DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

Presidents Luis Abinader and José Raúl Mulino / Presidency

Dominican President Luis Abinader and his Panamanian counterpart, José Raúl Mulino, met in Panama to reinforce bilateral relations, prioritizing the expansion of corporate investment and economic exchange. The high-level meeting resulted in a formal commitment to update the existing trade agreement proposal between the Dominican Republic and Panama to better facilitate business opportunities. President Abinader was in Panama for the 12th World Free Zones Organization Summit.

President Mulino expressed a specific interest in the Dominican Republic’s tourism model, noting its regional leadership and seeking to exchange best practices to bolster Panama’s own sector. Both leaders highlighted the robust aerial connectivity between the two nations as a primary driver for both tourism and regional commerce.

During...

Presidents Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Luis Abinader / Presidency

President Luis Abinader arrived in Georgetown, Guyana on the evening of Wednesday, 13 May 2026, for a high-level official visit aimed at deepening bilateral ties in energy, food security, and trade. The visit, followed the President’s participation in the World Free Zones Organization Congress in Panama. A Presidency press release said the visit underscored the growing “flexi-lateral” partnership with Guyana, the Caribbean’s fastest-growing economy.

Upon his arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, President Abinader was received with full military honors before attending an official reception hosted by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali at the State House.

The primary objective of the mission was to build upon the landmark agreements signed in 2023. These frameworks focus on leveraging...

The Dominican Republic government and the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 13 May 2026 to strengthen business cooperation, promote investment, and consolidate collaboration mechanisms for the development of free zones, exports, and international trade.

The agreement was signed in Panama City during the 12th World Free Zone Congress. The signatories were the Dominican Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM), Eduardo Sanz Lovatón, and the Director General of the WFZO, Matthew Stephenson. Dominican President Luis Abinader and WFZO President Mohammed Al Zarooni attended as witnesses of honor.

Key highlights of the agreement include:• Investment attraction: The MoU aims to foster mutual cooperation to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) specifically...

Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) Eduardo (Yayo) Sanz Lovatón declared on Tuesday, 13 May 2026 in Panama City, that the Dominican Republic is entering a pivotal era for technology-driven free zones. Speaking at the Latin American Ministerial Round Table during the 12th World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) Congress (12 to 14 May 2026), Sanz Lovatón emphasized that the country is aggressively seeking high-quality foreign direct investment (FDI) focused on innovation, tech transfer, and specialized employment.

The Dominican delegation was led by President Luis Abinader who was accompanied by Minister Sanz Lovaton, ProDominicana director Biviana Riveiro and the Dominican ambassador to Panama, Roberto Salcedo.

A Strategic shift toward advanced manufacturingAddressing global trade shifts, Sanz Lovatón argued that the traditional model of free zones must be replaced by a...

On 13 May 2026, President Luis Abinader met with the leadership of the National Council of Business (Conep) of Panama and high-ranking executives to showcase the Dominican Republic’s competitive advantages. The high-level dialogue, held on the sidelines of the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) 10th Annual Congress held in Panama City, focused on leveraging the Dominican Republic’s position as a regional logistics hub and its “nearshoring” success to attract Panamanian capital.

During the meeting, President Abinader highlighted the Dominican Republic’s sustained economic growth, specifically pointing to the evolution of the free trade zone (FTZ) sector. He noted that the industry has shifted from traditional manufacturing to high-tech value-added production. The sector now generates over 200,000 direct jobs and has become a global leader...

In a major overhaul of the Dominican Republic’s public health infrastructure, the executive director of the National Health Service (SNS), Dr. Julio Landrón, issued a resolution instructing all public hospitals to remove medical equipment tied to private contracts or third-party “comodato” (loan-for-use) agreements. The measure targets equipment operated under external schemes that do not align with institutional guidelines, marking a decisive shift toward centralized state control of hospital assets.

Dr. Landrón emphasized that the move aims to eradicate long-standing practices that have hindered transparent and efficient management within the hospital network. By phasing out these private dependencies, the SNS intends to reclaim administrative oversight and ensure that public resources are not diverted to private interests.

Procurement reforms and equipment ownershipThe...

The National Health Service (SNS) is seeing a significant shift in public perception, with the latest Gallup poll revealing that 51.8% of the population views the government’s performance in the healthcare sector as “good.” The survey, conducted between 28 April and 1 May 2026, places healthcare among the highest-rated areas of national public administration. 1,200 potential voters were interviewed in person for the poll.

The positive data coincides with a reported surge in hospital productivity. According to SNS records, the public network provided over one million additional medical assists during the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period in previous years.

Under the direction of Dr. Julio Landrón, the SNS has shifted toward a high-visibility management style. Since January, Landrón has conducted a series of provincial tours to evaluate hospital needs firsthand...

The National Health Service (SNS) has presented a robust medical assistance strategy for the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026, scheduled to run from 24 July to 8 August 2026. The plan guarantees 100% free, high-quality medical coverage for all participating athletes, delegations, and visitors across the various host venues.

SNS director Julio César Landrón detailed the initiative during the International Congress of Sports Medicine, held at the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame on 4 May 2026. Dr. Landrón emphasized that since the Dominican Republic was designated as the host, the institution has undergone a sustained expansion of its operational capacity to meet international standards.

Key medical facilities for the GamesThe health network comprises over 40 hospitals specifically prepared for the event. This network is...

Minister Roberto Alvarez / Listín Diario

Minister of Foreign Relations Roberto Alvarez addressed the media on the afternoon of 13 May 2026 to clarify the Dominican government’s motivations behind the recently signed Third Country National Agreement with the United States.

Following a wave of public inquiry, Alvarez emphasized that the bilateral cooperation, which facilitates the reception of foreign nationals with pending US deportation orders, is a product of a strategic partnership rather than external pressure.

Sovereignty and national securityAlvarez was emphatic in stating that as a sovereign nation, the Dominican Republic frequently receives requests from international partners, but retains the ultimate authority on whether to comply based on national interests.

“The Dominican government receives requests from all its partners. It does not receive pressure,” the Foreign...

The Ministry of Interior and Police announced on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, that Haitian national Dimitri Albert Edouard Vorbe is barred from entering the Dominican Republic. The decision reinforces the government’s stance that it will not accept Haitian citizens under the recently signed Third Country National (TCN) relocation agreement with the United States.

According to a statement released by the Ministry via social media, Vorbe has been subject to an active entry ban since 13 October 2025. The restriction was issued based on a notification from the National Intelligence Agency (DNI) and executed by the General Migration Agency (DGM).

The Minister of Interior and Police, Faride Raful, confirmed the measure, stating:

“The Haitian citizen Dimitri Edouard Vorbe will not enter Dominican territory. He maintains a current entry impediment… in accordance with the...

During the Tuesday, 12 May 2026 press conference, Minister of Interior & Police Faride Raful announced new measures aimed at curbing mobile phone theft. In a strategic move to discourage and dismantle the illicit resale market, Minister Raful announced the launch of a new digital verification and certification service. The platform allows citizens to instantly validate whether a mobile device has been reported stolen before finalizing a purchase.

The announcement followed a meeting of the Citizenship Security Plan, chaired by Vice President Raquel Peña. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the National Police, the Dominican Telecommunications Institute (Indotel) and private telecommunications providers.

Digital tracking and IMEI validationThe digital tool, accessible via the official websites of the National Police and the Ministry of...

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MESCYT) Rafael Santos Badía revealed that more than 10,000 Dominican doctors are currently practicing medicine in the United States. This figure underscores the Dominican Republic’s growing role as a pivotal hub for medical training in the Caribbean, according to a report carried by El Día.

The announcement came during the formal renewal of an agreement with the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP). Based in Jamaica, CAAM-HP is a specialized body that certifies medical schools across the region to ensure they meet international standards of excellence.

Key data points in Dominican medical educationAccording to MESCYT, the Dominican medical education ecosystem has achieved significant scale since 2008:• 100,000+ health professionals trained in the country.•...

The National Institute for the Custody and Administration of Seized and Forfeited Assets (Incabide) held its first public auction of 2026 on 13 May 2026 at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD) and allotted assets for RD$562.8 million, as reported in Diario Libre. The landmark event saw hundreds of participants bidding millions for properties and luxury items previously linked to money laundering and organized crime.

The proceedings were overseen by representatives from the Tax Agency (DGII) and the Comptroller General of the Republic, with legal oversight provided by a body of notaries and official auctioneers to ensure transparency and public trust.

Asset inventory and high-profile linksA total of 143 assets were placed on the block, including 46 apartments, 13 commercial spaces, 11 plots of land, six houses, two aircraft, a...

The pro-mining Abinader administration is going forward with explorations for rare earth element mining in Pedernales province in the southwest.

The exploration of rare earth elements (REE) in the southwestern province of Pedernales is advancing rapidly, potentially positioning the Dominican Republic as a pivotal player in the global technology supply chain. During the first International Geopolitics Congress on 13 May 2026 held in Santo Domingo, Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza announced that comprehensive studies to determine the exact quantity and quality of these minerals are expected to conclude by the end of this year.

Paliza spoke during the first International Geopolitics Congress that took place on 13 May 2026 at the Anacaona Ballroom of the Renaissance Santo Domingo Jaragua Hotel & Casino in Santo Domingo, Dominican...

CDN Deportes (Channel 37), the Dominican Republic’s only 24-hour sports network, has been selected as an official broadcaster for the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026. This marks the second consecutive time the channel has joined the official broadcasting network (RTVD, Channel 4) for the regional multi-sport event, following its coverage of the San Salvador 2023 Games.

The Games are scheduled to take place from 24 July to 08 August 2026, utilizing various sporting venues across the country.

As part of the media roster led by Radio Televisión Dominicana (RTVD), the host broadcaster, CDN Deportes will provide comprehensive 24/7 coverage. This includes the opening and closing ceremonies, live competitions across various disciplines, and specialized programming featuring technical analysis, human-interest stories, and dedicated tracking of the Dominican...

Crismil Paniagua and Yari Cleto made history by securing the Dominican Republic’s first-ever gold medal on the Norceca Continental Beach Volleyball Tour, winning the women’s title at the second stop of the 2026 circuit in Güibia Beach in the capital city.

During the event, 13 regional teams battled for one of the seven remaining spots at the Lima 2027 Pan American Games, while also earning valuable ranking points toward qualification for the Norceca Olympic Qualification Tournament in Puerto Rico, which closes on 31 August 2026.

For the win, the Dominican duo edged Canada’s Darby Dunn and Alison McKay in a thrilling three-set final, 2-1 (22-20, 18-21, 15-13), on Sunday, 10 May 2026, in one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament.

The Dominican duo ended the tournament having surprisingly defeated all medal-winning teams from the opening stage in Costa Rica – the Canadians Darby...

The General Museums Agency (DGM) has announced the 2026 edition of “La Noche Larga de los Museos” (a version of the global event The Long Night of Museums). The local cultural initiative is scheduled for 15, 16 and 17 May 2026. Museums will be open from 10am until 12 midnight. Admission is entirely free for all state-owned museums during the event days.

The global event, which originated in Germany in 1997 and debuted locally in 2008, has evolved into a cornerstone of the national cultural calendar. According to Carlos Andújar, director general of Museums, this year’s focus shifts away from massive musical stages to prioritize the museographic experience. The goal is for educational activities —such as workshops, historical documentaries, and guided tours— to complement the collections rather than overshadow them.

Participating museums and highlightsWhile the...

The Ministry of Foreign Relations announced on 12 May 2026 the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States to enhance bilateral security and migration management. The agreement, framed within the “Shield of the Americas” initiative, establishes a temporary mechanism for the transit of select third-country nationals through Dominican territory. Notably, the agreement excludes Haitian nationals and unaccompanied minors.

Under the terms of the MoU, the Dominican Republic will permit the “temporary and exceptional” entry of a limited number of third-party nationals. The government clarified that this applies only to individuals in transit with no criminal records.

The process will be conducted on a case-by-case basis, with the US government providing funding to ensure adequate conditions during the stay and assistance in facilitating...

Secretary Pete Hegseth and President Luis Abinader / CDN

In a move said intended to strengthen regional security cooperation, the Dominican government has granted a temporary extension allowing the United States military to access, park, and overfly Dominican territory. These operations are centered at Las Américas International Airport (AILA) and the San Isidro Air Base, situated in the province of Santo Domingo, under the framework of the “Shield of the Americas” (Escudo de las Américas) agreement.

The legal and diplomatic implications of the move have drawn scrutiny from observers. For several experts in international law, this extension does not violate national sovereignty, as it represents a standard extension of an existing bilateral agreement between sovereign states.

Regional security and strategic cooperationThis cooperation is part of a...

Residents of the Pedro García municipal district, situated on the slopes of the Cordillera Septentrional, took to the streets on 11 May 2026 to voice a firm rejection of potential mining exploitation in the region.

The demonstration, characterized by a cross-generational turnout of children, youth, and the elderly, moved through the streets of the community located along the highway connecting Santiago and Puerto Plata. Protesters carried banners with slogans such as “The mountain range is not for sale” and “Water is worth more than gold,” emphasizing the vital importance of the area’s river systems and natural landscapes to their local identity and economy.

Broad community supportThe march saw unified backing from several key local organizations and leaders, including:• The Association for the Development of Pedro García• Local religious institutions...

Environmental Experts Luis Carvajal and José Manuel Mateo / Ser Humano

In an interview with Maria Elena Nuñez for her Ser Humano podcast, environmental experts Luis Carvajal, of the Environmental Commission of the state university UASD and Jose Mateo, of the environmental committee of the Academy of Sciences, gave insights to help understand the overall picture of the proposed mining projects in the mountain areas of San Juan de la Maguana.

The interview followed President Luis Abinader’s decision to order that one of the permission-seeking mining companies in the area, Goldquest, suspend activities related to the Romero project, a move praised by the experts as a response to the true interests of the people. The environmentalists say that not a single political party has given its opinion on the mining district developments, explaining that over the years, they have been...

A Gallup-Diario Libre in-person survey of 1,200 possible voters (conducted between 28 April and 1 May 2026) published on Monday, 12 May 2026 in the printed edition of the newspaper, reveals that no single political party in the Dominican Republic currently holds enough support to secure a first-round victory for the 2028 general elections. The poll has a 2.8% margin of error and shows a significant number of independent voters who could decide the next presidential election.

The findings depict a fragmented political landscape where the ruling Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) leads with 30.4% of party sympathy, while the People’s Force (FP) and the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) are effectively tied at 19.6% and 19.5%, respectively. In the Dominican Republic, 50% + 1 is needed to win an election in the first round.

The Gallup poll revealed that...

The Zenith Sun is a weather phenomenon known as Instant Without Shadows. In Spanish it is referred to as “Sol Cenital.” Its presence marks the beginning of the most rigorous heat period for the country. Residents should anticipate a week of suppressive heat, high humidity, and extreme solar radiation. It is a period when the “thermal stress” on the body is at its peak, requiring proactive measures to stay cool and hydrated.

As explained by weather expert Jean Suriel on his Instagram account, the phenomenon occurs because the Dominican Republic is located within the tropics (between the Equator and the Tropic of Cancer). Twice a year, as the Earth’s axial tilt causes the sun’s direct rays to migrate northward toward the Summer Solstice, the sun passes directly overhead at a 90-degree angle.

When the sun reaches the “Zenith”—the highest point in the sky— its rays strike the...

The first edition of the International Performing Arts Festival (FESTAE 2026) is set to officially launch this Friday, 15 May 2026, transforming Santo Domingo into the cultural epicenter of the Caribbean. The event will integrate theater, music, dance, and academic workshops, aiming to bridge the gap between local talent and the global stage.

Produced and directed by the award-winning actor and producer Fausto Rojas, FESTAE 2026 will bring together artistic proposals from Argentina, France, Colombia, and Equatorial Guinea, alongside premier Dominican productions. Rojas, who previously served as the director of the National Theater Company, emphasized during a press conference that this project serves as a vital platform for the growth of the Dominican Republic’s creative industry and its positioning within the international performing arts circuit.

Over five days...

The “Destination City” of Cap Cana in eastern Punta Cana is preparing to host the third annual Ironman 70.3 Cap Cana from 16 to 18 May 2026. This year’s edition is on track to become the largest to date, further cementing the Dominican Republic’s status as a premier hub for sports tourism in the Caribbean and the Punta Cana area as a leading sports destination for international events.

According to event organizers, the competition will bring together more than 1,000 athletes representing approximately 60 countries. This steady growth in international registration follows the successful foundations laid during the 2024 and 2025 editions.

Economic and tourism impactBeyond the physical grit of the athletes, the event serves as a significant economic engine for the eastern region. Organizers project a total attendance exceeding 11,000 people, a...

President Luis Abinader is scheduled to travel to Panama on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, to deliver the keynote address at the 12th Annual World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) AICE World Congress. The high-level event, running from Tuesday, 12 May to Wednesday, 13 May 2026, serves as the premier global platform for free trade zone authorities and logistics experts. The previous conference took place in China.

The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) is the host of this international gathering. The event gathers high-level officials, policymakers, free zone leaders, investors, and industry experts from around the world to exchange perspectives, share experiences, and shape the future of free zones and special economic regimes.

President Abinader’s agenda is focused on aggressive investment attraction, specifically targeting specialized free zone sectors. He is slated to meet with...

President Luis Abinader attended the official inauguration of PriceSmart’s newest warehouse club in La Romana on Monday, 11 May 2026. This opening marks a significant US$21.1 million investment in the eastern region, designed to serve as a strategic retail hub for the booming urban centers of Punta Cana, Bavaro, Higüey, Bayahibe-Dominicus, and San Pedro de Macoris (Juan Dolio). The chain has been operating since 1999 when it first opened in Santo Domingo.

The La Romana branch is the sixth PriceSmart location in the Dominican Republic and the 57th for the San Diego-based company across Central America, the Caribbean and Colombia.

Strategic location for the EastEduardo Franceschi, PriceSmart’s senior VP of regional operations, noted that La Romana was selected as the “economic heart” of the East. The location on the La Romana-Higüey Highway (La Luisa sector) allows the club...

The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) reports that the national economy expanded by 4.1% during the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. This growth was significantly bolstered by the free zone manufacturing sector, which posted a notable 7.8% increase in March alone.

According to official data, overall economic activity grew by 5.1% year-on-year in March, driven by the real value-added performance of several productive sectors. Free zone manufacturing emerged as a primary catalyst for this momentum, hitting a historic monthly export ceiling of US$841.2 million, an 8% year-on-year rise for the month.

Service exports and employmentJohannes Kelner, executive director of the National Council of Free Zones (CNZFE), emphasized that the sector’s impact extends beyond traditional manufacturing. Kelner noted that service-exporting firms within the...

Nelson Arroyo / DGA

The director general of the Customs Agency (DGA), Nelson Arroyo, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening Dominican exports through streamlined processes and enhanced logistics, aiming to solidify the country’s position as a strategic regional trade hub.

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by the Dominican Association of Exporters (Adoexpo), Arroyo emphasized that the DGA has evolved from a traditional gatekeeper into a strategic ally for the private sector.

During his presentation, Arroyo revealed that total Dominican exports have doubled over the past decade, reaching a milestone of US$14 billion in 2025. This figure represents over 30% of the nation’s total foreign exchange earnings, making the sector the primary driver of hard currency for the economy. He highlighted how more than 500 new exporters have entered the market.

Global competitiveness and...

The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) reports that remittance inflows reached a cumulative total of US$4.08 billion between January and April 2026, marking a 4.1% increase compared to the same period last year. For the month of April alone, the country received US$1.06 billion, which represents an increase of US$105.7 million over April 2025. This reflects a year-on-year growth of 11.1% for the month, a significant acceleration from the 3.5% growth observed in March 2026.

The Central Bank emphasizes that this growth occurred despite a complex international environment. Persistent conflicts in the Middle East have driven up prices for oil and its derivatives, fueling inflationary pressures and reducing household disposable income abroad.

US labor market and diaspora contributionsThe bank attributes this rebound largely to the Dominican diaspora in the United States...

The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) reported that, according to preliminary figures, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) reached around US$1.54 billion at the close of the first quarter of 2026. This represents an increase of US$92.2 million, or 6.4%, compared to the same period in 2025. The robust performance underscores the nation’s continued appeal to international stakeholders despite a complex global backdrop.

The institution highlighted that around US$1.05 billion, representing more than two-thirds of the total inflows, consisted of new capital contributions. These figures suggest a high level of investor confidence in the long-term prospects of the Dominican economy.

Resilience amid global volatilityThese flows reflect the resilience of the Dominican Republic in attracting FDI, notwithstanding geopolitical tensions and fragmentation trends noted...

The Passports Agency (DGP) announced on Monday, 11 May 2026, that Dominican citizens are now permitted to renew their travel documents regardless of the remaining validity on their current booklets. This decision is part of the ongoing implementation of the new Dominican electronic passport and marks a significant shift in institutional policy to accelerate the adoption of biometric technology.

The measure eliminates the previous restriction that only allowed renewals for passports with two years or less of remaining validity. Historically, the DGP had maintained strict renewal windows to manage booklet inventory and operational flow, but the transition to the electronic format has prompted a more flexible approach to encourage citizens to upgrade their documents.

According to a press release from the institution, this early renewal option will be available nationwide.

The new...

Agricultural producers in the Constanza Valley are reporting a severe economic crisis characterized by skyrocketing production costs and a collapse in market prices. Local farmers warn that heavy rains, soil saturation and a lack of direct government support has pushed the region’s agricultural sector to the brink of disappearance.

Another grievance among producers is the distribution of state aid. Farmers allege that government subsidies intended to alleviate the burden of high costs are benefiting the sellers of farm inputs but are failing to reach the actual farmers.

Manuel Ortiz, a local producer, stated that while production costs for staples such as potatoes, carrots, garlic, celery, and cabbage have soared, the financial relief has been misdirected. “The government gave subsidies to the owners of agrochemical companies, not to us,” Ortiz claimed. “We are the ones...

Rafael Pérez / Hoy

Deputy Rafael “Rafelin” Pérez has voiced his total rejection of rare earth element (REE) mining in Pedernales. The lawmaker from the People’s Force (FP) party warned that such operations would devastate the municipality’s sole water supply and dismantle the agricultural economy of the José Francisco Peña Gómez municipal district.

The crux of the opposition lies in the geographical location of the deposits. According to Pérez, the mining sites are situated where the El Mulito River originates. As the only source of clean, fresh water for the local population, the river’s contamination or depletion would represent a critical setback for the province’s sustainability.

“The exploitation of rare earths would be a major reversal for the tourism development and sustainability of our province. Without water, there is no development,” Perez argues.

Economic...

The Dominican Republic’s senior women’s volleyball team, widely known as the “Reinas del Caribe,” will launch their 2026 FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) campaign on 3 June 2026 against world number three, Turkey in round one in Brasilia. The opening match for the world’s 11th-ranked Dominican squad is scheduled for 12pm as part of Group 2 action.

The schedule was officially confirmed via a press release from Cristóbal Marte Hoffiz, president of the Female National Volleyball Team Program, and Milagros Cabral, the program’s general director.

Opening week schedule in BrazilFollowing their debut against Turkey, the Dominicans face a challenging slate in the first week of competition:• 4 June 2026: The team faces world number two and host nation Brazil at 8pm.• 5 June 2026: A matchup against 25th-ranked Bulgaria at 3:30pm.• 6 June 2026: A scheduled rest day for the Dominican squad.• 7...

The Mercado Modelo has been improved as part of the Integral Program for Tourism and Urban Development of the Colonial City, with RD$45 million invested from Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) funding.

The Mercado Modelo is a historic landmark in Santo Domingo, functioning both as a practical supply center for locals and a premier destination for travelers. While it is technically located on the northern edge of the Ciudad Colonial (Colonial City) on Mella Avenue, it is considered an essential extension of the colonial tourist circuit.

Renovations are ongoing, yet the market has never closed to visits. The market is open from 9am and generally closes at 6pm from Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the market is open from 7am to 12 noon.

Built during the Trujillo era and designed by Henry Gazón Bona, its Art Deco-influenced architecture provides a sharp contrast...

Local and foreign tourists are rediscovering Santo Domingo’s Malecon, the 14-km Caribbean Sea-bordering road, with sports events and even weddings now taking place. The capital city government has been renovating sections of the Malecon, making it more attractive to visitors.

Coming up is the 5K Night Run on 23 May 2026. Scheduled to begin at 7:30pm, the event invites runners to navigate a course along the Caribbean Sea, taking advantage of the improved lighting and wide pedestrian paths that characterize the new Malecón Deportivo section. Registration for the event is currently open with a starting cost of RD$1,695.00, marking it as a key fixture in the city’s growing sports tourism calendar.

Beyond its athletic utility, the aesthetic transformation of the Malecón is attracting high-profile social events, N Digital reports. Recently, the area served as the unconventional yet...

Nagua in Color 2026 is a 5K “fun run” scheduled for Sunday, 24 May 2026. Organized by Machuca Entertainment and the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Nagua (ASHORENA), the event moves away from traditional competition to focus on a sensory, nature-filled experience with color stations, music, and group energy.

The event is centered at Hotel Villas del Lago (also referred to in listings as Hotel Boutique del Lago) in Nagua, Maria Trinidad Sanchez province.

The 5-kilometer circuit is designed to be immersive within the grounds of the lodging. The natural trails and dirt paths and green areas with lake views along uneven terrain enable runners to connect with the environment.

The packageThe event is promoted as an “active getaway,” and organizers are offering an Official Tour (starting at approximately RD$12,325, around US$200 per person) that includes visits to area...

The dates for Expo Mango 2026, the premier agricultural festival celebrating the Dominican Republic’s “king of fruits,” are 3 to 7 June 2026. This year marks the 26th edition of the fair, which has grown into a vital economic engine and cultural landmark for the southern region. It also marks the start of the high season of fresh mangos and is a time to program a visit to the southcentral province. There is lodging in both Peravia and Azua provinces. And Bani city is just an hour’s drive west from the capital city.

New this year is the 10K run as part of the Expo Mango program. The run starts at the Feria del Mango on Av. Fabio Herrera, near the Residencial Don Marcelo. Registration cost is RD$1,200 per person. All finishers will enjoy a buffet of Bani mangos! The race starts on Sunday, 7 June 2026 at 6am.

This year the fair is not centered in the city’s central park. It has...

A “serious conflict of interest” has made the news after Nuria Piera revealed that a man listed as president of Goldquest has served as a fixed advisor to the Minister of Mines and has been on the Ministry of Energy and Mines payroll for years. Julio Ernesto Espaillat Lamarche simultaneously held roles in the private mining sector and the Dominican government, according to investigations carried out by Nuria Piera Investiga and released on 9 May 2026 in the Channel 9 program.

Espaillat Lamarche appears as a former president of GoldQuest, the mining company that proposes subterranean mining in an area banned by Dominican law. Piera says he continues in the company’s corporate registries.

Legal implicationsThe Nuria Piera report cites Law 41-08 on Public Function, which prohibits public servants from intervening in the procurement of concessions or benefits that imply...

On 2 May 2026, President Luis Abinader said “no” to GoldQuest that seeks to exploit vast gold deposits in San Juan de la Maguana. But there is doubt whether this is a temporary “no” or a permanent “no” to gold mining in the Tireo Formation area in the Central Mountain Range.

Past Presidents Leonel Fernandez and Danilo Medina did not authorize the exploitation for the same implications of threats to water sources and impact on the environment and food security. But GoldQuest has been able to advance its exploration and exploitation permit process under Minister of Environment Paino Henriquez during the Abinader administration.

Luis Santana, spokesperson for GoldQuest, told investigative reporter Nuria Piera during an interview for the 9 May 2026 investigative report on Channel 9 that the company would be using AN/FO to open the underground mining chambers. Santana has...

Luis Carvajal / Esta Misma Semana

In a short interview with Huchi Lora and Diana Lora for Esta Misma Semana, environmentalist and member of the Academy of Sciences, Luis Carvajal, detailed the severe ecological and legal risks posed by the GoldQuest “Romero” gold project in San Juan de la Maguana. While President Luis Abinader recently announced the immediate suspension of the project following intense community protests, Carvajal warns that the threat remains systemic.

The proposed mining site is located in the upper basin of the San Juan River, the lifeblood of the entire region. It would impact the San Juan River, the only source of water for the Valley of San Juan.

The river has a reservoir at the Sabaneta Dam, which provides the water necessary for all human consumption, municipal aqueducts, and the vast agricultural production of the valley.

Carvajal said in case of an...

What rights for compensation do mining companies have if they are not granted exploitation rights based on the social rejection of the project? Experts have yet to go on record, but a quick search online turns up these answers.

In the Dominican Republic, the legal landscape regarding compensation for denied mining rights is complex, especially when a project is halted due to social opposition or environmental concerns.

Under Mining Law 146-71 and the Dominican Constitution, the state maintains absolute ownership of subsurface resources. While a concession provides a legal pathway to explore, it does not guarantee an absolute right to exploit. The current Minister of Energy and Mines is a strong advocate of changing the mining law.

The principle of “State Sovereignty” vs. “Vested Rights”Public Utility Status: Law 146-71 defines mining as an activity of “public utility.” This gives...

As the debate surrounding the Romero mining project in San Juan de la Maguana province continues to intensify, Canadian-based GoldQuest Mining Corporation has come under scrutiny not only for its international backing but for a significant, less visible layer of Dominican ownership. According to recent reporting from Diario Libre, a substantial portion of the company’s capital is held by Dominican investors operating through a society registered in a Caribbean tax haven.

The Dominican Connection: Guess Investments Ltd.The local interest is represented by Guess Investments Ltd., an entity incorporated under the laws of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. While registered in the offshore jurisdiction, Diario Libre reports that the company maintains a physical address in the exclusive Ensanche Piantini neighborhood of the National District.

Controlled by Dominican citizens, the company...

President Abinader met with President Laura Fernández after the inauguration / Listín Diario

Dominican President Luis Abinader concluded a high-level diplomatic mission to Costa Rica on 9 May 2026, after attending the presidential inauguration of Laura Fernández Delgado and holding strategic bilateral meetings focused on regional security, technology, and trade.

President Abinader was among the heads of state and international delegations gathered at the National Stadium in San José on 8 May 2026 for the formal investiture of President Fernández Delgado for the 2026-2030 constitutional term.

The Dominican leader was accompanied by Foreign Minister Roberto Alvarez and Dominican ambassador to Costa Rica María Amelia Marranzini Grullón. Following the swearing-in, Abinader attended a protocolary greeting at the Convention Center, where he emphasized that his presence...

JCE President Roman Jaquez Liranzo hands her new ID Card to Ambassador María Isabel Castillo Báez / JCE

The Central Electoral Board (JCE) has officially launched the international phase of its identity document renewal process. María Isabel Castillo Báez, the Dominican ambassador to the United States. She became the first citizen residing abroad to receive the new biometric ID card (cédula) during a focused rollout in Washington, D.C., as reported in N Digital.

The handover was part of a high-level working mission led by JCE President Román Andrés Jáquez Liranzo, accompanied by JCE board member and Overseas Vote coordinator Hirayda Marcelle Fernández Guzmán, and Overseas Vote director Well Sepúlveda.

Upon receiving the document, Ambassador Castillo Báez emphasized that the new card adheres to rigorous...

Minister Víctor “Ito” Bisonó / N Digital

The Ministry of Housing and Edifications (Mivhed) has announced significant strides in modernizing the construction permitting process, an initiative aimed at reducing turnaround times, simplifying procedures, and strengthening transparency in the technical evaluations of real estate projects across the Dominican Republic.

The announcement was made during a strategic meeting between ministry authorities and members of the Association of Builders and Developers of La Altagracia Province (ADECLA). At the gathering, developers and construction sector representatives from the nation’s most active tourism hub presented concerns and proposals regarding the approval processes for works in the eastern region.

During the event, the Minister of Housing and Buildings, Victor “Ito” Bisono explained that the initiative...

The Abinader administration has issued Decree 309-26, a sweeping mandate aimed at restructuring the Dominican Republic’s educational framework through a “National Consultation for the Future of Dominican Education.” While the government frames the move as a necessary evolution to ensure quality and institutional alignment, the influential Dominican Public School Teachers Union (ADP) has interpreted the decree as a strategic pivot toward favoring the private sector.

The controversy centers on the decree’s linguistic shift. Unlike previous mandates that maintained a rigid distinction between the public and private sectors, Article 4 of Decree 309-26 outlines a “Comprehensive Educational System” without specifying such divisions. This ambiguity has fueled ADP’s claims that the administration is laying the groundwork to redirect state focus—and potentially resources—toward private...

The Dominican government officially inaugurated the “Open and Active School” (Escuela Abierta y Activa) program on 9 May 2026, a strategic move to transform public schools into community hubs. Under this initiative, public educational centers under the Ministry of Education will open their doors every Saturday to provide sports, cultural, and recreational programming specifically designed for local youth and adolescents.

The project is a core component of the “School as a Center for Development” strategy. It launched simultaneously across 208 centers in Greater Santo Domingo (the National District and Santo Domingo province) and eight other provinces — Azua, Barahona, San Juan de la Maguana, La Vega, María Trinidad Sánchez, Puerto Plata, San Cristóbal and Santiago. These territories were prioritized due to a documented need for increased...

The Ministry of Agriculture launched the “Siembra Tamarindo” (Plant Tamarind) Program on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, an initiative designed to transform the border province of Elias Piña into a strategic hub for agro-industrial production and development. The project aims to leverage the region’s semi-arid climate, which is ideal for the resilient Tamarindus indica tree, to create a sustainable economic pillar near the Haitian border.

The event was led by Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme at the Sagrado Corazón de Jesús Polytechnic. Held during National Tree Day celebrations, the launch is a central component of the broader “Elías Piña: Tamarind Province” project. This initiative seeks to diversify the local economy, which has traditionally relied on subsistence farming and cross-border trade.

Minister Espaillat emphasized that...

