Presidência do Governo Regional
José Manuel Bolieiro challenges children to “be friends with the sea” at book presentation on oceans
José Manuel Bolieiro challenges children to “be friends with the sea” at book presentation on oceans
Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação
Governo dos Açores lança plataforma para agilizar agendamentos na Rede Regional de Abate
Governo dos Açores lança plataforma para agilizar agendamentos na Rede Regional de Abate
Secretaria Regional da Saúde e Segurança Social
“Longevity Revolution – Community Edition” programme kicks off in Fenais da Luz
“Longevity Revolution – Community Edition” programme kicks off in Fenais da Luz
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Preliminary study on runway expansion at Pico Airport to be completed in May
Preliminary study on runway expansion at Pico Airport to be completed in May
Nota de Imprensa
April 21, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro challenges children to “be friends with the sea” at book presentation on oceans The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, participated today in the ceremony marking the delivery of the first books from the “Patrulha Ação Azul” collection, an initiative under the “Educating for a Blue Generation” programme. The event took place at the Aula Magna of the University of the Azores in Ponta Delgada and was attended by hundreds of elementary school children. In a speech noted for its warmth and accessible language tailored to a young audience, the head of the Azorean Government emphasised the significance of the occasion. “You are here because of our collective future,” he said, calling younger generations to take responsibility for preserving the ocean. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the key role of the sea in Azorean identity, highlighting the need for an attitude based on care and respect. "The sea is our friend. We want to be friends with our sea. This is the challenge: looking after it and protecting it, as it looks after us and protects us too," he said. The President of the Regional Government also delivered a message of regional pride, recalling the Azores’ maritime dimension: “Keep this in mind, the Azores’ sea is Portugal’s largest sea. When people tell you we are small because we are just nine islands, tell them the opposite - we are really big, as we have a huge sea,” he emphasised. The initiative marks the beginning of the distribution of about 10,000 children’s books on ocean literacy to all elementary school students throughout the Region, an initiative promoted by the Blue Azores programme in partnership with the Regional Secretariat for Education, Culture and Sport and the Lisbon Oceanarium. For José Manuel Bolieiro, this effort falls within a broader strategy of environmental leadership. “We are proud of this global project to protect the sea. The Azores are leading the way; we are taking the first steps so that others may follow. We are pioneers in setting a good example,” he said, noting that “actions speak louder than words.” The head of the Azorean Government further emphasised the importance of intergenerational commitment. “We want to look after our environment not just for ourselves, but for those who come after us. Protecting what we love is a duty of the present,” he declared. Implemented in the Azores since 2019, the “Educating for a Blue Generation” programme has already involved thousands of students and teachers in initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the importance of oceans, establishing itself as one of the pillars of the regional marine conservation strategy. Also present at the ceremony were the Regional Secretary for Education, Culture and Sport, Sofia Ribeiro; the Rector of the University of the Azores, Susana Mira Leal; the coordinator of the Blue Azores programme, Luís Bernardo Brito e Abreu; and the administrator and chief scientist of the Oceano Azul Foundation, Emanuel Gonçalves.
April 21, 2026 José Manuel Bolieiro challenges children to “be friends with the sea” at book presentation on oceans The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, participated today in the ceremony marking the delivery of the first books from the “Patrulha Ação Azul” collection, an initiative under the “Educating for a Blue Generation” programme. The event took place at the Aula Magna of the University of the Azores in Ponta Delgada and was attended by hundreds of elementary school children. In a speech noted for its warmth and accessible language tailored to a young audience, the head of the Azorean Government emphasised the significance of the occasion. “You are here because of our collective future,” he said, calling younger generations to take responsibility for preserving the ocean. José Manuel Bolieiro highlighted the key role of the sea in Azorean identity, highlighting the need for an attitude based on care and respect. "The sea is our friend. We want to be friends with our sea. This is the challenge: looking after it and protecting it, as it looks after us and protects us too," he said. The President of the Regional Government also delivered a message of regional pride, recalling the Azores’ maritime dimension: “Keep this in mind, the Azores’ sea is Portugal’s largest sea. When people tell you we are small because we are just nine islands, tell them the opposite - we are really big, as we have a huge sea,” he emphasised. The initiative marks the beginning of the distribution of about 10,000 children’s books on ocean literacy to all elementary school students throughout the Region, an initiative promoted by the Blue Azores programme in partnership with the Regional Secretariat for Education, Culture and Sport and the Lisbon Oceanarium. For José Manuel Bolieiro, this effort falls within a broader strategy of environmental leadership. “We are proud of this global project to protect the sea. The Azores are leading the way; we are taking the first steps so that others may follow. We are pioneers in setting a good example,” he said, noting that “actions speak louder than words.” The head of the Azorean Government further emphasised the importance of intergenerational commitment. “We want to look after our environment not just for ourselves, but for those who come after us. Protecting what we love is a duty of the present,” he declared. Implemented in the Azores since 2019, the “Educating for a Blue Generation” programme has already involved thousands of students and teachers in initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the importance of oceans, establishing itself as one of the pillars of the regional marine conservation strategy. Also present at the ceremony were the Regional Secretary for Education, Culture and Sport, Sofia Ribeiro; the Rector of the University of the Azores, Susana Mira Leal; the coordinator of the Blue Azores programme, Luís Bernardo Brito e Abreu; and the administrator and chief scientist of the Oceano Azul Foundation, Emanuel Gonçalves.
