Transcription
here in Orange Rock. Nobody answered. I dialed 911. Nobody answered.
Then I have a nephew that a cousin that is a police officer and I called him. Then he hand me over to Mr. Rehon. He is from special branch in Corazal. And I explained the situation to him and he told me that they can't do nothing here right now because Mexico is another jurisdiction. And he told me that I tried to call if I could try and get police assistance there before going to deliver any money. But by that time, Mr. Rosales had already gone.
No, I and I was trying to contact him, tell him who couldn't get because according to them, the the the the person that that was holding my my daughter and his son told him that he has to remove his chip and put a Mexican chip and put internet. And so they they were dealing with him directly there over there with with a Mexican chip. So um they told him that if he deposited the 100,000 pesos first they will release my daughter my older daughter. So they did so by the time he deposit the money and after a few minutes the my daughter showed up with a Uber and then they told him that if they want to see the other two they have to deposit the next 100,000. So they did so deposited the another next 100,000 but by that time the Kalia was already attacking those and we gave them the my daughter's number uh my daughter's phone like type of phone and they could find her through her her iPhone because she has an iPhone 13. So they located her iPhone and well according to them they went there but by the time they could go they could reach there and the Mr. Morales had already deposited the 200,000 pesos.
The longunning extradition battle involving attorney Andrew Bennett returned to the Caribbean Court of Justice this morning. As Biz's highest court revisited whether he can legally be sent to the United States to face criminal charges. In today's hearing, CCJ judges dug into a key question at the heart of the dispute. Can the US rely on evidence that Bennett claims was improperly obtained? His legal team argues that parts of the extradition bundle violate his constitutional rights and should never have formed the basis of an extradition request in the first place. Bennett is asking the court to halt the proceedings permanently, insisting that allowing his surrender under these circumstances would amount to an unlawful breach of his rights. He is represented by King's Council Edward Fitzgerald and attorney Hector Gara. The hearing stretched more than two and a half hours with a bench pressing both sides on how the law should treat evidence in crossber cases. We have a brief excerpt from this morning's arguments.
Um but there's no no dispute at paragraph 11 o of the respondent submissions that they accept um that that was unconstitutional and that's at page 1480. Uh moreover, we say that the receipt and extraction of the appellants WhatsApp messages from the phone by the US agent Joseph Peltz was prohibited by section three of the interception of communications act. Uh um your honors you have that in the appellent submissions um at um p section 3 uh set out and it's dealt with in the judgment of justice James at paragraph 20 page 592 that it was a breach case.
I don't mean to interrupt you councel but I assume that at some point you will discuss with us the implications ations of the fact that apparently at the time we are talking about that act was not in force.
Yes, my lord, that's precisely the point I was going to come to.
You'll come to that. I'm sure.
Right now it's true that at that time it had not yet been brought into force. It wasn't until uh a statutory instrument in 2023 that it was brought into force. But this doesn't diminish the significance of the legislative decision that such conduct should be deemed criminal. It's a it's a product of the fact that the act um in section 34 provided the act shall come into force on a day to be appointed by the minister by order published in the gazette uh and the executive did not appointed a commencement date.
Samantha Matude represented the respondent in this hearing. The CCJ will consider its decision before handing down its ruling.
After the break, the government of Bise is pushing a massive $900 million cargo and cruise overhaul at the Port of Biz. We'll break down what's driving the project and what it could mean for the coastline and the economy. But first, here's tonight's weather forecast.
Oh, heat.
Government continues to take decisive steps to strengthen and modernize BI's electricity sector through strategic international partnerships. We're advancing significant solar investments. This will be supported by the Saudi fund for development which will add meaningful renewable capacity. 40 megawatt of solar and 20 megawatts of battery energy storage system to the national grid to help reduce our dependence on imported energy through the engagement of the Millennium Challenge Corporation MCC 125 million US finance initiative of which a portion will be used to strengthen the regulatory and institutional framework necessary for energy reform. We will work together, government, the private sector, and our international partners to meet the growing needs of our energy sector.
