PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season.

With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety.

Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within a 24-hour period.

Unsafe food handling poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis can spread easily when bacteria from contaminated hands, surfaces, or food is transferred to others. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the restroom, can lead to the contamination of utensils, food, and other commonly touched items.

CPS emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of illness. Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing or consuming food.

Surfaces such as kitchen counters should be cleaned regularly and disinfected using appropriate solutions. Practicing good cough etiquette and maintaining overall cleanliness are also essential preventive measures.

Food handlers and consumers are also reminded to prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring proper food storage.

Temperature control is critical—food should be kept out of the “danger zone” where bacteria can multiply rapidly. If food appears spoiled or has been exposed to improper temperatures, it should be discarded immediately.

Individuals diagnosed with gastroenteritis are advised to remain at home, follow medical guidance, and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others. CPS encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and the community.

As Carnival 2026 gets underway, CPS calls on all residents and visitors to prioritize food safety and hygiene. By taking simple preventive steps, the community can help ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable festive season for all.

For more information call CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322 and 542-1570; or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Sports within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS) is pleased to announce the upcoming King’s Games (Koningsspelen) 2026, held in honor of His Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander Claus George Ferdinand of the Netherlands. The event will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, across 19 elementary schools, engaging approximately 3,500 students.
The 2026 theme, “Everyone Fun” (Iedereen Plezier) emphasizes enjoyment as a key driver of physical activity and the development of lifelong healthy habits. This theme focuses on inclusivity and collective participation, encouraging not only students, but also teachers, parents, sports providers, and volunteers to contribute to making the day an energetic and festive celebration. Whether through sports participation, cheering, organizing, or supporting activities, everyone plays an important role in the success of the King’s Games.
To support the event, each participating school will receive a sports and party box containing materials designed to enhance activities and align with the theme of the day.
The King’s Games will begin with a healthy breakfast provided to all participating students in collaboration with Cake House Bakery. Following breakfast, schools and Physical Education teachers will lead a variety of fun, engaging, and physically active programs that have been carefully prepared to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, Ms. Melissa Gumbs, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating:
“We are excited to host the King’s Games once again and are encouraged by the enthusiasm shown by our schools and students. Promoting physical activity and healthy habits among children is essential to their overall well-being and development, and we remain committed to creating opportunities that support these goals.”
The Department of Sports extends its sincere appreciation to all participating schools and Physical Education teachers for their dedication and commitment in organizing this event. Special thanks are also extended to Cake House Bakery for their continued partnership and generous support in providing breakfast to the students.

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten (April 10, 2026) - The St. Maarten Civil Aviation Authority (SMCAA) reminds residents, visitors, and commercial operators that all drone flights within designated No-Fly Zones (NFZs) require prior authorization from the Authority. The reminder comes as part of the ongoing “Respect the Sky” safety campaign to promote responsible drone operations and protect airspace safety.

Under national aviation safety provisions, drone operators must first determine whether their intended flight area falls within a No-Fly Zone by consulting the official NFZ map. Flights conducted inside these restricted zones, including areas around Princess Juliana International Airport, Maho and Simpson Bay beaches, Philipsburg harbor, Cay Hill, and government buildings, are strictly prohibited without a valid exemption permit.

How to Apply for a Permit

• Determine the need for flights inside NFZs or outside of the General Rules for Safe Flying, which require prior authorization.
• Prepare the application: Complete the Application Form for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations and attach a simple map (for example, a Google Maps screenshot) clearly marking your flight location, proposed dates/times, and intended Supporting documents such as a drone pilot certificate or insurance are recommended.

• Submit your application: Email the form and map to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the subject: “Drone Permit Application – [Your Name/Company] – [Dates] – [Location]”

Standard processing time is 3–5 working days, depending on complexity.

Fly Responsibly
Operators must always carry a copy of their permit, respect privacy, avoid crowds, and maintain safe distances from people, vehicles, and property.
Compliance and Enforcement
Drone operators are urged to comply fully with permit conditions and safety regulations. Violating drone regulations may result in fines of up to XCG 100,000/US $55,555 and/or imprisonment.

Deliberately endangering air traffic carries even heavier penalties, including imprisonment of up to 30 years or, in the most severe cases, life imprisonment.

Exemption Permit Statistics
Since 2022, the SMCAA has processed a total of 81 applications, all approved and none rejected:
2022: 41 permits
2023: 20 permits
2024: 20 permits
2025: 19 permits
This record underscores the Authority’s commitment to maintaining open and transparent access for safe, regulated drone activity.

“Respect the Sky” Campaign
Through the Respect the Sky campaign, SMCAA, along with partners the Prosecutor’s Office of Sint Maarten and the Police Force of Sint Maarten, continue to raise awareness about drone safety and airspace protection. The Authority urges all drone users - recreational and professional- to act responsibly, fly safely, and help keep Sint Maarten’s skies secure for everyone.

For further information, contact St. Maarten Civil Aviation Authority by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling +1 (721) 545-2024.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, is encouraging residents and visitors alike to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Carnival season on Sint Maarten responsibly while embracing the cultural significance of this beloved national tradition.
Carnival has long been a celebration of Sint Maarten’s vibrant culture, music, creativity, and community spirit. As thousands prepare to take part in the festivities, Minister Brug reminds the public that the enjoyment of Carnival also comes with a shared responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all.
“Carnival is one of the most beautiful expressions of our culture and identity as a people,” Minister Brug stated. “It is a time when families, friends, and generations come together to celebrate the spirit of Sint Maarten. I encourage everyone to enjoy the festivities while remaining mindful of their responsibilities to themselves and to those around them.”
“While Carnival is a joyful occasion, parents must remain responsible for the supervision and safety of their children during these events. Our young people should be able to enjoy Carnival in a safe and positive environment,” he said.
Minister Brug also urged the public to be mindful of alcohol consumption and to make responsible choices while participating in Carnival activities.
“We want everyone to have fun, but we must also remember that responsible behavior is key to ensuring that Carnival remains a safe celebration for everyone. Moderation when consuming alcohol and making responsible decisions can help prevent unnecessary incidents,” he noted.
“Carnival is also a time when many of us enjoy the wide variety of food that is part of our culture. However, people should ensure that food is prepared, stored, and served safely. Improper food handling can lead to food poisoning, which can quickly affect the enjoyment of the celebrations. I encourage both vendors and the public to be mindful of proper food hygiene.”
Minister Brug also took the opportunity to encourage responsible behavior when it comes to sexual health, reminding the public that celebrations should always be accompanied by safe and responsible choices.
“As we enjoy the festivities, it is also important to practice safe sex and make responsible decisions. Protecting yourself and your partner helps prevent sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies. I encourage individuals to make use of the resources available through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), including free condoms and information on sexual health, which are available to help residents make responsible choices.”

In addition, the Minister encouraged residents to remain hydrated, take necessary precautions during outdoor events, and be mindful of the wellbeing of others, particularly the elderly.
“Carnival is also a wonderful opportunity to bring families together — from our youngest generation to our seniors who have helped preserve these traditions over the years. Let us take care of one another, ensure that our seniors are comfortable and safe, and enjoy these celebrations together as a community.”
“As we celebrate the 55th year of Carnival on Sint Maarten, let us do so with pride, respect for our culture, and care for one another. I wish everyone a safe, joyful, and memorable Carnival.”