Nota de Imprensa
April 21, 2026 Governo dos Açores lança plataforma para agilizar agendamentos na Rede Regional de Abate O Governo dos Açores, através da Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, acaba de lançar uma nova plataforma digital dedicada ao agendamento de animais para a Rede Regional de Abate. Acedendo ao portal https://matadouros.azores.gov.pt/MATweb/, os produtores passam a dispor de um canal mais simples, rápido e eficiente para comunicarem a sua intenção de abate. Para o Secretário Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, António Ventura, a implementação desta ferramenta “é mais do que um avanço tecnológico”. O governante sublinha que a medida “é o resultado direto do empenho e da dedicação de todos os profissionais que diariamente contribuem para a modernização dos serviços” do setor. Através deste novo mecanismo ‘online’, o processo de agendamento passa a ser realizado de forma totalmente autónoma e intuitiva. Os utilizadores da Rede Regional de Abate passam a dispor de maior flexibilidade, podendo efetuar os seus pedidos a qualquer momento e a partir de qualquer lugar. Esta digitalização elimina a necessidade de deslocações presenciais aos serviços e acaba com a dependência de contatos telefónicos que estavam limitados aos horários normais de atendimento. A disponibilização desta nova solução insere-se na estratégia do Governo dos Açores para a modernização e digitalização dos serviços públicos. O objetivo central passa por melhorar e simplificar a comunicação com os utentes, reduzir os constrangimentos administrativos e reforçar a eficácia e a qualidade na gestão dos pedidos de abate à escala regional. “Demonstramos que, quando trabalhamos com determinação, espírito de melhoria contínua e foco no utilizador, conseguimos transformar desafios em oportunidades reais de progresso”, vinca António Ventura. Ao concluir a sua intervenção sobre este avanço administrativo, o titular da pasta da Agricultura deixa uma mensagem de profundo reconhecimento a todos os que tornaram esta evolução possível: “Continuemos juntos, com entusiasmo e sentido de missão, a construir soluções que facilitem a vida de quem confia no nosso trabalho”.
April 21, 2026 Governo dos Açores lança plataforma para agilizar agendamentos na Rede Regional de Abate O Governo dos Açores, através da Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, acaba de lançar uma nova plataforma digital dedicada ao agendamento de animais para a Rede Regional de Abate. Acedendo ao portal https://matadouros.azores.gov.pt/MATweb/, os produtores passam a dispor de um canal mais simples, rápido e eficiente para comunicarem a sua intenção de abate. Para o Secretário Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação, António Ventura, a implementação desta ferramenta “é mais do que um avanço tecnológico”. O governante sublinha que a medida “é o resultado direto do empenho e da dedicação de todos os profissionais que diariamente contribuem para a modernização dos serviços” do setor. Através deste novo mecanismo ‘online’, o processo de agendamento passa a ser realizado de forma totalmente autónoma e intuitiva. Os utilizadores da Rede Regional de Abate passam a dispor de maior flexibilidade, podendo efetuar os seus pedidos a qualquer momento e a partir de qualquer lugar. Esta digitalização elimina a necessidade de deslocações presenciais aos serviços e acaba com a dependência de contatos telefónicos que estavam limitados aos horários normais de atendimento. A disponibilização desta nova solução insere-se na estratégia do Governo dos Açores para a modernização e digitalização dos serviços públicos. O objetivo central passa por melhorar e simplificar a comunicação com os utentes, reduzir os constrangimentos administrativos e reforçar a eficácia e a qualidade na gestão dos pedidos de abate à escala regional. “Demonstramos que, quando trabalhamos com determinação, espírito de melhoria contínua e foco no utilizador, conseguimos transformar desafios em oportunidades reais de progresso”, vinca António Ventura. Ao concluir a sua intervenção sobre este avanço administrativo, o titular da pasta da Agricultura deixa uma mensagem de profundo reconhecimento a todos os que tornaram esta evolução possível: “Continuemos juntos, com entusiasmo e sentido de missão, a construir soluções que facilitem a vida de quem confia no nosso trabalho”.
