AGP Executive Report

Postal & Customs Overhaul: Postmaster General Algernon Gomes says shipping delays stem from incomplete or late Electronic Advance Data, with wrong HS codes, values, and vague descriptions forcing manual checks and creating 2–5 day holds; his fix includes making HS codes and values mandatory, training counter clerks on the UPU Customs Declaration System, and strengthening pre-arrival transmission. Courtroom Update: The Belize Court of Appeal rejected Tate & Lyle Sugars’ bid to stop the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association’s Fairtrade premium claim, keeping alive a case seeking about $9 million plus interest. Justice & Public Safety: Maurice Usher Jr. was sentenced to 10 years and 9 days after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the 2021 Crooked Tree death of Geoffrey Crawford. Domestic Violence Access: Senior Justices of the Peace received training to issue immediate protection orders faster when court access is limited. Vital Records Reform: The Vital Statistics Office says birth certificates can now be printed on any paper, with electronic verification replacing pre-printed serial controls. Tourism & Training: Coast Guard officers became certified PADI Open Water Scuba instructors; Belize’s Hospitality Sprint in Punta Gorda awarded AHLEI Guest Service Gold to 17 workers. Business & Travel: Rev-Up Caribbean invited Belizean entrepreneurs to join its next cohort for investor-ready training. Crime/Immigration: Benigno “Mouse” Loria was deported to Belize after ICE flagged him in the U.S. Infrastructure/Tech: Government says it will take the Jalacte communal land compensation ruling to the CCJ to clarify whether two compensation regimes can run at once.

OAS Funding Warning: A new U.S. proposal would cut assessed funding to the Organization of American States to zero, putting the regional body’s ability to function at risk. Coast Guard Training: Two Belize National Coast Guard officers, Romario Cus and Ardele Avila, earned PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor certifications after completing the PADI Instructor Development Course and exam. Fairtrade Court Win: Belize’s Court of Appeal dismissed Tate & Lyle Sugars’ bid to stop the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association’s Fairtrade premium claim, clearing the way for the case to proceed to trial. Entrepreneur Support: Rev-Up Caribbean is recruiting up to 30 Belizean entrepreneurs for its next cohort, backed by CDB funding and aimed at unlocking investment deals. Justice in Crooked Tree Case: Maurice Usher Jr. was sentenced to 10 years and 9 days after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the 2021 death of Geoffrey Crawford. Domestic Violence Access: JPs received specialized training to issue emergency domestic violence protection orders faster when court access is limited. Tourism Skills: AHLEI Guest Service Gold training reached Punta Gorda, with 17 hospitality workers earning certification. Crime/Community: Benigno “Mouse” Loria was deported back to Belize after being detained in the U.S., and police are investigating a fatal San Pedro motorcycle crash.

Belize–CCJ Land Fight: Government says it will take the Jalacte communal land compensation ruling to the Caribbean Court of Justice, arguing Belize needs one clear standard so private and communal compensation rules don’t clash—especially in Toledo where land interests overlap. Justice for Domestic Violence: Select Senior Justices of the Peace began specialized training to issue emergency interim protection orders when courts are limited, aiming to speed up protection for victims. Vital Records Access: The Vital Statistics Office is seeing more online birth certificate applications after allowing certificates to be printed on any paper, with electronic verification replacing older pre-stamped stock. Crime & Courts: Benigno “Mouse” Loria has been deported back to Belize after ICE flagged him in the U.S.; Mark Stevens pleaded guilty to attempted murder and sentencing is set for July 3. Public Procurement Scrutiny: The PSU is demanding “tender documents” after SIF denied allegations of questionable contracts tied to FAST Construction. Tourism & Training: Belize’s Hospitality Sprint Series continues in Punta Gorda with AHLEI Guest Service Gold certification; 20 young Belizeans start technical training at Orange Walk ITVET. Regional Links: Belize’s PM attended a COCESNA board meeting in Madrid, and Belize joins regional efforts on food security data and AI.

