PHILIPSBURG:---  Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina has extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Curaçao following the country's historic participation in the FIFA World Cup and the unforgettable milestone of scoring its first-ever goal on football's grandest stage.

For the Prime Minister, the significance of the occasion extends far beyond the ninety minutes played on the field. It represents a defining moment for Curaçao, the Dutch Caribbean, and the wider Caribbean region.

"Some moments in sport become much larger than sport itself. This was one of those moments. What the people of Curaçao achieved belongs not only to them, but to everyone throughout our region who understands the determination, sacrifice, and perseverance required for a small island nation to reach the world's biggest sporting stage."

Prime Minister Mercelina noted that Curaçao's World Cup appearance serves as a powerful reminder that ambition, perseverance, and national pride can overcome even the greatest of odds.

"For many of us watching, this journey was about more than football. It was about possibility. It was about seeing a Caribbean nation stand among the world's footballing powers and knowing that excellence can emerge from any corner of our region. That message carries tremendous meaning for our young people."

The Prime Minister further emphasized that Curaçao's accomplishment resonates deeply within Sint Maarten because of the shared experiences, history, and bonds that connect the islands of the Dutch Caribbean.

"There is a special sense of pride when one of our sister islands achieves something extraordinary. Curaçao's journey reminds us that the successes of one Caribbean people inspire the confidence of another. Their achievement has reminded Caribbean people everywhere that our region is capable of producing excellence that can compete and succeed on the world's biggest stages."

Prime Minister Mercelina also reflected on Sint Maarten's unique position during this World Cup, where residents are able to celebrate multiple nations with which they share close ties.

"As a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, we proudly celebrate the participation of the Netherlands. As a people who share one island with our brothers and sisters of Saint-Martin, we likewise celebrate the participation of France. Yet, in this particular World Cup, Curaçao's story carries a special place in the hearts of many throughout our region because it reflects a Caribbean journey that so many of us can identify with."

The Prime Minister stressed that Curaçao's achievement sends an important message to future generations throughout the Caribbean.

"Every young person who watched this World Cup should understand that dreams do not have to be limited by geography. They do not have to be limited by population size. They do not have to be limited by the perception of what others believe is possible. Curaçao has demonstrated that dedication, preparation, and belief can open doors that once seemed beyond reach."

As the tournament continues, Prime Minister Mercelina encouraged the people of Sint Maarten to embrace the spirit of unity and celebration that football inspires around the world.

"The World Cup remains one of the few occasions that can bring together people from different cultures, backgrounds, and nations in a shared celebration of human achievement. Whether one's support lies with Curaçao, the Netherlands, France, or another participating nation, this tournament reminds us of the connections that unite us rather than the differences that separate us."

The Prime Minister concluded by noting that long after the final results of this World Cup have faded from memory, the significance of Curaçao's achievement will endure.

"Years from now, people may not remember every scoreline or every statistic from this tournament. What they will remember is that a Caribbean nation stepped onto the world's biggest football stage and showed what can be achieved through courage, commitment, and belief. That is the legacy of this moment, and it is a legacy worthy of celebration."

Prime Minister Mercelina once again congratulated the people of Curaçao and wished the national team continued success throughout the remainder of the tournament.

PHILIPSBURG:---  NV GEBE Temporary Manager Mrs. Iris Arrindell has reaffirmed the utility company's commitment to providing reliable water and electricity services while outlining a renewed focus on transparency, accountability, communication, and customer service.

In a message addressing employees, customers, and the wider community, Arrindell reflected on NV GEBE's more than 65-year history as a cornerstone institution in St. Maarten.

“For more than 65 years, NV GEBE has been a household name and an integral part of the fabric of St. Maarten,” Arrindell stated. “Through periods of growth, times of hardship, and moments of uncertainty, we remained steadfast in our mission: to provide the people of this country with reliable water and electricity services.”

Arrindell acknowledged that the company's journey has included both successes and setbacks. She noted that despite operational difficulties, natural disasters, and other unforeseen challenges, NV GEBE employees have continued to work diligently to ensure the continuity of essential services and the organization's long-term sustainability.

