February, 2025 - Channel 5 Belize

How is Belize Handling the USA’s Pause of Foreign Health Aid?

Since his inauguration a few weeks ago, President Donald Trump has cut funding for several foreign aid initiatives. This decision has impacted various programs in Belize, especially those providing healthcare assistance. We spoke with Minister of Health, Kevin Bernard, to find out how Belize plans to continue offering modern healthcare to its citizens despite the loss of additional funding.

Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health & Wellness

“Well remember that we continue to benefit from the technical support that these people will provide. And while the U.S. pulled away, I think it’s just a temporary pulling away, I’m pretty sure, from the World Health Organization, Belize continues to benefit from many other things, but we are doing our part. And this is the reason why the NHI rolled out the being provided to our citizens to be able to help people have access to free primary health care, almost free. Secondary fees that we have removed across this country also give access to health care. Ms. Kim, Simplis Barrow mentioned in her message today. that we want to see the barriers removed for women to have access to HPV [vaccines]. And it is a fact that we have removed those barriers, and this is the reason why health care access is affordable in this country. So despite that challenge, we will continue to do what we can to ensure that we move our country forward and to continue to build a resilient health system. And as I said, the health system is not just built on the funding, but it’s also built on the resilience and the technical support that the corporation will get from other stakeholders like PAHO. They have been very instrumental in looking at our strengthening of our strategic plan, our new revised health plan that we are launching very soon. That is the commitment that we have. The elimination of cervical cancer is a commitment that Belize has put forward and many other things that we want we want to achieve over the next few years. It is important to understand that despite what is happening in the U.S. and around those issues. We continue to remain steadfast, focused, and determined to improve health care in this country.”

Cervical Cancer: Preventable and Curable

Belize is facing a worrying rise in cervical cancer cases, a disease that is entirely preventable. Despite this, it’s still one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, especially in low-income countries like Belize. To tackle this pressing issue, the Belize Cancer Society, the Ministry of Health, and the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) came together today to host the Empowering Women and Girls against Cervical Cancer Awareness Forum in Belize City. Our very own News Five’s Britney Gordon was on the scene to bring us the latest updates from the event.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

Cervical cancer claims over thirty-four thousand lives each year in the Americas, and Belize unfortunately has one of the highest rates of both incidents and deaths in the region. The good news is that this disease is treatable and even curable, especially when detected early. To help combat this serious issue, the Belize Cancer Society hosted a cervical cancer awareness forum today, aiming to educate women on the crucial steps they can take to eliminate cervical cancer in Belize.

Kim Simplis-Barrow, President, Belize Cancer Society

“So today we are hosting the cervical cancer forum for women and girls against cervical cancer and this, of course, this event is to create awareness and to empower women. We had the official opening this morning, and this afternoon we’ll be doing HPV testing and vaccination in partnership with the Ministry of Health and PAHO.”

The main culprit behind cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that’s spread through sexual contact. At today’s forum, attendees had the opportunity to get free testing and vaccinations, making it easier than ever to take proactive steps against this preventable disease.

Kevin Bernard, Minister of Health & Wellness

“It’s also very important to also note that young boys can also carry the virus and pass it on to a female. And it is about education, it’s about caring, and I think the forum will also allow for persons who have gone through this issue and survived the, this dreadful disease. to share their experiences and to encourage others to take advantage of the support that is available to them.”

Great news for Belizeans! The HPV vaccine is available at no cost and is highly recommended for girls aged nine to fourteen. This is a fantastic opportunity to protect our young generation from cervical cancer right from the start.

Kevin Bernard

“We started when, remember, the vaccine was implemented in Belize way back in 2016. It had a cost at the time. But in 2023 when it was actually relaunched after Covid we have seen much more personal taking on the vaccines and we encourage people to continue to take that vaccine. As I said cervical cancer, which is highlighted in this world is preventable. It’s a disease that can be prevented it can be managed. And so we want to encourage people, and this form is about that. It’s about making sure you bring awareness the effects of cervical cancer. It’s also to bring awareness to females who can end up with that situation.”

The event featured an impressive lineup of panelists, including an oncologist, a non-communicable disease specialist, and a powerful testimony from a survivor.

Kim Simplis-Barrow

“The Belize Cancer Society, of course, our mandate is to advocate and empower women and girls and men and boys against cancer. It was very important because cancer is one of the most treatable and preventable diseases, cancers. And so for us, it’s very important to, as we reflect on where we are as a country in terms of cervical cancer, to do more so that we can really and truly eliminate cervical cancer in Belize.”

By spreading the word and encouraging regular screenings, Belizeans can save the lives of countless women and girls, while also easing the burden on our healthcare system.

Kevin Bernard

“Belize signed on to the elimination initiative for cervical cancer, and that’s where we want to go. By the end of 2030, it’s a global challenge that we all signed on to see that we could eliminate cancer, cervical cancer, across the globe.”

