Municipal, state and federal authorities, including the army, contributed to the disaster response, which included the use of boats to rescue stranded residents. (Pablo Lemus/Facebook)
Torrential rain fell in Puerto Vallarta on Saturday night and Sunday morning, flooding more than 1,000 homes and claiming the life of a man whose vehicle was swept into a canal.
Associated with the remnants of Tropical Storm Raymond, the storm lasted almost nine hours, according to media reports. The heavy rain was accompanied by strong gusts of wind and lightning.
A number of canals in Puerto Vallarta overflowed as a result of the rain, while several main roads were flooded.
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus said on social media on Sunday evening that 703 homes, 85 businesses and two schools had been flooded.
On Monday morning, Jalisco Civil Protection chief Sergio Ramírez López said that 1,260 “affected homes” had been counted in the Pacific coast city.
The Jalisco Civil Protection Unit said Sunday night that its personnel had carried out a range of “support actions” in response to the flooding, including rescuing people, monitoring “vulnerable areas,” cleaning up roads and conducting a preliminary evaluation of damage.
Municipal, state and federal authorities, including the army, contributed to the disaster response, which included the use of boats to rescue stranded residents.
Shelters were set up in different parts of Puerto Vallarta to provide temporary accommodation for people who were forced to leave their homes.
Parts of Puerto Vallarta saw 178.3 mm of rain occumulate over the weekend. (Conagua)
Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía said on social media that he and the Puerto Vallarta municipal government were saddened to see that “many families” had lost “everything” due to the flooding.
He said that municipal authorities acted “immediately” to deliver bed bases and mattresses so that members of affected families could “at least sleep peacefully.”
Munguía also said that municipal authorities delivered “several refrigerators” to families who lost theirs due to flooding.
In Jalcocotán, a community in San Blas, dozens of families had to go to a shelter because their homes were flooded, the newspaper Informador reported.
Man found dead in vehicle
A man died after his vehicle was swept by floodwaters into a canal. The man’s body was found inside his SUV in the El Contentillo canal in the La Floresta neighborhood, according to media reports. The vehicle only came into clear view after the water level in the canal dropped on Sunday.
The La Jornada newspaper reported that “an indeterminate number” of vehicles were swept away by floodwaters in Puerto Vallarta during the lengthy storm on Saturday night and Sunday morning.
Soldier electrocuted, but reported in stable condition
Jalisco Civil Protection authorities said that a soldier was electrocuted in an unspecified “incident” while contributing to the disaster relief efforts in flooded areas of Puerto Vallarta.
He was transferred to the hospital and reported to be in “stable” condition.
An aerial shot of Álamo, Veracruz, which was inundated by rainfall from the simultaneous passage of Hurricane Priscilla and Tropical Storm Raymond. (Alan Scholes/Cuartoscuro)
The death toll from incidents related to flooding in Mexico last week has risen to 64, the federal government reported on Monday morning.
An additional 65 people are missing, indicating that the number of rain-related fatalities is likely to continue to rise.
Among the cities and towns where streets, homes and businesses have been inundated with water are Poza Rica (pictured above), Álamo and Tuxpan in Veracruz; Huehuetla in Hidalgo; and Huauchinango in Puebla. (Jessamyn Nazario Mendo/Cuartoscuro)
The deaths occurred across four states that received extremely heavy rain last week, according to information presented by national Civil Protection chief Laura Velázquez at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference.
Veracruz is the worst-affected state with 29 fatalities and 18 people missing.
In Hidalgo, 21 people have died and 43 people are missing.
Puebla has recorded 13 deaths and four people are missing.
Among those who died are victims of drownings in flood waters as well as people buried by landslides.
Velázquez said that the four states where fatalities occurred, as well as San Luis Potosí, received heavy rain between Oct. 6 and 9. The precipitation was associated with Post-Tropical Cyclone Priscilla, formerly a hurricane, and Tropical Storm Raymond. Various rivers burst their banks and landslides occurred in several states as a result of the torrential rain.
Flooding affected scores of municipalities across Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla, Querétaro and San Luis Potosí. Flooding and landslides caused “132 interruptions” to federal highways, reported Jesús Antonio Esteva Medina, federal minister for infrastructure, communications and transport. All but two of those interruptions have been cleared, Sheinbaum said.
Many secondary highways and other roads were also cut off by flooding and landslides. The director of the Federal Electricity Commission, Emilia Esther Calleja Alor, reported that almost 263,000 electricity customers in flood-affected states lost power in recent days. She said that electricity service had been restored for 84% of those customers by 6 a.m. Monday.
Among the cities and towns where streets, homes and businesses have been inundated with water are Poza Rica, Álamo and Tuxpan in Veracruz; Huehuetla in Hidalgo; and Huauchinango in Puebla. Dozens of shelters were set up to provide emergency accommodation to people forced to evacuate their homes. Authorities have also provided medical assistance and meals, and distributed groceries and water.
National Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla said Monday that 7,347 members of the Mexican Army and the National Guard were deployed to Veracruz, Hidalgo, Puebla, Querétaro and San Luis Potosí to respond to the flooding and damage caused by the heavy rain. In addition, 3,300 members of the Mexican Navy were deployed to Veracruz, Puebla, Hidalgo and San Luis Potosí, said Navy Minister Raymundo Morales.
Navy Minister Raymundo Morales said on Monday that an additional 3,300 members of the Navy were deployed to Veracruz, Puebla, Hidalgo and San Luis Potosí to assist with clean-up and aid delivery. (Moisés Pablo/Cuartoscuro)
Helicopters, boats, heavy machinery, mobile kitchens and water treatment systems and drones, among other equipment, have supported efforts to respond to the prevailing conditions.
Trevilla said that the Air Force established three air bridges on Sunday to get supplies to communities in Veracruz, Hidalgo and Puebla.
Authorities are set to commence a damage census on Monday. Sheinbaum said that it is estimated that 100,000 homes have been damaged by flooding, and pledged to provide support to the affected people. Those people will receive initial financial support in the coming days, said Welfare Minister Ariadna Montiel. Assistance to replace damaged electrical appliances and other household items will be provided sometime after the census has been completed.
