AGP Executive Report

Extreme Weather & Preparedness: In the Philippines, the southwest monsoon and cyclones Luis and Maymay left 21 dead and 3.7 million affected, with 553 evacuation centres still open and damage put at about P2.65 billion—another reminder for the region to keep early-warning and disaster readiness sharp. Climate Resilience for T&T: The Caribbean Development Bank, with the Green Climate Fund, is backing a USD 27.1m push to strengthen hydrometeorological services and multi-hazard early warning systems in Belize and Trinidad and Tobago. Net-Zero Planning: T&T launched Pathways to Net Zero reports for waste and agriculture/forestry/other land use, aiming to cut emissions and turn the transition into new opportunities for jobs and resilience. Invasive Species Watch: The giant African snail is again surging with the rains, threatening crops, gardens and public spaces—an annual battle that still needs stronger coordinated control. Energy & Environment: Point Lisas steel is set for revival with vanadium in the mix, while T&T’s gas master plan is being revisited as the country maps its next steps for development. Food Security & Innovation: UWI highlights that affordability—not just food availability—is blocking healthy diets, and a youth innovation competition showcased ideas like a farmer-to-consumer app to cut waste and improve market access.

Net Zero Push: T&T launched “Pathways to Net Zero” for Waste and Agriculture/Forestry/Other Land Use, aiming to cut public greenhouse gases by 15% by 2030 and frame low-carbon growth as an opportunity for jobs, food security and efficiency. Climate Risk & Early Warning: The CDB and Green Climate Fund are backing a USD 27.1m initiative to strengthen hydrometeorological services and multi-hazard early warning systems in Belize and Trinidad and Tobago. Food Security & Nutrition: UWI research highlights a nutrition gap: more than half a million people can’t afford a healthy diet, pointing to affordability and system weaknesses beyond just food availability. Youth & Innovation: CARIRI’s Power Up competition crowned eco-innovation and a farmer-to-consumer app, while UNDP says young people want a bigger role in shaping policy and the future. Indigenous Recognition: First Peoples leaders renewed calls for meaningful national recognition, including revisiting Indigenous history and identity. Economy Watch: Labour market stability is noted, but economists warn the economy still lacks the dynamism for sustained job growth. Energy/Industry: Point Lisas steel revival and vanadium ambitions are back in focus, alongside calls to scrutinise the deal’s “fine print” for real local benefits. Noise & Independence Tech: Tobago’s Independence plans include a drone show, while noise-pollution groups urge controlled, considerate celebrations for residents and animals.

Storm Watch (Caribbean): Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service says a nearby tropical wave is no longer expected to develop, with no storm or hurricane watch or warning in effect, while attention shifts to another Atlantic wave that could bring changes later. Extreme Weather (Regional): Across the region, heavy monsoon and cyclone impacts in the Philippines are driving rising death tolls and landslide risks, with emergency teams still searching missing people. Early Warning Funding (T&T): The Caribbean Development Bank is financing a US$27.1M initiative to scale up hydrometeorological services and multi-hazard early warning systems in Belize and Trinidad and Tobago, using Green Climate Fund support. Local Industry & Environment: The Point Lisas steel plant reopening (Ibis Steel) is framed as jobs and vanadium opportunity, but economists are urging scrutiny of the deal’s “fine print” and long-term benefits. Noise & Wildlife (Independence): Tobago’s Independence plans include a drone show, while Citizens Against Noise Pollution want any fireworks tightly controlled to protect residents and animals. Circular Food Systems: Caribbean researchers are testing black soldier fly larvae to turn food and farm waste into animal feed, aiming to cut reliance on imported inputs.

Point Lisas Steel Revival: Ibis Steel Company has officially kicked off refurbishment of the shuttered ArcelorMittal plant at Point Lisas, backed by US firms Pinnacle Steel and Vanadium Corporation, with a planned US$750M investment and hopes for up to 1,000 jobs—positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a critical minerals producer, including vanadium. Independence Noise & Wildlife: In Tobago, plans for a grand Independence Day drone show are stirring debate as CANPTT urges controlled, time-limited fireworks (or alternatives) to protect residents, vulnerable people, and animals from excessive noise. World Steelpan Day: The Ministry of Culture is pushing steelpan beyond performance—framing it as a youth development tool that builds discipline and creativity while supporting sustainable growth in the cultural industry. Early Warning for Climate Hazards: A multi-million-dollar initiative backed by the Green Climate Fund and CDB aims to strengthen hydrometeorological services and multi-hazard early warning systems in Belize and Trinidad and Tobago. Tropical Weather Watch: TTMS says a nearby tropical wave has dropped to zero chance of cyclone development, but will be monitored for possible local impacts. Local Place & Heritage: A debate continues over the meaning of “Ari­ma/Hyari­ma,” with First Peoples leaders challenging the long-held “water” interpretation and arguing for a different origin tied to gathering places.

