AGP Executive Report

Sargassum Cleanup Boost: The Ministry of Tourism delivered 42 heavy-equipment pieces to Boca Chica—30 trucks, six tractors, and six beach sweepers—to speed up the annual sargassum response and protect tourism and local livelihoods. Climate Resilience & Water: The Dominican Senate approved US$600 million for Punta Cana-Bávaro—US$200 million for climate action support and US$400 million via INAPA for sanitation and wastewater reuse to protect aquifers and expand safe water. Power Grid Upgrade: Edesur Dominicana began importing six new transformers from China under a RD$469.8 million modernization plan to improve reliability as electricity demand rises. Urban Trees Under Pressure: Experts warn Santo Domingo’s unplanned urban forestry has left toxic, invasive, and unstable trees, calling for a technical citywide tree management plan. Water & Sanitation Leadership: Punta Cana hosted LatinoSan 2026, the first Caribbean sanitation conference, spotlighting safe water, hygiene, and resilience, including major coastal and tourist-city water reuse investments. Hurricane Season Watch: Indomet says Saharan dust and dry air are suppressing rainfall early in June, bringing hotter conditions and worse air quality while limiting early tropical development. Agriculture Modernization: TNR and Confenagro signed an agreement to train producers and expand irrigation tech, aiming for more efficient, sustainable farming with less environmental impact.

Sargassum Response: The Ministry of Tourism delivered 42 heavy pieces of equipment to Boca Chica—30 trucks, six tractors, and six beach sweepers—to speed up cleanup and protect the tourism economy as seaweed returns each year. Climate Resilience & Water: The Senate approved US$600 million for Punta Cana-Bávaro—US$200M for climate action support and US$400M via INAPA to expand sanitation and wastewater reuse, aiming to protect the aquifer and improve safe water access. Electric Reliability: Edesur Dominicana began importing six new power transformers from China (RD$469.8M) to modernize the grid and stabilize service as demand rises. Urban Trees: Experts warn Santo Domingo’s unplanned urban forestry has left residents facing toxic, invasive, and unstable trees, calling for a technical citywide tree management plan. Water & Sanitation Forum: Punta Cana hosted LatinoSan 2026, a regional sanitation conference focused on safe water, hygiene, and climate-linked resilience, highlighting major reuse and aqueduct investments. Hurricane Season Watch: Indomet says the 2026 hurricane season starts today with mostly dry, hot conditions as Saharan dust and dry air suppress rainfall, while advising hydration and dust precautions. Agriculture Modernization: TNR and Confenagro signed an agreement to train producers and expand irrigation tech to use water more rationally and cut environmental impacts. Biodiversity & Tourism: Arajet received its 16th aircraft, “Pico Diego de Ocampo,” named for a protected natural monument, reinforcing the push to showcase Dominican nature.

Urban Forestry & Public Safety: Experts warn Santo Domingo’s decades of unplanned tree planting left behind toxic, invasive, and structurally unstable trees, calling for a technical urban tree management plan to make the capital cooler and more resilient. Water & Sanitation Investment: The Dominican Senate approved US$600 million for climate resilience and Punta Cana-Bávaro water and sanitation, including US$200 million for climate action policy support and US$400 million for INAPA’s sanitation and wastewater reuse expansion to protect aquifers and public health. Power Grid Modernization: Edesur Dominicana started importing six new transformers from China in a RD$469.8 million upgrade aimed at improving reliability as electricity demand rises. Saharan Dust Weather Alert: Indomet says Saharan dust and dry air will keep conditions hot and hazy with suppressed rainfall through early June, plus degraded air quality—stay hydrated and limit sun exposure. World Environment Day in Santo Domingo: The National Botanical Garden offers free admission and an “Eco-Walk for a Healthy Environment” with “A Day Without Emissions,” including a motor-vehicle-free park perimeter. Tourism Water Forum: Punta Cana hosted LatinoSan 2026, a sanitation conference focused on safe water, hygiene, and climate-linked resilience, highlighting major aqueduct, sewerage, and water reuse work in Verón-Punta Cana. Bilateral Climate Cooperation: Suriname President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons pushed for deeper ties with the Dominican Republic, including renewable energy, sustainable development, and parliamentary exchange, citing shared climate-change vulnerabilities.

