May, 2025 - Channel 5 Belize

BFFA Challenges Government to Honour Preservation Commitments

Tonight, a powerful call to action from Belize’s fishing community. The Belize Flats Fishery Association is turning up the pressure on the government, demanding it honor its promises to protect the country’s fragile marine ecosystems. At the heart of the issue—mangroves, marine life, and the livelihoods that depend on them. News Five’s Britney Gordon has the story.

Britney Gordon, Reporting

Last month, folks in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, scored a major win. The government stepped in and hit the brakes on the controversial Cayo Rosario development. That stop order came from the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing—and for many residents, it felt like a long-overdue victory. Now, this fight isn’t new. Since 2018, the community’s been pushing back hard against plans to build over the waters of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Cayo Rosario, a tiny island in that protected area, is privately owned—and the developer’s been trying to get this project off the ground for nearly a decade. But thanks to constant public pressure, it’s been delay after delay. Still, the Belize Flats Fishery Association says delays aren’t enough. At a press conference this morning, they raised the alarm again, warning that Belize’s mangroves and marine ecosystems are still under serious threat. Dr. Addiel Perez from the Bonefish Tarpon Trust broke it down, explaining just how much is at stake.

Dr. Addiel Perez, Bonefish Tarpon Trust

“Studies in Belize have shown that coral reefs are the most diverse ecosystems when there are mangroves and sea grass nearby. This means that the less mangroves, the less sea grass, the less biodiversity there’s in coral reef ecosystems. So this means, right, that the livelihoods that depend on these ecosystems would be adversely and affected in the long term. And with that, of course, the economies that these ecosystems generate.”

Perez claims that over the past decade, San Pedro Ambergris Caye has lost hundreds of acres of land, directly impacting the habitats of surrounding wildlife and contributing to an unsustainable tourism model. Phillip Leslie of the San Pedro Tour Guide Association explained that development projects receive consistent pushback from stakeholders, not because they are against development, but due to the lack of transparency and consultation regarding them.

Phillp Leslie, San Pedro Tour Guide Association

“Environment and development can go hand in hand if you know to manage it right. If you know to plan it. Right now, developers come in and they have this idea, I don’t know where they learned it, where they could come in, take everything down, put in buildings, and then plan. When you can work around that and manage it properly. We have always said this, if Cayo Rosario is privately owned and they want to develop, make plans of development for that island, we are upset because the plans are including outside of the island, which is on the protected area, which is on the conservation zone.”

The Belize Flats Fishery Association maintains that this issue cannot be overlooked any longer and demands immediate action from the government. Janelle Chanona, Vice President of Oceana, explains that when decisions are made without consultation, industry stakeholders like fishermen and tour guides are the first to feel the impact.

Janelle Chanona, Vice President, Oceana Belize

“We are collectively impacted by these decisions, so we should be collectively participating in these decisions. And unfortunately, when it comes to development, particularly at sea, because you know, we say outta sight outta mind, but it’s also happening terrestrially. But we don’t know about things happening until Mr. Billy drive past somewhere Mike di try go fishing somewhere, Mr. Addiell and, and Mr. Norman they fly over di look dong and see something and then you go investigate. And then it seems like there’s this constant anti-development position. But I think what is clear is that what you’re seeing is this resistance to always being the last to know, because we will be the first fi pay.”

In Belize, the law is clear, any project that could significantly impact the environment must go through an Environmental Impact Assessment, or EIA. It’s a process designed to catch potential harm before it happens. But according to local stakeholders, that process is being sidestepped. Phillip Leslie, of the San Pedro Tour Guide Association, is calling for change. He says it’s time to bring the public back into the conversation. For him and others on the front lines, it’s not just about paperwork, it’s about protecting livelihoods, ecosystems, and the future of responsible development.

Phillp Leslie

“When we look at development, a lot of it must include an EIA and part of an EIA says that you should go and talk to the public, do a public consultation. Whereas users get an opportunity to show, listen, this development will affect me. How will I be placed in a way that I am not going to lose? But they don’t do that. And then you end up putting a development and outplace users, we, the users are getting tired of being. Kicked down the lane.”

The BFFA concluded with a call to the government to halt dredging and excavation activities that are taking place on Sandfly Caye, which is a prime spot for many fishermen in the area. Britney Gordon for News Five.

The BFFA maintains that it is against development, but encourages responsible investments and transparent, community-based planning.

