26th January 2009
The first ever International Customs Day was celebrated in Belize this year on the 26th January. Belize Customs joined other members of World Customs organization (WCO) in celebrating their struggles and achievements. The Secretary General of WCO dedicated this day to the environment under the theme, “Customs and the Environment: Protecting our National Heritage.”
He asked Customs Administrations to use this occasion to highlight the role they play in protecting the environment. He also said, “I know I can count on the commitment of all Directors of Customs to beef up their controls on the cross-border movement of environmentally sensitive goods with a view to combating this illegal trade.”
To herald this day, Customs Officers joined together to attend Mass on Sunday morning the 25th, at St. Mary’s Church.
On Monday an open-day was held to showcase Customs activities. It started off with an officially ceremony at 10:00am, during which the Reform and Modernization Project was also officially launched. Master of ceremonies was Assistant Comptroller, Mr. Emil Grinage The National Anthem was led by officers Mrs. Deanna Palacio and Ms. Tricia Soberanis. Opening Prayer was done by Collector of Customs Mr. Colin Griffith. The Welcome Address was given by the Comptroller of Customs, Mr. Gregory Gibson, and the Key-note presentation was done by Mr. Joseph Waight, Financial Secretary in the Ministry of Finance. Other speakers included Mr. Martin Allegria, CEO in the Office of the Environment, Mr. Godfrey Arzu, Assistant Comptroller, Mr. Juan Carlos Oviedo, visiting Technical Advisor to the Modernization Project and Pete Castillo, Project Director. Mr. Allegria presented the Comptroller with computer equipment to assist customs in environmental training activities. Following the Official Ceremony, officers showcased their activities at well designed booths. There was also representation from the Brokers Association and BAHA. Several of the media houses covered the day’s event. It was a very successful day.
On Thursday evening officers held a fun event. There was table tennis, Billiards, raffle and of course karaoke. Officers of long service to the department and those retiring were given honorable mention and service plaques.
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