Sheinbaum said “there are sufficient resources” to respond to the flooding and assist affected people.
Sheinbaum visits flood-affected areas, faces criticism from locals
Sheinbaum visited various flood-affected municipalities on Sunday, including Poza Rica in Veracruz, where angry residents accused authorities of failing to adequately respond to the situation.
“… The governor isn’t doing anything,” complained the woman, referring to Rocio Nahle.
Another Poza Rica resident complained that the army “doesn’t want to go into houses” to help people. “There are families that haven’t received help yet,” he said.
Other residents pointed out that people are missing, with one person asking the president what her “message” was for them.
Sheinbaum told residents that her government was committed to assisting the clean-up efforts in Veracruz and ensuring that people had food to eat and clean water to drink.
Sheinbaum also visited flood-affected parts of Puebla, including Huauchinango and the community of La Ceiba, located in the municipality of Xicotepec.
On Friday, the Marigalante experienced a critical failure in its bilge pumps, which are designed to remove water from the ship’s hull. (pirateshipvallarta.com)
The Marigalante, the pirate ship that for decades sailed across Banderas Bay, now lies submerged, a dramatic casualty of flooding and mechanical failure that has shaken Puerto Vallarta’s tourism community and saddened locals and residents who considered it a symbol of their coastal home.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon, Oct. 10, when the wooden galleon-style vessel began taking on water. Authorities confirmed that no tourists were aboard, and all crew members were safely evacuated. However, despite hours of intervention from emergency teams and the Mexican Navy, the vessel ultimately succumbed to the flooding.
According to initial reports, the Marigalante experienced a critical failure in its bilge pumps, which are designed to remove water from the ship’s hull. Without their functioning, the ship gradually flooded from the inside. At one point, water levels reportedly reached 1.5 meters inside the lower deck.
Crews from the Jalisco State Civil Protection Unit (UEPCBJ), local fire departments and the Navy responded quickly, attempting to stabilize the ship and repair the pumping systems. Efforts briefly slowed the flooding, but by the late afternoon on Friday, structural damage and water weight overcame the vessel’s buoyancy. The ship began to tilt and lose balance before the stern sank, after which towing vessels and civil protection personnel maneuvered the ship to bring it closer to shore.
The Marigalante, an ornate, wooden replica of Christopher Columbus’s Santa María, has long been a fixture of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline. Measuring approximately 60 meters, with towering masts and capacity for over 240 passengers, the vessel was the centerpiece of nightly pirate-themed dinner cruises and daytime snorkeling tours.
For thousands of visitors each year, the ship was more than just a tour; it was an experience. From staged sword fights to cannon fire, fireworks at sea and costumed pirates swinging from ropes, the Marigalante was a rare blend of historical fantasy and ocean adventure.
Its departure every evening was a ritual observed from the Malecón, beachside hotels and rooftop bars alike. The ship’s silhouette at sunset, its glowing lights at night, its booming cannons and its fireworks created an unmistakable presence. Part entertainment, part mythology.
News of the incident quickly spread across social media, where residents and fans of the ship expressed sadness and disbelief.
One Reddit user posted:
“Famous ship MARIGALANTE sank, reasons unknown… we’re still watching.”
Local media emphasized the safety success. No tourists were on board, and no injuries were reported. Still, the emotional and cultural loss is evident.
The pirate ship was one of Puerto Vallarta’s most profitable and popular attractions. Its sudden disappearance could have a ripple effect across the local economy. Hundreds of people relied directly or indirectly on its operation, from crew and performers to tour agencies, restaurants, vendors and even beach photographers. During peak season, the ship often ran multiple sailings per day, and its absence will leave a notable gap in the region’s experience offerings.
For tourists who booked ahead for holiday cruises, refunds will be offered. Tour operators will likely try to redirect guests to alternative tours, but the unique nature of the Marigalante means there is no true substitute.
As of this writing, the Capitanía de Puerto, along with federal maritime authorities, are leading the investigation into the cause of the flooding and the sequence of events. A full inspection of the vessel’s systems and maintenance history is expected.
Gilberto Mora lit up the FIFA U20 World Cup, leading Mexico to a quarter final appearance. Who is the Mexican wunderkind and why should we be watching him? (Omar Martínez/Cuartoscuro)
Aside from perennial underachiever England, there may not be another soccer nation that is simultaneously as large and promising, yet consistently underwhelming and disappointing as Mexico. With every decade, no matter how tantalizing they appear to be on paper, the nation’s soccer hopes are inevitably spoiled by malediction, misfortune and mismanagement.
At the highest level of international soccer competition, Mexico somehow squanders its golden opportunities and has failed to advance beyond the fifth game in the World Cup.
Mora plies his club trade with Club Tijuana Xoloitzcuintles de Caliente. (Football Talk)
Call it bad luck, sure. But it also points to a lack of team cohesion, effective coaching, and, importantly, a composed and transcendent star who can usher in victory in the most crucial moments. However, it appears the current Mexican generation may have finally found their guy — well, it’s actually a kid.
Right now, Gilberto Mora is the most touted Mexican prospect of the modern era. He has already been dubbed by the media as “El Chamaco” (“the kid”), “Morita” (“little Mora”) and “Crackito” (“the little crack,” which is Spanish slang for anyone who is exceptionally great). There’s a reason for all the hype, too.
The 16-year-old made an impact in this year’s Gold Cup tournament when he became the youngest player in FIFA history to win an international senior trophy. His accomplishment surpassed former record holders — Brazilian icon Pele and Spanish wunderkind Lamine Yamal, who both previously were the youngest champions in FIFA history.
Though Mora is certainly not at the level of those global studs quite yet, all signs have indicated that he has a talent and composure at the youth level that El Tri hasn’t known since Carlos Vela and Giovani Dos Santos, who together delivered Mexico its first World Cup title by defeating Brazil in the Under-17 category in 2005.