High Court Showdown Ends; Sugar Industry Awaits Big Ruling

A major legal showdown between ASR/BSI and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association wrapped up at the High Court on Friday and the stakes couldn’t be higher. At the center of the case? A fiery dispute over a five-day factory blockade back in December 2021. B.S.I. says the association went too far by blocking deliveries to the factory, claiming the move caused serious disruptions, not just to their operations, but also to Belcogen’s. Now, they’re seeking millions in damages. Over three days, the High Court judge heard arguments from all sides: B.S.I.’s legal team, the cane farmers’ attorneys, and even the Government of Belize. With arguments now closed, the sugar industry is holding its breath, waiting for a ruling that could reshape farmer-factory relations for years to come. And this morning, Agriculture Minister Jose Mai weighed in, sharing his thoughts on what’s at stake.

Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture

“I think that the industry needs energy focused in the right direction. So going to court fighting over, quarreling over things that probably do not bring any positive changes to the industry has to change. We cannot continue like that. We cannot continue operating divided. We cannot continue operating when there’s total, complete lack of confidence from both stakeholders, the farmers and the miller. And so, I think that some serious reflection needs to be done on how we can move the industry forward.”

Teachers Union President Delivers Key Update Ahead of Crucial Vote

In a social media update that’s catching attention across the country, the president of the Belize National Teachers Union, Nadia Caliz, took to Facebook last night to deliver a key message to educators. Her post sheds light on the current state of talks between the union and the government, an update many have been waiting for. In her post, Caliz laid out the next steps for the B.N.T.U., including a vote later this week that could shape the union’s next move. This comes after last week’s big meeting between the Joint Unions Negotiating Team and the Briceño administration. She made a promise and now she’s following through. The union leader is circling back with members, delivering the much-anticipated update on what came out of last week’s crucial talks with the government.

Nadia Caliz, President, Belize National Teachers Union

“I know that in my last meeting I said to you that we will be meeting with membership on Monday and you all will be voting on the different options. Given the number of questions the council and myself have received, we realized that it’s very, very important for us to go back to the drawing board. So council will be meeting tomorrow night, we’re looking at all the different options. They will be educated on how to properly guide you and then on Wednesday we will be meeting with you, meaning every branch will have branch meetings online. Voting in these proposals will then take place on Thursday. You will vote via the BNTU platform, so if you’re not yet registered on our new database, you have between tomorrow and Thursday morning to get yourself registered. You need a valid, valid email address because we’ll send that link directly to you. With that I say goodnight and please look forward, stay tuned, to hearing from us as we continue to agitate, advocate, negotiate for what is rightfully ours.”

The conversation is far from over, and Caliz is making sure teachers are in the loop every step of the way.

Young Green Thumbs Shine in National School Gardening Competition

Green thumbs and bright minds were on full display as the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise announced the winners of the 2025 National Agriculture and Trade Show School Garden Competition. With thirty schools from across the country digging in, literally, the competition showcased creativity, teamwork, and a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture. In the primary school category, top honors went to San Victor R.C. School in Corozal, followed by San Antonio Government School, Sandy Creek Academy, Chan Chen Government School, and Bullet Tree Seventh Day Adventist School. Over in the high school division, the Belize High School of Agriculture took first place, with Belmopan Comprehensive and New Hope High School rounding out the top three. The top two winners in each category will be officially recognized at the National Agriculture and Trade Show’s opening ceremony on May thirtieth. The ministry extended heartfelt thanks to students, teachers, parents, judges, and extension officers for making this year’s competition a blooming success—and they’re already planting the seeds for an even bigger event in 2026.

An Ocean of Opportunities for Women

Tonight, we’re diving into a story that’s making waves — literally. Women are stepping up in the maritime world, not just as crew members, but as captains, engineers, and policy shapers. And it’s not just about equality — it’s about excellence. Here’s News Five’s Isani Cayetano with more on how women are helping steer the industry into the future.

Isani Cayetano, Reporting

The maritime world is changing — and women are at the helm of that change. Whether they’re navigating ships or shaping maritime policy, women are bringing fresh ideas and sharp skills that are making the industry smarter and more efficient. So, why does this matter? Because when women succeed at sea, the entire industry moves forward.

Jaeda Sutherland, President, WiMAC Belize

“While the doors are slowly opening, our job now is to make sure that women have a fair chance to walk through them. Despite the progress being made, women remain underrepresented in the maritime workforce, especially in technical and leadership roles.”

Despite progress, women are still underrepresented in maritime — especially in technical and leadership roles. But here’s the thing: the industry is facing a serious talent shortage. And women are a big part of the solution. By welcoming more women into roles like seafaring, engineering, and command, the maritime sector isn’t just filling gaps — it’s unlocking new potential.

