BPA Denounces Allegations of Irregularities in Fishing Tournament Vessel Clearances

Concerns have surfaced following the recent Legacy of Champions International Fishing Tournament in Roatán, Honduras, with some Belizean participants alleging irregular fees charged during the departure and return of vessels.

One participant, Jorge Aldana, claimed in a televised interview that multiple agencies collected payments from crews but issued only one official receipt, suggesting possible misconduct. He added that such practices discourage international anglers from joining Belizean tournaments.

The Belize Port Authority (BPA), however, has strongly denied any wrongdoing. In an official statement, the Authority stressed that its role is limited to regulating navigation safety and enforcing maritime regulations, not collecting fees on behalf of other agencies.

According to the BPA, a full review of records from the San Pedro office confirmed that procedures were properly followed. On September 9, 2025, the master of Aldana’s vessel submitted all required documents, including the crew list identifying Aldana as one of five crew members. The BPA then issued a Departure Clearance (No. 018504), collected the prescribed fee under the Port Authority Tariff Regulations, and provided an official receipt (No. 122794).

Upon the vessel’s return on September 16, BPA officers boarded the vessel as required for any ship arriving from a foreign port. A Boarding Form (No. 013342) was completed and signed by both the officer and the master, and the applicable entry fees were collected. The BPA issued another official receipt (No. 123363).

The Authority emphasized that all documents—including clearances, boarding forms, and receipts—were collated and transmitted to BPA headquarters for compliance review. These records, it said, demonstrate transparency and full compliance with Belizean law.

The BPA categorically rejected suggestions of irregularity, pointing out that Aldana was not the vessel’s master and therefore not responsible for handling or receiving official documentation. “We do not condone irregular activities,” the statement read, “and we reject accusations made against our officers without evidence.”

While the Port Authority maintains that its processes were conducted properly, concerns remain among participants who argue that inconsistent practices among government agencies at ports of entry could discourage future participation in Belize-hosted tournaments and harm the country’s reputation in regional sportfishing.