DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

President Luis Abinader acknowledged in his weekly press conference on Monday, 28 July 2025 that the Dominican economy has experienced a deceleration in its growth rate, a reality he stated the population is already feeling.

“We went from growing 5% to 2.7% or 3%, which is what we are accumulating… and I know the population is feeling it, the decrease in economic growth,” the President stated during his weekly press conference.

Despite this slowdown, Abinader affirmed that, amidst global uncertainty, the Dominican Republic’s economy remains “a beacon of international light.” He attributed the deceleration to external factors, specifically citing international circumstances influenced by new US government tariff policies, which contribute to global uncertainty.

He said efforts are focused on a targeted 3.5% growth rate for this year. Regardless the final outcome...

President Luis Abinader said that he would not promulgate Comprehensive Management and Processing of Solid Waste Bill 225-20 as recently approved in Congress. He stated that he agrees that observations from various sectors be instead incorporated into the bill. He said the bill has not yet formally reached his office.

However, he explained that once it reaches the Executive Branch, technical and sectoral recommendations will be considered for the amendments and the bill would be resubmitted to Congress. He noted: “There are many objections; even ProCompetencia has sent us reports pointing out errors that need to be corrected.”

Follow the story: La Semanal 28 July 2025

29 July 2025

With a promise of transparency and good governance, President Luis Abinader officially enacted the new Public Procurement Law 47-25 on Monday, 28 July 2025. President Abinader signed the bill into law at the headquarters of the General Public Procurement Agency (DGCP) in the presence of DGCP director Carlos Pimentel. The Presidency says this law marks a pivotal moment in how the Dominican state manages its resources, promising a significant transformation in public administration.

“Today is an important day for the Dominican Republic,” stated the President in the official press release. “A day where we reaffirm, with actions and not just words, this government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, efficiency, sustainability, and the strengthening of our institutions.”

The new Public Procurement Law 47-25 ensures significant improvements:•...

National District Mayor Carolina Mejía recently inspected progress on the Paseo Marítimo of Santo Domingo, a sprawling sports and recreation complex set to transform 1.7 kilometers of the city’s iconic waterfront. The project, a key component of the Integrated Plan for Santo Domingo, aims to create accessible and functional spaces for various sports and leisure activities.

Adding to its appeal, the Paseo Marítimo is planned as a bio-healthy zone facing the ocean, commercial, recreational and sports areas, all with scenic viewpoints. The project also thoughtfully integrates the Monument to the Heroes of May 30, a significant historical landmark.

In a video shared by the Mayor’s office, Mejía was seen reviewing plans and observing the redesign of the beach volleyball court, discussing projections for the expansive area. She was accompanied by Yolanda de la...

A nine-year-old boy with autism was safely reunited with his mother on Sunday, 27 July 2025, thanks to the swift actions of concerned citizens and officers from the National Police, Diario Libre reported. The boy had gone missing in the trails of Mirador Sur Park in the National District.

According to a video shared on the National Police’s social media, the child was initially brought to the Plan Piloto park outpost by parishioners from the Cristo Salvador church, located near the Honduras sector.

An officer explained that upon recognizing the boy’s special needs, all necessary protocols were activated to locate his family. “The boy has autism, and we’ve done everything we can, calling upon all resources to help his family find him,” the officer stated in the video.

The widely circulated images capture the moving moment when the mother...

2024 statistics paint a complex picture of relationships in the Dominican Republic, showcasing both the enduring appeal of marriage and the increasing reality of its dissolution.

The institution of marriage remains a cornerstone of Dominican society, with official figures revealing a robust 44,349 unions celebrated across the nation in 2024, El Dia reports. However, the latest data from the National Statistics Office (ONE) also highlights a significant number of marital dissolutions, with 26,210 divorces finalized within the same period.

Marriage, defined as the social, legal, and often religious union of two individuals for a shared life, grants couples a range of rights and duties, including inheritance, social security, and parental authority.

Of the total marriages recorded, the vast majority—39,661—were civil ceremonies. Additionally, 2,556 canonical marriages (unions...

New data reveals that Haitian migrants represented a substantial 10.53% of all deaths from homicides, suicides, and accidents in the Dominican Republic during 2024, as reported in Diario Libre. These figures offer a glimpse into the size of the Haitian population within the country and the challenging conditions many face.

According to the National Statistics Office (ONE) in its “2024 Yearbook of Accidental and Violent Deaths,” released on 25 July 2025, of the 4,187 individuals who died from these four causes, 441 were from Haiti. Another 261 were from other countries or their nationality was not recorded.