Climate Heat Record: July 2026 tied with July 2024 as Earth’s hottest month on record, with NOAA and NASA data underscoring relentless warming. Tropical Weather Watch: TTMS says one Atlantic tropical wave is no longer expected to develop (0% chance), but another wave farther east is being monitored; no TT watches or warnings are in effect for Trinidad and Tobago. Regional Disaster Pressure: In the Philippines, habagat and tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay have pushed deaths to 19 and affected about 2.27 million people, with landslides driving most fatalities and schools suspended in multiple provinces. Local Resilience & Safety: Trinidad and Tobago’s TTPS is rolling out mobile police units to bring officers closer to communities and improve early reporting of risks. Steel & Minerals Push: A US$750M plan is underway to refurbish the former ArcelorMittal Point Lisas steel site, aiming to restart steel production and position T&T as a vanadium producer. World Steelpan Day: Culture officials are spotlighting steelpan as more than performance—linking it to youth development and sustainable growth. Nature & Heritage: Tobago’s heritage group is showcasing Indigenous artefacts in Buccoo, keeping deep local history in view.

Point Lisas Revival: A US-backed Ibis Steel restart at the shuttered ArcelorMittal site is set to pour in US$750M, aiming to make Trinidad and Tobago a major vanadium and “environmentally friendly” steel producer, with up to 1,000 jobs projected. Extreme Weather Toll (Regional): In the Philippines, deaths from the southwest monsoon and cyclones Luis and Maymay climbed to 19, with nearly 2.3 million affected—mostly from landslides. Storm Outlook: NOAA cut the Atlantic storm count range to 7–13 but warned the riskiest weeks are still ahead, with “below-normal” not meaning “no risk.” Local Safety & Climate Risk: Trinidad and Tobago’s TTMS is monitoring a new tropical wave with low cyclone chances, while warnings and advisories continue to shape preparedness. Indigenous Heritage (Tobago): Buccoo’s Tobago Heritage Conservation Society is showcasing Indigenous artefacts, keeping deep history visible for students and visitors. Community Health: Tobago’s TRHA marks World Breastfeeding Week with its 25th Family Walk and Breakfast, pushing support for mothers and families.

Severe weather and flooding in the Philippines: The enhanced southwest monsoon (“habagat”) and tropical cyclones Luis and Maymay have killed at least 13 people and affected about 1.3 million others, with landslides driving most of the tragedy in places like Benguet and Rizal; evacuations and relief are ramping up as heavy rain continues and warnings shift. Local impacts and disruptions: Class suspensions and work stoppages were reported across multiple Luzon areas, while utilities in Baguio faced widespread blackouts after winds and storm damage. T&T environment angle—eco-tourism rules under pressure: In Trinidad, concerns are growing around Caroni Bird Sanctuary tours, with critics saying some on-water “experiences” are bringing noise, litter and alcohol that could degrade wildlife habitat—tour operators are calling for clearer rules and stronger enforcement. Water management lesson for the region: A Trinidad-based discussion highlights how stormwater systems can make or break resilience for small island states as climate impacts intensify. Safe sport push in T&T: TTFA marked Safe Sport Day 2026, urging safeguarding and shared responsibility to protect athletes.

Philippines Flood Pulse: Pagasa downgraded Metro Manila’s heavy-rain warning to yellow, but flooding risk remains as habagat rains continue and an orange warning still covers parts of Luzon. Storm Toll & Evacuations: Combined habagat and cyclones Luis and Maymay have affected about 382,000 people, with deaths linked to landslides, rockslides, drowning and electrocution, and evacuation centres activated across multiple provinces. Local Weather Disruption: In the Philippines, power outages hit Baguio and nearby towns after howling winds, while heavy rain also forced suspensions of civil service exams and classes in several areas. Caroni Bird Sanctuary Rules: Trinidad eco-tourism faces fresh pressure as operators are urged to keep fetes, alcohol and noise out of Bird Sanctuary tours, with calls for clearer rules and stronger enforcement. Water Security Ahead of El Niño: Trinidad and Tobago is preparing for a prolonged dry spell, with water restrictions such as hosepipe bans being discussed as El Niño conditions strengthen. Noise Pollution Warning: A public forum heard that excessive noise is escalating into violence, raising concerns for public health and community safety.

Climate & Water Security: Trinidad and Tobago is bracing for El Niño–driven dry conditions, with WASA and TTMS warning reservoir levels may not fully recover and water restrictions (possibly including hosepipe bans) could be announced soon. Eco-Tourism Rules: At Caroni Bird Sanctuary, tour operators are facing fresh pressure to keep fetes, alcohol, noise and litter out of protected-area boat tours, with calls for clearer rules and stronger enforcement to protect the “eco” in eco-tourism. Stormwater & Resilience: A Trini water expert argues stormwater management failures can turn heavy rain into major economic and community damage, underlining the need for better drainage planning. Public Spaces & Labour: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander proposes using convicted prisoners sentenced to hard labour to maintain parks and public areas, as CEPEP upkeep remains disrupted. Regional Flooding Watch: Philippines reports from habagat and cyclones show how quickly flooding, landslides and evacuations escalate—useful context for disaster preparedness thinking.

Water Security Watch: Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath says Trinidad and Tobago is preparing for a prolonged dry spell linked to established El Niño, with possible water restrictions (including a hosepipe ban) expected “within days” as reservoir levels may not fully recover by December. Climate & Health: Citizens Against Noise Pollution TT warns noise is escalating into a public health crisis that can fuel frustration and even violence, citing past incidents tied to loud music disputes. Local Livelihoods: The Ministry of the People’s SEED grants programme delivered support to South Trinidad entrepreneurs and disability assistance wheelchairs in Rio Claro, Moruga, Penal and Palo Seco. Public Space Maintenance: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander proposes using convicted prisoners serving hard labour to cut grass and clean communities after CEPEP was suspended, aiming to tackle neglected parks and roadsides. Regional Weather Disruption (context): Severe monsoon rains and flooding in the Philippines continue to disrupt services and schools, underscoring the wider climate-risk backdrop.

Water Security & El Niño Prep: Trinidad and Tobago is moving toward possible water restrictions as El Niño conditions strengthen, with Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath saying conservation measures (including a potential hosepipe ban) could be announced soon; the plan also includes drought preparedness and disaster steps like cooling stations. Environmental Education Push: The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) has commissioned the National Environmental Literacy Survey 2026 to track public knowledge and attitudes, with fieldwork starting 14 August. Local Maintenance & Public Spaces: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander proposes using convicted prisoners serving hard labour to help maintain overgrown public spaces after CEPEP was suspended. Regional Climate Impacts: Across the Caribbean and beyond, heavy monsoon and storm systems are driving flooding and landslides, with Luzon reporting multiple deaths and widespread disruption—another reminder of why climate-ready planning matters.

Water & Climate Preparedness: Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath says Trinidad and Tobago is moving toward water restrictions as El Niño conditions strengthen, with hosepipe bans and other conservation measures expected “within days,” while WASA warns reservoir recovery may still fall short by December. Environmental Education: The EMA has commissioned the Environmental Literacy Survey 2026 to track environmental knowledge, attitudes and practices nationwide, with fieldwork starting 14 August. Community Support: The Ministry of the People delivered SEED grants and disability assistance wheelchairs to South Trinidad communities, backing small businesses and livelihoods. Local Land Use Watch: Residents near former Caroni (1975) sugarcane lands report heavy clearing and uncertainty over whether the area will become housing, agriculture, or an AI data centre—prompting calls for official clarity. Regional Weather Impacts: Across the Caribbean, Tropical Depression Maymay and the southwest monsoon have triggered deadly flooding and landslides in the Philippines, with class suspensions and rainfall totals exceeding 150mm in some areas.