Mexican fans have been enjoying Mora domestically for the past year: He currently stars for Club Tijuana in Liga MX, though there is increasing chatter about the teenager drawing serious attention from the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona. He is consistent in every game he plays, controlling the tempo, setting up his teammates and scoring when needed — no easy feat for a 16-year-old boy going up against grown, fully developed men.
With his recent success, he is no longer Mexico’s best-kept secret either. Making his debut in Chile this fall — at the U-20 World Cup for male stars under 20 years old — he has suddenly burst onto international soccer’s radar.
Mora’s performances have captivated Mexican fans in Chile. (FIFA/X)
In his first two appearances against Brazil and Spain, he assisted and scored twice to keep Mexico afloat in a “Group of Death” that also included Morocco. Mexico would later go on to defeat the group-leading Morocco with — you guessed it — a game-winning goal from Mora himself.
Overall, Mora single-handedly accounted for four of Mexico’s five total goals in the group stage, helping Mexico avoid a single defeat.
His “I’m Him” moment came in the final minutes of Mexico’s clash against Spain. In a must-win situation against the highly ranked Spaniards, the Mexico U-20 team were down 2-1 and all but finished. With less than four minutes of regulation left, Mexico was on the hunt and placed an aerial pass into the box. A Mexican attacker went up and headed the ball awkwardly, but by the grace of the soccer gods, it found the team’s best player: El Crackito.
Mora, who was behind two defenders and his own teammates, one-touched it with his right foot and put it cleanly into the opposite back corner of the net, past the leaping goalkeeper who reacted to the play by falling to the ground on his knees in defeat. In a critical scenario, Mora delivered for his team, and for Mexico.
Like any sports icon in the making, Mora has already faced his fair share of antagonists and disbelievers. Leading up to Mexico’s elimination game against the host nation, Chile, in the Round of 16, Chilean news outlet Desde La Tribunapublished an image of Mora’s face overlaid with blackberries being turned into fruit jam by a Chilean player (the definition of “mora” in Spanish is blackberry). The joking caption read: “It’s time to make blackberry jam.”
The headline and image received significant backlash from many soccer fans in both nations, claiming it was in bad taste (no pun intended). Meanwhile, Chile was crushed in a decisive Mexican triumph in which Mora assisted on two of Mexico’s four goals and was then subbed out to conserve the star for Mexico’s following match.
Up to this point, Mexican fans have rejoiced in Mora’s talents with a euphorically comedic and celebratory spin of their own. In the internet age, goofy memes and Tweets have abounded. There’s a video of a child in his underwear impressively dribbling the ball in his living room with the caption: “Me as a 30-year-old pretending to be Gilberto Mora at 3 a.m.”
There’s a GIF of WWE commissioner Vince McMahon vehemently smelling a wad of cash in his hands, with the text reading: “[Club Tijuana owner and former Tijuana mayor] Jorge Alberto Hank imagining all the money he’s going to make from selling Gilberto Mora.” There is also a series of Tweets begging Mora to not succumb to the temptations of alcohol, women and fame as previous Mexican soccer stars have been known to do: “This is the future of Mexican soccer if Gilberto Mora doesn’t discover alcohol,” one says, accompanied by a montage video of the Portuguese prodigy, Cristiano Ronaldo — a legend known for his extreme discipline and focus on physical health — having fun as an innocent young man.
There are also humorous subcommentaries on the internet about the biases against Mexican soccer players on the international level: One meme shows photos of Mora imagined as a player from various countries: Gilberto Mora in Mexico, but also “Gilbertinho Moura” in Brazil, “Gil Morata” in Spain, and “Gilbert Blackberry” in England. As the nations change, he draws an increasing amount of monetary value. In all, the memes reveal a nation of tormented soccer fans who hope “Morita” doesn’t lose his way and gets fairly compensated for his talents.
At this stage, Mora appears to be a sterling midfielder, but he undoubtedly has much to achieve before cementing himself as a Mexican soccer fixture, let alone an international force. In Mexico’s quarterfinal match against Argentina (the nation with the most U-20 World Cup trophies in the world, having already won six), Mora failed to make any real impact. It was his first game of the tournament without an assist or goal, and he was largely absent from the action.
Some of Mora’s biggest detractors have criticized his height and size — he is listed at 5-foot-6 and 140 pounds but seems even smaller beside his peers. In the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the average height of defenders was 6 feet (at 5-foot-7, Lionel Messi is an exception, but it’s uncommon). Only 16 years old, Mora will certainly grow. But his frame is naturally undersized, and has been used to criticize his top-end potential against the world’s best players.
Just like the senior men’s team, Mexico’s U-20 squad fell victim to the “fifth-game curse” when it lost to Argentina. Though Mora’s presence wasn’t enough to break the hex, he will certainly have more opportunities, as he is slated to play for El Tri in the 2026 World Cup, in what will likely be the first of many for the kid who is shaping up as Mexican fans’ best hope for its first-ever World Cup victory.
Alan Chazaro is the author of “This Is Not a Frank Ocean Cover Album,” “Piñata Theory” and “Notes From the Eastern Span of the Bay Bridge” (Ghost City Press, 2021). He is a graduate of June Jordan’s Poetry for the People program at UC Berkeley and a former Lawrence Ferlinghetti Fellow at the University of San Francisco. His writing can be found in GQ, NPR, The Guardian, L.A. Times and more. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, he is currently based in Veracruz.
Dr. Molina in front of the clinic she coordinates in Zihuatanejo. (Clinica El Limón)
Imagine coming to work one day to find your workplace, a medical clinic, empty and completely cleaned out of everything: surgical supplies, hospital beds and medicine. Everything, right down to the toilet paper. This was the sight that greeted Doctor Arena Antonia González Molina one morning at the Clinica El Limón in Colonial El Limón, a poor neighbourhood in Zihuatanejo.
But first, let’s backtrack.