So, NBL heads into weekend number four with three spectacular matchups. On Friday night, the Belma and Trojans try to bounce back into the winning column against the number one team in the league, the Orange Walking Rebels, 8:00 p.m. at the UB Gymnasium. Then on Saturday night, a big showdown of the ballers as the highf flying Kaio Western Ballers is locked and ready to crush the powerful and tall that Griga Dream Ballers 8:00 p.m. at the Victor Galveves Stadium and in Corazal.
Spartans. The Corazal Spartans look to turn their season around with their first win against the Fighting Tiger Sharks from San Pedro in their first home opener. 8:00 p.m. at the Andrea Campus Civic Center. Live performance by the NBL girls, plus surprise guest artists, giveaways at all games, and at halftime, the big National Sports Council $5,000 trooping challenge. So make this weekend an NBN weekend sponsored by the government of BISE.
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Lenfield Dennis was caught trying to charge BTL for negotiations on behalf of former workers. He insists he never charged the workers group as scent and claims the invoice was only a negotiating tactic. If the invoice was just a negotiating tactic, why would Dennis ask BTL to pay the legal fees as part of settlement? And if BTL had agreed, who would have received payment? Dennis, of course, because he sent the invoice the day after the last negotiations to be considered with the 4.5% interest requested by BCWJ. What's worse, the cost of legal work submitted is grossly inflated. Those are senior council rates and Dennis is not a senior council. As to the tax identification number on the invoice, no such tin number is registered with GST. So, we must also ask whether he is licensed with the FIU as required. There's also the question of whether as a crown counsel, Dennis violated the public service rules which state a judicial and legal officer shall not engage in any private legal work or private business of a legal nature. It's time for him to stop the games and come clean.
This building has been here from since 1952 and you know over the years it has been dilapidated with rats with infestations of other insects. So we are happy that you know today is a momentous day for us. The building here has about 7,500 square ft. It will have seven classrooms. But the unique part of the building that it's not only a building to to teach. We have designed it in such a way that it will be a hurricane shelter that will be able to accommodate 200 residents of the Roaring Creek Village or any other community that surrounds us. The the bathrooms are designed in such a way that if a high wind comes, you don't have to go through the verandas to reach the bathroom, you can access it internally. The structure was designed by the chief engineer to withstand serious hurricane winds. So he will be the one when the hurricane come that we will be calling. But it was done with love.
Honorable Julius, I remember you walking across this very field. I was very skeptical and in my mind I said here comes Carl Jonas Parker wasting my time. But you have proven to my school and me and the community wrong. Why I say this? Because over the years of begging no one heard us. No one have seen us. Only you you have made sure that you deliver.
Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to show you to show the government to show the people that if we are serious about leading, if we are serious about working, the people will benefit if we continue to give the love back to the people. We believe that every dollar we spend on you on your education is a dollar well spent. Every dollar we spend in education is investing in the future of our nation. Strong schools lead to stronger communities, stronger families and a stronger biz.
Last week we told you that Port of Biz Limited had finally submitted its environmental and social impact assessment to the Department of Environment. Tonight there is a major new development. Prime Minister John Bceno says government is gearing up to spend $900 million on the proposed cargo and cruise expansion. He's touting big gains for both the shipping and tourism sectors. And he says the project could bring real benefits for residents of Port Lyola and by extension the wider Biz city community. Next is the $450 million US upgrading of the port of Bise at Port Loyola in Bise City which persist as a high priority project critical for trade and for tourism. Min smile back there from Port Loyola. Since this decisive repurchase of the port by government in December of 2023, the management of the port and more recently a special project execution unit led by Dr. Gilly and Gilbert Canton has been working nonstop first to come first to complete a proper master plan and subsequently to prepare the appropriate environmental and social impact assessment plan. One of the foremost port consultants in the world, the firm of Morit and Nichols has been supporting the planning process. I'm pleased to report that the ESIA blueprint has now been submitted to the Department of the Environment for consideration. The port of BISE project would bring a historic transformation to the country's central marine navigational channel, the B city harbor, the cargo port, the cruise sector, and most importantly to the port Lyola community.
