Fairweather Camp was lost, gunshots were heard, and outnumbered soldiers were forced to release their detainees to avoid violence. The incident brought into focus critical issues with the soldiers’ communication equipment, including Harris and VHF radios.

The Prime Minister noted that technological upgrades, such as tracking devices, are being implemented to ensure soldiers remain on Belizean soil during their patrols and that improved communication tools may be necessary in future missions.

“We have to use better technology. We’re using the tracking system so that we know where they are at all times,” Briceño said.

As the investigation into these bribery allegations unfolds, questions remain about the support, discipline, and resources provided to Belizean soldiers guarding the country’s borders.

By Hipolito Novelo, Digital Editor

Guatemalans Accused of Bribing and Surrounding BDF Soldiers at Machakilha

Belizeans Found Alive with “Superficial Wounds”

Earlier today, the Mexican authorities reported locating Johan Cámara, 19, and his father, Luis Josué Cámara, 48, after being reported missing following an alleged kidnapping on October 8, 2024, in Subteniente López, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.

This incident raised urgent concerns about safety for Belizeans travelling across the border. Belize Ambassador to Mexico, Oscar Arnold, confirmed that the father-son kidnapping appears to be a case of “mistaken identity.” He added, “There are some superficial wounds… from them being either handcuffed or tied up.”

Arnold stated, “At the time when the incident was reported on social media, we’ve been in contact with their authorities; they’ve been a little bit tight-lipped.”

While the pair suffered superficial wounds consistent with being handcuffed or tied up, Arnold reported that the two men otherwise “seem to be okay.” The ambassador said that some personal items, including passports and laptops, were stolen during the incident.

Arnold noted that Belizean authorities were in contact with their Mexican counterparts, who confirmed a missing persons report had been filed. He noted that the Mexican authorities have an active, ongoing investigation.

With a long weekend approaching, Arnold urged Belizeans to remain vigilant while crossing borders. “Each of us is responsible for our own safety,” he advised. Despite officials describing the incident as isolated, Arnold stressed the importance of understanding any potential threats in the area. “If there is a group operating with impunity, we need to know,” he said.

BAPDA Calls SSB’s Press Release on Santiago Ciau Case “Deflective”

The recent passing of former police officer Santiago “Santi” Ciau Jr. has left the community questioning the treatment of individuals seeking invalidity benefits in Belize. Ciau, who passed away at 37 on October 8, had been battling a debilitating bone illness linked to a workplace injury from 2009.

The Belize Assembly for Persons with Diverse Abilities (BAPDA) is criticising the Social Security Board (SSB) for failing to provide the necessary support during Ciau’s struggle. In a statement, BAPDA declared that “this level of structural violence is unnecessary,” condemning the SSB’s “deflective press release” as an inadequate response to the profound injustice faced by Ciau.

Ciau reportedly faced repeated denials for invalidity benefits from SSB. Despite his long service in the Belize Police Department, Ciau faced repeated denials for invalidity benefits. Even after appealing the SSB’s decision, he received a delayed notification that hindered his ability to pursue a timely second appeal.

The SSB defended its actions, stating that the Medical Board ruled Ciau did not meet the criteria for benefits, a decision upheld by the Social Security Appeals Tribunal. However, this has done little to address growing calls for reform.

“Mr. Ciau was a Person with a Disability that somehow was not protected by the entities we would expect to do so,” BAPDA stated. It added that “a deflective press release simply cannot be the norm as the life of a worker is discarded due to a lack of assistance to benefits that he was supposedly paying in for, hoping to collect upon if ever needed but only have an independent Medical Board deny him ALL access at a time when he needed it most.”

PM John Briceño: “We have not caused this problem, yet we must adapt”

Belize is at the forefront of the global climate dialogue with the opening of the Strategic Alliances International Partners Conference. The two-day event was launched on Thursday under the theme “Unlocking Climate Finance and Disaster Risk Financing for Sustainable Development.”

In a statement issued by the government, it said, “The conference underscores Belize’s priorities in Climate Finance and Disaster Risk Financing, in line with Strategic Objective 5 of the Medium-Term Development Strategy: “Protection of the Environment.”

The conference brings together international partners to explore innovative financial solutions aimed at tackling pressing environmental challenges and securing a sustainable future.

During his address, Prime Minister John Briceño highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations. “We have not caused this problem, yet we must adapt,” he said. Briceño mentioned that a single hurricane could threaten Belize’s economy. Briceño noted the necessity of preparing for potential loss and damage.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Francis Fonseca also spoke on the importance of international cooperation, noting that “90% of the public sector projects in Belize are funded by external donors.” He noted the economic burden of climate change and revealed that hurricanes cost Belize approximately $7.7 million annually.