World Environment Day in Santo Domingo: The Dr. Rafael M. Moscoso National Botanical Garden is offering free admission and an “Eco-Walk for a Healthy Environment 2026” on 5 June, with no motorized vehicles inside the park to cut emissions and encourage walking. Saharan dust and heat: Indomet says a Saharan Air Layer dust intrusion is bringing hazy skies, degraded air quality, and sharply reduced rainfall across the Dominican Republic from 2–7 June, with hot conditions and health warnings for dust-sensitive residents. Hurricane season starts: The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins 1 June, with Indomet expecting mostly dry, sunny weather due to dry air and dust, plus only scattered showers and isolated storms in some regions. Tourism tied to nature: Punta Cana and Bahía de las Águilas earned major travel rankings, spotlighting the country’s beaches and biodiversity—especially Jaragua National Park’s protected ecosystems. Cruise growth: APORDOM reports cruise passenger arrivals rising from about 1.2 million (2022) to 2.7 million (2025), with 32 ship arrivals expected in June. Air connectivity with conservation branding: Arajet received its 16th aircraft, “Pico Diego de Ocampo,” named for a protected natural monument, and plans more flights from Cibao starting in 2027.

Saharan Dust & Heat Advisory: Indomet says the first June Saharan Air Layer dust intrusion is bringing hazy skies, degraded air quality, and sharply suppressed rainfall across the Dominican Republic (2–7 June), with hot conditions and health warnings for dust-sensitive residents. Hurricane Season Kickoff: The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season starts today (June 2) with mostly dry, sunny weather expected, as dry air and dust limit early tropical development—though a tropical wave may still trigger scattered morning showers and isolated storms in parts of the country. World Environment Day in Santo Domingo: The Dr. Rafael M. Moscoso National Botanical Garden marks World Environment Day with free admission and an “Eco-Walk for a Healthy Environment 2026,” including a no-motor-vehicles rule to cut emissions inside the park perimeter. Cruise Tourism Growth: APORDOM reports Dominican cruise passenger arrivals rising from about 1.2M (2022) to 2.7M (2025), with 32 ship arrivals expected in June and continued port investment supporting coastal communities. Nature-Linked Aviation Expansion: Arajet received its 16th aircraft, “Pico Diego de Ocampo,” named for a protected natural monument, and says it plans new Santiago operations in 2027. Organic Waste Collaboration: A “Tierra Común” meeting in the wider region highlights how scaling organic waste programs needs clear rules and shared coordination—an issue that matters for Dominican cities facing emissions and landfill pressure.

Hurricane Season Watch: The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) says the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 through Nov. 30, with mostly dry, hot conditions expected thanks to Saharan dust and a dry air mass—though a tropical wave and local systems may still bring scattered morning showers and isolated thunderstorms in parts of the Central Mountain Range and border provinces. Air Connectivity & Nature Protection: Arajet received its 16th aircraft, “Pico Diego de Ocampo,” named for a northern protected area that helps preserve biodiversity and water sources; the airline also plans more Cibao operations starting in 2027. Climate & Food Security Diplomacy: President Abinader and Suriname’s president signed cooperation deals covering tourism, agriculture, trade, education, and regional security, with climate change and food security highlighted. Sustainable Tourism Push: Iberostar and UNDP launched an alliance to make Dominican tourism more climate-resilient and lower emissions, with support for local suppliers and better climate risk management. EU Political Dialogue: The DR and EU held their Fifth Political Dialogue in Brussels, reaffirming cooperation on sustainable development and security, including discussion of Haiti’s crisis. Weather Alerts: Indomet also warned of hazy skies from Saharan dust and advised hydration and dust-sensitive residents to follow health guidance.