Earlier today, US House Foreign Affairs Chairman Brian Mast asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to review BISE's rule of law and investment climate, flagging investor disputes tied to the stake bank island cruise port. In a letter, Mast cited concerns about compulsory land acquisition, court delays, and transparency and requested an assessment of risks to US investors and to Bise's strategic posture, especially its recognition of Taiwan amid pressures from Beijing. The Feinstein family, developers behind Stake Bank, welcome the move, saying it validates quote serious systemic unquote concerns and puts the government of BISE and Atlantic Bank quote on notice unquote. Chairman Mast's letter proves those reports were wellfounded, not just rumors or misrepresentations, said Michael Feinstein, arguing that arbitrary actions and political interference have damaged Biza's reputation. Malita Feinstein called it a defining moment, urging authorities to respect court processes and reverse arbitrary measures, warning that Washington's questions about property rights should alarm investors and partners. Mast also asked the Department of State to detail its engagements with BISE to reinforce judicial independence, transparent governance, and a predictable investment climate, saying the committee needs a clear picture before US interests are put at risk.
Late this evening, Foreign Minister Francis Fana responded to News 5, saying, quote, "At this point, I will offer only a preliminary response to both the letter from the chairman of the US House of Representatives, Committee on Foreign Affairs to Secretary Rubio and the subsequent press release for Michael Feinstein. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Government of BISE will provide a more comprehensive response in the days ahead. Both the House Committee and the Department of State can be assured of BISE's full cooperation in any assessment of our investment climate and our commitment to judicial independence and the rule of law. We are very proud of our record in this regard. In terms of the stake bank project, it is well known that this is the subject of ongoing litigation in BISE. We are confident in our legal system and respect for the rule of law and judicial independents require that these court proceedings be allowed to follow their course. We regard these developments seriously and will respond to them through all relevant and available channels accordingly. End quote.
Members of the BISE Communications Workers for Justice took their fight straight to the nation's capital today, gathering on the steps of the National Assembly in Belmopan. The group made up of retired BTL employees and their supporters say their long-standing dispute has hit a wall and they're now calling on elected leaders to step in. News 5's Shane Williams was in Belmopan and has the story on the protest and the political response it sparked.
Dozens of members and the police communication workers for justice crowded the steps of the National Assembly this morning right as the House of Representatives convened inside. They made the trip to the capital with one goal in mind. Used today's House meeting to get the attention of air representatives and push for action on their long unresolved dispute. We believe the parliamentarians need to step in at this point in time and make a final decision. Prime Minister, Prime Minister said it, Minister of Labor said it. We even heard Julia Espat saying it and we've heard others maybe saying the same thing. Pay the people in severance and we are saying pay with the 6% that is due to us. You can want pay what you want. The court said six and we are saying we want the six. So we can put this thing at rest right now if the prime minister and the other parliamentarians either make a call or come out here and tell us, you know, we're set.
Part of the protest involved a coordinated push to reach every member of the house. At 11 this morning, the group's 310 members and their families sent simultaneous messages to all ERA reps, asking them to step in after the dispute hit an impasse. But the first replies they got only fueled their frustration. It's starting to piss us off when they think that we will go back to BTL when BTL has already closed the door, especially coming from somebody like Marone Le who has the experience of being a BTL employee. So, we are not happy with that response from him. We're not going to be ping ponging with them. We are here for a reason and you guys have seen that we have been very pre peaceful in what we have been doing. Beware of what is taking place. They want to push everything and anything down our throat. And I I am I am shocked. And Maronei Leal, yes, I am shocked and I'm surprised at you for doing this. But you see, when your bread is butter on all sides, whether you be half of you that blue or half of you that red, it doesn't matter. They don't give a damn about us, the hardworking retired Belians from BTL.
Despite the resistance, the protest did catch the attention of lawmakers. After the prime minister wrapped up his budget presentation, opposition leader Tracy Panton and irrepresentative Lee Mark Chang stepped out to meet the demonstrators. Panton said she received their messages and promised to raise the issue in the house.
They are not agitators. They are Bleians who have given years. Some of them, Madame Speaker, decades of service to the National Telecommunications Company that helped to build a modern communications network of this country. Today, they did not advocate for charity. Rather they are advocating for justice.
Minister of Public Utilities Michelle Shabbat reiterated BTL stance on the November 2025 date for interest payment of severance.