Valarie Lanza, Deputy Managing Director, IMMARBE

“The history of women in maritime is rich and inspiring. From the first female captains to the women who worked in shipyards during wartime, our foremothers have shown us that resilience and determination can move mountains. Today, we stand on your shoulders, ready to take the helm and chart new courses. To the pioneers who have weathered the storm to pave the way, thank you. To the rising leaders charting new courses, we see you, and to everyone here today, the tide is turning. Let us make sure that it carries us all forward.”

And when we support women in this field, we’re not just creating jobs — we’re pushing for real gender equality. It’s a key part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. And it sends a powerful message: the sea belongs to everyone.

Lt. Cdr. Alma Pinelo, Acting Vice Commandant, Belize Coast Guard

“The ocean covers seventy-one percent of the earth’s surface. Now imagine if women dominated seventy-one percent of the maritime industry and the maritime roles. Let’s strive to create a safe space for women to thrive and to become formidable partners in the maritime industry. The tide is turning and it carries her forward.”

It’s a bold vision — but one that’s gaining momentum. Creating safe, supportive spaces for women in maritime isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s smart business. And here’s something else: when men and women work together on ships, studies show they communicate better and work more effectively as a team. That means safer, smoother operations at sea. Isani Cayetano for News Five.

Sirens and Salutes: Belize Celebrates EMS Week with Citywide Parade

Belize City came alive this morning with the sound of sirens—not for an emergency, but in celebration. Emergency service teams from across the country gathered to kick off International Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week with a vibrant parade through the streets. Running from May 18th to 24th, EMS Week is a global tribute to the everyday heroes who provide lifesaving care on the frontlines. This year’s theme, “We Care. For Everyone.”, highlights the compassion and commitment of EMS professionals who serve their communities around the clock. The public is encouraged to take a moment this week to recognize and thank the paramedics, EMTs, and first responders whose dedication often goes unseen but never unappreciated.

No Votes Needed: 11 Village Councils Win by Default Ahead of May Elections

It’s official—eleven village council slates across the country have already secured their seats without a single vote being cast. That’s the outcome from Sunday’s nomination day, where thirty-seven communities were set to nominate candidates for the upcoming May twenty-fifth elections. In Corozal, San Joaquin’s lone slate means an automatic win. Over in the Belize District, five out of six villages, excluding Double Head Cabbage, also saw uncontested nominations. The trend continues in Cayo, where Valley of Peace will go to the polls with just one slate, and in Stann Creek, Sittee River and Sarawee are also uncontested. Meanwhile, in the Toledo District, Boom Creek, Conejo Creek, and Midway Village all saw single-slate nominations, securing their wins by default. With three more rounds of nominations still to come, more uncontested victories could be on the horizon. We’ll be keeping a close eye on how it all unfolds.

U.D.P. Plans Major Reset with Conventions and Call for Unity

The United Democratic Party is setting the stage for a major political reset. On Sunday, the Central Executive Committee met at party headquarters in Belize City to map out the road ahead. Among the key decisions are plans to hold constituency conventions starting in July, all leading up to a National Convention in October. The CEC also voted unanimously to allow expelled members to apply for reinstatement—provided they meet specific conditions, including a public apology and a pledge to uphold party values, as outlined in Article 11 of the U.D.P. Constitution. In the meantime, the current elected leadership will remain in place until the October convention. The party says it’s focused on unity and is encouraging all members to get involved as they prepare for what could be a pivotal moment in the U.D.P.’s future.

Electrifying Season Opener for the BPBL; Tiga Town Red Necks Wins Softball Marathon

Good evening and welcome to this week’s installment of Sports Monday! I’m Paul Lopez, bringing you the latest and greatest from the world of sports across the nation. This past Friday, the energy was electric inside the Belize City Civic Center as the long-awaited Belize Premier Basketball League tipped off its inaugural season in grand style. The evening began with a patriotic march past, proudly led by the Belize Coast Guard, setting the tone for a night of unity and competition. All seven teams participating in this historic season made their presence known, parading across the court with pride, team banners flying high and jerseys gleaming under the arena lights. With the Tony Leslie Toucan Cup, the San Cas Mayan Cup, and the Benny’s Jaguar Cup all up for grabs, the stakes are high, and the excitement is just getting started.

Gilbert Gordon, Chief Executive Officer, B.P.B.L

“We believe that this premier basketball league is going to be beacon, it is going to be the light that transcends basketball to a different level for the next ten to fifteen years.”

It was a fun start to the night as Minister of Sports Anthony Mahler stepped up to take the ceremonial opening shot, but let’s just say it took a few tries. After missing his first six free throws, Mahler finally sank one, earning a big cheer from the crowd. But don’t let his warm-up performance fool you, the real action was just getting started. The Belize City Thunderbolts faced off against the EZ Investment Dream Ballers in a high-energy matchup packed with highlight-worthy plays and crowd-pleasing moments.