Aviation & Nature Protection: Arajet added its 16th aircraft, “Pico Diego de Ocampo,” named for a protected natural monument tied to biodiversity and water in the north—part of a broader fleet push and plans to expand Cibao operations in 2027. Climate & Disaster Readiness: Indomet urged Dominicans to stay informed as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that even one storm can be devastating; the institute also launched a “Get Informed on Time” campaign. Weather Watch: Saharan dust and an anticyclonic system are expected to keep conditions hot and hazy, with limited showers and health advice for dust-sensitive residents. Tourism Sustainability: Iberostar and UNDP signed an alliance to make Dominican tourism more resilient and lower emissions, focusing on climate risk management and stronger local supplier practices. Bilateral Cooperation with Environmental Angle: Germany’s “German Week” in Santo Domingo highlighted growing investment and cooperation that includes environmental protection, the circular economy, renewable energy, and rule of law. Haiti Spillover & Regional Stability: The Dominican Government and the UN held a political dialogue on Haiti’s crisis impacts, including border management, security, human rights, and sustainable development.

Tourism & Environment: Iberostar and UNDP signed an alliance to push more sustainable, climate-resilient tourism in the Dominican Republic, targeting decarbonization, better supplier practices, and stronger climate risk management. Hurricane Preparedness: INDOMET urged residents to stay ready as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that any storm can still bring major damage. Saharan Dust & Health: INDOMET reported hazy, hot conditions from Saharan dust, with only isolated showers expected; the agency advised hydration, light clothing, and extra care for people sensitive to dust. Local Climate Risk Management: INDOMET and Civil Defense partnered to enhance national risk management, strengthening monitoring and response ahead of the season. Wildlife & Nature Tourism: A Dominican birding/nature experience trend is drawing more visitors—especially younger travelers—seeking local species and guided outdoor learning. Tourism Spotlight: Punta Cana received international travel recognition from Condé Nast Traveller, reinforcing the destination’s appeal as a top tropical getaway.

Hurricane Season Readiness: INDOMET urged Dominicans to stay alert as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that even one storm can bring major damage, and launching a “Get Informed on Time with INDOMET” campaign. Saharan Dust Impacts: Meteorologist Jean Suriel reported a second Saharan dust cloud covering about 6,890 km², bringing hazy skies, hotter temperatures, and limited downpours, with higher risks for allergies and respiratory, eye, and skin problems. Tourism Sustainability Push: Iberostar and UNDP signed an alliance to make Dominican tourism more climate-resilient and lower-emissions, including decarbonizing supply chains and strengthening local suppliers and MSMEs. Local Environment Oversight: The Environment Ministry said works on the Haina River are part of environmental recovery, not illegal extraction, after earlier concerns. Regional Aviation Shift: A new interline deal between LIAT 2020 and Air Caraïbes highlights a broader Caribbean airline realignment that could reshape connectivity for Dominican travelers. Economy & Energy Pressure: The Central Bank kept its reference rate at 5.25%, citing inflation tied to higher international oil prices and noting medium-term inflation expectations remain anchored.

Hurricane Season Readiness: INDOMET urged Dominicans to stay informed as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that even one storm can bring major damage; the agency has activated monitoring plans and launched a “Get Informed on Time with Indomet” campaign. Saharan Dust & Health: Meteorologist Jean Suriel reported a second Saharan dust cloud reaching the country, covering about 6,890 km², bringing hazy skies, hotter conditions, and higher humidity; he warned it could last up to 12 days and worsen respiratory, eye, and skin problems. Early Warning Upgrades: Civil Defense and INDOMET signed an agreement to install meteorological stations at Civil Defense sites to strengthen the national early warning system, improving real-time weather monitoring and faster decisions for flood, storm, and hurricane risks. Local Environment Restoration: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration work at the International Botanical Bridges Congress, highlighting a shift toward native, endemic plants and biodiversity gains for more sustainable tourism. Tourism Sustainability Partnership: Iberostar and UNDP launched an alliance to build a more resilient, lower-emissions tourism supply chain in the Dominican Republic, focusing on climate risk management and support for local suppliers. Weather Brief: For Sunday, INDOMET forecast gray skies and hot conditions in most provinces, with isolated showers possible and a low chance of thunderstorms, especially in the northwest, border areas, and the Central Mountain Range.

