PHILIPSBURG:--- Bureau Telecommunications and Post (BTP) proudly marks its 15-year anniversary as the national regulatory authority for telecommunications and postal services. As part of this important milestone, BTP is commemorating its achievements while unveiling a renewed vision for the future under the leadership of its Interim Director, Mrs. Judianne Labega-Hoeve.
Over the past decade and a half, BTP has played a pivotal role in the development and oversight of Sint Maarten’s telecom sector, fostering growth, safeguarding fair competition, and ensuring connectivity even in the most challenging times. In celebrating this anniversary, BTP extends sincere gratitude to all stakeholders, including telecom providers, government partners, BTP staff, and the broader community, who have contributed to the evolution of the sector.
“Fifteen years of regulation has taught us the value of partnership, adaptability, and vision,” said Mrs. Labega-Hoeve. “As we look to the future, we are committed to modernizing our approach to regulation and embracing innovation that benefits our entire population.”
As part of its forward-looking strategy, BTP has developed a 5-year roadmap to become a G4 Regulator, a classification aligned with global best practices for governance, capacity, and digital transformation. Achieving this status will position Sint Maarten as a regional leader in regulatory excellence, stimulating investments, ensuring improved digital services, and promoting a more robust and resilient infrastructure development.
As part of this transformation, BTP has embraced a new mission and vision, accompanied by a comprehensive rebranding that reflects its evolution into a modern, forward-thinking, and transparent market regulator. The refreshed brand underscores BTP’s renewed commitment to technological advancement and innovation, grounded in the following core values:
- Integrity
- Adaptability
- Transparency and Communication
- Fairness
- Accountability
Under the guidance of Interim Director Labega-Hoeve, BTP is setting ambitious goals to ensure that the people of Sint Maarten benefit from secure, high-quality, and future-proof telecommunications services. The Interim Director has pledged to continue guiding the organization with strong financial stewardship, ensuring good accounting principles, staying current with government contributions, conducting timely audits, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to achieving clean audit reports for all years to come.
Looking ahead, BTP is excited to advance its recently expanded mandate, which now includes not only the regulation of telecommunications and postal services but also a key role in the tariff regulation of NV GEBE. The organization is preparing to serve as an independent regulator responsible for the analysis, assessment, and oversight of NV GEBE’s tariff structures.
BTP is also in the process of drafting new legislation to establish a modern and resilient regulatory framework for the energy sector, guided by the principles of security, affordability, transparency, sustainability, and accountability. Through this framework, BTP intends to define clear institutional roles, strengthen consumer protection, and promote fair competition with transparent and cost-reflective tariffs. The organization also aims to support renewable energy integration through defined targets, incentives, and efficiency standards, while enhancing technical, operational, and cybersecurity measures. These initiatives reflect BTP’s commitment to fostering a secure, innovative, and sustainable energy future for Sint Maarten.
In closing, BTP’s Director, Mrs. Judianne Labega-Hoeve, stated:
“As we enter this new chapter, BTP remains dedicated to advancing Sint Maarten’s progress through effective regulation and innovation across all sectors. In telecommunications, the focus is on building a connected digital nation with high-speed internet and universal access for all. In postal services, BTP aims to ensure efficient, reliable, and customer-centered delivery systems that connect communities and support e-commerce and economic growth. In utilities, the priority is to provide reliable and affordable services for all, supported by a resilient and sustainable network that strengthens national energy security. Access to these essential services is not a privilege but a fundamental right for every resident of Sint Maarten.”