PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Tuesday, April 7, 2026, marks World Health Day (WHD) under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.”

The Collective Prevention Service (CPS) says the theme is about celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet. CPS wishes everybody in the Sint Maarten community a happy World Health Day.

This year the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) spotlight scientific achievements, One Health, and the multilateral cooperation needed to turn evidence into action.

Governments, scientists, health workers, partners, and the public are being called upon to stand with science to protect lives, rebuild trust, and secure a healthier future for all.

Science serves everyone, and everywhere. WHO and its partners work around the clock to generate scientific knowledge on key health priorities from healthy diets to water, sanitation, vaccines and medicines, infections, chronic conditions, and mental health, sharing evidence, strengthening countries’ research capacities and systems for more equitable access to health care.

According to the WHO, global health has improved substantially over the past 100 years – thanks to scientific innovations. The future will be shaped based on how we develop and practice science-led approaches for the health of all – not only humans, but also animals, plants, ecosystems, and the entire planet – through the One Health approach.

Choose evidence. Trust facts. Support science-led health, for people, animals, and the planet.

To commemorate WHD, CPS has organized “The Lifestyle Shift Campaign,” which will take place on Tuesday, April 7, and the public is invited to attend this free event.

It will be a healthy and engaging afternoon of group fitness activities starting at 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at the Vineyard Office Building, W.G. Buncamper Rd. #33 parking lot at the head of town. A number of vendors will also be on-site with wellness information/lifestyle tips, products, services, healthy snacks and hydration.

Participants can get additional information by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +1 721 542-1570.

Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in a free health screening session that covers glucose, blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Be there to experience the shift you've always wanted. Gain firsthand exercise tips and health information that you can apply to your daily routine.

#KnowYourNumbers #yourhealthmatters #YourHealthIsOurPriority #WHD2026

Simpson Bay:---  Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) is proud to announce the return of its aviation photography competition, ToppiX, after a 10-year hiatus. Last held in 2016, the competition is making a highly anticipated comeback in 2026, marking a special moment for aviation enthusiasts and the local community.

The relaunch of ToppiX coincides with Southwest Airlines' inaugural arrival in Sint Maarten on April 7, 2026, offering participants a unique opportunity to capture this historic milestone.
Participants are invited to photograph the first Southwest landing at SXM from any safe and permitted location, capturing the excitement and energy of this significant moment for the island’s aviation sector.

The competition is open to individuals aged 16 and older, with a maximum of three photo submissions per participant. Selected images will be showcased at the airport, highlighting local talent and celebrating Sint Maarten’s iconic aviation landscape. Interested participants must register via the RSVP link shared on PJIAE’s social media channels.

The registration deadline is Friday, April 3, 2026, and photos must be submitted via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The ToppiX competition not only celebrates aviation photography but also reinforces PJIAE’s connection with the community and its passion for aviation. PJIAE looks forward to welcoming participants and witnessing the creativity and perspectives that will make this inaugural arrival memorable.

For more information, please refer to the official ToppiX flyer or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is issuing a formal warning to motorcyclists in the community. Over the past few weeks, we have seen a sudden rise in motorcycles equipped with “cherry bomb” mufflers, riding from early morning until late evening and causing significant noise disturbance. This has led to numerous complaints from residents, many of whom are unable to sleep due to the disruptions.

We would like to remind these bike owners/riders that this behavior violates the Sint Maarten Noise Ordinance, which also forms part of the broader traffic regulations governing public conduct on Sint Maarten. 

These ordinances are designed to protect the peace and well-being of the community, and KPSM will enforce these laws.

As we approach the festive period from Easter to Carnival, KPSM will take serious measures against these riders, including fines, vehicle seizures, and possible further legal action for those who disregard these warnings.

We urge all motorcyclists to respect the laws and peace of the community and adjust their motorcycles and their behavior as riders accordingly.

Together, we can ensure a safer and quieter environment for all.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), joins the global community as part of its annual calendar of health observances in observing World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, a day dedicated to increasing understanding, promoting inclusion, and supporting individuals living with autism and their families.

CPS encourages the Sint Maarten community to take time to learn more about autism and to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them.

It is called a “spectrum” because it presents differently in each individual. Some persons with autism may have strong verbal and cognitive skills, while others may experience challenges with communication, behavior, and daily activities.

Common characteristics can include difficulties with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, sensitivity to sensory input, and differences in learning styles.

Early identification and intervention are key to supporting individuals with autism. While there is no single known cause or cure, early support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized educational programs can greatly improve development and quality of life.

CPS encourages parents and caregivers to seek professional guidance if they notice developmental delays or behavioral differences in their children.

Families play a vital role in supporting individuals with autism. Creating a structured, supportive, and understanding environment can help children and adults with autism thrive.

Establishing routines, using clear and consistent communication, and celebrating small achievements are important strategies that can make a meaningful difference.

It is also essential for families to access available resources, support groups, and professional services that can provide guidance and emotional support.

CPS also emphasizes the importance of community awareness and acceptance.

Individuals with autism have unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that enrich society. By promoting inclusion in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, the community can help ensure that persons with autism are given equal opportunities to participate and succeed.

On World Autism Awareness Day, CPS calls on residents of Sint Maarten to show compassion, understanding, and support for individuals with autism and their families.

Building an inclusive society begins with awareness and respect, and together, the community can create a more supportive environment where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.