Clinica El Limón is located in the colonia of the same name in the popular resort destination of Zihuatanejo. (Unsplash/Maximilian Csali)
Dr. Molina’s story
Dr. Molina studied medicine at the well-respected Universidad Michoacana de Nicolás, Facultad de Medicina, and graduated in 2015. She did her internship at General Hospital in Zihuatanejo. Eventually, Molina landed a job with the government, which not only paid her bills but also gave her some financial freedom. It was during this time that she met Dr. Roderick Hernandez, who had opened Clinica El Limón along with several others. Molina decided to donate some of her time and expertise to helping those in need, while also using the clinic to treat her own patients. Dr. Serralde, with whom Molina had previously worked, had come to Zihuatanejo as a tourist years ago and fallen in love with the area. Serralde now practises at the clinic once a month and is a world-renowned phlebologist, lymphologist, venous ultrasonographer and podiatric surgeon.
At first, Molina worked at Clinica El Limón on a part-time basis, but it soon became apparent that the clinic was struggling financially, seeing only about 20 clients a month. Still, the sight that greeted Molina that fateful morning, less than a year later, shocked her to the core.
Some staff members fled, while others resigned to pursue more lucrative employment opportunities. Yet, the community’s resilience shone through as they rallied around the clinic, determined to keep it afloat.
A commitment to care
Unwilling to “pack it in,” Molina, with the blessing of founder Dr. Roderick Hernandez and Dr. Serralde, decided to quit her government job and devote her full attention to keeping the clinic operating as the clinic coordinator. Luckily, Dr. Serralde, upon learning of what might have been a robbery, came to the rescue, bringing, among other things, monitors, beds, medicine and other essential supplies. He paid the nurses and cleaning staff, but Molina herself does not take a salary.
With limited experience running a business, Molina reached out to a couple of Canadian friends: Larry Wright, a philanthropist in the area, well known for his work raising funds and awareness for a school located at the garbage dump, and Ray Lenovitch, for advice. The pair suggested a GoFundMe page, and they raised 150,000 pesos, while Lenovitch held a private fundraiser in his home. It was enough to pay off most of the bills and debts and keep the lights on, but barely.
Surmounting challenges big and small
However, money wasn’t the only problem the fledgling organization faced. Many years of neglect and mismanagement had resulted in a major strike against them with the Federal Commission for Protection Against Sanitary Risk (Cofepris). This organization governs all the hospitals and clinics in Mexico. Threatened with closure, Molina and Semalde faced the task of making the necessary changes to bring the clinic up to code. Among the grievances was the clinic’s lack of an agreement with a biological waste collector. There were also many maintenance issues, including cleanliness problems, such as mould on the floors of the surgical floor, and numerous other problems crucial to their future.
No matter the challenges, Dr. Molina is always eager to find solutions. (Clinica El Limón)
Dr. Molina rolled up her sleeves and got to work, along with five nurses, a cleaning lady and a kind neighbour. They scrubbed the clinic from top to bottom, eliminating mold in the surgical department by removing the tiles. Then the team painted and repaired until everything was spotless and functional once more, essentially restructuring the entire clinic from top to bottom.
How the clinic survives
The result was that, except for a couple of minor issues still to be addressed, the clinic is legally up to code and in accordance with medical standards. They ran the clinic for another month, but as patient numbers dwindled, Molina faced the difficult decision to reduce the staff to just herself and one student nurse. Despite the financial restraints, Molina is determined to keep the clinic open to help those in need.
“We have many locals who can’t afford medical care. Even though our fee is on par with everyone else at 500 pesos, some can’t even pay that. Some clients have zero money and could only pay with produce, or a few coins —whatever they could afford. We had one client pay with candy. We will treat them anyway.”
However, Molina now has hope for the future, as the “high season” is soon upon them, and people will be returning to Mexico to escape the cold winters. This influx of patients brings a renewed sense of hope and purpose to the clinic.
“We have many English-speaking clients, mostly expats who appreciate that I speak English,” she said. “And lots of word-of-mouth.”
Patients are impressed
Indeed, patients are effusive in their praise. Richard Black, for example, an expatriate from the United States, had this to say of his experience with Dr. Molina. “Dr Molina is the best! She is very professional, knowledgeable, courteous, efficient, friendly, and her bilingual language skills are much appreciated,” said Black. “Always taking time to explain things about my health issues in a way that I can comprehend! She is helpful far beyond my previous experience with doctors! She is wise beyond her years, and I am lucky and happy to know her.”
Clinica El Limón has built a reputation for quality care amongst both expats and zihuatanejenses alike. (Clinica El Limón)
Dolores Crowton from Detroit, Michigan, was also laudatory. “Yes, she (Molina) is so wonderful. Being alone in Mexico and elderly … She was like a beacon of light! Never had a doctor so caring.”
Sylvia Otero from Zihuatanejo added, “Dr. Molina has given us excellent medical care. My mother has suffered for many years with varicose ulcers, but Dr. Molina was able to heal her in a very short time. In my case, Dr Molina detected a brain tumor, and thanks to her, I was operated on and now I am completely well. Dr. Molina is a human being who is always willing to help her patients. We are older people, so when necessary, she comes to our home.”
A plan for the future
Dr. Molina told me her commitment to quality care is unwavering. “I assure patients that the clinic’s focus is on providing accurate diagnoses, avoiding unnecessary consultations and prescribing effective medications. The clinic’s independence from any specific pharmacy ensures that its recommended health plans can be trusted.” She added, “We prioritize solving the root of the problem, not just prescribing medication, and we bring in specialists as needed, ensuring comprehensive and effective care.”
As to what the future holds, Molina said, “To become self-sufficient as we treat the people of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. For me, the clinic is a labour of love. We are gaining an excellent reputation for quality care and want to continue doing that.”
“I can get a job anywhere,” she says. “I have bills to pay, too and right now I could make more money selling tacos on the street. And there is equipment we still need. But I am committed to this clinic.”
When asked how she plans on ensuring the financial sustainability of the clinic in the long term, she said, “We are making some agreements with insurance companies so that they send us more patients to the clinic. And we plan to do more publicity to get the word out that we are open for business.”
Want to support quality healthcare in Zihuatanejo? Clinica Limón’sGoFundMe campaign remains open for those who’d like to contribute.
The writer divides her time between Canada and Zihuatanejo.