Notwithstanding that the court has not ordered BTL to pay interest on such sums to these former employees. BTL's decision to voluntarily pay interest without an order of the court from November 5th, 2025 is also based on the consideration that prejudgment interest is awarded at the discretion of the court and BTL is by paying interest from November 5th, 2025 to date of payment awarding interest which may not necessarily be awarded by the court if such former employees were to file a claim at the high court and succeed.
The BCWJ says it values the political attention, but the group insists it wants a real resolution and it's ready to escalate if it must.
We wanted to make sure that we exercise our rights to protest and to do that very peacefully so the Bian public could see that, you know, we can get things done collectively in a peaceful way. But you guys have seen us in 2005 and these are the people that did 2005. So you never know. It has to if they want us to escalate, we will have to escalate. It's a different game then. It's really a different game.
Sheen Williams reporting for News 5.
At today's house sitting, government moved to tighten the rules around two major oversight posts, the ombbudsman and the contractor general. The new amendments aimed to clear up exactly how these officials should be compensated. An issue that resurfaced after last year's controversy over the non-renewal of retired major Gilbert Suazo's contract as ombbudsman. Under Bleian law, the ombbudsman's salary must be no less than that of a Supreme Court judge. But Prime Minister Burceno says vague wording has created confusion. He argues the changes will remove uncertainty and set out clearer standards for how these constitutional officers are paid going forward.
What has taken place in practice is that the National Assembly by resolution approves the salary of the personappointed onboardsman or contractor general with no strict reference to the renumeration of a high court judge being made. A contract is simply settled with the office holder based on qualifications, experience and other factors that are naturally considered in finalizing a contract. And as said, Madam Speaker, this has been the practice going back to the appointment of the first office holders. Further, Madame Speaker, the respected constitutional academic Dr. Francis Alexis in his text changing Caribbean constitution explained that while strict professional qualifications are set by the constitution for judges the same cannot be said from unbudsman particularly because broader qualifications are appropriate for such post and the same can be said of the contractor general. Therefore, there is no sound policy reason why the remuneration of the ombbudsman or the contractor general should be reference to that of a judge of the high court. This is why we're introducing these amendments.
Up next, the KHM is set to name its new CEO this Thursday. Who's stepping into the country's top medical post and what changes could be on the horizon?
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Feel good. It feel nice, you know. If you have something, I want to big up everybody where help me the rep, Miss Asha, counselor Dora, Miss Marissa as well, and the whole mid crew now. You make everything possible. It take a while, but go through now. Thank God. Thanks to the MIH team, thanks to our representative, I'm overwhelming. As you could see, my tears drop. I never thought this year was going to be my year to own my own house. I had a loss last last year. And I thought it was going to take many years to own my house again. And well, I want to thank the good Lord that this year came through unexpectedly. About a year ago, my house got burned down and thank God I got help to be indoors with my grandkids. I made a purchase. Um I trusted uh some several persons and well things didn't went the right way and I decided to to just leave it on God hands and I didn't expect that it's going to be so soon for me to own my own house in another way. My daughter is living next door and every day call grandb baby they take video grand look at your house grand you know how that make that I feel and they video chat the baby she's only 4 years old and she every day grants look at the house look what they did thanks mh I have an idea how people feel when they receive this ter because when I was growing up as a young adult I didn't have this opportunity with my family and so we had to live in a small river house which when it rain water pouring on us and and we couldn't do better.
Big thanks um to of course Prime Minister um Minister Julius and the whole of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing. I mean they really put just about everything and every single detail um into these projects. Some people just need that one little push, one little start. And um I am I am so overjoyed that the ministry that the government is giving an opportunity to a lot of people um moving forward you know I am just hoping that we can do more of these.
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Shop smart for your Samsung devices in Bise and enjoy benefits you won't get anywhere else. When you shop locally for your Samsung, all your devices will be covered by a one-year local warranty. You won't get that when shopping with the other guys. When in doubt, always look for the Cellin World seal to know you're getting the real deal. Shop with confidence and enjoy your Galaxy knowing that it can be repaired locally at our Samsung service center by certified Samsung technicians using original parts and machinery. Even better, enjoy the best LTE experience in BISE knowing that your Samsung devices are compatible with major local carrier networks. Get the ultimate Samsung Galaxy experience only when you shop from authorized Samsung resellers nationwide.