Britney Gordon for News Five.

A New USpace Comes to the Twin Towns

To wrap up tonight’s newscast, we’re excited to share the opening of a new USpace in San Ignacio. This initiative, driven by the Ministry of Education and UNICEF, aims to provide students with a vibrant space to learn, experiment, and innovate using digital tools. Now, let’s hear more from News Five’s Isani Cayetano.

Isani Cayetano, Reporting

The Government of Belize and UNICEF are continuing their mission to roll out USpaces across the country. This exciting initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, has already brought these innovative facilities to the Stann Creek and Toledo districts. Recently, the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena celebrated the inauguration of their very own USpace. Leading the charge is Namrita Balani, the Director of Science and Technology.

Namrita Balani, Director, Science and Technology

“We all had moments where we wish we had been exposed earlier, encouraged more and given a space to explore. That’s why we decided that USpace had to be more than just a room with tables and chairs, and computers. It needs to be a space where education, culture and technology meet, creating an environment where students can explore new ideas, connect with their heritage and use technology to experiment and innovate. A space where students can be exposed to new opportunities, a space where they can create in a safe environment, a space where they can innovate and discover the paths they never knew existed.”

Cayo Northeast Area Representative Orlando Habet, whose constituency proudly hosts the newest USpace, was present for the brief but meaningful opening ceremony.

Orlando Habet, Area Representative, Cayo Northeast

“I know that these initiatives are very special. I know looking at the social component where it says that the core feature of USpace is to provide a supervised and safe environment where children can engage in organized activities designed to encourage play for social interaction, learning and self-expression. Very, very, very, very important. We see what happens in our communities many times, young people don’t have those spaces where they can interact with their peers. And we have a saying that we’ve heard many times before that says, “an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”

To keep students excited and engaged, they’ve created an environment that’s perfect for learning, experimenting, and creating. This effort has the full backing of UNICEF.

Natasha Mantock, Education Officer, UNICEF

“Today, we gather to celebrate a milestone in our digital transformation agenda under the theme, “Connection to underscore the critical need for safe, child-friendly spaces where access and services to resources are needed for children to succeed. Our pivotal USpaces are leveraging technology to transform and accelerate learning and skills development represents a paradigm shift. We’re leapfrogging traditional methods to embrace digital innovation for every child wherever they live, wherever they learn. For this reason, UNICEF’s collaboration with the Ministry of Education, NICH and the Belize National Library Services continues to expand as it contributes to the realization of the right of every child.”

Isani Cayetano for News Five.

New Bill Threatens Fines and Jail Time for Misusing Belize’s National Symbols

The Government of Belize is expected to introduce the National Symbols Bill, 2025, which aims to formally establish and regulate the use of Belize’s national symbols. The bill outlines legal protections for key national emblems, including the national flag, national anthem, coat of arms, and other designated symbols such as the black orchid (national flower), keel-billed toucan (national bird), and Baird’s tapir (national animal).

Under the proposed law, the copyright for the national anthem, national flag, and coat of arms will be vested in the government, meaning their use will be strictly controlled. Any business or individual wishing to reproduce or sell items featuring these symbols will be required to obtain a government licence. However, educational and religious institutions, as well as official ceremonies, will be exempt from this requirement.

The bill also criminalises the unauthorised use and defacement of national symbols. Individuals who misuse or sell unlicensed representations of the National Flag or Coat of Arms.

Unauthorized commercial use, sale, or display of Belize’s National Flag or Coat of Arms without a government-issued license will be punishable by a $1,000 fine or up to one year in prison. Licensed users who violate their permit conditions will face similar penalties. Additionally, mutilating, defacing, or altering the National Flag or Coat of Arms without legal authority is also an offense, carrying the same penalties. For ongoing violations, offenders may be fined $100 per day until compliance is met.

Additionally, the bill grants the Minister of Culture the authority to make regulations on the proper use of the National Flag, imposition of royalties on commercial use of national symbols, and preservation of the National Flower in public spaces.

Businesses currently using national symbols will have a six-month grace period to comply with the new licensing requirements.

The National Symbols Bill, 2025, if passed, will create a legal framework to protect Belize’s national identity, ensuring respectful and appropriate use of its symbols while generating revenue for their continued promotion and preservation.

Election Commission to Consult Political Parties on Color Assignments

Alberto August, Opposition Member of the Elections & Boundaries Commission, has criticised the Facebook blog “Hot Off The Press” for spreading misleading information regarding the assignment of political colours for the 2025 General Election.

August said, “This is in response to the grossly misleading post broadcast by untrained individuals posing as journalists publishing on the Facebook media platform as “Hot Off The Press”. It is these kinds of persons, by way of their irresponsible actions, that give the noble profession of journalism a bad image.”

He clarified that the assignment of colours was discussed extensively in a recent Commission meeting but remains unresolved.

