FOWPAL Revisits Belize for Cultural Exchange and Peace Advocacy

On January 13, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) revisited Belize for a series of cultural exchanges and goodwill activities. Located in Central America along the Caribbean Sea, Belize is home to approximately 400,000 people and boasts extraordinary natural treasures, including the Belize Barrier Reef—the second-largest coral reef system in the world—and the iconic Great Blue Hole, a massive underwater sinkhole.

On January 14, representatives of the FOWPAL delegation were invited to appear on a major local television program, Sunup on 7 News Belize. The interview generated an enthusiastic public response, with viewers expressing strong support and anticipation. Many shared their hope of personally meeting the peace envoys from the United States, noting that the delegation’s message of love and peace resonated deeply across the country.

That evening, Prime Minister John Briceño of Belize rang FOWPAL’s Bell of World Peace and Love, allowing its profound and resonant chime to echo throughout the nation as a symbol of hope, harmony, and peace for the world.

The following day, January 15, coincided with George Price Day, a national public holiday honoring George Cadle Price, Belize’s founding father and first Prime Minister. Formerly known as British Honduras, Belize began its journey toward independence under George Cadle Price’s leadership when he became Chief Minister in 1961 and initiated negotiations with the United Kingdom. Belize officially achieved independence on September 21, 1981, with George Cadle Price serving as its first Prime Minister.

During the commemorative celebration, senior government officials and military leaders delivered remarks in an atmosphere marked by sincerity and approachability. Members of the FOWPAL delegation were deeply impressed by the leaders’ natural and warm interactions with the public, which felt more like exchanges among neighbors than formal protocol. FOWPAL member Alex observed that unity can turn what once seemed impossible into unexpectedly beautiful outcomes.

Another FOWPAL member, Selina, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the George Price Day event. She was particularly moved by the large gathering of teachers and students from various schools and by the children’s performances. The radiant smiles and genuine joy of those present, she said, allowed her to fully appreciate the value of the journey. She also expressed heartfelt thanks to FOWPAL President Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze for his guidance, which enabled the delegation to become a source of light for others.

Belize is also a major heartland of the ancient Maya civilization, with more than 1,400 documented archaeological sites across the country. On the afternoon of January 15, the FOWPAL delegation visited Altun Ha, one of Belize’s most renowned Maya archaeological sites. Its name, meaning “stone water” in Yucatec Maya, reflects the water features near the settlement. The site is famous for the discovery of the large jade Sun God head (Kinich Ahau), one of Belize’s most iconic archaeological treasures. Altun Ha was occupied for many centuries and reached its peak as an important ceremonial and trading center during the Classic Maya period.

Reflecting on the visit, FOWPAL member Ellena noted that the rise of Maya civilization was rooted in long-term accumulation, unity, and a well-coordinated division of labor. However, she observed that when greed and warfare emerged, even the most brilliant civilizations eventually declined. Standing among the ancient ruins, she reflected that humanity today stands at a similar crossroads: choosing war may mark the beginning of civilization’s end, while choosing peace remains the only path that offers hope for humankind’s future.

FOWPAL member Alex shared that he learned that Belize was once regarded as a “safe and strategic Caribbean haven,” attracting apocalyptic, religious, and esoteric groups seeking refuge. Despite its rich natural and cultural heritage, Belize’s annual per capita income is slightly over USD 7,000. Yet, he observed that many Belizeans live simple, optimistic lives in close harmony with nature. He noted that being able to advance an international initiative centered on love and peace in such a place—through a convergence of meaningful circumstances—was both rare and deeply significant.

On January 17, the FOWPAL delegation visited the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center, which was founded in 1983 by Sharon Matola, who began by caring for animals left from a wildlife documentary. Today the zoo is home to over 150 animals representing dozens of native Belizean species, such as jaguars, crocodiles, the Baird’s tapir (Belize’s national animal), and the keel‑billed toucan (Belize’s national bird). The zoo focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about wildlife conservation. Animals come from confiscations, donations, or rehabilitation needs, and many that cannot be released back into the wild remain at the zoo in habitats that resemble their natural environment.

FOWPAL member Lulu shared that although this rescue facility is modest in size, it offers close-up encounters with rarely seen species such as Baird’s tapirs, jaguars, and king vultures, leaving a profound impression. Another FOWPAL member Lorriaine added that witnessing animals that had suffered injury, illness, or abandonment—and seeing the care taken to create a safe, nurturing environment for them—deepened her appreciation for the preciousness of life.

Throughout their visit, FOWPAL members invited local residents to sign the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity. The delegation observed a warm and welcoming response from many they met. Refusals were rare, and encouragement was abundant, leaving the delegation impressed and reinforcing their view that kindness, sincerity, and concern for others were evident among the communities they visited.