Haitian immigrants were particularly overrepresented in intentional homicide statistics, making up 16.62% of victims. Out of 1,041 intentional homicide deaths, 173 were Haitian, compared to 864 Dominicans. The remaining victims included two...

Dr. Roberto Franklin Abreu / El Día

Dr. Roberto Franklin Abreu, a neurosurgeon and former president of the Dominican Society of Spine Surgery, recently warned about a “silent crisis” in the national health system. Speaking at the 9th Congress of his scientific organization in Punta Cana, Dr. Abreu highlighted the alarming rate at which young Dominicans are becoming paraplegic due to traffic accidents, particularly those involving motorcycles. He specifically called attention to the prevalence of illegal motorcycle races on the Duarte Highway, especially on the Bonao-La Vega and La Vega-Santiago stretches, where riders risk their lives in clandestine competitions..According to Dr. Abreu, 30% of polytrauma and traffic accident victims suffer from spinal cord injuries, leading to permanent neurological deficits. These cases primarily affect young people between 18 and 40 years old...

Dominican authorities seized a substantial shipment of suspected illicit drugs south of Beata Island off the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic on Monday, 28 July 2025 in the afternoon during a joint operation, sources close to the investigation confirmed, CDN reports.

Beata Island is a small islet on the Caribbean Sea located 7 km southwest from Cabo Beata, on the southwesternmost coast of the Dominican Republic, bordering with Haitian waters. A Navy outpost is located there.

While the exact quantity and type of narcotics remain unconfirmed, the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) transported the massive haul to Santo Domingo for analysis at the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (Inacif). The sheer volume of the alleged drugs necessitated the use of a truck for transport, highlighting the scale of the seizure...

In a significant blow to drug trafficking, the National Drug Control Agency (DNCD), in a joint operation with the Public Ministry (Attorney General Office), has confiscated a shipment of 1,303 pounds of suspected marijuana in Montecristi province, on the northwest coast of the country. The seizure is reportedly the result of extensive surveillance and intelligence work.

Acting on intelligence, operational units and prosecutors raided a residence on Dominicanos Residentes en Estados Unidos Street in the Buen Hombre sector of Villa Vásquez municipality of Montecristi. The property was believed to be a stash house for illicit substances.

Upon entering the home, authorities conducted a thorough inspection, discovering 24 white sacks containing 154 packages of a plant substance, believed to be marijuana, with an estimated weight of 1,303 pounds.

Authorities are...

A National District judge has ordered Jean Andrés Pumarol Fernández, accused in the killing of Ivonne Handal and the wounding of several others, to serve preventive detention at the Centro de Corrección y Rehabilitación Anamuya, the La Altagracia jail located 172 km from the capital city. The decision, handed down by Judge Rigoberto Sena of the National District Permanent Attention Court, has sparked debate regarding the accused’s mental health and the suitability of the correctional facility. The order is for three months custody at the jail as the case is heard in court.

According to Richard Martínez, Pumarol’s lawyer, the prosecution requested his client be sent to Anamuya, asserting the facility possesses a psychiatric ward. Martínez highlighted that this request implicitly acknowledges Pumarol’s mental health condition, stating: “In one way or another, it...

The largest get-together of civilian aircraft fans happens each year in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA. Known formally as the EAA AirVenture 2025, the show draws private flyers from around the world. People come to see unique and innovative aircraft and learn about where to travel to. This year, officials say more than 691,000 visitors from 80 different countries participated in the 21-27 July 2025 celebration of aviation.

The Dominican Airport Department and the Ministry of Tourism set up their booth at the show to promote arrivals to Dominican airports.

The participation seeks to promote fly-ins by private airplanes, as they are known, recognized as an important potential contributor to high-value tourism. Back in 2023, President Luis Abinader acknowledged private aviation as important to Dominican tourism when he signed Decree 259-23 that covers the arrival and departure...

Aerodom, a subsidiary of Vinci Airports, has launched a new online payment system for parking at Las Américas International Airport (SDQ).

The new system allows users to pay for short-term, long-term, or premium parking directly through the airport’s website using any smartphone and credit card. The goal is to speed up airport departures, reduce queues at physical payment machines, and offer a more secure, efficient, and contactless experience.

The new digital platform complements other recent improvements at Las Americas International, including expanded parking facilities, LED lighting installation, electric vehicle charging stations, and digital signage.

“This new digital payment system meets the expectations of our users and is another step in the technological transformation we are undertaking to make the airport experience more fluid and...

Tourism Minister David Collado officially was in Samana on Friday, 25 July 2025 for the inauguration of the newly repaired and illuminated Francisco Alberto Caamaño Deñó Street in Las Terrenas, Samaná. The road follows the beach-studded coastline all the way to Playa Las Ballenas, on the western side of Las Terrenas.

