PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) actively participated on Thursday, March 19, in the annual 15th CARIBE WAVE 2026 tsunami exercise held across the Caribbean Region.
It was part of its ongoing efforts to enhance tsunami preparedness and improve public communication and alerting systems.
ODM is currently focusing on the tsunami alerting phase and the communication component, specifically how alerts and information will be conveyed to the public.
This approach allowed Sint Maarten to remain engaged in the exercise while continuing to strengthen ODMs internal processes and coordination mechanisms.
There are two scenarios from which participants can choose: a tsunami generated by a magnitude 7.6 earthquake located southwest of the Cayman Islands and a tsunami generated by a flank collapse of the Kick’ Jenny submarine volcano near Grenada. ODM selected the exercise related to the Kick em' Jenny submarine volcano.
The regional training exercise overall was designed to test tsunami preparedness, warning communication systems, and emergency response procedures among participating countries and territories.
The ODM is also currently in an active partnership with UNESCO to refine national tsunami readiness to fully build a comprehensive public awareness campaign. Tangible steps are being taken to ensure every resident is fully informed of the national preparedness plan. The goal is to move from planning to visible, island-wide awareness.
The exercise provided ODM and its partners with an important opportunity to assess national readiness in the event of a tsunami threat. By participating in the simulation, the country was able to review communication protocols, coordination procedures, and response actions necessary during a real coastal hazard event.
Exercises such as Caribe Wave play a critical role in helping emergency management agencies identify strengths as well as areas for improvement.
ODM emphasizes that participation in the regional exercise reflects Sint Maarten’s continued commitment to disaster preparedness and public safety.
Tsunami events, while infrequent, can pose serious risks to coastal communities, making it essential that warning systems and emergency procedures be regularly tested and updated.
ODM encourages the public to continue learning about tsunami safety. Building a culture of preparedness remains a shared responsibility and an important step in protecting lives and property.
The Intergovernmental Coordination Group (ICG) for the Tsunami and other Coastal Hazards Warning System for the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions at its eighth session (ICG/CARIBE EWS-VIII, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 29 April–1 May 2013), decided to conduct tsunami exercises named CARIBE WAVE on an annual basis leaving each Member State to define its level of participation.
The ICG/CARIBE-EWS of UNESCO/IOC, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the Caribbean Regional Stakeholders (CEPREDENAC, CDEMA, and EMIZA) provided the framework for this exercise as a means for emergency responders throughout the Caribbean and adjacent regions to test and update tsunami response plans.

There are 48 Member States and Territories, stakeholders, and communities at risk that participate in the annual exercise.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), joins the international community in observing World Oral Health Day (WOHD) on Friday, March 20, under the theme “A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Life.” The annual observance highlights the importance of good oral hygiene and reminds the public that maintaining healthy teeth and gums is an essential part of overall health and well-being.

Oral health plays a major role in everyday life. Healthy teeth and gums help people eat properly, speak clearly, smile with confidence, and avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort.

Poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other health complications that may affect a person’s quality of life. CPS is encouraging residents of all ages to make oral care a daily priority and to understand that prevention begins at home.

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most important steps in protecting oral health.

Regular brushing helps remove plaque, prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of gum disease. CPS also encourages the public to floss daily, reduce sugary foods and drinks, drink plenty of water, and visit a dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. These simple habits can make a significant difference in keeping the mouth healthy.

Parents and guardians are also reminded of the importance of teaching children good oral hygiene habits from an early age. Encouraging children to brush properly and consistently helps lay the foundation for lifelong dental health.

Good oral care practices established in childhood can prevent many common dental problems later in life.

In observance of WOHD, CPS calls on the Sint Maarten community to reflect on the connection between oral health and overall wellness. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthier body, greater self-esteem, and improved daily living. Taking care of your teeth is not only about appearance, but also about protecting your health and preventing avoidable problems.

CPS encourages everyone to use World Oral Health Day as an opportunity to recommit to proper oral hygiene and to share this important message with family and friends.

By working together to promote good oral health practices, the community can help ensure that more people enjoy healthier smiles and happier lives.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  On Saturday, March 28, the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) will launch their annual free breast exam and health screening program for 2026. Women 18 years and older, and first-time participants, are encouraged to sign up.

This activity is aimed to educate and empower women by increasing awareness of breast cancer risk factors while simultaneously collecting data for ongoing health research on breast abnormalities.

Women interested in the screening program should mark their calendars, especially those who have not previously participated in the breast abnormalities project.

Interested women are requested to make an appointment no later than March 25 by calling: +1-721-545-2298 (ext. 404-2248) or
Emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The screening will take place at CPS located at the Vineyard Office Park Building #33 W.G. Buncamper Road.

This initiative is being spearheaded by AUC, Collection Prevention Services (CPS), Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) in collaboration with the Positive Foundation.

The breast exam is performed by a board-certified AUC physician. Free health screenings include Blood Sugar, Total Cholesterol, Waist Circumference, Blood Pressure, Height, Weight, BMI, and Vision.

Reserve the date and at least two hours in your schedule and register to be part of an opportunity to receive health information and a free clinical breast exam.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (CVROMI) of Parliament will meet on March 20, 2025.

The Committee meeting is scheduled for Friday at 10.00 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure will be in attendance.

The agenda points are:
1. Discussion on the current state of national housing in Sint Maarten, including government planning, (land use), and institutional capacity (IS/1057/2024-2025 dated May 19, 2025)

2. Follow-up discussion with the Minister of VROMI on cemetery capacity, development planning, and related infrastructure policy (IS/396/2025-2026 dated November 26, 2025)

These agenda points were requested by MP D.T.J. York

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet, www.pearlfmradio.sx and www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament