SABA/SINT EUSTATIUS - In 2025, the Caribbean Netherlands will intensify its efforts to combat human trafficking and human smuggling. Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights, in which individuals are forced into exploitation.

It is a highly complex crime, where victims are coerced into actions and situations against their will, often through threats, deception, or violence. Victims often do not realize they are being exploited and live in fear and uncertainty.

Human trafficking can take various forms, including sexual exploitation, labor exploitation, criminal exploitation, forced begging, and forced organ removal.

This crime has profound effects on the physical and mental health of victims and requires active involvement from the entire community to be effectively addressed.

Through various activities and campaigns throughout the year, awareness is raised and practical tools are offered to residents and professionals on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba.

The year’s program began in the first quarter with networking events on Saba and St. Eustatius, focusing on collaboration among the islands’ chain partners. On April 14, a networking event will take place on Bonaire, which will also offer in-depth training on identifying and addressing these crimes. These training courses are aimed at professionals in the justice and healthcare chains.

In June, special attention will be given to the International Day Against Child Labour (June 12), with a focus on the criminal exploitation of minors. It is essential to recognize and prevent criminal exploitation of young people at an early stage. Youth may be pressured to transport drugs, steal goods, or launder money.

It may seem like a quick way to earn money, but in reality, they become trapped in a web of exploitation and dependence. That is why there is active collaboration with schools and educational institutions to strengthen youth and raise awareness.

Throughout the year, campaigns will run on television, radio, and social media, actively engaging the public with the question: “What can you do?” Signal cards will also be distributed so that people know where and how to anonymously report suspicious situations.

Starting in August, the campaign “Do you recognize the signs?” will be clearly visible in public spaces through posters, billboards, and flyers.

The year will conclude around October 18, the National Day Against Human Trafficking, with a series of large-scale activities and an informative media tour.

The Caribbean Netherlands firmly says “No” to human trafficking and human smuggling. But that’s not enough. You can help stop human trafficking too. Recognize it. Report it.

The central message of the campaign is:
“Together against human trafficking: our islands, our responsibility” Report it! For more information or to report suspicious situations: follow our campaigns on social media or visit our website www.rijksdienstcn.com

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY/PHILIPSBURG) – With over 600,000-part numbers available, NAPA St. Maarten services more than just the needs of auto and truck owners.

NAPA St. Maarten excels in 'special-order' service. A leader in the auto, truck and marine parts business, NAPA understands the need for quality parts and excellent service.

NAPA St. Maarten’s Mission: "Be the Premier one stop stores for all your Automotive, Truck & Marine Parts.”

Napa SXM = your one stop shop for all your auto, truck and marine needs!

Remember, NAPAs Philipsburg location is open on Sunday in case you need them!

9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY, (DCOMM) – The application process for the annual Hurricane Passes for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season which starts June 1 and runs through November 30 will start on Monday, April 14.

There are two types of passes, the Disaster Pass and the Hurricane Pass.  No passes will be issued to business owners, only with some exemption categories as noted below.

The pass allows the bearer to access the public road to visit the place of business to assess possible damage to the property.  No company passes will be accepted during curfew hours.  This can only take place during certain hours that will be stipulated and announced by the Prime Minister in a curfew situation.

Potential applicants have until Friday, May 30, 2025, to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a pass.

Disaster Passes are issued to the following crucial disaster relief organizations and are valid for three years.  The disaster relief organization consists of the following: Emergency Operations Center staff, Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) staff, Crucial governmental organizations, and entities involved in disaster management such as medical institutions, general practitioners and pharmacies, Red Cross, WIEMS, White & Yellow Cross Foundation, National Security Service VDSM, Sea Rescue, Shelter Management, Ministers, and their drivers.

The following categories qualify for a Hurricane Pass which is valid for two-years: Essential Government personnel without a disaster pass; Essential personnel of crucial companies or organizations: NV GEBE, Seven Seas Water, Telecom and Internet providers, Princess Juliana International Airport, Port St. Maarten, Hotels and Guesthouses, Marinas, Fuel distributors and gas stations, Commercial banks, Hardware stores, Security companies (supervisors only), Medium and large sized supermarkets, Restaurants (those providing food services to emergency services), Importers and Wholesale Companies for perishable goods (Only requests can be submitted for refrigeration and or generator technicians).

The crucial organizations listed above (disaster & hurricane passes) can request personal passes for their key personnel.

The Office of Disaster Management that falls under the Ministry of General Affairs is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The Hurricane Pass is valid for the 2025 and 2026 hurricane seasons and will remain the property of the Government of Sint Maarten.

Please note that company passes will be accepted during curfew hours from the following institutions: Sint Maarten Medical Center, and White & Yellow Cross Foundation.

The pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations.  The Prime Minister assesses the damage in conjunction with Emergency Disaster Management entities of the Government after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.

An application form can be requested by sending an email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Emails should include the following: Name of business or organization; A short description of activities of the business or the organization; Request for either disaster or hurricane pass.

When submitting the application, the following documents need to be attached:

-      copy business license fee paid (or receipt) for 2025 for businesses.

-      proof of 2025 registration at the Chamber of Commerce, for organizations.

-      copy valid Sint Maarten ID-card of applicant.

-      Nafl. 50,- in leges stamps per application (to be obtained at the Receiver’s Office or the Simpson Bay Public Service Center), this is a non-refundable handling fee; a copy of a digital payment transfer is accepted as well.

-      One (1) passport picture for new applicants, to be sent in JPEG-format to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the name of the person clearly indicated.

The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management – in print form, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5 (Office hours Monday-Friday 9.00AM to 4.00PM), Cay Hill, by Friday, May 30, 2025, with all necessary documents attached.

Applicants will be informed by email or telephone when to pick up the pass at the aforementioned address.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - With a heart full of respect and sorrow, Member of Parliament Egbert J. Doran has formally submitted a request to the Honorable Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers, on April 1st, 2025, urging them to consider granting the late Mr. Troy Washington the posthumous title of Official CEO/Manager of NV GEBE.

Mr. Washington, who served as the Temporary Manager of NV GEBE, tragically passed away while still actively leading the company and during the process of formalizing his appointment as permanent CEO. MP Doran described his leadership as steadfast, humble, and deeply rooted in service to the people of Sint Maarten.

“Troy Washington stepped into the role not for accolades or applause, but because he cared deeply for his country,” MP Doran stated. “He worked under immense pressure and never wavered in his commitment to restoring confidence in GEBE. It is only fitting that we honor his legacy with the very title he was in the process of earning.”

In his letter to the Prime Minister, MP Doran also requested that the Government explore the legal possibility of the posthumous appointment to ensure that any benefits or entitlements due to Mr. Washington in his permanent role could still be considered for his grieving family.

“This is not about titles,” Doran said. “It’s about dignity, about acknowledging a man who gave his all even when it wasn’t easy and especially when it wasn’t popular.”

Former Member of Parliament and close friend Cloyd Marlin has also voiced his full support for this recognition. In a heartfelt tribute, Marlin reflected on Washington’s commitment to his role and the deep impact he made.

“Troy once told me, ‘I just hope one day they recognize how hard I worked.’ Well, today I say to you, Troy—yes, we recognize you. We see your sacrifice, your strength, and your steady leadership. You were appreciated, and you will never be forgotten,” said Marlin.

MP Doran concluded by saying, “Let this be more than a symbolic gesture. Let it serve as a national reminder that those who serve with heart, even in silence, are seen, are valued, and are remembered. May Troy Washington’s name be etched not just in documents but in the memory of a grateful people.”

May his legacy continue to inspire all who serve this country with integrity and love.