The renovation work focused on repairing the existing paving in deteriorated areas, stretching from Pueblo de los Pescadores to Golf Project Street. Additionally, 2.45 kilometers of Francisco Alberto Caamaño Deñó Street were illuminated with the installation of new lighting fixtures and aluminum poles designed to resist salt corrosion.

Minister Collado stated that this project is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s ongoing efforts to intervene in various tourist enclaves, thereby making a positive impact on local communities. “Interventions like this benefit visitors...

Viewing the Atlantic Ocean beach waters in front of Punta Cana beach will now be easier from your hotel room. There will be lots of rooms with ocean view for the taking at the Moon Palace The Grand, the country’s first high-rise resort soon to open in the area.

Moon Palace The Grand is preparing to open its first 1,000 rooms in spring 2026. The resort hotel is an investment of the Mexican Palace Company. The hotel is already taking bookings for lodgings starting next March 2026.

The hotel says it will have 20 dining options at the site.

At the present time, the hotel is working on hiring around 5,000 staff.

Read More:

• CDN
• Moon Palace

The Dominican Republic has a special place in Costa Line cruise marketing. In a recent interview for Travel Age West, Dario Rustico, Costa Line’s general manager for North and South America of Costa Cruise Line explained that in the Caribbean, a different itinerary from many of the major cruise lines is offered because ships sail out of the Dominican Republic, not Florida.

“So with the short flight to the Dominican Republic, we can sail deeper into the Caribbean over the seven-day itinerary,” he explained.

Costa Line cruise ships travel to multiple cruise ship ports in the Dominican Republic.

A Costa Pacifica cruise has an itinerary that goes around the island of Hispaniola with stops at the ports of La Romana, Cabo Rojo, Turks and Caicos, Puerto Plata, Samana and Isla Catalina.

Thus, Costa Line’s ships, Costa Fascinosa and Costa Pacifica operate routes...

President Luis Abinader at the request of legislators issued a decree that reconvened Congress to give more time for the passage of important legislation. On Saturday, 26 July 2025, Congress had finished its ordinary first session of the year, but neither the amendments to the Labor Code or the new Penal Code had managed to be passed by both houses. Neither passed in Congress were the bills on rentals, solid wastes or the National Intelligency Agency (DNI).

Legislators are ordered to return to their jobs through the extraordinary legislative session that will now close on 5 August. Congress will then open for its second legislative period of the year on 16 August.

Regarding the Penal Code, although it passed in the Senate and had received initial approval in the Chamber of Deputies, its progress has stalled. Technical errors, missing articles, disagreements with the...

First Lady Raquel Arbaje, along with her daughters Graciela, Esther, and Adriana, is among more than 1,000 individuals who have signed an open letter rejecting the current draft of the Dominican Republic’s proposed Penal Code reform. The letter, addressed directly to President Luis Abinader, warns that the legislation represents a “serious setback” for human rights in the country.

The document has garnered support from a wide cross-section of Dominican society, including activists, legal scholars, journalists, academics, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens. Signatories argue that the proposed code, in its current form, could have profound ethical and social consequences—particularly for women and girls.

Among the central concerns raised is the limited legal definition of femicide, which recognizes only three specific circumstances under which the...

President Luis Abinader announced on 23 July 2025 the Republic of Ideas initiative, a nationwide contest aimed at encouraging Dominicans both at home and abroad to submit creative, innovative, and feasible proposals to help drive inclusive and sustainable development. Government officials are joined by academic leaders, young changemakers, and civil society representatives at the unveiling.

“República de Ideas” is part of the government’s broader push to cultivate a culture of civic engagement, collective creativity, and forward-looking thinking. The initiative is aligned with the national strategy Meta RD 2036, which seeks to double the country’s Gross Domestic Product and build a more prosperous, equitable, and resilient Dominican Republic.

República de Ideas invites citizens to propose innovative solutions to drive the country’s future development. The contest...

South African Minister of Mines, Gwede Mantashe and Minister of Industry & Commerce, Victor (Ito) Bisonó / MICM

South Africa is looking for investors as it works out its problems in dealing with the high cost of extraction to exploit its Steenkampskraal mine known for deposits of rare earth elements and described as located “in the middle of nowhere.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Industry & Commerce Victor (Ito) Bisono met with South African Minister of Mines Gwede Mantashe to learn about the South African experience and find ways to collaborate.

The Dominican government has created a trust for the exploitation of rare earth elements in Pedernales on the southwestern border with Haiti. The exploitation of the rare earth elements is controversial because at the same time Pedernales is being developed as a major tourism...

Economist Ellen Perez Ducy writes a second part in her analysis for Diario Libre on DR-CAFTA now that the Trump Administration has levied a 10% tariff on the Dominican Republic, an outright change of the trading rules with the Caribbean and Central America.

In her analysis, “The Myth of Exports (Part II): The DR-CAFTA Paradox,” Perez Ducy makes the point that while free trade agreements may be hailed as a panacea for economic growth, it is up to each country to adapt export offerings to be able to capitalize on new market access. She stresses the importance of concentrating on the production of high value-added industrialized products without neglecting the strategic importance of agriculture exports.

She highlights it took the DR time to adapt its exports to DR-CAFTA, but eventually the country switched from being a major exporter of apparel to higher value-added exports prevailing for the free...

If conditions for living and working in Haiti would improve, Haitians would no longer need to migrate.

Meanwhile, to detain the mass flux of Haitians looking for what their country is not providing in security, jobs and social services, the Dominican government has poured over RD800 million (approximately US$13.6 million) into bolstering its deportation efforts over the past ten months. Yet a significant challenge persists: Haitian migrants repeatedly return, often just days after being sent back across the border, a recent report in Diario Libre points out.

The reality is bleak, nevertheless. Despite substantial investments in new buses, biometric readers, and modernizing immigration facilities, the revolving door of deportation and re-entry continues. What has increased is the cost of re-entering as more controls are in place.

At the Haina Migratory Processing Center...

Tensions are rising over the rice surplus. The opposition says the stockpiles are of imported rice. Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz during the 21 July 2025 press conference of President Luis Abinader had stated that this year the country had not imported rice, and that the rice inventories were of rice imported in 2024.

Moreover, Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz announced during the same press conference that the country is on track for another record-breaking rice harvest. His optimism has been met with sharp criticism from opposition figures who allege that the current rice surplus stems largely from last year’s imports — not domestic production.

Former senator Adriano Sánchez Roa, head of the Agricultural Secretariat of the Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), said on Thursday, 24 July, that the 2.7 million quintals of rice currently stored — which Minister Cruz attributes to local harvests...

It would be hard to find someone so dedicated to a cause as retired general Juan Manuel Mendez Garcia, the head of the Center for Emergency Operations (COE). Mendez Garcia was just honored for his 20 years as the head of the Dominican agency charged with handling all of the emergency situations that occur on an island that sees so many different natural and human disasters.

The Dominican Republic has 14 major seismic fault lines, and at any time one of these might shake the nation. The Dominican Republic is also in the path of many of the worst hurricanes imaginable, and there is nowhere to go in order to avoid one of these. And then there are the Dominican holidays. These events, Christmas-New Years and Holy Weeks, ware nationwide event that see millions of people going from one place to another, full of rum and beer, and a devil-may-care attitude.

These are the...

Senior citizens in the Dominican Republic remember studying with the books of their elder brothers and sisters. Textbooks were passed on in the families, with considerable savings for the parents. The work assignments were in separate notebooks.

But then, publishing companies invented the textbooks that incorporated workbooks. And the Ministry of Education approved these. This meant that every year, parents now have to buy new books for each child.

El Dia reports on how this business has resulted in a bonanza for school book publishers while the cost of sending a child to school has escalated. El Dia reports that the books for a grade school student are at around RD$14,000. The amount is enormous, given that the average two-income middle class household has a joint income of under RD$40,000.

Read more in...

The government seems to be saying “tough luck” to the Botanical Gardens neighbors. Now, while an official announcement has been made that the Botanical Gardens grounds inside their fence will be sparred from the impact of the announced major Av. Republica de Colombia roadworks, the neighboring communities and those who benefit from the greenery on the perimeter of the city park are concerned they will be impacted by the road expansion.

The roadworks will remove the trees and then the noise of traffic will be right next to the Botanical Gardens and the dwellings of people who live nearby. Those who used the extensive sidewalks on the outside for their green walks may now need to pay admission to walk under trees inside the Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Gardens has a low-cost membership fee.

Neighbors are concerned their actual property will be...

What is quite logically the nation’s biggest private sector single employer, much like Walmart in the United States, the Grupo Ramos has announced in Santiago de los Caballeros that it intends to expand its current 84 stores to more than 200 stores by 2030. Such entities as Sirena Market (former Pola), Multicentro La Sirena, Multiplaza and Aprezio are all part of the retail portfolio.

As explained by Ivan Mejia, the executive president of the company, the idea is to place one of their stores within 30 minutes of every Dominican living in a city. In the north of the DR, Grupo Ramos currently has 19 stores, with nine of these in Santiago de los Caballeros, the country’s second largest city.

Mejia noted that within a relatively short period, cities like Mao, Jarabacoa, Salcedo and San Francisco de Macoris would have stores and that there would be two new stores serving...

Jean Andrés Pumarol / CDN

32-year old Jean Andres Pumarol Fernandez is now at the Palacio de Justicia temporary jail as he awaits charges. He is held responsible for the injuries and the death of 70-year old Yolanda (Ivonne) Handal Abugabir and four other persons, including his father and the household maid of stab wounds. The tragedy occurred at the Dorado Naco IV apartment building in Naco on Wednesday, 23 July 2025 in the afternoon. His arraignment hearing is scheduled for Monday, 28 July 2025.

His defense lawyer has said the young man is mentally ill and was not aware of what he was doing.

As reported in Hoy, the father, Guillermo Ramon Pumarol Castellanos (Willy), said: “My son has suffered from paranoid schizophrenia for ten years and has been under monitored treatment the entire time. This is the first time he’s ever acted this way.”

The terrifying event unfolded...

The named Michael Williams, a 38-year-old citizen of the United States, is facing Dominican justice, and thousands of people are hoping for the worst punishment possible under the law. Williams was arrested after witnesses saw him throw a poor dog out of an 11th floor apartment in one of the wealthier sectors of Santo Domingo. Another mistreated animal was found in his apartment.

Arrested under Animal Protection Law 248-12, the individual was placed under a travel ban, forced to put up a RD$200,000 bail bond and is required to report to the judge while his case is heard in court.

The mofongo is a dish popular in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Most people will eat it in a restaurant.

This traditional dish is made primarily with fried green plantains that are mashed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings or bacon, and often formed into a ball or mound. It’s commonly served with a savory broth or alongside meat, seafood, or vegetables.

Now the people of Santiago have set a new culinary record. The Guinness World Record for the largest green plantain ball was achieved on Saturday, 26 July 2025, with the creation of a colossal 560-kilogram (1,234-pound) mofongo, prepared in Santiago de los Caballeros’ central park.

Hundreds gathered to witness the historic event, with official verification provided by Susana Reyes, international adjudicator for Guinness World Records...

Descendants of the first Japanese colony, people who formed a community in La Vigía, Dajabón with the support of then dictator Rafael Leónidas Trujillo, recently celebrated the 69th anniversary of their ancestors’ arrival in the Dominican Republic with the inaugural Dajapón Fest, the first Japanese Cultural and Gastronomical Festival.

The all-day event was held on Saturday, 26 July and Sunday, 27 July 2025 at the “Colonia Japonesa” park in Dajabón, and showcased the enduring presence and vibrant culture of the Japanese community in the region. Japanese art and crafts were exhibited, several original descendants were honored and the stories of the first migrants were told.

Listin Diario interviewed Omar Mukai, president of the Association of Descendants of the First Japanese Colony, who expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming public support. He emphasized...

Luciana Souza / Hoy

The NYO Jazz Orchestra from Carnegie Hall has included performances in Santo Domingo and Santiago in its first-ever Latin American tour.

Led by artistic director and trumpeter Sean Jones, and featuring Grammy-winning Brazilian vocalist Luciana Souza, this youth jazz ensemble will showcase the rich heritage and future of American jazz, ranging from big-band swing to contemporary innovation.

Their performances in the Dominican Republic are scheduled for:• Tuesday, 5 August 2025, at 8:30pm at the Teatro Nacional Eduardo Brito in Santo Domingo.• Wednesday, 6 August 2025, at 8pm at the Centro León in Santiago.

The program is expected to include works by renowned composers such as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Count Basie, Dafnis Prieto, and Iván Lins. These concerts are produced by the Sinfonía Foundation.

Tickets for the Santo Domingo performance are available through...

The Chamber of Deputies approved on Wednesday, 23 July 2025 a series of reforms to the public procurement legislation, officially moving the bill into law, N Digital reports. It now heads to the Executive Branch for either promulgation or veto.

The newly approved law aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for public contracting by defining the relevant authorities, guiding principles, procedures, and applicable regulations. Its central goal is to ensure the efficient use of public funds.

In addition to promoting transparency and efficiency, the legislation seeks to better meet the general public’s needs and uphold fundamental human rights. It also introduces cross-cutting criteria to support sustainable development and encourage the use of technology in public procurement processes.

Read more in...

Minister of Public Works, Eduardo Estrella / Noticias SIN

During the official presentation of the República de Colombia Avenue road restructuring project, government officials firmly reiterated that works for the road solution will not be carried out inside the National Botanical Gardens. Space of the outside sidewalks would be used and two lanes would be added to the República de Colombia Avenue along with underpasses and trenches.

The Road and Environmental Solution of the Av. República de Colombia will span seven kilometers from Km 13 of the Duarte Highway to the Los Próceres Avenue.

Present for the presentation on Wednesday, 23 July 2025 at the Botanical Gardens were Minister of the Presidency Jose Ignacio Paliza, Minister of Public Works Eduardo Estrella, Vice Minister for Infrastructure of the Ministry of Public Works Elías Zapata and...

Luis Migiuel De Camps / AMCHAM

Education Minister Luis Miguel De Camps unveiled on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, a comprehensive educational strategy designed to boost national productivity, employment, and ethical development. Speaking as the keynote speaker and guest of honor at a luncheon hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AmChamDR), De Camps emphasized that the future of innovation and jobs begins in the classroom.

An AmCham press release explains that De Camps highlighted the recently presented educational roadmap, which centers on teachers, families, students, civil society, and educational system professionals. This roadmap addresses key priorities: true literacy, technical training integrated with the productive sector, broad coverage and inclusion, values-based education, and transparent territorial management.

“The jobs of the future...

Passport Office’s director Lorenzo Ramirez sent a letter to the Diario Libre explaining the intentions of the agency to purchase its newly remodeled location at the former TeleAntillas site in a year. The Passport Office has entered a rent-buy lease, as Diario Libre had reported. Diario Libre had reported the lease would be for three years at about RD$10 million per month.

The revenues to be forthcoming from the issuing of the electronic passport would help finance the purchase, Ramirez told Diario Libre. Ramirez has hopes the first electronic passports will be issued this 2025. The intention is to begin issuing electronic passports first to those whose passports have expired. The government has hopes that the issuing of the electronic passports, with their enhanced security, will open doors for Dominican citizens to be allowed to travel to Europe without having to apply...

The Dominican Republic’s Senate officially passed a bill on Wednesday, 23 July 2025 that seeks to establish a new Ministry of Justice, a move anticipated to significantly alleviate the workload of the Attorney General’s Office. The legislation, which will now head to the Executive Branch for promulgation by President Luis Abinader, aims to streamline the nation’s judicial system, its advocates say.

President Abinader has been a proponent of this initiative since 2022, underscoring the government’s commitment to judicial reform.

Diario Libre reports that the bill, authored by Senators Cristóbal Venerado Castillo (Hato Mayor – PRM) and Félix Bautista (San Juan de la Maguana – Fuerza del Pueblo), had previously cleared the Senate but returned for a final vote to incorporate modifications made by the Chamber of Deputies. After the required two debates in the lower...

The Ministry of Energy and Mines has announced that in a landmark achievement for the Dominican Republic, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has granted the country the International Registration of the Denomination of Origin Larimar Barahona. This certification provides global legal protection for the semi-precious larimar stone, which is found exclusively in the province of Barahona, Dominican Republic.

The certification was officially received by Joel Santos, Minister of Energy and Mines, representing the Dominican government, from Salvador Ramos, director general of the National Office of Industrial Property (Onapi). With this, the “Larimar Barahona” denomination is now protected in 28 countries under the terms of the Lisbon Agreement, establishing a legal safeguard against misuse or appropriation of its origin by third parties internationally...

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) reports on the findings of the scientific whale expedition carried out by the Caribbean Cetacean Society (CCS) in Samaná Bay, Navidad Bank, and Silver Bank in the Dominican Republic. The study provides strong evidence that there are more whales than expected.

The WWF says the research comes at a critical time. Although humpback whale populations have recovered in many places, whales still face increasing threats from tourism, shipping, underwater noise, and climate change. These factors can disrupt their natural behavior, especially during the calving season.

The researchers highlight they witnessed signs of human disturbance. On several occasions, whale-watching boats came within just a few meters of calves, which is far too close. This underscores the need for better regulation of tourism. Responsible tourism can support the animals instead...

There are pros and cons to the Saharan Dust clouds covering the Caribbean. On one hand, it’s hotter than usual. On the other, weather forecasters say the Saharan Dust weakens weather systems reducing the intensity of the rains that passing troughs may bring this week.

The weather report says were scattered showers, isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds due to the passing trough system on Wednesday, 23 July. The trough extending through various levels of the troposphere is currently triggering scattered showers across the southeastern provinces of the Dominican Republic and the capital city.

The most affected areas are expected to include Monte Plata, Sánchez Ramírez, Monseñor Nouel, San Cristóbal, La Vega, Santiago, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Elías Piña, and northern parts of Greater Santo Domingo. Due to these conditions, localized urban flooding may occur...