Hurricane Season Prep: INDOMET urged Dominicans to stay informed as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that even one storm can bring major damage; the agency has activated monitoring and launched a “Get Informed on Time” campaign. Climate-Linked Health Risks: Meteorologist Jean Suriel reported a major Saharan dust cloud reaching the country, bringing hazy skies, hotter conditions, and higher humidity, with dust expected to worsen between Friday afternoon and Saturday and potentially last up to 12 days—raising respiratory and allergy concerns. Tourism + Resilience: Iberostar Hotels & Resorts and UNDP signed an alliance to push more sustainable, climate-resilient tourism in the Dominican Republic, targeting emissions reduction, better climate risk management, and stronger local supplier support. Biodiversity Restoration: Eco-Bahia Foundation, backed by Piñero, showcased restoration work at Cayo Levantado, highlighting a shift toward native plant ecosystems and reporting 308 plant species identified, with 67% native. Water & Disaster Readiness: Civil Defense and INDOMET agreed to install meteorological stations at key Civil Defense sites to strengthen the national early warning system and improve rainfall and flood risk monitoring. Menstrual Health: UNICEF said over 20% of Dominican women interrupt daily activities during menstruation, calling for better access to hygiene products, sanitation, education, and supportive school policies. Regional Pressure from Haiti: The Dominican government and the UN held a political dialogue on Haiti’s crisis impacts, focusing on border management, security, human rights, and sustainable development cooperation.

Hurricane Season Readiness: Indomet urged Dominicans to stay alert as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season opens June 1, noting forecasts of slightly below-normal activity but warning that even one storm can bring major damage; the agency has activated monitoring plans and launched a “Get Informed on Time with Indomet” campaign. Weather Alerts & Flood Risk: The COE expanded yellow alerts to 11 provinces plus the National District due to heavy rains, thunderstorms, strong gusts and possible hail, advising people to avoid rivers and ravines with rising water. Saharan Dust Health Impacts: Meteorologist Jean Suriel warned a large Saharan dust cloud has reached the country, bringing hazy skies, hotter conditions and increased humidity, with respiratory and allergy risks expected to last up to 12 days. Disaster Early-Warning Upgrade: Civil Defense and Indomet signed an agreement to install meteorological stations at Civil Defense sites to strengthen the national early warning system with real-time rainfall and climate data. Coastal Transformation for Resilience: President Abinader announced a RD$20+ billion Boca Chica transformation plan, including major sanitation and environmental works led by Inapa to protect the beach and improve wastewater treatment. Biodiversity Restoration Spotlight: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration work, highlighting a shift to native, resilient landscaping and reporting 308 plant species identified, with 67% native. Menstrual Health Push: UNICEF called for better menstrual hygiene in Dominican schools, citing that over 20% of women interrupt daily activities during menstruation and urging improved water, toilets, products and education. Road Safety Crisis: A report says motorcycle crashes drive most traffic deaths in the country, averaging five fatalities a day, adding pressure to healthcare and social security systems.

Haiti Crisis Talks: The Dominican Government and the UN held a Fourth Political Dialogue to assess how Haiti’s crisis is affecting border management, security, human rights, social stability, and sustainable development. Weather & Health: COE expanded alerts to yellow in 11 provinces plus the National District as heavy rain, thunderstorms, gusts and possible hail are expected; meanwhile meteorologist Jean Suriel warned a Saharan dust cloud is already over the country, bringing haze, hotter conditions, and higher allergy/respiratory risks. Coastal Resilience & Sanitation: President Abinader announced a RD$20+ billion transformation for Boca Chica, including major sanitation and environmental works to protect beaches and improve wastewater systems. Biodiversity Restoration: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration as a biodiversity and sustainable tourism model, highlighting native plant recovery and invasive species reduction. Early Warning Upgrade: Civil Defense and INDOMET signed an agreement to install meteorological stations to strengthen the national Early Warning System for storms, flooding and hurricanes. Tourism Spotlight: Punta Cana was named among Condé Nast Traveller’s best tropical getaways, boosting the destination’s international visibility. Free Zones Growth: The export free zones council approved 10 new companies, projecting US$14M+ investment and 480+ direct jobs, with an eye on sustainable economic growth. Menstrual Health: UNICEF urged stronger menstrual hygiene support in Dominican schools after reporting that over 20% of women interrupt daily activities during menstruation.

