It is misleading—if not outright absurd—to speak of “closing” the refinery. The truth is that the refinery has been dormant for nearly a decade. What remains on site is a shell: stripped of viable machinery, devoid of operational infrastructure, and far from anything that could be safely or economically revived without massive investment. Let’s be honest—this isn’t a closure announcement. This is a reckoning. A come-to-Jesus moment for our island. The refinery didn’t just stop working—it died a long time ago. We’ve simply refused to bury it.

What as former-Minister I am forcing us to confront is the uncomfortable truth: governments of Aruba have kept feeding a horse that died ten years ago.

The RDA initiative, launched in 2016, was built on a flawed premise—that we had an operational refinery to lease. That illusion collapsed in its first year. The business model failed before it even left the gate.

PetroChina declined in 2009. We tried again in 2012. Another rejection. Still, the dream persisted. In 2014, we floated PDVSA. Then PetroCaribe. And finally, in September 2015, CITGO was hailed as the definitive savior. Agreements were signed. CITGO would take over the assets from Valero Energy Corporation. They promised multi-million-dollar investments, strict adherence to environmental standards, and a dramatic economic boost—15% growth, 700 direct jobs, and 5,000 more indirectly.

Operations were to begin on August 1, 2016. None of it materialized.

The business model was flawed from the outset. CITGO was expected to lease the refinery from Aruba for a total of 25 years, generating nearly $19 million annually in lease payments, plus an additional $10 million in taxes. These figures were formally communicated to the Parliament of Aruba and to Dutch authorities as part of the government’s official projections. And still, none of it materialized.

Despite this, successive Aruban governments—regardless of political affiliation—continued to pour millions of florins into it, compensating for the income that never came. An estimated 200 million florins in public funds were funneled through mechanisms that bypassed the national budget, all to sustain the illusion that the refinery deal was still alive.

Someone paid to keep the illusion going. Meanwhile, the refinery itself deteriorated into a rusting graveyard of obsolete steel. The cost of keeping the illusion was borne by the public—funds that should have served the people, but that money never reached them. And to this day, the true beneficiaries of these expenditures remain unknown.

We must be vigilant to ensure that the generous Dutch contribution of €53.6 million does not become a smokescreen that will make us forget what has long been, a carefully concealed drain on public resources. This substantial and forward-looking gesture from the Netherlands—one I personally discussed in 2023 with then-Minister Jetten, is very generous, and must not get lost.

It is imperative that this financial support does not inadvertently obscure or sanitize the legacy of fiscal mismanagement and corruption tied to the RDA project. The Netherlands now holds a unique position of influence—and with it, the responsibility—to demand a full forensic investigation into the significant public losses incurred, of over Awg 200 million.

An independent investigation must be a non-negotiable condition for the release of any Dutch public funds. I insist – independent and forensic. I remain unwavering in my commitment to a better future for Aruba. But that future must be anchored in transparency, justice, and accountability.

Just recently the ballroom at the resort came alive with sizzling pans and intoxicating aromas as Chef’s Day was celebrated at a special event, the Chef Signature Dish Cook-Off, a friendly competition among the culinary team talents.

Nine chefs embraced the challenge, presenting signature dishes that reflected creativity, passion, and dedication. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as colleagues cheered their favorites on and shared in the joy of culinary artistry.

After an engaging round of tasting and evaluation, three winners were recognized for their outstanding creations:

1st Place: Nehomar,  with a dish called “35 Years”

2nd Place: Sabrina, with “Bryan’s Delightful Curry Crab”

3rd Place: Jonathan, presenting “Tremendo”

The judging panel—Joe Najjar, General Manager, Lillian Britten, Assistant GM, Jonathan Bremo, Accounting Manager, and Lynette Do Nascimento, Assistant FO Manager, had the delightful yet challenging task of selecting winners from an exceptional lineup of talent.

This event was more than a contest; it was a celebration of teamwork, creativity, and the commitment to excellence that defines the resort’s culinary professionals.

The Head of the Representation of the Netherlands in Oranjestad (VNO), Vincent Storimans, and the Members of the Supervisory Board of Stichting Schouwburg Aruba, entrusted with managing Cas Di Cultura, invited an elegant crowd to a festive fundraising evening, designed to help finance the renovation of Aruba’s cultural center: Cas di Cultura.

The event took place at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino in the presence of Aruba’s prime minister Mike Eman. The evening was musically accompanied by the Reveron Trio with featured guest artists Qian Chen Solomon, and Joel Pagan, both on violin.

Under the premise that culture is our treasure, and that Cas di Cultura belongs to everyone– Nos Cultura Ta Nos Rikesa, Cas di Cultura, Di Bo Tambe E Ta, the evening included several addresses by top influential figures.

Storimans, the VNO chief, has given his complete support to the project, and so did Aruba’s Premier who delivered a powerful message to the well-heeled audience, to open their hearts and their pocketbooks. Eman spoke eloquently about the connection between culture and national identity and pledged a government investment of Awg 5 million florin towards the Awg 17 million needed to achieve the goal.