The name Manuel Raga Navarro is legendary in two countries: Mexico and Italy. Who was the first non-U.S. player to be drafted by the NBA? (eBay)
Few people, unless they are serious basketball fans, will remember Manuel “Manolo” Raga Navarro. However, he is still considered the most successful Mexican basketball player of all time and is noted as being the first Mexican to be drafted for the NBA. This part of the story, if not a myth, is often misunderstood, but we will address that later.
Born in Villa Aldama, Tamaulipas, in 1944, Manolo started playing in local basketball leagues. Although basketball in Mexico has never acquired the popularity of soccer, it has always had a cult following of players and local fans. Its roots often lie in the poorer regions of the county, in part because the enthusiasm for the sport has been driven by migrant workers returning from the United States with a passion for basketball. Basketball had several advantages over soccer. In mountainous or heavily farmed regions, or in crowded working areas of a city, it required far less space than a football pitch. And, thanks to Mexico’s climate, any small outdoor court that can be constructed is generally usable throughout the year.
How Raga rose to fame
Manuel Raga wears his signature uniform number, 15, while playing for the Italian basketball team Ignis Varese. (Facebook)
Back in the 1960s, most teams were linked to military, government or educational establishments, and Raga played for the Instituto Tecnológico of Ciudad Madero. Although he was “only” 1.88 meters tall (about 6’2”), that was above average height for a Mexican boy of this generation, and he also had an incredible ability to jump. The recognized measurement of this is the Sargent Jump, leaping upwards from a standing position to see how far you can reach up with your hand. A vertical jump of 70 centimeters (27 inches) is considered above average. Modern basketball players sometimes score over 89 centimeters (35 inches). Manolo is said to have been able to leap an impressive 109 centimeters (42 inches).
Even with this natural ability, Manolo would never have attracted much attention playing in the amateur and regional leagues of the time. What brought him into a brighter spotlight was that the Mexican team was the strongest in the Central American region, regularly qualifying for international events. He was 19 when he made his debut at the 1963 World Championships in Brazil, where he scored 24 points against Canada and 20 against Uruguay. The following year, he made the first of three Olympic appearances. International exposure helped improve his game, and by the time the Olympics came to Mexico in 1968, he was, along with Arturo Guerrero, the star of the Mexican team. His play was noted for covering the whole court, leaping to take rebounds, and having an excellent jump shot.
The Flying Mexican in Italy
Raga needed a challenge beyond Mexico and it was an Italian club that gave him the opportunity. Basketball, at the time, was not widely popular in Europe, but had a reasonable following in Spain and Italy. While not approaching the popularity of soccer, basketball in these countries received a fair amount of news coverage, and with that came sponsorship. The biggest clubs used this money to supplement their squads by signing good American players. Another advantage was that many of the big basketball teams were associated with a major sports club, and these often had world-class facilities.
Varese, where Raga came to play, was different. It was a small town of some 70,000 people in the lakes and foothills of Northern Italy. The community was enthusiastic sports fans, being close to the ski slopes and a center of Italian cycling. The community was too small to support a first-rate soccer team, but building a world-class basketball team seemed an attainable goal. The great Italian team at the time was Simmental Milano, and Varese were already their closest rivals. However, this was a one-sided rivalry; between 1957 and 1967, Milano won 9 titles, Varese 2.
Changing the fortunes of Ignis Varese
Several events in the late 1960s would change this balance. Ignis, a local firm that made kitchen equipment, provided sponsorship. Former player Giancarlo Gualco became the sporting director, bringing a love for the club and a dream of greater success. Dino Meneghin, a two-meter giant, was emerging as the most promising Italian player of his generation. Money was made available to attract foreign stars, and rather than pick some young American just out of college, Gualco took a gamble. He brought in the unknown Manuel Raga Navarro. Italian sports fans in the 1960s were not noted for their cultural sensitivity, and Raga was given the nickname “Indian.” His likeable personality and exciting style of play quickly won the support of the fans, and he became known as “The Flying Mexican” or “The Phenomenon.”
Driven by the Meneghin partnership, Ignis Varese won the Italian League in 1969. “The Flying Mexican” scored 418 points and, more remarkably for a relatively short player, grabbed 98 rebounds. The league title gave Ignis entry to the European Cup. This was the height of the Cold War, and there was a strong East versus West rivalry in the competition. Eastern European teams had the advantage of a system where players had token jobs and could train full-time.
Contesting the European Cup
Raga was an athletic specimen, known for his impressive 42-inch vertical leap. (Public Domain)
This coincided with a generation of particularly talented Russian players, men who would controversially take the Olympic title from the USA in 1972. Many of these players wore the colours of CSKA Moscow, the team Varese met in the 1970 final. Staged in a brand new stadium in Sarajevo, Ignis won 79-74 with Raga contributing 19 points. It was here that he met Esma Smais, a player at the local Zeljeznicar club, and a rapid romance and marriage followed.
It was European basketball that brought attention from the NBA team Atlanta, who expressed an interest in signing both Meneghin and Raga. The Italian team wouldn’t consider letting Meneghin go, and Atlanta was not willing to pay the US $35,000 fee that Varese was asking for Raga. However, Meneghin and Raga went into the record books as the first foreign players to be included in an NBA draft.
League titles and international play
The following year, Varese retained their Italian title but lost to CSKA in the European final. 1971-1972, Raga’s third season in Italy, saw Milano win the league, but he notched 20 points as Varese beat Jugoplastika Split for their second European title. There was the feeling that Varese was one player short of a team that could dominate both Italian and European basketball, so they brought in Bob Morse.
Morse was a big man, two meters (6’6”) tall, and he had been a prolific scorer during his college career. He was good enough to play in the NBA, but felt he would always be the sixth man, coming off the bench for a few minutes each game and probably being blamed whenever things went wrong. He was an intelligent and cultured man who saw the possibility of a better life in Italy. A place where the family could sit down and have dinner together without the television playing. He would stay in Varese for nearly a decade, and when he returned to the States, he taught Italian in a local College.