The temporary manager also acknowledged concerns raised by customers and residents about the company's performance and its relationship with the community.

“We've listened carefully to the concerns, frustrations, and expectations from our customers and the wider community,” Arrindell said. “It is imperative for us to bridge the gap that has emerged between NV GEBE and the people we serve. Acknowledging this reality is the first step toward addressing it.”

According to Arrindell, rebuilding public confidence will require a sustained commitment to transparency, accountability, open communication, and improved customer service.

“As we move forward, it is imperative that we bridge that gap through transparency, accountability, open communication, and a renewed focus on customer service,” she stated. “Rebuilding trust will not happen overnight, but it will remain one of our highest priorities.”

She emphasized that the company's goal is not only to restore confidence in the organization but also to strengthen its relationship with customers and the wider community.

Arrindell also called on NV GEBE employees to remain committed during what she described as a period of renewal.

“To the employees of NV GEBE, I ask for your continued dedication, professionalism, and support during this period of renewal,” she said. “Each of you plays a vital role in shaping the future of this organization. The manner in which we serve, communicate, and respond reflects who we are as a company.”

She concluded with a message of unity and determination, expressing confidence that the company can overcome past challenges and emerge stronger.

“Together, we can move beyond the challenges of the past and build a stronger, more responsive, and more resilient NV GEBE for generations to come,” Arrindell said. “Let us move forward together, with humility, determination, and a shared commitment to serving St. Maarten.”

PHILIPSBURG:---    Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten has congratulated Curaçao’s national football team on its historic FIFA World Cup debut, saying that despite the 7–1 result against Germany, Curaçao gave the Dutch Caribbean and the wider Caribbean a moment of pride that will not be forgotten.
Curaçao, the smallest country by population ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, made history on Sunday as it took the world stage for the first time. The moment was made even more memorable when Livano Comenencia scored Curaçao’s first-ever World Cup goal, briefly equalizing against one of football’s most powerful nations.
“One goal is still a win,” Minister Heyliger-Marten said. “The joy I felt, and that so many supporters felt when Curaçao scored, was much bigger than the scoreline. That goal was a victory in itself. It was history. It was pride. It was the world hearing about Curaçao.”
The Minister said the emotional weight of the occasion was clear from the very start of the match.
“From the moment the players walked onto the field and the Curaçao flag was displayed, it gave me goosebumps. For such a small island nation to reach this level, to stand on that stage, and to score in its very first World Cup appearance is something truly special,” she said.
Minister Heyliger-Marten noted that Curaçao’s journey is a reminder that size does not determine ambition, visibility, talent, or national pride.
“Germany showed its quality, but Curaçao showed its heart. The players represented not only their country, but also the dreams of small island communities everywhere. They reminded the world that the Caribbean belongs on every stage, including the biggest stage in football,” she said.
She also highlighted the significance of Curaçao’s Guinness World Records recognition as the smallest country by population to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, calling it a milestone of regional importance.
“That achievement alone is historic. But today, Curaçao added another unforgettable chapter by scoring its first World Cup goal. For Curaçao, for the Dutch Caribbean, and for all small island nations, this was a moment of immense pride,” Minister Heyliger-Marten said.
The Minister encouraged Curaçao’s team and supporters to continue holding their heads high as the tournament continues.
“The final score will be recorded in the books, but so will the history Curaçao made today. That one goal will live far beyond this match,” she said. “Curaçao has already won something very important: the respect, attention, and admiration of the world.”