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At her bed Andette and brother, we've always proudly celebrated women's month. This year, we celebrate women keeping the balance at home, at work, and in their communities. That's why all March long, all women receive 15% off storewide. from paints to plumbing and everything in between. Plus, 30 to 65% off lots more deals on sale and clearance. With trusted experience, top quality products, and service that's second to none. We're here to support women every step of the way. Visit or call us today. Happy Women's Month from all of us at Habet and AET and Brothers of doing our part to balance the scales.
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Biz's national referral hospital may finally be getting a new leader. After months without a permanent CEO, the KHM board has wrapped up interviews with the finalists. Health Minister Kev Kevin Bernard says the board will reveal its pick this Thursday. He also reminded the public that while the ministry provides oversight, the hiring decision rests squarely with the hospital's board. Here's how he broke down the timeline for that announcement.
As the minister, I we I don't meddle in the affairs of Kim when it comes to certain issues, but the we have a board who is appointed and I have members who I point on the board. And so the update I have is that interviews have been completed and uh the successful candidate uh which I don't know who that is yet. I have not gotten the report, but I'm told that on Thursday the board will reveal their successful candidate. There were five candidates interviewed um and from those five candidates, one of those persons was selected. When the former CEO had resigned, uh we did had an interim thing in place. And so that will have to continue until that person fully transitions within the at the facility. Uh as I said, I don't know who is the final candidate. I have not been given that information yet. Uh whether it is an one of the one of the two internal employees or the three external candidates who applied dependent on that I believe that that where the board will then set out in terms of how they will then bring that person on board uh to take on the responsibility a huge responsibility indeed but one that we we so desire and need for for kitchen to continue its efficient functioning.
Regional pressure is mounting on countries to rethink their deals with Cuba putting BISE's Cuban medical brigade under fresh scrutiny. Jamaica, Honduras, and others have already pulled back after US claims that Cuba's medical missions amount to forced labor. But in BISE, Cuban doctors remain vital, especially in rural clinics and specialist care. Today, Health Minister Kevin Bernard stressed how essential the brigade is to the public health system. He added that any decision about its future amid growing international pressure will be made by the Prime Minister's office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
I know there's discussions being had between my ministry, the Ministry of Immigration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade. I will leave that as that um until I have all the full details in terms of what will be the next steps forward. Then I will be able to provide and I'm I commit that once I get all the details I will make that available.
Can you say um how many doctors are here and and how vital they have been to our system?
Well, currently um the Kubate the Cuban brigade um has 105 personnel. Out of those 105 personnel, there's 45 specialized doctors uh which are spread across different um specialities um nephologists, pediatricians, uh psychiatric u psychiatry, we have gynecologists um so neonatal um uh I think they're neonatal surgeons or something like that. Yeah. But we have those different capacities um and the rest are rural nurses. So they go out in the rural areas to assist to fill the gaps. Um so that is the number we're looking at. Uh like I said until we have a final um detail whether it's an exit plan or a or a reassessment then I I can't say um until we get back the right information after the discussions that are being had u with the ministry of foreign affairs and my ministry and the ministry of immigration.
Police in Kaio are trying to piece together what led to a deadly crash in Armenia village on Sunday. One that left a motorcyclist, Lazarus Chun, dead at the scene. Investigators say Chun collided with another vehicle along the village's main road. And officers are now working to determine exactly how the accident unfolded. Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilbert Romero says police have already taken a key step in the case. They've served a notice of intended prosecution to the driver of the other vehicle involved.
On Sunday the 8th day of March, uh police responded to a fatal road traffic accident at Armenia. Upon the arrival, they saw a Toyota pickup with damages. Also seen was a motorcycle extensively damaged. Information is that the pickup was being driven by Glendy Rodriguez. Uh and at the time uh a motorcycle came onto the highway being driven by Lazarus Chun. The pickup collided with the motorcycle uh causing the fatal injuries to Chun. A urine sample was taken. Uh the mat is under investigation at this time.