Weather & Risk Alerts: The COE expanded yellow alerts to 11 provinces plus the National District as heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong gusts and possible hail are expected, urging people to avoid rivers and ravines and skip bathing in affected areas. Coastal Sanitation & Flood Protection: President Abinader unveiled a RD$20B+ Boca Chica transformation, with Inapa leading over RD$11B for sanitation and environmental works aimed at protecting the beach and improving groundwater. River Recovery Clarification: The Environment Ministry says Haina River work in Manoguayabo is part of an official recovery and sanitation emergency, including bank stabilization and cleanup to cut flood risk. Early Warning Upgrade: Civil Defense and INDOMET signed an agreement to install meteorological stations at Civil Defense sites to strengthen real-time monitoring and faster disaster decisions. Biodiversity Restoration Spotlight: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration at an international botanical congress, highlighting native plant recovery and sustainable tourism. Energy Transition Push: Dominican Republic preparations continue for XI Energy Week 2026 in Santo Domingo, focused on renewables, energy security and sustainability. Local Nature Jobs: A feature highlights how protected areas and ecotourism support conservation work and community livelihoods across the Dominican Republic. Aviation Safety Concern: Reports warn that many tall buildings and towers in Greater Santo Domingo lack required night beacons, creating hazards for low-visibility flights.

Early Warning Upgrade: Civil Defense and INDOMET signed an agreement to install thermopluviometric meteorological stations at Civil Defense sites, boosting real-time monitoring and faster alerts for hurricanes, storms, and flooding. River Recovery Clarification: The Environment Ministry says Haina River works in Manoguayabo are part of an official recovery and sanitation emergency (not illegal extraction), targeting sediment buildup, erosion, and drainage problems, including bank stabilization using recycled-tire gabions. Coastal Transformation Push: President Abinader announced a RD$20B+ Boca Chica transformation with major sanitation and environmental infrastructure led by INAPA, including a new sewer system, wastewater treatment, and a submarine outfall to protect the beach and groundwater. Weather Alert Update: COE expanded to yellow alert for 11 provinces plus the National District due to heavy rains, thunderstorms, strong gusts, and possible hail, urging people to avoid rivers and ravines. Biodiversity & Restoration: Eco-Bahia Foundation showcased its Cayo Levantado restoration at an international botanical congress, highlighting native plant recovery and more sustainable tourism. Energy Week Prep: The Dominican Republic is accelerating preparations for XI Energy Week 2026 in Santo Domingo, focusing on energy transition, sustainability, and security. Aviation Safety Concern: Reports warn many high-rises and towers in Greater Santo Domingo lack required nighttime beacons, creating risks for low-visibility flights.

Weather Alerts: The COE expanded yellow alerts to 11 provinces plus the National District due to heavy rains, thunderstorms, strong gusts and possible hail, while keeping green alerts in several other areas; authorities urged people to avoid rivers and ravines during high water. Coastal Transformation & Sanitation: President Abinader announced a Boca Chica overhaul backed by over RD$20 billion, including major sanitation works led by INAPA (new sewer system, wastewater treatment and a submarine outfall) to protect the coast near Las Américas. Road Expansion Land Use: Government declared land of public utility for Las Américas Highway expansion, with MOPC overseeing compensation and possible expropriation if owners don’t agree. River Recovery Clarification: The Environment Ministry said Haina River works in Manoguayabo are part of an environmental recovery and sanitation emergency plan (not illegal extraction), including bank stabilization and cleanup using recycled-tire gabions. Aviation Safety: Diario Libre warned that many high-rises and towers in Greater Santo Domingo lack required night beacons, creating risks for low-flying aircraft. Biodiversity & Citizen Science: A hoverfly discovered via iNaturalist in the Dominican Republic was named Switzerland’s Species of the Year 2026, highlighting local participation in wildlife discovery. Energy & Regional Role: Santo Domingo is set to host Latin America and the Caribbean’s main energy meeting in November, with a focus on energy transition, sustainability and security.