The National Health Service (SNS) and the administration of the Dr. Hugo Mendoza Pediatric Hospital in Santo Domingo North have ordered the immediate suspension of medical staff on duty during the emergency room death of Aurora Suárez Fernández, age 5 last week. The measure, announced as part of an internal investigation, aims to ensure transparency following grave allegations of medical negligence.

A new era of oversightThis decisive action aligns with the stricter management style introduced by the new director of the SNS, Dr. Julio Landrón, who was appointed to the post in January 2026. Since taking office, Dr. Landrón, an orthopedic surgeon and former director of the Ney Arias Lora Traumatological Hospital, has emphasized a “humanization of care” and statistical accountability within the public health network.

Landrón has been vocal about cracking down on sub-par service...

Over 100 children and adolescents in Dajabon province on the border with Haiti have graduated from the “Fabricando Sueños” (Manufacturing Dreams) initiative, a strategic program designed to combat high rates of teenage pregnancy, early unions, and gender-based violence. The project, led by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and co-financed by the European Union (EU), aims to empower youth through mentorship and rights-based education.

While Dajabón saw a 43% decrease in teenage pregnancies between 2019 and 2025, it remains a high-incidence zone. In 2025, the province recorded 151 cases, a rate of 24.59%.

The graduation comes amid encouraging national statistics. Data from the National Statistics Office (ONE) for 2025 reveals a 7.65% reduction in teenage pregnancies across the Dominican Republic compared to 2024. During the fourth quarter of 2025...

In a coordinated strike against the Dominican Republic’s underground economy, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM), acting through its own Specialized Fuel Control and Goods Commerce Corps (CECCOM), dismantled a clandestine fueling operation in San Juan de la Maguana.

In the Sabaneta municipal district of San Juan de la Maguana, CECCOM agents, accompanied by prosecutor Adolfo Féliz Pérez, executed a raid on an illegal fuel station designed to evade regulatory oversight and safety protocols.

The operation uncovered two underground metal storage tanks with a capacity of 5,000 gallons each. The fueling station used a professional-grade fuel dispenser equipped with hoses and nozzles. The station featured a structural camouflage system consisting of a roof designed to hide the equipment from aerial or street-level detection.

The total...

Hundreds of residents and community leaders marched through the streets of La Vega on Sunday, 10 May 2026, to protest the ongoing deforestation and massive earthmoving operations at the Santo Cerro. The demonstration, held under the banner “Defendamos nuestra loma, defendamos nuestro futuro” (Defend our hill, defend our future), sought to draw national attention to what local officials describe as a private-sector “ecocide”.

The march began at the base of the hill (Pie del Santo Cerro) and traversed multiple sectors before concluding in the community of Río Seco. Protesters called for relevant authorities to ensure the prosecution of those responsible for the environmental damage.

This time the concern is high-end real estate development. Reports indicate a private company is clearing large tracts of land to facilitate the construction of luxury villas...

The Caribbean Princess (Carnival Corporation) cruise ship made a scheduled stop at the Amber Cove terminal in Maimón, Puerto Plata on 8 May 2026, amid an active norovirus outbreak that has infected at least 102 people on board. The vessel, carrying 3,116 passengers and 1,131 crew members, arrived under strict surveillance by Dominican health authorities.

The incident occurred during the 13-day “Caribbean Cruise” (itinerary April 28-May 11, roundtrip from Florida/homeport changing from Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale to Port Canaveral) with the ship scheduled to visit Bahamas (Princess Cays), Aruba (Oranjestad), Curacao (Willemstad), Bonaire (Kralendijk), St Maarten (Philipsburg), Puerto Rico (San Juan), Dominicana (Amber Cove) and Bahamas (Nassau).

According to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 115 cases of...

Dominican fans filled the Quisqueya Ball Park to be present for the Ed Sheeran concert on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Local media reported on how from his first appearance on stage he connected with his Dominican fans. “¿KLK, Santo Domingo?,” were his opening words. Then he opened with the song: “You need me, I don’t need you.”

The popularity of the British pop star was outstanding, especially since he sang in English. Reviewers made the point of his numerous fans thoroughly enjoying his performance that was 100% talent and how lyrics that did not feature what urban artists say are musts for their popularity — nudity, bad words, sex incitation and drugs.

Sheeran mesmerized his fans, performing for more than two hours. Attending the concert was Laura Pausini, who was scheduled for a concert at the El Ovalo stage of the Feria Ganadera the next evening.

Read more in...

The New York Knicks have surged into the NBA Eastern Conference finals for the second consecutive year, completing a dominant four-game sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers with a 144-114 victory on 11 May 2026.

Dominican fans are especially following the Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns, the seven-footer who is a Dominican national team player. His shooting and passing talents have proved essential in anchoring New York’s historic postseason run.

As reported, Towns contributed 17 points in the clincher, but his impact extended beyond the box score. His presence in the frontcourt provided the spacing necessary for the Knicks to tie an NBA postseason record with 11 three-pointers in the first quarter. By neutralizing Philadelphia’s interior defense and forcing Joel Embiid to defend the perimeter, Towns helped facilitate an offense that produced the most points in franchise playoff history.

“It’s just us...