~Enabling consumers to make informed decisions regarding loan applications~

The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) recently introduced an APR Calculator on its website. This tool calculates the true cost of loans, helping consumers become aware of all the costs involved when taking out a loan. It allows users to calculate the APR of a loan offer by entering information such as the loan amount, the repayment amount, frequency, and up-front charges, if applicable. It helps consumers compare loan offers and easily identify the most economical option.
What is APR?
The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is the total cost of borrowing money, expressed as an annual percentage of the total loan amount. It includes interest and any other directly related fees, such as tax and administration costs, whether paid upfront or added to the loan. The higher the APR, the higher the total cost of the loan.
APR Provisions and the maximum percentage rate
Since May 2015, credit providers licensed with the CBCS must comply with the APR Provisions to protect consumers. These rules require lenders to provide clear information, including the APR. The maximum APR is capped at 27%. The CBCS encourages the public to signal any offers with an APR exceeding 27% via its signal form.
For example, the repayment cost might seem reasonable when borrowing 1.000 guilders for one month with a total repayment of 1.100 guilders. However, when calculated as an APR, it exceeds 200% - far above the allowed maximum. This highlights how small, short-term loans can carry disproportionately high costs. By using the calculator, consumers can better understand what they will be paying in total and make more informed decisions when comparing offers.

The CBCS strongly advises consumers only to seek financial assistance from supervised credit institutions and to remain cautious of loan sharks. To verify whether the CBCS supervises a lender, consumers are advised to consult the list of supervised institutions on its website.

Willemstad, April 9, 2025
CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN

PHILIPSBURG;---  Judicial and Institutional Services (J&IS), Probation Department successfully hosted a professional exchange program from March 31 to April 4, 2025, welcoming a delegation of professionals from Suriname’s and Netherlands probation services. The week's theme was collaboration and knowledge-sharing around community service (werkstraffen), strongly focusing on practical implementation and regional partnership.

The Surinamese delegation consisted of Charissa Kalloe and Sashni Soekhlall (Probation Officers of Forensic Social Care), Jessica Fredison (Deputy Head of Forensic Social Care), and Mureije Winter (Prosecutor’s Office). Their visit was part in light of the Makandra project, a collaboration between the International Office of Probation Netherlands and Forensic Social Care Suriname (Probation Suriname), that focussed on the introduction and implementation of community services practices and legislation in Suriname.

The Dutch participants were Gisella Conrad (Regional Coordinator of International Office Probation Netherlands ) and Jochum Wildeman (Head of International Office Probation Netherlands), who contributed both expertise and coordination support during this visit.

 Program highlights

The week’s program was rich in practical experiences and interactive sessions. Participants joined local J&IS staff in client intake, administration, and supervision of community service projects across multiple Not for Profit working locations. Visits to the Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling, and the Office of the Public Prosecutor provided further insight into justice policies and priorities, interagency cooperation on (conditional) sentencing, the role of probation services, and enforcement strategies.

Positive evaluation and Future commitments

Participants described the week as motivating and energizing, expressing that they are returning to Suriname with “inspired with renewed purpose and practical ideas.” They were particularly impressed by the diversity of community service locations on Sint Maarten and the types of meaningful tasks assigned to clients.

In their evaluation, the Surinamese delegation outlined concrete steps they intend to implement back home:

• Documenting before-and-after visuals of community service projects to highlight client contributions and program outcomes
• Collecting and presenting client narratives to support internal learning, evaluation, and advocacy efforts
• Enhancing interagency collaboration between Suriname’s Probation Services and the Prosecutor’s Office through improved information-sharing practices
• Promoting a positive, strengths-based approach in client interactions to foster engagement and accountability
• Proactively identifying, assessing, and securing suitable community service sites and placements tailored to client profiles and community needs

The week concluded with a formal certificate ceremony and expressions of gratitude from both sides. The delegation left the island committed to applying their new insights and continuing the regional exchange of ideas and expertise.

 Strengthening regional bonds through Community Service

This exchange forms part of J&IS’ broader rebranding mission under the banner “For Restored and Reconciled Communities.”

Cynthia Filemon, Director of J&IS, stated: “Community service is one of the most tangible ways to show that justice can be restorative rather than purely punitive. When clients repair harm through meaningful work, it helps rebuild trust and create a safer, more connected society. This exchange has shown us that by working together across the region, we can strengthen these efforts, connect professionals, and support people in building better lives.”