Cuban Reforms: President Miguel Díaz-Canel announced new economic measures aimed at decentralizing state control and boosting investment, but many Cubans are skeptical about whether anything will actually change. Aviation & Tourism: BermudAir says it will add new seasonal flights from Boston’s Logan to Belize and other Caribbean destinations this winter, with Belize service twice weekly. Crime & Courts: A fatal late-night motorcycle crash in San Pedro killed 33-year-old Gilberto Noble; separately, Benigno “Mouse” Loria has been deported back to Belize after ICE flagged him in the U.S. Public Accountability: The PSU is demanding “the receipts” after SIF denied allegations of questionable contracts tied to FAST Construction. Justice Access: Select Justices of the Peace began specialized training to issue emergency domestic violence protection orders when courts are limited. Health Diplomacy: The U.S. Charge d’Affaires says Belize is winding down the Cuban Medical Brigade, while Belize officials say options are being reviewed. Local Economy & Culture: BYD launched the Song Plus plug-in hybrid SUV in Belize; Punta Gorda held Urumei to honor Garifuna cultural advocate Bernadina Elijio. Marine & Food Security: Fishers across Belize published the first-ever Belize Fishers Audit, and the DOE is engaging the sugar industry on environmental compliance.

Marine Science: A new study highlights how butterflyfish can act as a reef health indicator and may help scientists track ocean change, including across places like Belize. Fisheries & Accountability: Twenty-two fishers’ associations nationwide have published Belize’s first-ever Belize Fishers Audit, laying out priorities and recommendations from fishers themselves. Public Finance & Procurement: The PSU is demanding “the receipts” after SIF denied claims of questionable contracts, escalating scrutiny over alleged favoritism. Foreign Affairs: Belize’s MOFA CEO says the government is looking at options regarding the Cuban Medical Brigade, after a US charge d’affaires said Belize is winding it down. Land Rights: Government confirms it will appeal the Jalacte communal land compensation ruling to the CCJ to clarify whether two compensation regimes can coexist under Belizean law. Justice Access: Select Justices of the Peace received specialized training to issue emergency domestic violence protection orders when courts are limited. Health Services: Vital Statistics says online birth certificate printing is expanding access, with verification steps to reduce counterfeit risk. Road Safety: A fatal late-night motorcycle crash in San Pedro killed a 33-year-old. Crime & Deportation: Benigno “Mouse” Loria has been deported back to Belize after being flagged by US authorities. Tourism & Training: Hospitality workers in Punta Gorda earned AHLEI Guest Service Gold certification, and BYD launched the Song Plus hybrid SUV in Belize. Weather & Flooding: Heavy rains triggered rescues and emergency response in Stann Creek, with officials warning of flash-flood risk.

Luxury Tourism Spotlight: Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort in Hopkins was named #1 Hotel in Central America and #15 in the world in Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best,” a win credited to consistently strong guest reviews and a team of more than 180 Belizean employees. Research & Education Links: Georgia Southern University signed a partnership with the University of Belize to expand research and graduate pathways, with joint work expected in marine biology, tropical ecology, coastal resiliency and sustainability. Regional Diplomacy: Belize took over the pro tempore presidency of Centroestad’s Central American Statistical Commission after the Dominican Republic’s handover in Santo Domingo. Domestic Violence Protections: Select Senior Justices of the Peace began specialized training to issue emergency Interim Protection Orders under the 2025 Justices of the Peace Act. Flooding & Infrastructure: Heavy overnight rains triggered rescues in Stann Creek, with emergency monitoring for flash flooding and concerns about localized urban flooding; officials say the Coastal Plain Highway’s closures near Mile 16 are limited to small sections and will be monitored. Energy Planning: BEL warned it may need up to $4M per month to prepare for possible El Niño-related dry conditions affecting hydro power. Governance & Courts: The AG discussed Belize’s plan to appeal a $6M ruling in favor of Jalacte Village over communal land used for a highway, and also addressed the ongoing Ombudsman vacancy and related legal questions. U.S.-Belize Health Mission: The U.S. Charge d’Affaires said Belize has agreed to wind down the Cuban Medical Brigade program, while Belize says it remains committed to keeping healthcare services robust.