Nota de Imprensa
April 21, 2026 “Longevity Revolution – Community Edition” programme kicks off in Fenais da Luz The Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Health and Social Security, will promote the first event under the “Longevity Revolution – Communities Edition” programme on May 2. It is aimed at the residents of the municipality of Ponta Delgada. The initiative runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fenais da Luz Cultural Centre, and is organised by the Regional Directorate for Health in partnership with the local Parish Council and the Casa do Povo de Fenais da Luz (private social solidarity institution). This event is part of the Regional Programme for the Promotion of Active and Healthy Ageing, which is included in the Regional Health Plan 2030. Its primary goal is to raise awareness within the community about adopting healthy lifestyles throughout the entire life cycle. The session is open to the entire population, regardless of age, and is based on a practical and participatory approach focused on the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle: a balanced diet, regular physical activity, mental wellbeing, quality sleep, positive social relationships and avoidance of risky behaviours. The initiative will feature family doctor Filipa Rebelo, who specialises in Lifestyle Medicine, and psychologist Patrícia Santos, who will provide moments of sharing, reflection and practical activities, promoting behavioural change as well as individual and community responsibility for health. The parish of Fenais da Luz has been selected as a pilot community for this programme. In this regard, the Azorean Government intends to gradually extend it to other communities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, bringing public health policies closer to the people. The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, pointed out that “this initiative reflects the Regional Government’s commitment to bringing health promotion closer to communities, encouraging every citizen to take an active role in improving their quality of life.” Participation is free and open to the community.
April 21, 2026 “Longevity Revolution – Community Edition” programme kicks off in Fenais da Luz The Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Health and Social Security, will promote the first event under the “Longevity Revolution – Communities Edition” programme on May 2. It is aimed at the residents of the municipality of Ponta Delgada. The initiative runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fenais da Luz Cultural Centre, and is organised by the Regional Directorate for Health in partnership with the local Parish Council and the Casa do Povo de Fenais da Luz (private social solidarity institution). This event is part of the Regional Programme for the Promotion of Active and Healthy Ageing, which is included in the Regional Health Plan 2030. Its primary goal is to raise awareness within the community about adopting healthy lifestyles throughout the entire life cycle. The session is open to the entire population, regardless of age, and is based on a practical and participatory approach focused on the six pillars of a healthy lifestyle: a balanced diet, regular physical activity, mental wellbeing, quality sleep, positive social relationships and avoidance of risky behaviours. The initiative will feature family doctor Filipa Rebelo, who specialises in Lifestyle Medicine, and psychologist Patrícia Santos, who will provide moments of sharing, reflection and practical activities, promoting behavioural change as well as individual and community responsibility for health. The parish of Fenais da Luz has been selected as a pilot community for this programme. In this regard, the Azorean Government intends to gradually extend it to other communities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, bringing public health policies closer to the people. The Regional Secretary for Health and Social Security, Mónica Seidi, pointed out that “this initiative reflects the Regional Government’s commitment to bringing health promotion closer to communities, encouraging every citizen to take an active role in improving their quality of life.” Participation is free and open to the community.