The premier was followed by director of Cas di Cultura Vicky Arens, who gave an extensive presentation. She shared the institution’s history and its plans for the complete renovation. She explained to the audience that Aruba’s Home of Culture, is currently fundraising towards its ambitious drive to modernize and update the facility that welcomes an average of 41.000 visitors a year, hosts an average of 130 events, with more than 280 lesson hours given to an average of 600 drama, music, and dance students. The facility also has a professional, one-of-a-kind theater, the only one in the Caribbean part of the Dutch kingdom, worth of preserving.

According to Arens, the people living in the heart of town, the neighborhood of Mon Plaisir, at the time in 1949, understood they needed a dedicated venue for the arts to serve as home to the Aruba Music School, amateur theater, photography, film, and dance groups. Neighbors came together and built a cultural center.

The building was designed by a famous Dutch architect, and the first stone was laid in 1957. Cas di Cultura officially opened in 1958 and has been the home of the arts since.

In recent years there has been increasing talk about renovation, modernization, so that CDC may serve the community for the next 60 years. At least. Post renovations CDC will offer better backstage areas, exhibition spaces and galleries, a cafe/bar, and an overhauled auditorium.

While the auditorium is closed, temporarily, awaiting renovations, CDC continues to operate the exhibition hall, the INCBTR, the foyer, and play host to Scol di Musica Rufo Wever, Scol di Baile Diana Antoinette as well as other cultural activities.

(For more info visit casdicultura.aw)

Arens asked the audience for financial support to help CDC meet the renovation budget and explained the importance of culture and its strong links with tourism.

That message was further reinforced in an address by Ronella Croes, the CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. She reiterated that Cas di Cultura is not just a cultural center, it is a living archive of the island’s stories and values, and has for generations, been the stage where Aruba expressed who it is —through music, dance, poetry, and performance. Many locals first discovered their dreams in the auditorium’s red velvet seats. Restoring Cas di Cultura is not simply a renovation, she said, it is an investment in identity, memory, and the creative future of our next generation.

Croes also confirmed ATA’s partnership with culture stating that the cultural tourism is not about showing what we have, but sharing who we are, as visitors connect with our music, our stories, and our people. When culture leads, Aruba flourishes, she concluded.

The Hilton Food & Beverage department catered the event nicely serving free flowing cocktails and butler passed hors d’oeuvres. A generous buffet of imported cheeses, dips and fresh crudites offered a tasty experience to all guests.

Already on the list of doners, the Aruba Hotel & Tourism Association who wanted to be among the first ones to give, as a role model for the community. The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel was also among the first ones to pledge. Setar, the local telecommunication service provider set a sizeable amount aside, as a donation.

In addition to speeches, presentations and networking opportunities, a silent auction of artwork supported the cultural vibe with works by excellent local artists, paintings, and art objects by Peter van Heuvel, Rene Oude Avenhuis, Marian Abath, Eliza Lejuez, Paul Wong, Yahaira Maduro, Anita Hugen, and many more.

The fund-raising drive continues Thursday, with a public event, at Cas di Cultura, at 7:30pm, on the 13th of November.

Should you wish to privately contribute you may buy a CDC tote bag for just Awg 25, that evening, or anytime, and please promote this opportunity among your friends.

The evening finale featured a concert of Chamber Music. Cas di Cultura and Simón Gollo, artistic director of the Aruba Symphony Festival, offered a program performed by the Reverón Trio, with violinist Simón Gollo, cellist Horacio Contreras, and charming pianist and emcee Ana Maria Otamendi. The Reverón Trio is internationally recognized for its artistry, versatility, and commitment to both the great classical tradition and the rich repertoire of Latin America.

Named after the visionary Venezuelan painter Armande Reverón, the ensemble graced prominent concert halls and festivals across the Americas and Europe, earning praise for its exceptional interpretations and expressive depth. This evening’s collaboration with the renowned violinist Qiao Chen Salomon and violist Joel Pagán delivered a captivating program of chamber music, highlighting the artistry, passion, and elegance that made these performers beloved by audiences worldwide. The program was made possible by Fonds Podiumkunsten, Quality Apartments and the Ho Kang You family.

They promised to open in early October, and they delivered! The Caribbean’s first restaurant led by a chef honored with both a Michelin Star, for extraordinary cuisine and a Michelin Green Star, for sustainability, checked into the multiple award-winning resort here, into a freshly designed 32 seat culinary theater, with an exhibition kitchen, dining room and bar seating.

Chef Ford is Miami-based where he reigns over Stubborn Seed, on Miami Beach, in the South of Fifth neighborhood. He also runs a sister-restaurant in Las Vegas, by the same name, both serving innovative, modern American cuisine. The Butcher’s Club, a steakhouse, in Palm Beach Gardens, is also one of his acclaimed creations.