Sample taken from the victim or the other person?
The driver of the pickup truck.
Uh, was the victim wearing a helmet?
No, he was not.
Any notice of um?
Yes, that was servant, the driver of the pickup truck.
As the investigation continues, authorities are gathering statements and reviewing evidence to understand what caused the fatal impact.
Coming up, a race redefined. The Rutamaya team stood up for tradition. We'll show you why paddlers say the spirit of the river matters now more than ever.
This budget allocates $57 million to deepen NHI's impact. Our focus will be twofold. First, we're expanding NHI coverage to include the entire kaya district. So, we're finally offering services to 325,000 persons countrywide. Second, we are allocating significant resources to strengthen the supply side because a promise of care is empty without infrastructure to deliver it. We are partnering with the Ministry of Health and Wellness to upgrade poly clinics in key districts and crucially to address the human resource gap.
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Company. Electricity is essential for everyday life. But behind every outlet, a lot is happening to bring you safe, reliable, and sustainable energy. Let's start at the beginning. Independent power producers across BISE generate electricity using a mix of renewable and non-renewable resources. Electricity travels across a network of high voltage transmission lines capable of transmitting electricity across long distances. Electricity then reaches your nearest substation where it is adjusted to a lower voltage, making it safe to travel on the distribution lines you see in your community. From there, electricity makes its final journey from the distribution lines to your home, providing you with safe and reliable power when you need it. Biz Electricity Limited, we continue to serve you.
Rotovirus is a leading cause of severe watery diarrhea and vomiting in young children. It can lead to dangerous dehydration and hospital visits. The good news, the rotovirus vaccine is now available countrywide. It is given in drops at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. Protect your child. Visit your nearest health clinic today.
In 2023, BISE pioneered the establishment of its steam academy, the first public steam high school in Bise and the region. The 2025 26 2026 budget supported the academyy's financial needs covering both teacher and staff renumerations as well as operational cost. The 2026 2027 budget will continue this support and provide free education to approximately 300 students comprising the academyy's full enrollment for the upcoming school year. Additionally, the Ministry of Education in partnership with development partners will construct six steam pavilions, one in each district during the 2026 2027, expanding access to innovative steam education nationwide.
Tomorrow on Open Your Eyes, join us at 6:30 a.m. for conversations that matter. The BISE National Teachers Union leads an important discussion on the future of education and what their upcoming convention means for students and teachers across the country. Plus, Hair Express is creating powerful connections by bringing together women led businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs. And BISE steps onto the regional stage as our talented performers score silver at Kondeka. Insightful conversations, inspiring stories, and believes in the spotlight tomorrow at 6:30 a.m. on Open Your Eyes.
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For 29 years, the Larut Maya Blesiz River Challenge has been more than a race. It's been the heartbeat of March. Four days of grit, pride, and pure Bleian spirit. Families line the river banks, fans pack the bridges, and paddlers fight for every inch of the Biz River. But this year, something felt off. Tensions started building long before the final leg. A late decision to change the finish line sparked debate and stirred real frustration. Many paddlers felt tradition was being pushed aside. So on day four, teams weren't just racing to the end. They were defending the identity of Larutaya. What happened next turned a routine finish into a powerful show of unity and history in motion. News 5's Paul Lopez reports.
As paddlers of the 29th Laruta Maya Biz River Challenge closed in on the official finish line at Grand Resort, you could feel the tension tightening with every stroke. What started as a race was moments away from turning into something much bigger. An unexpected show of unity and quiet protest. After 1 hour and 57 minutes of grinding through that final stretch, packed on track, powered across the finish line first. It was a hard earned win driven by experience, teamwork, and pure determination. But the real story was still unfolding on the water. Amaro has paddled the race 22 times, and he's won it now 13 times. Uh Christian has paddled the race seven times and Enrique has paddled it six times. This is the first time they are paddling together, but they are all very experienced. There was a lot of experience and what we had to do was put it all together as a team and I think we effectively did that when we started training in November.
