BELMOPAN, Thurs. Dec. 31, 2020– The office of the Governor-General issued a release on December 31 honouring seven individuals across the public service in Belize. These persons were appointed to The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by the Queen as part of the annual bestowing of New Year’s Honors.

The recipients include the Director of Health Services, Dr. Mavin Manzanero, and Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams. Both these persons played a pivotal leadership role in 2020 in a nationwide effort to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Dr. Marvin Manzanero, the Director of Health Services, was appointed as an Ordinary Officer of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his contribution to Public Health.

Ms. Judith Alpuche, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Human Development, was also given this O.B.E distinction for her work in the field of social work.

In addition to Dr. Manzanero and Ms. Alpuche, five other Belizeans became Members of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. Among them is, as mentioned earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, for his contribution to the Public Security. Also, H.E Ambassador, Mrs. Lou Anne- Burns Martinez, received honors for her contribution to the Foreign Service.

Ms. Elisa Nayeli Montalvo was appointed as M.B.E. for her contribution to the Field of Law; Brigadier General Steven Ortega was also honored for his contribution to the Public Service.
And finally, Yolanda Mapye Smith received honors for her contribution to Community Service and Entrepreneurship.

The presentation of these awards will be announced at a later date.