The chef has been a repeat visitor to Aruba, he came here with his dad several times, has known local entrepreneur Maurice Neme for a while, and of all Caribbean islands decided to hitch his culinary talent to Aruba’s quest, and help turn the island into a major culinary destination.

The idea of a specialty restaurant at Bucuti was hatched between Chef Ford, investors Maurice and Karim Neme and hotelier Cresi Biemans. The four collaborated creatively to make the dream a reality.

The concept was further breathed into life with the help of two local culinary stars, JeanClaude Werleman and Moises Ramirez, both iron chef Aruba finalists, who work their magic in the kitchen, with a team of six other chefs. An ensemble of twelve members provides the service at the bar and dining room, under the leadership of veteran F&B executive Jessica Theysen. Terre is not just a restaurant, says chef Ford, but a living tribute to the island’s spirit, every detail reflects the land – a harmony between earth and culture, past and present.

We travelled up and down the tasting and the a la carte menu last week and enjoyed an enlightening conversation with Jeanclaude and Moises, who took the time to decode some of the menu secrets for us.

We loved the pulled apart Brioche with miso honey better, it is an 11 out of 10. The Hamachi Crudo, you won’t find a better one on the island. The Coal Kissed Warm Scallop Tartlet, just melted away in two bites. Roasted Truffle Chicken and Charred Local Catch, swimming in delicious kombu citrus fish tea, followed, beautifully plated with great care and artistry. The Lemongrass Cylinder intermezzo is a wow.

I must return for a repeat visit for the Crunchy Papas Bravas appetizer, with sopressata ham sofrito, crispy garlic, aged grana Padano and truffle aioli, and the Warm Brioche Bread Pudding dessert with vanilla ice cream, and eggnog crème anglaise.

Terre’s decor was carefully put together by Coastal Crafters Aruba. The subdued, elegant restaurant interior, and its color scheme, by a Mexican interior designer, highlight the connection to sand, land and soil as defined by the restaurant name, Terra.

Terra is relaxed, unpretentious, and was designed to be very approachable for locals and visitors, not just on special occasions, chef Ford did not just lend his name to the enterprise, he was deeply involved in the development of all concepts.

Terra, the Story, is an 8-course culinary adventure, that is leisurely served, diners may experience it at their own pace. Then the a la carte menu includes a grazing section, a gathered and grilled list, and a grand finale, with an optional wine pairing.

We shared the Tres Leches, with hibiscus gel, guava sorbet and torched meringue, a true treat.

Terra is a convergence of superpowers. Cresi, Ewald Bieman’s granddaughter, recently named the resort’s managing director, the Neme twins who are third generation movers and shaker in hospitality in Aruba, and chef Ford, an award-winning American celebrity. Congratulations for bringing a visionary dining concept to life.

P.S. Very worthy of consideration, the craft cocktail list….

JOIA Aruba by Iberostar will host the next edition of the World Owl Conference 2026, scheduled to take place from 6 to 10 September 2026. This special event marks the first time that the international conference will be held in the Caribbean.

The World Owl Conference (WOC) is a leading international forum that brings together prominent scientists, conservationists, and education professionals to share research and develop global strategies for the protection of owl species. Since its first edition in 1987, the WOC has been held in cities such as Winnipeg (Canada), Canberra (Australia), Groningen (the Netherlands), Évora (Portugal), Pune (India), and La Crosse (Wisconsin, USA). In 2026, the event will come to the Caribbean for the first time, with Aruba welcoming the world’s foremost owl experts and organizations.

JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, a 5-star hotel located on Eagle Beach, is part of Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, an international hospitality group committed to a model of responsible tourism, with a strong focus on scientific collaboration and biodiversity protection within the destinations where it operates.

As part of this commitment, JOIA Aruba by Iberostar is an active member of the Shoco Supporting Community Conservation Agreement, a collaboration with Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort and Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino in support of the Shoco conservation project of Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC). This alliance promotes community-based nature and education initiatives, such as installing artificial burrows in local schools, to engage Aruba’s youth and foster a deeper sense of environmental stewardship and pride in protecting the island’s national symbol.

The upcoming conference will place special emphasis on island-dwelling owls and the unique challenges they face. Aruba’s beloved Shoco (Athene cunicularia arubensis), an endemic burrowing owl and a cherished national symbol, will play a central role in the program, highlighting the importance of habitat preservation and biodiversity protection on the island.

In preparation for this historic event, Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC) has appointed Mr. Jelte Kuipers as National Coordinator of the World Owl Conference 2026. Kuipers, a Dutch-born emergency physician who has worked in Aruba for nearly seven years, is an active volunteer with ABC and a passionate advocate for bird and nature conservation. In his new role, he will oversee the local organization, coordinate with partners at both local and international levels, and ensure that Aruba delivers an exceptional conference experience.

The World Owl Conference 2026 at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar promises to be a milestone in scientific exchange, conservation advocacy, and sustainable tourism in the Caribbean, highlighting the island’s unique biodiversity and Iberostar’s ongoing commitment to responsible tourism.