Humanitarian Aid to Cuba: A Colombian ship carrying nearly 100 tons of food, medicine, and supplies docked in Havana as the U.S. embargo continues to strain the island’s power and healthcare. U.S.-Belize Diplomacy & Business: The U.S. State Department hosted the Young Leaders of the Americas Forum in Belize, bringing regional entrepreneurs together to share strategies for growing small businesses. Politics in Belize City: PUP mayoral nomination bids are now official, with Allan Pollard and Eluide Miller launching competing campaigns ahead of the June 19 application deadline. Domestic Violence Protections: Select Senior Justices of the Peace began specialized training to issue emergency interim protection orders when magistrates aren’t available. Courts & Oversight: Government is preparing a CCJ appeal after a $6-million communal land ruling in favor of Jalacte Village, while former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso’s constitutional challenge keeps spotlighting the Ombudsman vacancy and oversight independence. Public Finance Scrutiny: The AG and officials addressed questions tied to SmartStream payment patterns and alleged invoice “structuring” below $10,000. Health & Regional Support: The U.S. Charge d’Affaires says Belize agreed to wind down the Cuban Medical Brigade, as Belize works to keep healthcare services strong. Weather Watch: Belize saw its highest daily rainfall since the rainy season began, raising concerns for flooding and storm impacts. Tourism & Community: Belizeans are gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with fan watch parties, while local tree-planting efforts push the one-million-trees goal.

Animal Health Watch: A New World screwworm case has been confirmed in the US, with experts warning it’s likely part of a wider wave after the flies spread through Central America and Mexico—raising concerns for Belize’s regional surveillance and animal health readiness. Public Health & Training: CARPHA trained 18 people from 15 member states in safe transport of infectious substances via an IATA workshop, aiming to strengthen lab systems and faster regional response. Judiciary Tension: Controversy continues over a proposed increase to Superior court judges’ retirement age, with strong opposition and claims of serious division over the government’s move. Energy & Cost of Living: BEL says electricity bill spikes are driven by multiple factors, including heat-driven demand and billing timing issues, as customers question higher charges. Agriculture & Drought Funding: Opposition backs emergency farmer assistance amid drought concerns, but insists on strict transparency and oversight. Business & Growth: A regional financing crisis report flags that Belize has the highest SME financing gap as a share of GDP (26%), with 87% of MSME needs unmet across Latin America and the Caribbean. Transport Upgrade: Belize’s National Bus Company is rolling out telematics cameras to curb standees and improve route monitoring. Regional Security: Belize and Mexico continue border cooperation talks at the Border Commanders Conference, focusing on intelligence sharing and transnational crime. Sports & Community: World Cup 2026 kicks off today, with Belizean fans gearing up for a month of matches.

World Cup Fever: The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off today across the US, Mexico and Canada, with Belize fans expected to pack homes, bars and workplaces for matches featuring stars like Messi and Mbappé. Air Travel Boost: Southwest Airlines is expanding winter 2027 service with new Caribbean and Mexico routes, including Nashville–Liberia, Costa Rica and Columbus–San Juan. Business Financing Pressure: A new report highlights a major SME financing gap across Latin America and the Caribbean, with Belize topping the list by share of GDP. Public Transport Crackdown: Belize’s National Bus Company is adding cameras to electric buses to curb standees and improve monitoring of speed, routes and onboard activity. Crime and Courts: A Belize City mother secured bail after 5 charges tied to an altercation; a taxi driver was remanded after police found a gun and ammo; and the Belize Cancer Society reported a break-in that disabled its security system. Community Stories: A grassroots rescue effort is growing after one stray animal sparked a mission to save 77 animals, and government CEOs joined students to plant trees under Greening Belize. Regional Diplomacy: Belize’s foreign trade minister urged deeper Caribbean unity at the CDB meeting as Belize prepares to take on the bank’s chairmanship. Sports (Local): Belize United won the BDFA U-17 title, while Ladyville Rising Stars captured the U-15 championship.