Amalia Mai, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, reinforced the message of collaboration, stating, “This conference will serve as a platform to further our partnerships, explore opportunities, and increase awareness and understanding of climate finance.”

Mexican Mayor Murdered Days After Taking Office

Alejandro Arcos, the newly appointed mayor of Chilpancingo in Mexico’s Guerrero state, was murdered less than a week after taking office. Arcos, who had been in the position for only six days, was found dead on Sunday. Guerrero’s governor, Evelyn Salgado, expressed sorrow and outrage over the killing, calling it an act that “fills us with indignation.”

Arcos’s murder occurred just three days after the city’s newly appointed government secretary, Francisco Tapia, was shot dead. Authorities have yet to release any details about the investigation or possible suspects, but Guerrero, plagued by drug cartel violence, has long been a hotspot for such crimes. Cartels have killed numerous politicians across Mexico, with Guerrero being one of the worst-affected states due to its strategic location on the Pacific coast, a prime smuggling route.

Unverified social media posts showed images of what appeared to be Arcos’s remains before authorities confirmed his death. His social media activity during his short term included updates on disaster relief efforts following Hurricane John, which caused severe flooding in the region. Hours before his death, Arcos had posted pictures of meetings with relief workers and residents.

Mexican senator Alejandro Moreno called for federal authorities to take control of the investigation, citing Guerrero’s “ungovernability.” He described Arcos and Tapia as “young and honest officials who sought progress for their community.”

The Institutional Revolutionary Party, to which Arcos belonged, demanded justice, stating, “Enough of violence and impunity! The people of Guerrero do not deserve to live in fear.”

Guerrero, long embroiled in turf wars between rival drug gangs, including the Ardillos and Tlacos, has seen increasing violence. In the lead-up to Mexico’s June 2 elections, at least six candidates for public office were killed in the state. Since 2006, when the government deployed the army to combat drug trafficking, Mexico has seen over 450,000 murders and tens of thousands of disappearances across the country.

Will the Sea Cucumber Industry Sink or Swim? A Look at Its Future Amidst Overfishing Concerns

The Latest from Cabinet

Press Release :

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met on 8th October 2024.

Cabinet gave its approval for the extension of the hours of operation for the clearance of cargo at the Belize Western Border at Benque Viejo del Carmen. Once finalized, the opening hours will be from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays to Saturdays. In addition, the Western Border will operate from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily for the facilitation of passengers and vehicles with non-commercial goods.
Cabinet authorized the Minister with responsibility for Local Government to fix and declare new boundaries for the seven towns in Belize to align them with the growth and expansion of these towns. Likewise, Cabinet requested that the Minister meet with the relevant authorities to begin consultations for the future demarcation of the boundaries of villages and communities across Belize. Having regard to the Belize Blue Bond Agreement signed in November 2021, Cabinet gave its approval for the expansion of Belize’s Biodiversity Protection Zone to 25 percent in fulfillment of Milestone. This is in partial achievement of Belize’s obligation under the Agreement to protect up to 30 percent of its total ocean space by 2030.
Cabinet welcomed the report of the completion of the technical negotiations between Belize and the Republic of El Salvador for a Partial Scope Trade Agreement, and gave its support for the process that will lead to the completion of the Agreement.

Belize Hosts Strategic Alliances International Partners Conference

Cabinet considered the Draft Maya Customary Land Tenure Policy, made suggestions as to improving on the salient features, and asked for the sharing thereof with interested parties to arrive at finalization and the subsequent move to drafting legislation. Cabinet also acknowledged the extensive consultations held and the requirement to advance the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice of 2015.
Cabinet gave its support for the introduction of the Movable Property Security Rights Bill at the next sitting of the House of Representatives. This bill, once enacted, will bring favourable benefits to the private sector, fostering growth, innovation, and development particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises. To enhance oversight of pharmaceutical products in Belize, Cabinet has approved the repeal of the Food and Drug (Registration, Licensing, and Inspection) Regulations. This will be replaced with a modernized legislation designed to meet current needs and ensure the safety and efficacy of medicines accessed by Belizeans.
Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of activities to strengthen the transition to and implementation of standards for biodegradable/biobased products. This initiative will significantly reduce plastic pollution from adversely impacting Belize’s environment.
The Government of Belize is enhancing the criminal records registry to streamline the application process, making it more accessible and efficient for all Belizeans. As part of this initiative, the service is being fully digitized, allowing applicants to apply and make payments either online or at designated cashier locations. Criminal records will be available for collection in all districts and can also be delivered conveniently via email. The new system will also enable applicants to track the status of their applications through email and SMS notifications, providing a more transparent and user-friendly experience. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to improving public services for the benefit of all citizens.
Cabinet noted the assumption of Belize to the Vice-presidency of OLADE and approved the signing of a Joint Declaration titled “No More Coal-Fired Power Plants in Latin America and the Caribbean.” This Declaration, to be signed by the energy ministers from several countries in the region, seeks to adopt measures to prevent environmental pollution caused by the exploitation, transportation, storage, and utilization of energy resources within the region.