Jean Andrés Pumarol / CDN

A 30-year old believed to have mental issues killed a 70-year old neighbor and injured several others in the Naco Dorado IV residential complex off Av. Tiradentes on the afternoon of Wednesday, 23 July 2025.

As reported, 30-year old Jean Andres Pumarol Fernandez used a sharp object to stab at least four people, resulting in multiple injuries and the death of 70-year old neighbor Yolanda Handal Abugabir. The incident took place at around 4pm at the Naco Dorado IV residential complex, where both the victim and the attacker reportedly lived.

Witnesses and residents said the young man appeared to be in a state of mental distress when he launched the attack, killing the 70-year old and injuring another five persons, including his own father, 62-year old Guillermo Pumarol Castellanos. Other persons injured are 70-year old Teresa Fabián Heredia, who was the...

The Passports Office (DGP) is set to move its main headquarters to the former Teleantillas building on Dr Defillo street in the National District. A first phase lease is being made with the purchase to be made in three years, Diario Libre reports. The agreement, valued at nearly US$6 million or around RD$360 million, was granted through a sole-source procurement process. The monthly rent would be for RD$10 million over the 36-month term. Diario Libre says this procedure raises questions about the selection method.

The move will see the passport agency occupy the renovated structure located at the intersection of John F. Kennedy Avenue and Doctor Defilló in the Los Prados sector. The building, originally constructed in 1982 with two floors and a basement, has undergone significant remodeling, including the addition of a third story built atop a steel beam structure.

As reported, the contract was awarded on 8 July, following a selection process that bypassed competitive...

There is much expectation for the announced presentation on the morning of Wednesday, 23 July 2025 at the Botanical Gardens by the Ministry of Public Works of the roadworks modernization plan addressing concerns the roadworks would impact the National Botanical Gardens of Santo Domingo.

Minister of Public Works Eduardo Estrella is scheduled to announce the project for the roadworks modernization. In response to generalized concern, President Luis Abinader said in his weekly press conference on Monday, 21 July 2025, that the roadworks “will not touch the Botanical Gardens.” Instead, he said a tunnel would be built.

The Minister of Environment had said earlier in the week that 0.01% of the Botanical Gardens would be impacted. The Botanical Gardens has around two million square meters.

A generalized uproar had demanded more information from the government. Most...

Kelvin Cruz / En Segundos

Minister of Sports Kelvin Cruz says he was not aware trees were being felled at the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center to make way for venues for the Central American and Caribbean Sports Games 2026.

As reported in En Segundos, the controversy surrounding the felling of trees at the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center in Santo Domingo has escalated, with Sports and Recreation Minister Kelvin Cruz publicly distancing himself from the intervention and expressing strong opposition.

“I found out through the media — after it had already happened. I was outraged and immediately called those responsible to demand an explanation. They told me the Baseball Federation requested the space, but I do not agree with what was done,” Cruz said during an interview on El Show del Mediodía on Monday, 21 July 2025.

According to journalist Moisés Mejía in Listín Diario, the...

President Luis Abinader issued Decree No. 396-25, officially approving the Implementation Regulations for Law No. 368-22 on Territorial Planning, Land Use, and Human Settlements. This marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to foster integrated and balanced municipal development across the Dominican Republic.

The announcement was made by Antoliano Peralta Romero, legal consultant to the Executive Branch. He highlighted the collaborative process behind the regulation, which saw input from various government institutions, including the ministries of the Presidency, Tourism, and Housing and Buildings. The draft, initially prepared by the Vice Ministry of Territorial Planning and Regional Development within the Ministry of Economy, underwent a public review and was extensively discussed in a process spearheaded by the Legal Consultancy of the Executive Branch...

Government officials announced several highly anticipated completion and operational dates for state projects, including Line 2C of the Santo Domingo Metro, the Las Parras prison and the Luis Eduardo Aybar Health City.

The announcements were made during the final session of the Business Forums 2025 on Government Management, titled “Challenges, Objectives, and Goals.” Ministers José Ignacio Paliza (Presidency), Sigmund Freund (Public Administration), and Carlos Bonilla (Housing and Edifications) provided updates on these crucial infrastructure and administrative initiatives.

After years of anticipation, Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza confirmed that the physical works for the Line 2C Metro extension, connecting Kilometer 9 to Los Alcarrizos, are expected to conclude by late summer or early autumn. This will pave the way for full operation by early 2026.

Minister of Housing and Edifications Carlos Bonilla announced that the first phase of the Las Parras...