Caribbean Unity & Diplomacy: Belize’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Osmond Martinez urged deeper regional solidarity at the CDB annual meeting, as Belize prepares to chair the Board of Governors and host the 2027 meeting. Trade & Finance: The CDB and IDB Invest launched a US$25 million trade finance facility to boost access to financing for Caribbean importers and exporters. Belmopan Politics: John Saldivar fired back at Oscar Mira, challenging his record and pointing to completed community and sports infrastructure projects during Saldivar’s tenure. Public Safety & Justice: Belize’s NHI says it is distancing itself from the murder of Dr. Naun Bonilla, urging the public to rely on verified facts. Courts & Accountability: A bill introduced in the House would expand public access to Belize’s National Sex Offenders Database. Social Services: House approval for a US$23.5M loan plus grants to expand early childhood education and support women’s economic empowerment. Indigenous Rights: Government says FPIC consultations remain ongoing under the Free, Prior and Informed Consent framework. Conservation & Climate Finance: PACT marked another milestone, citing millions mobilized for climate resilience and conservation projects. Regional Integration: Dominican Republic announced it will transfer SICA’s Pro Tempore Presidency to Belize at end of June. Health Systems: PAHO/WHO supported Belize’s sepsis care pathways workshop to strengthen early recognition and antimicrobial stewardship. Belize in the News: Veteran journalist and musician Brother Fem Cruz has died.

Belmopan Politics: John Saldivar fired back at Oscar Mira, arguing key Belmopan projects were completed during his tenure and asking what Mira has done for the city. NHI Clarification: Belize’s National Health Insurance says it is being wrongly linked to the murder of Dr. Naun Bonilla and urges the public to rely on verified facts. Crime & Governance: A UNDP report warns Caribbean violence stems from a gap between security policies and the deeper causes of crime, including organized crime and drug trafficking, with Belize named among high-homicide-rate countries. Cuba Aid: Mexico and Belize continued sending humanitarian shipments to Cuba, with a reported 1,700 tons of food and supplies arriving in Havana as fuel deliveries remain constrained. Ombudsman Fight: Former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso and a separate activist challenge government actions around the Ombudsman’s office and legal support, setting up a constitutional showdown over transparency and independence. Coast Guard Rescue: The Coast Guard rescued seven people near San Pedro after a vessel began taking on water. Environment & Health: Belize-backed sargassum removal support continues amid a record sargassum year, while authorities also flagged risks from Africanized bee swarming season. Regional Diplomacy: The Dominican Republic says it will transfer the SICA rotating presidency to Belize at the end of June.

Humanitarian Aid to Cuba: Mexico and Belize continue sending relief to Cuba as ships like the Chinese-owned Asian Katra arrive in Havana with about 1,700 tons of food and basic supplies, while fuel shipments remain constrained. Belize Disaster Response: A 6.1 quake off Cuba’s coast was felt in Belize; NEMO and the meteorological service said there was no tsunami threat and no reports of damage. Belize Coast Guard Operations: The Coast Guard rescued seven people near San Pedro after a vessel took on water, and met fishing cooperatives to strengthen cooperation and crack down on illegal fishing. Local Governance & Economy: Belize is eyeing growth in the coconut sector and expanding beef exports into processed products for better value. Justice & Public Service: Former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso filed a constitutional lawsuit against the Attorney General over pay and independence issues. Public Safety & Crime: Police arraigned five people after a firearm and ammunition discovery in Belize City, including a 16-year-old granted bail. Sports: Bermuda’s T20 qualifier squad includes matches vs Belize, and women’s football saw Bermuda beat Belize in two friendlies.

