Over the past few weeks there has been much speculation and uncertainty regarding the issue as to who would hold the title and perform the duties, responsibilities and obligations of Miss San Pedro.

Miss Hernandez called the SPTC on thursday January 5th to inform the Mayor that was leaving the island for good, to pursue studies in Nicaragua. At that time the town council called Christine and informed her that she would be crowned Miss San Pedro by the Mayor at a press conference on January 11th. She was told to purchase a wardrobe suitable for her duties and was instructed not to announce the change. On tuesday the 10th of January Christine was informed that rather than rush the press conference and have only a small coronation it would be more dignified and fitting to perform a full coronation ceremony during a large spectacular event - and so the date of February 18th was pinpointed -as this date will mark the launching of the Carnaval celebrations and there is a large stage event being planned. Christine was told that the mayor would present the crown to Christine and then she would enjoy the performance alongside the Mayor. Shortly after this decision was made there was a story leaked to the press and the blogs stating that Yaka was to be stripped of the title of Miss San Pedro.

After much debate and speculation it has been determined that Miss San Pedro intends to study abroad and perform her duties to the town and therefore she will not be stepping down or relinquishing her title to the first runner up.

On wednesday January 18th Mr and Mrs Hernandez met with the Mayor and the town council to inform the Miss San Pedro committee that Yaka has not been accepted into university yet and that she is taking examinations to apply for university. Furthermore they have informed the committee that Yaka will complete her term as Miss San Pedro and she shall return to San Pedro for every engagement that she is required to attend and therefore she shall retain her title. They have confirmed that they will ensure that Miss San Pedro perform all of her community service obligations as well as large events.

The Mayor and the Miss San Pedro committee have apologized to Christine for any inconvenience caused to her during this period of confusion.

Therefore, to end any ongoing discussion and speculation regarding the issue please be informed that Christine Syme supports Yaka's decision to complete her term as reigning Miss San Pedro and wishes her every successful in her future ventures.

As I have said before, two delight young women; both of whom have class and character.

Yakarelis Hernandez retains crown

Press Release- San Pedro Town Council – January 20, 2012 – San Pedro Town: On Thursday January 5, 2012 Miss Yakarelis Hernandez advised the San Pedro Town Council that she is leaving the country to further her studies. Under this circumstance it would be automatic that the First Runner Up would take on the title of Miss San Pedro. The First Runner Up was advised of the situation and requested to be discrete until all angles of the situation are properly dealt with. Unfortunately the information was leaked to the media and presented improperly without consideration on any of the two girls. As a result the Council met with Miss Hernandez’s parents who explained that she left to take the necessary examinations for her admittance to the University. Her Parents committed in ensuring that she fulfills her role as Miss San Pedro which includes public appearances, community service etc.

It is very unfortunate that this situation was blown completely out of proportion by the blogs and the social media. The greatest challenge that was not perceived by these individuals is how this would hinder the future of the Miss San Pedro Pageant. The San Pedro Town Council prides itself in organizing the best pageant in the Country of Belize. This is the first time such a situation has presented and instead of allowing the Council and the Miss San Pedro Pageant Committee to deal with the matter as delicately as possible the situation has been forced into a direction that was never intended. It is of utmost importance to recognize that we are dealing with the emotions of two young ladies that entered the pageant in high spirits to meet new people, grow as individuals, and develop new relationships and over all have as much fun as possible. This is the drive that keeps the San Pedro Town Council and the Miss San Pedro Pageant Committee going and in no way will we allow the gossips and misinterpretations hinder these expectations. The San Pedro Town Council extends its most sincere apologies to the Hernandez and Syme families for being put through this situation. Christine, you and your family have been very patient and understanding about the situation and we are very grateful for this. Yaka, you have been outgoing and dedicated to your responsibilities as Miss San Pedro and we look forward to continue working with you during the remainder of your reign. We wish nothing but the best for both of you. –End of release-