Tourism Minister David Collado has announced the suspension of the proposed public trust for the Puerto Plata Cable Car, responding to mounting concerns from local communities and business owners who depend heavily on the tourism generated by the attraction. The Puerto Plata Cable Car has around a year closed as the government shuffles amidst optimization options.

President Luis Abinader had issued Decree 162-25 that established the Public Trust for the Management of the Puerto Plata Cable Car (FI-TEPP) with a duration of 40 years. The decree ordered that the Dominican State will serve as both trustee and beneficiary through the Ministry of Tourism, while Fiduciaria Reservas, S.A. will act as the trustee responsible for operations.

The decision to put the public trust on hold calls instead for a new phase of technical review aimed at ensuring its safety and operational...

The Dominican Republic’s tobacco product exports have reached an impressive US$1.34 billion annually, a figure that significantly surpasses pre-pandemic levels. President Luis Abinader announced the milestone during his “La Semanal con la Prensa” address on 21 July 2025, highlighting the industry’s robust recovery and growth.

This represents a remarkable US$400 million increase compared to 2019, firmly establishing tobacco as one of the country’s top three export products. Dominican cigars are globally renowned for their exceptional quality and rich tradition.

President Abinader emphasized that tobacco now accounts for 10% of all Dominican exports, trailing only gold and medical supplies. He underscored the international acclaim received by Dominican cigars, often considered the world’s best due to their superior quality, flavor, and artisanal craftsmanship.

“In...

The Dominican Republic’s imports from China have seen a significant jump in the first half of 2025, reaching US$2.59 billion. This marks a substantial 10.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when imports from the Asian giant totaled US$2.34 billion, as reported in El Nacional.

The surge of US$254.6 million positions China as the fastest-growing source of goods for the Dominican Republic, both in absolute and relative terms, among its primary trading partners. This growth solidifies China’s role as the Dominican Republic’s second-largest import partner, trailing only the United States and expanding its crucial influence on the nation’s productive and consumer sectors.

Long-established large stores in the Dominican Republic have repeatedly complained that the Chinese competitors have been allowed to take advantage of loopholes for importing goods paying low taxes...

The Senate passed the Penal Code that now moves to the Chamber of Deputies for approval. The present legislation closes on 24 July 2025 and reopens on 16 August 2025.

The Penal Code as approved is criticized for articles that would criminalize the right to social protests, allow the prescription of government corruption crimes and child abuse, release from legal responsibility to political parties and city governments, grant penal immunity to church representatives. The Penal Code also failed to incorporate the three exceptions for abortion.

Read more in Spanish:

• El Nacional
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The Chamber of Deputies has approved, in two consecutive sessions and with modifications, the organic bill that establishes the Ministry of Justice. The legislation now returns to the Senate for review of the amendments.

The bill aims to create and define the structure and responsibilities of the new ministry, that the government says will strengthen the country’s justice system.

According to one of its provisions, the Ministry of Justice will serve as the executive body responsible for planning, directing, coordinating, and implementing powers delegated by the Constitution and laws to the Executive Branch. It will play a key role in supporting the judicial system both functionally and administratively, as well as in representing the State in legal matters.

The bill outlines the structure of the new ministry, which will include the following departments:Vice Ministry of Support and...

In response to what it calls the “passive and complicit” stance of congressional leadership and political parties, the civic watchdog group Participación Ciudadana is calling on the Public Ministry of the Attorney General Office to investigate current and former legislators who have not submitted their sworn asset declarations.

Participación Ciudadana is the local chapter of Transparency International.

Information obtained by Participación Ciudadana from the Chamber of Accounts reveals a significant number of lawmakers in violation of the law. Twenty deputies elected in 2024 and 78 who left office the same year have failed to file their declarations.

The list includes deputy Kinsberly Taveras, who has in her record being removed from the position as Minister of Youth during the first government of President Luis Abinader for questions as to the millions in...

The Police arrested a US citizen who is suspect of having thrown a dog to his death from an 11th floor apartment in the Bella Vista neighborhood. Animal protection units protested the happening and called for an investigation. As reported in El Nacional, the authorities also found another dog with visible signs of abuse in the possession of the US citizen at the time of his arrest.

Upon his arrest, the Police found a brown Doberman with visible neck injuries, further intensifying the accusations of animal abuse pending against him. The case is being handled by the Ensanche Naco Community Prosecutor’s Office.

The suspect has been identified as 38-year-old Michael E. Williams. He was apprehended on Monday afternoon, 21 July 2025, by agents from the Department II of Animal and Environmental Protection (Anti Cuatreros) of the Central Investigation Department of the...