An interlude in Switzerland
The Italian League only allowed one foreign player, and Raga had to be sacrificed. He stayed with the club and played alongside Morse in Europe, where the rules were more relaxed. The 1973 final saw them face CSKA for the third time, and with Morse and Raga combining for 45 points, Varese won 71-66. In 1973-74, they returned to the final for a classic game, which they narrowly lost to Real Madrid. That summer, Raga played for Mexico in the World Championships in Puerto Rico. Helped by the fact that Mexico played in the lower classification section during the second half of the competition, he and teammate Arturo Guerrero were the tournament’s two highest scorers. With Morse established as Varese’s top foreign player, Raga moved on to Switzerland, where he won three championships with Federale Lugano. His international career ended with a third Olympic Games in Montreal in 1976.
A legacy in basketball
In 1991, Raga was an assistant coach on the Mexico national team that won the silver medal at the Pan-American Games in Havana, but he never took to coaching. He now lives quietly in Tamaulipas with his second wife, former Cuban volleyball player Lucia Urgelles. His career is better appreciated in Europe than it is in Mexico. In 2010, he was made an Honorary Citizen of Varese, while FIBA nominated him as one of the “50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors.” And yes, he is still in the record books as the first foreigner to be included in an NBA draft.
Manuel Raga - FIBA Hall of Famer 2016 Class
Bob Patemanis a Mexico-based historian, librarian and a life-term hasher. He is editor of On On Magazine, the international history magazine of hashing.
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO site and one of Mexico's best preserved natural wonders. It's also really easy to get to. (Explore Le Monde)
Welcome back to the series where we unravel the world-class secrets hidden within Mexico. Each article is our challenge to ourselves to find the wilder and lesser-known experiences here in this global icon, our adopted home of Mexico.
If you’ve ever been drawn to the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of Florida’s natural springs, then get ready to be captivated by Sian Ka’an.
At Sian Ka’an, you’ll find glassy spearmint freshwater at a refreshing temperature in a natural, lush green setting. (Outdoorsy Diva)
Just a short drive from the hedonistic beaches of Tulum lies a secret world that feels a million miles away. Sian Ka’an, a massive and highly protected nature reserve, is where the jungle meets pristine wetlands and the Caribbean Sea. It’s a place still ruled by nature, where the water is impossibly clear and the silence is only broken by the call of exotic birds.
Few visitors venture beyond Tulum’s beach road to find it, and that’s precisely why I love it. It’s a powerful reminder of the raw, untouched beauty that still exists in Mexico if you just know where to look.
Florida springs vs. Sian Ka’an
Florida’s 700 natural fountains rank among the world’s greatest wonders. To snorkel in Florida’s springs is like taking a weightless flight through an underwater garden shaped by water clear as glass, gnome-like rock formations and aquatic plants. If you’re lucky, you can even spot manatees, otters, loggerhead musk turtles and even alligators that call these springs home.
On land, Florida and Tulum couldn’t seem more different. But dive under the water surface, and you’ll find that Sian Ka’an and Florida’s springs are almost identical, thanks to a remarkable connection hidden deep underground. Both get their stunningly clear, fresh water from massive underground aquifer systems flowing through limestone.
This geological connection is why the Yucatán Peninsula is famous for its cenotes — natural sinkholes that are essentially tunnels into the same kind of subterranean rivers that feed Florida’s springs. The result is the same kind of magic: glassy spearmint freshwater at a refreshing temperature in a natural, lush green setting.
Where the sky is born
Visits to Si’an Ka’an, which has an incredible array of wildlife, are only possible on guided tours. (Manuel Quesada/Unesco)
Now, let me introduce you properly to Sian Ka’an. In the Mayan language, its name means “origin of the sky” or “where the sky is born.” The moment you see the vast, open wetlands reflecting the clouds, you’ll understand why.
Established as a protected biosphere reserve in 1986 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it covers a staggering 1.3 million acres of tropical forests, mangroves, marshes and a section of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
This place is a biodiversity hotspot, providing a sanctuary for an incredible array of wildlife. We’re talking jaguars, pumas, tapirs and hundreds of bird species. In the water, you can find manatees, crocodiles, four species of sea turtles and countless fish. It’s a complex, thriving ecosystem where everything is interconnected, from the freshwater channels to the saltwater bays.
The biggest difference between Sian Ka’an and Florida’s springs? Scale and wildness. While Florida’s springs are often beautifully maintained state parks, Sian Ka’an is sprawling and untamed, giving you that same freshwater thrill with an added dose of raw adventure.
Highlights of Sian Ka’an
Because Sian Ka’an is so strictly protected, it’s one of the best-preserved patches of wilderness in Mexico. Visits are only possible on guided tours, which helps to limit the environmental impact we have. There are two main entry points, one through the lagoon side and the other from the ocean, each offering completely different experiences.
For anyone who loves the Florida springs experience, the Muyil entrance to the lagoons of Sian Ka’an is your golden ticket. Located just a 20-minute drive from Tulum, this is the freshwater part of the reserve. Your adventure starts with a walk through the jungle to Muyil ruins, a small, undervisited Mayan archaeological site.
Muyil’s Temple 8, known as the Pink Palace, is considered to have been the city’s center of civic and religious life. (File Photo)
From there, take the boardwalk to get to the lagoons, where local Mayan guides will be ready for you — a boat trip costs around US $50 per person, and all of the fee goes to the Mayan community of Sian Ka’an. You’ll weave through a series of ancient canals hand-dug by the Mayans over a thousand years ago for trade.
And here comes the best part: floating through the ancient Mayan channels. The gentle current will carry you effortlessly through the mangroves for about half an hour. It is pure bliss — peaceful, otherworldly and the closest you’ll get to the lazy river floats of Florida, but with a history behind it.
Flanked by tall reeds and ancient Mayan ruins, these canals feature clear-as-glass water with a perfect sandy floor and tiny fish scuttering about.
Choose your adventure
If your heart is set on experiencing the wild, oceanic side of Sian Ka’an, getting to the remote village of Punta Allen is an adventure in itself. Be warned: the journey is the main obstacle. The 56-kilometer (35-mile) stretch of unpaved road from Tulum is notoriously rough; it requires a grueling, four-hour crawl over countless potholes that can become a muddy mess after the rain.