Nota de Imprensa
April 20, 2026 Preliminary study on runway expansion at Pico Airport to be completed in May The Working Group responsible for analysing the project to expand the runway at Pico Airport has met again, with each member presenting an update on the work to be carried out in their area of responsibility, as well as the respective completion deadlines. The preliminary study is expected to be completed by the group’s next meeting, which will be scheduled by the end of May. The meeting, which took place on the island of Pico, was held pursuant to Orders no. 198/2026 of February 3 and no. 204/2026 of February 5. It was coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, through the Regional Director for Mobility. In the meantime, a survey of the land to be acquired for the project has already been carried out. The Working Group intends to proceed with the acquisition of the land in accordance with legal procedures, giving priority to mutually agreed solutions with the respective landowners, thereby avoiding more time-consuming legal proceedings. An analysis of the studies already made available and the respective opinions has revealed significant agreement on most issues regarding the proposed solution for the expansion of Pico Airport. The Working Group will continue to carry out its work with dedication, with a view to achieving the goals set out by the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, in the aforementioned directives.
April 20, 2026 Preliminary study on runway expansion at Pico Airport to be completed in May The Working Group responsible for analysing the project to expand the runway at Pico Airport has met again, with each member presenting an update on the work to be carried out in their area of responsibility, as well as the respective completion deadlines. The preliminary study is expected to be completed by the group’s next meeting, which will be scheduled by the end of May. The meeting, which took place on the island of Pico, was held pursuant to Orders no. 198/2026 of February 3 and no. 204/2026 of February 5. It was coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, through the Regional Director for Mobility. In the meantime, a survey of the land to be acquired for the project has already been carried out. The Working Group intends to proceed with the acquisition of the land in accordance with legal procedures, giving priority to mutually agreed solutions with the respective landowners, thereby avoiding more time-consuming legal proceedings. An analysis of the studies already made available and the respective opinions has revealed significant agreement on most issues regarding the proposed solution for the expansion of Pico Airport. The Working Group will continue to carry out its work with dedication, with a view to achieving the goals set out by the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, in the aforementioned directives.
Nota de Imprensa
April 17, 2026 Berta Cabral highlights Germany as key market for sustainable growth of tourism in the Azores The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, stated today in Ponta Delgada that “Germany is an absolutely key market for tourism in the Azores,” highlighting the 12% increase registered in 2025 in overnight stays by German tourists — the highest among the Region’s top ten source markets. The speech was delivered at the Teatro Micaelense, during the opening session of the DRV Annual Conference 2026, the annual meeting of the German Travel Agents’ Association. According to the Regional Secretary, the decision to hold this event in the Azores is “a clear sign of the destination’s international prestige and the confidence that the German tourism sector places in the Region.” “The decision to choose the Azores to host this conference is a clear recognition of the quality, authenticity and uniqueness of our destination, as well as the close and strategic relations we maintain with the German market,” she stated. Berta Cabral also highlighted that Germany was the leading foreign source market for the Azores in 2025, once again, surpassing the United States of America. “This result demonstrates the strength of our connection with the German market and reflects a consistent approach based on promotion, trust and excellence,” she emphasised. “Germany understands the Azores, even without speaking our language. The Azores are, in many respects, a destination perfectly aligned with what German tourists praise,” added the government official. According to Berta Cabral, the strong focus on nature tourism (unique trails, stunning landscapes, exceptional biodiversity, the ocean, sustainability and authenticity) is fully aligned with the motivations of German visitors. She explained: “We are talking about an audience that values quality, environmental responsibility, active holidays and genuine cultural experiences. And that is part of the Azores’ DNA.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted the remarkable progress of Azorean tourism in recent years, emphasising: “Despite international challenges, the Azores were the first region in the country to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic, surpassing the 2019 results and winning highly prestigious international awards, such as Best Adventure Destination in the World and in Europe, awarded by the World Travel Awards.” In 2025, for the first time in history, the Azores exceeded 4.5 million overnight stays, with the regional hospitality sector generating over €206 million in revenue. “Tourism is now the main driving force of the regional economy, with a direct and wide-ranging impact, accounting for about 17% of GDP, 17% of employment and 20% of Gross Value Added,” she emphasised. Nevertheless, Berta Cabral was categorical: “More than just growing, we want to grow well. We are committed to responsible, balanced and sustainable tourism.” The Azores have now achieved Level II – Gold in the international Sustainable Destination certification awarded by EarthCheck, a recognition which, according to the government official, reflects “a vision of development that respects the territory, its communities and way of life, protecting what makes the Azores unique: Human Nature.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted the partnership with the German market in strengthening air connectivity: “The direct flights operated by Lufthansa, Eurowings and Azores Airlines, linking Ponta Delgada to Frankfurt and Nuremberg, are fundamental to the destination’s growth and a clear sign of confidence in the Azores’ potential and quality as a tourist destination,” she explained. From adventure tourism to wellness, from gastronomy to culture, from whale watching to volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs, the diversity of experiences available throughout the year makes the Azores an attractive destination well beyond the high season. In this context, Berta Cabral highlighted the essential role of German travel agents and tour operators, emphasising: “DRV members are key partners in how the Azores reach German travellers. It is they who match our destination to their clients’ expectations.” “Your professionalism, market knowledge and credibility are crucial to ensuring that the right visitor chooses the right destination at the right time. And the Azores are ready to continue to surprise,” she concluded, addressing the hundreds of people present.