Disaster Response: Tropical Depression “Maymay” (Kujira) and the southwest monsoon (habagat) have battered northern Luzon, with Pagasa reporting heavy 24-hour rain totals like 158.6mm in Iba, Zambales and 154.4mm in La Trinidad, Benguet—prompting landslide and flooding warnings and class suspensions. Deaths and Damage: Police and disaster officials link the storm to multiple fatalities, including landslides that buried an eatery in La Trinidad and a rockfall in Rodriguez, Rizal, while floodwaters submerged parts of Benguet’s Strawberry Farm area. Local Safety Measures: The Philippine National Police says it is boosting patrols and pushing preemptive evacuations in landslide-prone communities, urging residents to follow official advisories. T&T Land Use Watch: In Trinidad, residents question ongoing clearing of former Caroni sugar lands near Petite Morne and Picton, with officials saying it’s for residential lots for former workers—while speculation persists about an AI data centre. Energy Transition Tension: Critics warn T&TEC stopped absorbing power from the Brechin Castle solar farm, calling it a setback for the country’s renewable push. Community & Climate Resilience: A Tobago rideshare tech partnership aims to improve accountability and safety for drivers and passengers.

Tropical Storm Maymay Fallout (Philippines): Heavy rains and landslides tied to Maymay have killed at least six people across Benguet and Rizal, with police and disaster officials reporting deaths from rockfalls, drownings, and an eatery burial in La Trinidad. Tobago Wildlife Enforcement: Trinidad and Tobago’s EMA says officers arrested two people after a suspected sea turtle poaching incident at Lambeau Beach, where a dead turtle, turtle meat, and eggs were reportedly found. Caroni Clearing Sparks Questions: Residents say excavators have been clearing former Caroni lands near Petite Morne, Ridgewood Gardens, Golconda and Picton, raising fears the area could be earmarked for housing or an AI data centre. Energy & Renewables Tension: Critics are reacting to claims that T&TEC stopped absorbing power from the Brechin Castle solar farm, warning it could undermine the energy transition. Local Governance & Unity: Tobago’s THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine urged leaders to cool racial rhetoric, saying it threatens tourism and investor confidence. Prison Labour Debate: The Prison Officers’ Association argues prison work is legal and should be properly managed, including for public-space maintenance. Tobago Transport Tech: TITL is backing a new Tobago rideshare platform with monitoring and safety features for drivers and passengers.

Wildlife Enforcement in Tobago: The EMA praised officers after two people were arrested over a suspected sea turtle poaching incident at Lambeau Beach, with a dead turtle, turtle meat and eggs reportedly found; the EMA reminded that sea turtles are protected and urged the public to report wildlife offences. Energy Transition Tension: Analysts and former officials are pushing back on T&TEC’s decision to stop absorbing power from T&T’s Brechin Castle solar farm, warning it could undermine the country’s energy transition and waste a major renewable investment. Community Water Stress: Residents in parts of Arima say they’ve faced severe dry taps for weeks, with low pressure even when supply returns, raising concerns about how water distribution is being managed. Climate Disaster Impacts Abroad: Tropical Storm “Maymay” has triggered deadly landslides and flooding in the Philippines, including fatalities in La Trinidad, Benguet, as heavy rain continues and classes are suspended in affected areas. Public Interest Media Under Pressure: Reporters Without Borders warns Trinidad and Tobago’s independent newsrooms are being squeezed by falling government advertising, threatening newsroom sustainability and media independence.

Wildlife enforcement in Tobago: The EMA praised officers after two people were arrested in a suspected sea turtle poaching incident at Lambeau Beach, where a dead turtle, turtle meat and eggs were reportedly found; the EMA reminded that sea turtles are protected and urged the public to report offences. Heat and rain outlook: Trinidad and Tobago’s Meteorological Service warns of hotter-than-average conditions through August to October, with Trinidad near-normal rainfall but Tobago facing a drier stretch—plus muggy nights and occasional heavy bursts that can still trigger flash flooding. Crime prevention meets public spaces: Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander says convicted inmates on hard labour will be used again to clean and maintain public spaces, with experts stressing rehabilitation, careful selection and strong security. Local environment-adjacent policy: TTASA earned a FIA one-star environmental accreditation, citing improved waste disposal, recycling, safer handling of automotive fluids and energy efficiency at Wallerfield Raceway. Disaster risk reminder: A separate report highlights how saturated ground and continuous rain can trigger landslides and school suspensions—an urgent reminder for preparedness in storm-prone periods.