Dream Ballers’ Deshawn Brackett with a long range three early in the first quarter. He ended the night with nineteen points. Eyan Rene with the fast break on the other end to get the Thunderbolts on the score board. He scored fifteen points in this one. Victor Evans on fire in the third quarter nails a three-point shot. He finished at eighteen. The first quarter ended with Dream Ballers in the lead with twenty-points to their opponents twelve. The second quarter kicked off with a bang as Thunderbolts’ Tyrone Hall lit up the court. He nailed a three-pointer while drawing a foul, setting himself up for a rare four-point play—and that was just the beginning. Hall’s clutch shot sparked a dominant six-minute run, with the Thunderbolts racking up seventeen unanswered points. By the end of the quarter, they had outscored the EZ Investment Dream Ballers twenty-six to five, heading into halftime with a commanding thirteen-point lead.

Dream Baller s’ Daniel Conorquie stuck out like a sour thumb in the third, hitting four back-to-back three pointers. He made the first three over Matthew Young. Victor Evans switched on Conorquie but that was not enough. Evans on the other end, responding with a three-point basket. But, Conorquie was not quite done, again catching Young sleeping at the wheel. His fourth made three-pointer and fifth consecutive basket. He finished the night with twenty-four points. Victor Evans kept the momentum going in the fourth quarter, showing off his sharp shooting and helping seal the deal for the Belize City Thunderbolts. The final score? A commanding 108–81 win over the EZ Investment Dream Ballers.

Saturday night was packed with action across the country. In San Ignacio, the Western Ballaz cruised past the Capital City Kings with a 77–57 victory. Meanwhile, up north in Corozal, the San Pedro Tiger Sharks made a splash, overpowering the Corozal Cerros Suns 74–47. Week two of the league’s inaugural season continues this weekend, with the Punta Gorda Panthers set to make their much-anticipated debut.

And it wasn’t just basketball grabbing attention—over in Sandhill Village, softball fans were treated to a day-long marathon showdown. In the women’s championship match, Double Head Cabbage faced off against the Tiga Town Red Necks, who were first up to bat in the fight for the marathon trophy. Jada Moralez hits towards third base and made it safely to first. Sherice Moralez swung and sent a ground ball into the outfield. That led to Jada Moralez scoring the first and only run for her team in the starting inning. Double Head Cabbage did not score a single run in their first and second innings.

In the Tiga Town Red Neck’s second inning, Richard on third base made it across the home plate off a hit from Jada Moralez. That’s two runs for the Red Necks. Trailing 3–0 in the third inning, Double Head Cabbage sparked some hope with a clutch hit that brought a runner home and put them back in the game. But in the fourth and final inning, the Tiga Town Red Necks added two more runs to their tally. Double Head Cabbage answered with two of their own, but it wasn’t enough. The Red Necks held on for a 5–3 win, taking home the marathon trophy in a hard-fought women’s championship match in Sandhill Village.

Meanwhile, the Anthony Mahler Youth Tournament continued over the weekend with more exciting matchups. On Saturday, Sampson Academy edged out Ebony Lake with a narrow 1–0 victory at Berger Field. In the under-10 division, Belize United faced off against the Blazing Strikers in a tightly contested game. Azaire Gaynair scored for Belize United with a brilliant penalty kick that sailed past the keeper. But the Strikers struck early—Jayseon Dennison found the back of the net just two minutes into the match. The game ended in a 1–1 draw, with both teams showing impressive skill and determination. Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.

Winners Announced for 2025 National School Garden Competition

The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the winners of the 2025 National Agriculture and Trade Show School Garden (NATS-SG) Competition. The highly anticipated annual event saw the participation of 30 schools from across the country, each showcasing impressive commitment to sustainable agriculture through creative and well-maintained school gardens.

In the Primary School category, first place was awarded to San Victor R.C. School from the Corozal District. Second place also went to San Antonio Government School (Corozal), while Sandy Creek Primary School in Stann Creek secured third place. Rounding out the top five were Chan Chen Government School (Corozal) in fourth place and Bullet Tree Seventh Day Adventist School (Cayo) in fifth.

In the High School category, Belize High School of Agriculture from the Orange Walk District took top honors, followed by Belmopan Comprehensive High School (Cayo District) in second place and New Hope High School (Orange Walk) in third.

The top two schools in each category will receive their official awards during the Opening Ceremony of the National Agriculture and Trade Show, scheduled for May 30, 2025.

The School Garden Competition continues to play a vital role in promoting agricultural education and sustainability among Belize’s youth.