PHILIPSBURG:--- Ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the Middle East have contributed to unpredictable fluctuations in global fuel prices, directly impacting the cost of fuel required to generate electricity in St. Maarten, which is beyond the control of NV GEBE.

As an island that depends heavily on imported fuel for power production, changes in global oil prices can significantly affect operational costs. The fuel clause is therefore adjusted monthly to reflect the actual cost of fuel used to generate electricity.

Consequently, NV GEBE hereby informs the general public that the fuel clause for the month of May 2026 has been adjusted to NAf. 0.45 per kWh, compared to NAf. 0.36 per kWh in April 2026, reflecting an increase of 0.09 Caribbean guilder cents.

NV GEBE recognizes that any adjustments in electricity-related costs impact both the community we serve and the company’s operations. As a community-minded company, we remain sensitive to the effect on our customers’ daily lives while also ensuring the financial stability of the organization.”

Therefore, NV GEBE remains committed to standing with our community through these difficult times, through senior and community relief initiatives, and with transparency, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to providing reliable energy service to our island.

We also encourage customers to take the necessary steps to reduce electricity consumption and better manage their monthly utility bills. Simple energy saving measures can make a meaningful difference, including:

• Turning off lights and appliances when not in use
• Using energy-efficient LED lighting
• Setting air conditioning units between 24°C–26°C
• Unplugging electronics and chargers when not in use
• Limiting the use of high energy appliances during peak hours
• Ensuring refrigerators and air conditioning units are properly maintained

NV GEBE continues to monitor global fuel developments closely and remains dedicated to providing safe and reliable electricity services to the people of Sint Maarten.

We thank the community for its understanding and cooperation.

Paris / St.Maarten:---  St. Maarten leader recognized on the global stage for distinguished public service and inspirational life experience.

Women Changing the World (WCW) has announced its 2026 global winners, and St. Maarten’s own Sarah A. Wescot-Williams stands out as a double honoree, earning recognition in two distinct categories.

Wescot-Williams took 1st Place in Women in Corporate & Public Sector, a testament to her decades of leadership and public service in the Caribbean region. She also claimed 2nd Place in Experience That Inspires (65+), a category celebrating women whose lived experience and wisdom continue to drive meaningful change.

The WCW Awards recognize outstanding women from around the world making a positive impact through their work. This year's winners represent a diverse range of fields and nationalities, with Wescot-Williams among a select group to receive more than one award.

“To be recognized not once but twice reflects a lifetime dedicated to public life and to the people of this Country. St. Maarten, this is for you,” stated Wescot-Williams.

https://wcwawards.com/winners-2026/

PHILIPSBURG:--- Motorworld proudly announces its recognition at the 2026 international conferences hosted by GAC and Changan, securing multiple prestigious awards that highlight the group’s excellence in performance, leadership, and brand execution.
At the 2026 GAC International Partner Conference held in Guangzhou, China, Motorworld was honored with the Outstanding Distributor Gold Award, Global Benchmark Store Award, and Distributor Excellence Award. In addition, Chairman Tariq Amjad was recognized with the Outstanding General Manager Award, while Group Brand & Logistics Director Dylan Smith received the Brand Leadership Award for his exceptional contribution to brand growth and positioning. Dealer teams and individuals who received these awards were recognized for their excellent sales performance, customer service, and market promotion over the past year.
Further reinforcing this achievement, Tariq Amjad was also awarded the Excellent General Manager Award at the Changan Global Partner Conference that was held in Chongqing, China, recognizing his continued leadership and impact across the organization.

“These awards are a tremendous honor and a reflection of the collective effort behind everything we do,” said Tariq Amjad. “While it is deeply rewarding to be recognized at this level, this couldn’t have been possible without our distribution team, whose dedication, consistency, and passion make achievements like this possible. This recognition motivates us to continue raising the bar and delivering excellence across every market we serve.”
These accolades reflect Motorworld’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence, innovative customer experiences, and strong leadership across its regional markets. Building on this momentum, the company continues to focus on expanding its distribution network across the Caribbean, while strengthening support for its dealer partners across the islands to ensure consistently high standards of customer experience and accessible, forward-thinking mobility solutions.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through its Youth Health Care Baby Wellness Clinic, has planned several vaccine outreach events for community members in May.

The vaccine outreach efforts are geared primarily towards children ages 4 to 9 who have not yet received their vaccine boosters. If parents have missed recent vaccine appointments, CPS encourages them to use this opportunity for children ages 2 months to 17 years old.

Parents and guardians can bring children and teenagers to the clinic at the Vineyard Office Park between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 13; between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 16; and between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 27. You should also bring along your child’s vaccination record.

The vaccines that are provided include: DTaP-IPV-Hib (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, and Poliomyelitis and Haemophilus influenzae type B), PCV13 (Pneumococcus Conjugate Vaccine 13-valent), MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), DT-IPV (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Poliomyelitis), and HPV (Human Papillomavirus).

For those who would like additional information to verify their child(ren) 's status or to make an appointment, you can call 721-542-3003 or message CPS via WhatsApp at 721-520-4163.

Vaccination is essential in preventing a wide range of childhood diseases and significantly reduces the risk of illness, disability, and death.

These include conditions such as cervical cancer, diphtheria, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, pertussis (whooping cough), pneumonia, polio, rotavirus, diarrhea, rubella, and tetanus.

CPS also highlights the importance of the HPV vaccine, which is recommended for girls between the ages of nine and 17. This vaccine offers long-term protection against cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of death among women, making early vaccination a vital preventive measure.

Maintaining routine vaccination coverage is crucial. According to PAHO, gaps in vaccination can leave children vulnerable to preventable diseases such as polio, tetanus, measles, and diphtheria, particularly those with weakened immune systems. Ensuring full immunization not only protects individuals but also strengthens community immunity.

Vaccines remain one of the most effective tools in eliminating childhood diseases. CPS urges parents and guardians to treat vaccination records with the same importance as other essential documents, such as passports or identification, ensuring they are up to date and safely stored.