April 17, 2026 Berta Cabral highlights Germany as key market for sustainable growth of tourism in the Azores The Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, stated today in Ponta Delgada that “Germany is an absolutely key market for tourism in the Azores,” highlighting the 12% increase registered in 2025 in overnight stays by German tourists — the highest among the Region’s top ten source markets. The speech was delivered at the Teatro Micaelense, during the opening session of the DRV Annual Conference 2026, the annual meeting of the German Travel Agents’ Association. According to the Regional Secretary, the decision to hold this event in the Azores is “a clear sign of the destination’s international prestige and the confidence that the German tourism sector places in the Region.” “The decision to choose the Azores to host this conference is a clear recognition of the quality, authenticity and uniqueness of our destination, as well as the close and strategic relations we maintain with the German market,” she stated. Berta Cabral also highlighted that Germany was the leading foreign source market for the Azores in 2025, once again, surpassing the United States of America. “This result demonstrates the strength of our connection with the German market and reflects a consistent approach based on promotion, trust and excellence,” she emphasised. “Germany understands the Azores, even without speaking our language. The Azores are, in many respects, a destination perfectly aligned with what German tourists praise,” added the government official. According to Berta Cabral, the strong focus on nature tourism (unique trails, stunning landscapes, exceptional biodiversity, the ocean, sustainability and authenticity) is fully aligned with the motivations of German visitors. She explained: “We are talking about an audience that values quality, environmental responsibility, active holidays and genuine cultural experiences. And that is part of the Azores’ DNA.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted the remarkable progress of Azorean tourism in recent years, emphasising: “Despite international challenges, the Azores were the first region in the country to fully recover from the impact of the pandemic, surpassing the 2019 results and winning highly prestigious international awards, such as Best Adventure Destination in the World and in Europe, awarded by the World Travel Awards.” In 2025, for the first time in history, the Azores exceeded 4.5 million overnight stays, with the regional hospitality sector generating over €206 million in revenue. “Tourism is now the main driving force of the regional economy, with a direct and wide-ranging impact, accounting for about 17% of GDP, 17% of employment and 20% of Gross Value Added,” she emphasised. Nevertheless, Berta Cabral was categorical: “More than just growing, we want to grow well. We are committed to responsible, balanced and sustainable tourism.” The Azores have now achieved Level II – Gold in the international Sustainable Destination certification awarded by EarthCheck, a recognition which, according to the government official, reflects “a vision of development that respects the territory, its communities and way of life, protecting what makes the Azores unique: Human Nature.” The Regional Secretary also highlighted the partnership with the German market in strengthening air connectivity: “The direct flights operated by Lufthansa, Eurowings and Azores Airlines, linking Ponta Delgada to Frankfurt and Nuremberg, are fundamental to the destination’s growth and a clear sign of confidence in the Azores’ potential and quality as a tourist destination,” she explained. From adventure tourism to wellness, from gastronomy to culture, from whale watching to volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs, the diversity of experiences available throughout the year makes the Azores an attractive destination well beyond the high season. In this context, Berta Cabral highlighted the essential role of German travel agents and tour operators, emphasising: “DRV members are key partners in how the Azores reach German travellers. It is they who match our destination to their clients’ expectations.” “Your professionalism, market knowledge and credibility are crucial to ensuring that the right visitor chooses the right destination at the right time. And the Azores are ready to continue to surprise,” she concluded, addressing the hundreds of people present.