Ombudsman Fight: Former Ombudsman Gilbert Swaso has filed a constitutional lawsuit against Belize’s Attorney General, alleging underpayment and retaliation that led to his exit, while he argues the Ombudsman’s independence is under attack. Humanitarian Aid: Belize joined Mexico in sending about 1,700 tons of food and basic necessities to Cuba, with officials citing solidarity amid shortages and U.S. pressure. Disaster Watch: A 6.1 earthquake off Cuba’s coast was felt in Belize, prompting precautionary evacuations in some offices, but authorities reported no damage or injuries and said there was no tsunami threat. Coast Guard & Safety: The Coast Guard rescued seven people near San Pedro after a vessel began taking on water, and also met with fishing cooperatives to strengthen cooperation and crack down on illegal fishing. Local Economy: Belize is eyeing growth in the coconut sector and exploring ways to expand beef exports into processed cuts for higher value. Sports: Bermuda beat Belize in women’s football matches, while cricket qualifier news includes Belize as an opponent. Public Service: Belize mourned the passing of long-serving legal public servant Edmund Pennil.

Humanitarian Aid to Cuba: Mexico and Belize sent a new shipment of about 1,700 tons of food and basic supplies to Havana aboard the Panama-flagged Asian Katra, as Cuba battles severe shortages tied to U.S. pressure and energy disruptions. Earthquake Watch: A 6.1 quake off Cuba’s northwest coast was felt across the Caribbean and into Florida, with at least one report of shaking in Belize. Regional Digital Resilience: Belize hosted a regional workshop on strengthening digital resilience and government continuity, bringing together policymakers and partners from across the Caribbean. Education Update: Belize launched its first nationwide National Student Assessment System pilot, with 20,000+ primary students taking part in non-high-stakes testing focused on Language Arts and Mathematics. Prison Report: Belize Central Prison’s 2025 report says there were no escapes, fewer incidents, and strong rehab participation, but notes more people jailed for minor offenses. Justice in Dr. Bonilla Case: Police charged two people in the murder of Belmopan doctor Naum Bonilla, following a high-profile investigation. Fuel Pressure: The Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry renewed calls for broader fuel price relief, criticizing government transparency on pump pricing. Maritime Training: BCC launched new maritime training courses with regional interest, including participants from Belize.

Humanitarian Aid to Cuba: A ship carrying 1,700 tons of food and basic supplies collected in Mexico and Belize docked in Havana, as Cuba battles severe blackouts and shortages amid U.S. blockade pressure. Belize Murder Case: Belmopan physician Dr. Naun Bonilla was shot in his vehicle last week; police have charged 26-year-old Hannah Rebekah Foreman and 37-year-old Edwin Albert Bethran Jr., with prosecutors citing a business dispute and the joint enterprise doctrine. Justice System Pushback: Home Affairs CEO Elton Bennett urged public confidence after recent convictions, pointing to the Bonilla arrests as proof of investigative follow-through. Legislation Delayed: The OSH Bill was postponed again in the Senate after senators were asked to submit questions in writing. Governance & Land: Indigenous leaders raised concerns about government land initiatives affecting Maya customary tenure and Garifuna village boundary processes. Environment Watch: Belize’s drone industry group says civil aviation consultations are moving too fast, while environmental voices continue pushing for enforcement of the Placencia Lagoon and Ambergris Caye dredging moratorium.

Belize Crime & Justice: Two people have been charged in the murder of Belmopan doctor Dr. Naun Bonilla, with police saying the case involves a business dispute and using the joint enterprise doctrine; the accused are 26-year-old Hannah Rebekah Foreman and 37-year-old Edwin Albert Bethran Jr., both expected to appear in court as investigators continue to lay out how the plot was carried out. Violence on the ground: A 34-year-old man was also charged in connection with the Gardenia murder of 15-year-old Rackeem Armstrong, while another shooting in Belize City led to attempted murder charges after a machete attack. Local Governance & Environment: Belize City is stepping up hurricane preparedness, and the government is pushing a six-month moratorium on mining and dredging in Placencia Lagoon and Ambergris Caye as stakeholders argue for manatee and lagoon recovery. Economy & Policy: Belize has taken the rotating chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Bank’s Board of Governors, and the Senate delayed the OSH Bill again, asking senators to submit concerns in writing. Regional & Health: WHO says the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo is an international emergency, with no cure for the Bundibugyo strain. Sports: Bermuda edged Belize 1-0 in women’s football, while Belize’s first nationwide primary student assessment drew more than 20,000 students.