Dutch Caribbean Federation Hosts Regional Suicide Prevention Seminar

The Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) in Aruba has issued the 2026 erfpacht (ground lease) invoices, marking the start of the annual billing cycle for landholders operating under ground lease agreements. The Tax Department (Departamento di Impuesto) has received the billing data from DIP and is now equipped to process payments. Residents and property holders who have erfpacht obligations are now able to settle their 2026 dues directly at the Tax Department. Ground lease, or erfpacht, is a common land tenure arrangement in Aruba where individuals or businesses hold the right to use government-owned land in exchange for an annual fee. Timely payment is important to avoid potential penalties or complications with land rights. This announcement serves as a public notice encouraging erfpacht holders to make their payments promptly now that the invoices have been formally released.

The Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) in Aruba has issued the 2026 ground lease (erfpacht) billing statements, signaling the start of the annual collection cycle for leaseholders. The billing data has been transferred to the Tax Department (Departamento di Impuesto), which is now authorized to receive payments. Residents and businesses who hold government ground leases are advised to visit the Tax Department to settle their 2026 obligations. Ground lease fees apply to properties built on government-owned land, a common arrangement in Aruba. Timely payment helps avoid penalties or complications with property rights. This announcement serves as a public notice for leaseholders to take action.

The Fundacion Lanta Papiamento (FLP) held an educational session for housekeeping staff at Playa Linda resort in Aruba, sharing the history, origins, and development of the Papiamento language. The foundation continues its ongoing mission to promote Papiamento across the island by bringing language awareness directly to workplaces. Employees learned about the language's documented origins based on academic research and its cultural evolution over time. The initiative targets workers in the hospitality sector, where daily interaction with international guests can sometimes sideline local language and cultural identity. By reaching resort staff, FLP aims to strengthen pride in Papiamento among workers who are often the first point of contact for visitors to Aruba. The outreach reflects a broader effort to preserve and elevate Papiamento as a living, valued language rather than a secondary one in professional settings.