A small but proud crowd gathered inside Halover Square to welcome the paddlers. Nearby, Grand Resort's VIP section delivered a polished, high-end view of the finish, but most fans chose the shaded area under the Hullover Bridge. A free spot prepared days earlier by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing. There, in the heat, they waited to witness a historic ending. As teams crossed the new finish line, something unexpected unfolded. One by one, paddlers quietly refused to stop. They spawned their canoes around and headed back towards the traditional end point under the Belulan Bridge. They waited until nearly two dozen teams gathered at the mouth of Halover Creek. Then, with fans cheering them on, they pushed off together.
Yeah. Their bodies were exhausted after 4 days on the river. There were no trophies at Belcan, no cash prizes, no official ceremony, but it didn't matter. Hundreds of supporters packed the area around the civic center and the bridge, ready to welcome them home. United, 26 canoes stretched across the creek, paddling in a powerful show of solidarity. From above, it was quite a spectacle. Athletes making a clear stand for tradition. As they neared the bridge, paddlers lifted their paddles high, Bleian flags waving at their sterns. One of the strongest voices calling for this symbolic gesture was black kids Carlos Linares. His team went on to place third overall.
A lot of people thought that we were just going to talk and now we walk this, we not talking.
Finishing at the balcon meant giving up free food and drinks waiting back at Halover Square. But longtime fan Rayard Humphre made sure every protesting paddler had what they needed. I didn't it didn't take me much. Everyone jumped on board and so now this is just a solidarity thing for me. Um we're contributing the prizes for the for the for everyone who's out here cuz we know they're forfeiting, you know, their their free meals and all that. So what my job here today is to make sure that all these guys get something and they could get something to eat and you know hopefully that that that this is a precedence for the future that whoever comes after this they know that this is what these guys need. We need to look out for the paddlers. Elvin Penner, vice president of the Bise Canoe Association, felt immense pride as he watched paddlers take their stand. The voice of the paddlers was so loud. It was deafening without them saying anything. Zero, no words. But the silence from the organizers was deafening. The paddlers made a decision. They stood together. We have people that came here from different part different parts of the world. They saw the movement and they realize if we don't take a stand now where is this race going and that's the question now confronting the future of Biza's most iconic river challenge. When the dust settles will organizers and paddlers be able to come together to protect the race, its spirit and its tradition. Belan the having the crowd come out and having the paddlers coming together. It was symbolic. No two ways about it. It was a a great thing. I I think it was a great thing for Bise City. But I think now moving forward, we have to pivot and say, "Hey, okay, now how can we all work together?"
Reporting for News 5, I am Paul Lopez.
As the dust settles after that dramatic history-making finish, another question is now echoing among Larut Maya fans. Will the protesting paddlers still get their prizes? Supporters noticed something unusual during Sunday's awards ceremony. Broadcasters called out the names of several top finishing teams, inviting them to to collect their medals. But the Paddlers were nowhere in sight. They were already at the Bellein Bridge completing their symbolic finish and that absence has stirred fresh speculation. Despite the protests, there's every indication that these athletes will receive what they earned. Their station prizes, their medals, and their final cash payouts are all tied to performance, not attendance. So far, nothing suggests otherwise. In fact, association vice president Elvin Penner put it plainly. Every paddler followed the rules of the race.
The organizers will be forced to give every prize and every trophy to the persons that deserve it. Not one of the palace that are here broke any rules during the entire running of the four days of the race. There is nothing in the rules that tells you what you do after you finish the the finish the finishing line. So as long as they have no grounds to disqualify them from the start of the race till the end of the race once they completed each leg the way they were supposed to then the paddlers would have to take that up with the organizers but I believe that the wisest thing for them would have been to come here and give it to the paddlers here because I don't think there'll be more than three or four persons claiming their trophy over there. But it's not to undermine them. I want to make that very clear. It's not to undermine the present organizers. We have nothing against Lapen. We have nothing against Bellicanin. We have nothing against anybody.
So while this year's Larut Maya ended with an unforgettable act of unity, fans can expect the rewards to follow the results. No drama, no controversy, just fairness on the on the finish line that really counts. And that's the news. Tonight's broadcast is available at greateriz.com on our Facebook and on YouTube. I'm Sabrina Dailyaly. Thanks for joining us and from all of us here at News5. Good night.