Soca Rumble Returns for Carnival 2026 Under New Leadership.

PHILIPSBURG:---  After a six-year hiatus, the highly anticipated Soca Rumble competition is officially making its comeback for Carnival 2026. Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, announced today’s Council of Ministers press briefing, highlighting its cultural significance and the new management structure.

Soca Rumble, a competitive platform showcasing local talent in groovy and power soca categories, ran successfully from 2015 to 2019. The event became a signature lead-up to Carnival, with its slogan, “St. Maarten Soca to th...

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St Maarten Minister announces adjusted Christmas Festivities amid budget constraints.

PHILIPSBURG: --- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication (TEATT), Grisha Heyliger-Marten, announced changes to Sint Maarten’s Christmas celebrations during today’s Council of Ministers press briefing. Due to financial constraints, the traditional Christmas parade will not take place this year. However, the Minister assured the public that the holiday spirit in Philipsburg will remain vibrant through alternative festivities.
The Lighting Up Philipsburg Experience will return, featuring festive decorations and illum...

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SZV to reopen in-person services for Seniors.

PHILIPSBURG: --- During the Council of Ministers press briefing, Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Hon. Richinel Brug, announced the reopening of SZV’s in-person services for seniors. Starting this January, the initiative aims to ensure seniors receive the care and support they need with dignity. This decision addresses the challenges seniors face with digital systems and introduces a more efficient, user-friendly service model.

A New and Improved Service Model

SZV’s reopening represents a redesigned approach to serv...

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St. Maarten’s GHI Reform Moves Forward.

PHILIPSBURG: --- Significant progress is being made on the General Health Insurance (GHI) legislation, a landmark reform aimed at creating a more equitable healthcare system in St. Maarten. Recent updates from the Minister of Health and Labor Richinel Brug confirm that the initiative is advancing through key legislative stages, bringing the nation closer to providing universal, fair, and sustainable access to health services for every resident. This reform represents a significant step in strengthening the foundation of our community's well-bei...

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