Cay Hill:---  “A stronger, smarter, and more resilient Sint Maarten,” declared the Honorable Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs, Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina, as he welcomed the official launch of the Address Data Management System (ADMS) today.
The launch marks another major accomplishment under the Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP) and represents a significant milestone in the Government of Sint Maarten’s ongoing modernization efforts to improve public services through digital innovation.
The Address Data Management System establishes a centralized and authoritative database of addresses across Sint Maarten, ensuring that every home, business, road, and building location is accurately recorded and maintained in a single, reliable system.
“As a government, we continue to invest in solutions that strengthen our institutions, improve service delivery, and enhance the quality of life for our people,” stated Prime Minister Mercelina. “The Address Data Management System is a critical building block in our digital transformation journey and will support smarter governance, improved emergency response for years to come.”
The solution was designed using Esri’s ArcGIS technology platform, the system creates one trusted source of address information that can be shared across government departments, emergency response services, utility providers, and other stakeholders. Over the past months the technology was shared with several key stakeholders to showcase its potential.
The Address Data Management System is expected to improve public safety by enabling emergency responders, including police, fire, and ambulance services, to quickly and accurately locate addresses during emergencies, hurricanes, and disaster situations. Through integration with digital government initiatives, including eVROMI, the system will help reduce response times, eliminate confusion caused by inconsistent addressing, and strengthen emergency preparedness.
For the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), the system provides an key tool for maintaining accurate address records, supporting the permit department, land management assistance, and future development initiatives.
Citizens and businesses will also benefit from more accurate addresses, improved mail and package delivery, enhanced navigation services, and more efficient access to government services.
Today’s ceremony also marked the official handover of the Address Data Management Solution to the Permits Department of VROMI.
Delivering remarks during the ceremony, Honorable Patrice Gumbs, Minister of VROMI, declared the importance of accurate address and spatial data for effective governance.
“For VROMI, accurate address and spatial data are critical tools,” Minister Gumbs stated. “They support urban planning, infrastructure development, permitting, emergency response, disaster management, and many other essential services that directly impact our communities and the daily lives of our citizens.”
He further noted that reliable and standardized address information enables government to operate optimally, while making better-informed decisions.
Minister Gumbs recognized the dedicated efforts of the Digital Leadership Team, the VROMI Permits Department, technical partner GIS4C, and Kadaster St. Maarten for their invaluable contributions throughout the project.
“Your contribution has laid an important foundation for the future of spatial and address management in Sint Maarten,” he said.
The Minister also expressed appreciation to the National Recovery Program Bureau and the World Bank for their continued partnership and support.
“This achievement demonstrates what is possible when ministries, departments, technical experts, and development partners work together toward a common objective,” Minister Gumbs added.
The event also featured remarks from Ms. Toyin Jagha, Program Manager representing the Sint Maarten Trust Fund and the World Bank, and Mr. Claret Connor, Director of the National Recovery Program Bureau.
Attendees witnessed a virtual presentation and demonstration of the GIS4C platform by Esri representatives, showcasing the capabilities of the new system and its future applications.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the official signing between the Ministry of VROMI and Kadaster St. Maarten, represented by Minister Patrice Gumbs and Mr. Benjamin Ortega, Director of Kadaster St. Maarten.
Through this collaboration, Kadaster will utilize the Address Data Management System to strengthen the connection between official addresses, properties, land parcels, and buildings. The integration will improve property identification, facilitate property transactions, reduce duplicate or inaccurate address records, and ensure that each address is correctly linked to the appropriate parcel of land.
The event concluded with remarks by Mr. Femi Badejo, Project Leader of the Digital Leadership Team, and Head of the Government’s ICT Department.
In a surprise announcement, Mr. Badejo revealed that the Government of Sint Maarten has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 SAG (Special Achievement in GIS) award, an international recognition honoring outstanding achievements in the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology. The award ceremony will be at the User Conference in San Diego.
The award recognizes the exceptional work carried out under the Digital Government Transformation Project and places Sint Maarten among a select group of organizations worldwide recognized for excellence in digital innovation and geospatial technology. ESRI will feature the Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP) during the international conference and award celebrations later this year.
“This recognition demonstrates that Sint Maarten is not only embracing digital transformation but is becoming an international leader in innovation,” Badejo stated.
The Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP) initiative is funded by the World Bank through the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands, supported by the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB), and executed by the Government’s Digital Leadership Team (DLT).