Trust me when I say a 4×4 vehicle is essential: We drove our Volkswagen Beetle and wrecked the suspension — but we survived!
This challenging journey is your ticket to a truly castaway paradise, where you can spend a few days spotting wild dolphins and manatees, snorkeling on the Mesoamerican reef, experiencing rustic village life and leaving Wi-Fi and phone signals behind.
Thankfully, there are easier options for getting there: Book a guided day tour that includes transfers from your hotel in Tulum and a boat trip from the Sian Ka’an Visitor Center for a full day of adventure; you’ll skip the treacherous drive and have a marine safari with a knowledgeable guide. These all-inclusive trips, typically costing around US $200, handle all the logistics.
A wild heart awaits
Ultimately, the magic of Sian Ka’an lies in its raw, untamed spirit. It offers the same soul-soothing experience that makes Florida’s springs so beloved, but in a wilder, natural setting.
If you’re looking for a place where the water is pure, the history is palpable, and the adventure feels boundless, it’s time for an adventure in Sian Ka’an.
Nellie Huang is a self-proclaimed Mexico-holic obsessed who lived in the Riviera Maya for a few years. She’s the author of Lonely Planet’s Mexico guidebook and has written hundreds of articles on Mexico for various publications. Read about her adventures worldwide on wildjunket.com and follow her updates on Instagram @wildjunket.
A residency card is worth getting if you want to stay in Mexico long-term. Don't overstay a tourist visa; it's worth the sense of security you'll have to do things correctly.
I’m writing this flying high — literally — on a plane out of Puerto Vallarta, feeling a wave of relief wash over me. My three-year Mexican residency card has just been approved, which means I won’t have to wrestle with immigration red tape again until 2028. Anyone who has gone through Mexico’s residency process knows how much of a victory this is.
Renewing from a one-year temporary residency to a three-year card is the next natural step for anyone on an immigration journey. Compared to getting your original residency card approved, the process this time around is blissfully straightforward. While many people choose to hire a fixer to handle everything, and understandably so, it’s also absolutely possible to do it yourself. I did it solo in Puerto Vallarta, and it was smooth sailing from start to finish. Here’s how it works.
A “fixer” in Mexico is someone, usually Mexican, who runs a business helping foreigners navigate the Mexican governmental bureaucracy. But many expats do manage to get their resident visa without one. (Vitaly Gariev/Unsplash)
Why a fixer might be worth it (and why I didn’t use one)
Many immigrants in Mexico swear by their fixers — local professionals who specialize in navigating Mexico’s famously variable bureaucracy. It’s a common joke that each INM (Instituto Nacional de Migración) office has its own “interpretation” of the official rules. Some offices might require extra documents that others don’t.
That said, fixers can be pricey, often charging several thousand pesos for something you can do yourself with a printer, a bit of Spanish and a dose of patience. If you’re organized and don’t mind handling paperwork, doing it on your own is totally manageable. The process is clearly outlined online, and, in my experience, the immigration officers in Puerto Vallarta were professional, kind and even encouraging.
Step 1: Go to the official INM website
Start your journey at www.inm.gob.mx/mpublic/publico/inm-tramites.html. Click Trámites Migratorios and select Expedición de documento migratorio por renovación. This section is specifically for renewing your existing residency, not applying for a new one.
You’ll need to make your appointment to do your visa renewal “tramite” online at the INM website. (Original photo INM – Photo edited slightly with AI)
Here, you’ll find a detailed list of requirements and links to all the forms you need. Begin with the solicitud, which is the main application to extend your stay. Under Motivo de solicitud, choose Extender la estancia, and specify Expedición de Tarjeta de Residente por Renovación.
You’ll be asked to fill in details from your current residency card and passport. Once completed, the system will generate a número de pieza — a unique tracking number. Print or save this page; you’ll need it later to schedule your appointment. You’ll also need to bring this tracking number with you to your appointment.
Step 2: Schedule your appointment
With your número de pieza in hand, return to the Trámites page and click through to the Requirements section to schedule your appointment (cita) at your local INM office. If you’re renewing in a busy area like Puerto Vallarta, book early; slots fill up quickly.
Once your appointment is confirmed, it’s time to gather your documents.
Step 3. Gather your paperwork
Immigration offices in different locations in Mexico will have different levels of tolerance for gringo errors, so do your best to ensure your required paperwork is in order before you go. (Romain Dancre/Unsplash)
Here’s what you’ll need to bring to your appointment:
Your old resident card, plus a copy of the front and back of the card, copied onto the same page.
Proof of payment. The fee for a three-year renewal (as of 2025) is 10,570 pesos. It’s easiest to pay by credit card at your appointment, although you can also pay in advance via bank transfer.
Don’t worry about bringing photographs in advance — you’ll take them during your appointment.
The last piece depends on your type of residency. If you have residency through a job, you’ll need a letter from your employer. If you’re a student, you’ll need to provide proof of enrollment.
For those of us living in Mexico under the general “living here” category, you’ll click the option for “Written renewal accrediting the circumstances subsist” — essentially a letter confirming that your situation hasn’t changed. The system will generate this document for you to print and sign.
Here’s where I hit a small snag: I forgot to bring this letter with me. Luckily, the immigration officer who helped me was an angel of empathy, who was clearly used to gringo errors. She showed me exactly where to find it online, told me where I could print it nearby, and even held my spot while I dashed out to get it. This kind of patience is not guaranteed, so learn from my mistake and have all your documents ready to go.
Step 4: Attend your appointment
Renewing your visa is one of the rites of passage for expats seeking to put down roots in Mexico. (INM)
On the day of your appointment, arrive early, dressed neatly and with your documents in order. Depending on the office, you might need to wait a bit, but once called, the process moves quickly. You’ll review your information, make your payment, take your photo and fingerprints and confirm your details. If all goes well, you’ll leave that same day with your brand-new three-year residency card — valid, sturdy and beautifully laminated.