Finally, Cabinet wishes all Belizeans a happy Day of Resistance Holiday.

Indigenous People’s Resistance Day 2024

Belize will commemorate Indigenous People’s Resistance Day on Saturday, October 12. This year’s theme, “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,” emphasises the pressing need to safeguard the lands and territories of Indigenous Peoples, which are crucial for biodiversity, cultural, and linguistic preservation.

The Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous People’s Affairs says that Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation or initial contact are among the most distinct and vulnerable groups in the world. The ministry added that their continued existence on ancestral lands not only symbolises incredible resilience but also represents a living testament to global diversity. Protecting these communities is essential not just for preserving their unique cultures but also for protecting the planet itself.

Belize’s Indigenous Peoples, including the Garifuna and Maya communities, have long played a critical role in the nation’s cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and economic development. From traditional knowledge that supports sustainability efforts to their contributions in agriculture, eco-tourism, and the financial sector, they form an integral part of Belize’s multicultural identity and natural ecosystem protection.

Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Minister of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, reiterated this commitment:

“As we commemorate Indigenous People’s Resistance Day 2024, we honor the resilience of our Indigenous communities and recognize their invaluable contributions to our nation. The Ministry remains committed to protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples, ensuring their voices are heard in every decision-making process and working with them to protect their rights. This is not only vital for their survival, but essential to Belize’s environmental conservation and cultural richness. Together, we will continue to uphold their rights, support their development, and celebrate their profound role in our society.”

Building a Healthier Society Through Nutrition Education

Missing Belizean Father and Son Found!

Mexican authorities have located 19-year-old Johan Josué Cámara and his father, 48-year-old Luis Josué Cámara. The pair are residents of Louiseville village in Corozal District. Authorities did not share under what circumstances the Belizeans were found.

As we had reported, the father-son duo were reported missing following an alleged kidnapping on October 8, 2024, in Subteniente López, Othón P. Blanco, Quintana Roo.

According to reports, Luis attempted to defend Johan during an attack, which may have led to their abduction. The men are expected to return to Belize today. We’ll keep following this story.

Are BDF Soldiers Operating with outdated Communications Equipment?

On September 7, Belize Defence Force (BDF) soldiers found themselves surrounded by over 10 possibly armed Guatemalans near the Machakilha Conservation Post while detaining five Guatemalan illegal loggers. As communication with Fairweather Camp was lost, tensions escalated, and soldiers heard gunshots in the distance. Outnumbered, the patrol commander made the tactical decision to release the detainees to avoid violence, abandoning their original mission to destroy two illegal bridges. Minister of National Defence Florencio Marin Jr. later confirmed the incident, praising the BDF for taking appropriate actions to de-escalate such situations. The detained Guatemalans were part of a larger illegal logging operation, suspected to be orchestrated by a figure known as “Salvador,” who has operated in the region for years. Despite detentions, the illegal operations continue.

The September 7 standoff at Machakilha was intensified by a critical communication failure. The Belize Defence Force (BDF) relies on Harris and VHF radios for secure, long-range communication during operations. The Harris radio, manufactured by L3Harris Technologies, is a robust military-grade device offering encryption, GPS, and multi-frequency capabilities, while the VHF radio is known for its versatility in various professional settings. However, both systems failed during the incident.

Communication issues began when the VHF radio couldn’t establish a connection, and the Harris radio eventually “went out of sync.” The BDF’s Fairweather Camp in Punta Gorda had been alerted to the situation, with the soldiers reporting they were surrounded by “potentially hostile” Guatemalans, likely seeking to recover the detainees. Fairweather Camp’s response was to “man your grounds,” but shortly after, the Harris radio lost sync, severing contact.

Efforts to re-establish communication, including a final attempt at 9:30 p.m., were unsuccessful, leaving the patrol isolated until the following morning.

When asked about the state of the BDF’s communication equipment, Minister of National Defence Florencio Marin Jr. was questioned on whether upgrades or replacements are needed.

Guatemalans Accused of Bribing and Surrounding BDF Soldiers at Machakilha