According to August, the Commission unanimously agreed that, under Section 15 (4) of the Third Schedule (Election Rules) of the Representation of the People Act, Chapter 9, consultation must first take place with political parties contesting the election before a final decision is made.

He said, “For this to be legally advanced and for a decision to be arrived at, it simply means that the Alliance for Democracy Party led by their acting leader Tracy Panton will first be required to declare itself a political party given that the Commission can legally consult only with ‘political parties contesting the election.'”

Is NRH Being Investigated after Patient Dies 1 Hour after Discharge?

A man dying just one hour after being discharged from the Northern Regional Hospital (NRH) has brought attention to the hospital once more. According to reports, the incident has triggered an investigation into potential medical malpractice.

When asked about the incident, Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard declined to comment, stating, “I cannot comment to that. We are doing our investigation.” He added, “I do not run on social media issues because there are many times information that are posted on social media are not factual.”

Bernard said that his team is looking into the matter and that he would await a full briefing from the regional manager Jorge Polanco, who is the Director of Hospital Services and Allied Health. Bernard added that the investigation is ongoing, adding, “I prefer to wait until I get a full briefing…before I can comment.”

Stella Maris honours Little Gabriel with Vigil

Today, Stella Maris School held a candlelight vigil to honour little Gabriel Orellano, an autistic student who tragically lost his life after wandering off campus.

As we have reported before, little Gabriel drowned in the sea near the hangar area in Belize City after leaving the school grounds. The vigil was organised to provide a space for students and parents to grieve together, with a call for people across the country to wear blue in honour of Gabriel’s life and autism awareness.

A sanitation worker, David Henkins, told News 5 he recalled seeing Gabriel running down Freetown Road, stating, “We mih want stop ah you know, because we know dah something wrong.” However, he explained that he didn’t stop him because he believed two individuals just behind little Gabriel were likely the child’s family members. Henkis later learnt of Gabriel’s tragic death, and said “that play in my mind whole day, all day, because i just mih want the Father just touch we fih mek we could go stop that the lee young bwai. We cried and all.”

Santa Elena Resident Injured in Motorcycle RTA Needs Your Help

A Santa Elena family is urgently seeking help to cover the $10,000 cost of lifesaving surgery for their son, Josue Novelo, who was injured in a motorcycle crash on Sunday morning.

The 27-year-old was returning home after visiting a friend when he lost control of his motorcycle near the new bridge in Santa Elena, Cayo. His father, Alfredo Novelo, told News 5 that a police officer informed them that Josue was found in critical condition. “He looks like he crashed his motorcycle, and he’s all broke up.”

Josue, who suffered a broken foot and a broken and dislocated arm, among other injuries. The family is preparing Josue for surgery in Belmopan. Blood donations, in blood type O positive, are needed along with financial support to go towards the $10,000 surgery that Josue will be undergoing.

“We’re asking friends, family, and anyone who can please support,” Alfredo said.

Donations can be made to Luz Minerva Perez at Atlantic Bank, account number 212 0022 326.

Protests Against Elon Musk’s Access to Sensitive Data of Americans

Hundreds of protesters, including Democratic lawmakers, gathered outside the Department of the Treasury in Washington this week to denounce Elon Musk’s alleged “hostile takeover” of federal financial systems. According to The Guardian, the rally was sparked by reports of Musk’s team, the “department of government efficiency” (Doge), accessing sensitive financial data of Americans, including Social Security, Medicare, and tax refund information.

Some experts are concerned that Musk’s action has also given him access to sensitive data of all his competitors in the tech industry.

The Guardian reported that representative Maxwell Frost voiced concerns, stating, “He has access to all our information, our social security numbers, the federal payment system. What’s going to stop him from stealing taxpayer money?” Lawmakers like Maxine Waters and Chuck Schumer joined the protest, with Rep. Jasmine Crockett vowing, “We are not going to sit around while you go and desecrate our constitution.”

Despite reassurances from the Treasury that the system remains secure, protesters, including former federal contractors, remain unconvinced about Musk’s involvement, The Guardian reported.

Police Destroys Over 30 kg of Drugs

The Belize Police Department conducted a massive drug destruction operation on Wednesday. Authorities burnt over 30 kilograms of illicit substances.

The operation, which was approved by the Commissioner of Police on July 14, 2024, saw the incineration of cannabis, cocaine, crack cocaine, and hashish, all seized in previous police actions.

A total of 69 parcels of found property and 157 parcels of court-concluded exhibits were destroyed by fire. The haul included 30,292 grams of cannabis, 5,705.8 grams of cocaine, 374.22 grams of crack cocaine, and 3,651.29 grams of hashish.

Representatives from the police, magistracy, forensic services, and government press office were present to oversee the destruction.

According to the police report, “All drugs were accounted for, and all witnesses were satisfied with the destruction process, which concluded at 2:00 p.m.”