J&IS is grateful for the active participation of all delegates and expresses its commitment to ongoing international cooperation. The organization looks forward to continuing these efforts in close partnership with Suriname, the Netherlands, and other justice stakeholders within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

 What is Community Service?

Community service is a judicial sanction that enables individuals to make amends for the harm they have caused by using their time and abilities to support meaningful initiatives that serve the community. In St. Maarten, this alternative sanction not only supports rehabilitation but also promotes a sense of responsibility and accountability among those involved. Currently, 23 organizations are registered with the J&IS-Probation Department as community service workplaces, offering a range of placements across different sectors. Individuals may be sentenced to perform up to 240 hours of unpaid work under the supervision of J&IS, ensuring accountability, structure, and support throughout the process.

Organizations interested in partnering as a community service placement site are encouraged to contact the Probation Department via 5264322 or info@sjis-sxm,org to learn more about registration requirements and how they can contribute to positive change.

PHILIPSBURG:---  Kooyman is proud to announce its dynamic and innovative sponsorship of the 2025 St. Maarten Carnival in partnership with the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation. This year, Kooyman is stepping up its commitment to the community by creating meaningful and engaging experiences inside Carnival Village and along Pond Fill Road, enhancing the festival atmosphere for both visitors and local vendors.
As part of its sponsorship, Kooyman will introduce several key activations. The Kooyman Link Up Cornuh will feature four newly designed seating areas within Carnival Village, providing comfort and convenience for festival-goers while increasing seating options for booth holders.
Additionally, Kooyman is sponsoring this year’s Booth Holder Competition, celebrating the creativity and dedication of food vendors. In the following days Kooyman will roll out the guidelines for the competition and announce the prizes that are to be won.
To further enhance the experience, Kooyman will also contribute to the beautification of the Carnival Village entrance, making it a more welcoming and visually appealing space. This should allow for visitors to have great photo opportunities.
President of the SCDF Edwardo Radjouki said: “We are extremely proud to welcome Kooyman as the newest corporate partner of St. Maarten Carnival,” said SCDF President Edwardo Radjouki. “Their commitment to enhancing the festival experience, especially through their support of our booth holders and the exciting new Link Up Cornuh, is a clear reflection of their community spirit and innovative approach. This partnership marks the beginning of something truly special, and we are enthusiastic about growing this relationship in the years to come. Kooyman’s presence in Carnival Village this year will undoubtedly add another vibrant layer to what is already the most thrilling time of year on the island.”
Kooyman recognizes that food is at the heart of St. Maarten’s Carnival tradition, and booth holders play a crucial role in preserving and celebrating the island’s rich culinary heritage. This initiative reflects Kooyman’s dedication to giving back to the community while providing an enjoyable and comfortable experience for all festival attendees.
Carnival is a time of unity, culture, and celebration, and it’s important that both booth holders and visitors have a fantastic experience. The Kooyman Link Up Cornuh and other initiatives are all about bringing people together over great food and tradition while celebrating one of the largest events of St.Maarten: Carnival.
Kooyman invites everyone to enjoy this year’s Carnival and experience the community spirit that makes St. Maarten’s festival so special. Starting this Saturday, Kooyman launches its highly anticipated Carnival Shirt campaign. Shoppers who spend $40 or more will receive an exclusive Carnival shirt—a limited-edition collector’s item—available while supplies last. The excitement for Carnival is building and Kooyman is looking forward to actively support this annual event.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) has carried out a series of control operations over the past several days in various districts, including the Philipsburg area. These operations are part of the police’s ongoing efforts to address illegal firearm possession, narcotics-related offenses, and traffic law violations.

As a result of these controls, officers arrested a male suspect with the initials M.F., for whom an outstanding arrest warrant had been issued in connection with theft and the fencing of stolen goods. This suspect was arrested and transported to the Philipsburg Police Station, where he is currently being held for further questioning.

In a separate incident, officers discovered a white Hyundai i20 that had been reported stolen on April 1st, 2025. The vehicle was located in the Garden of Eden area in the Dutch Quarter. It was subsequently confiscated and brought to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation.

The Sint Maarten Police Force reminds all drivers and vehicle owners that they must always carry proper documentation for their vehicles. This includes a valid driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration. Non-compliance may result in fines or further legal consequences.

These operations will continue and intensify in the coming weeks as the police prepare for the busy Easter and Carnival periods. The KPSM remains committed to ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order throughout the island.

The public is encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activities by contacting the police hotline at +1 (721) 542-2222 or submitting tips anonymously via the tip line.

KPSM Press Release.