The difference between a one-year card and a three-year card might seem small, but it’s a game-changer in practice. Not only do you save yourself two years’ worth of renewal appointments, but you also gain a sense of long-term stability. You can travel in and out of Mexico freely, rent apartments more easily, open bank accounts and build a life here without the yearly stress of expiring paperwork.
Plus, once your three years are up, you’re eligible to apply for permanent residency, which is the ultimate goal for many people who plan to stay indefinitely. Permanent residency means no more renewals, ever.
Renewing your temporary residency might not sound glamorous, but it’s one of those necessary rites of passage for anyone putting down roots in Mexico. And if you handle it yourself, it’s surprisingly empowering.
Walking out of the INM office with that new card in hand felt like a tangible reminder that Mexico is home, at least for the foreseeable future. And as my plane lifts off the runway, I can’t help but smile at the thought that, for the next three years, my only paperwork will be postcards.
Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.
From red, to green and everything in between, María Meléndez has a beginners guide to Mexican salsa. (Alyona Yankovska/Unsplash)
In Mexico, salsa is more than a condiment. It’s a cultural emblem that is present at every restaurant, street stall, family table, and even in fast-food chains. Wherever there’s a Mexican enjoying a meal, there’s likely a salsa nearby. Historically, grandmothers crafted their perfect blends using molcajetes; today, the frantic pace of life often pushes us to whip up versions in blenders. Every family guards their own secret recipes, and each person has a personal favorite. What’s astonishing, though, is how rarely we see a straightforward guide to the variety of Mexican salsas.
Ground, chopped, blended, spicy, mild or fruity, the world of Mexican salsa is a vast one. (Unsplash)
However, trying to encompass all regional varieties of salsa can feel overwhelming. The truth is, the landscape of Mexican salsa is deeply intertwined with its geography, history, and culture. Salsas from Oaxaca or Yucatán taste different from those in Chihuahua or Mexico City; coastal varieties have a different character than mountain versions. Each salsa tells its own story, a world unto itself. For our purpose, we’ll focus on those that are accessible across the country and have even found commercial success.
Chilmolli and the roots of salsa
Chile has been woven into Mexican cuisine for over 6,000 years. Although we suspect that salsa drinking was widespread among ancient Mesoamerican cultures, archaeological evidence is scarce. We do know, with certainty, that the Aztecs regularly consumed chilmolli — a chile-based salsa — as part of their daily diet.
This ancient practice is demonstrated through the tools they used, particularly the molcajete (a stone mortar) and the comal (a griddle). The molcajete, invented 8,000 years ago, allows the essential oils of ingredients to be released, giving salsas a depth of flavor that modern appliances just can’t match.
The comal, meanwhile, provided a sturdy surface to roast ingredients, giving particular salsas their smoky character. Since those early times, salsas have become woven into the very fabric of Mexican cuisine.
The Salsa Spectrum
Taste of Mexico: Salsa
To simplify this rich universe, we can categorize the most common types of salsa:
• Red Salsa: Made from tomatoes and chiles, it’s often less acidic than other varieties but bursting with flavor.
• Green Salsa: Based on tomatillo and chiles, it’s one of the oldest documented salsas and tends to be more tart, often used in seafood preparations.
• Tatemadas: These are salsas whose ingredients have been roasted on a comal — whether red or green. My personal favorite is salsa verde tatemada, which brings a smoky richness that is ideal for grilled meats.
• Molcajete Salsa: As previously noted, this salsa’s rustic, less refined texture is a testament to traditional preparation.
• Mezcla or Macha: A favorite of mine, this salsa combines seeds like peanuts, sesame, or pumpkin, along with dried chiles, garlic, vinegar, and premium oil. It’s a powerhouse of health benefits, perfect for salads or flavoring any dish.
• Pico de gallo: This one always makes me laugh. I had a couple of friends, one argued that pico de gallo is a salad and one who claimed that pico de gallo “is salsa roja but deconstructed.” When the fresh, chopped mixture of tomatoes, onion, chile, and cilantro are prepared with love, it’s nothing short of spectacular.
Depending on the chiles used, the heat level can vary dramatically — from the fiery habanero and chiltepín to the milder jalapeño or serrano.
More than just flavor
And yes, friends — enjoying salsa is not just a pleasure, but also an act deeply rooted in health. These vibrant condiments play a significant role in our well-being. If you want to maintain a healthy weight, salsas can improve glucose tolerance, increase insulin sensitivity, reverse fatty liver, and reduce pancreatic damage. They’re also allies in allergy therapies, possess antimicrobial properties — meaning street tacos soaked in salsa are not only delicious but safer (maybe) — and they improve blood circulation.
Perhaps most surprisingly, chili peppers trigger the release of endorphins — the body’s natural happiness hormones. It’s no exaggeration to say that drenching your food in salsa can boost your mood. And if you’re dealing with pain, salsa can serve as a natural analgesic — plus it’s an excellent distraction. These fiery condiments help balance your “good” and “bad” cholesterol levels, and they are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powerhouses.
If salsa irritates your stomach, start incorporating it in microdoses and build up gradually. As my grandparents used to say, “Well-made salsas make you strong, not weak.
Amigos, for health, patriotism, and happiness — eat salsa! 😊
María Meléndez is a Mexico City food blogger and influencer.
A giant 2026 World Cup ball was installed at the Terminal 2 entrance of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) this week. (Andrea Murcia/Cuartoscuro)
This week, the Sheinbaum administration celebrated several positive developments: daily homicides dropped to their lowest level in nine years, high-impact crime arrests neared 35,000 and government revenue continued its upswing, providing a crucial financial buffer for a year of tepid economic growth.
Despite falling national crime rates, five popular tourism destinations — including San Miguel de Allende — ranked among Mexico’s 50 most violent municipalities. A Mexico News Daily reader survey revealed that foreigners living in or visiting these cities maintain high perceptions of safety, confirming that the impact of violent crime is limited to certain groups.
Mexico’s financial sector, meanwhile, faced unprecedented turbulence as regulators shuttered CIBanco following U.S. money laundering accusations, leaving thousands of customers scrambling to recover their funds.
The closure of CIBanco, alongside restrictions on Vector and Intercam, marked an unprecedented regulatory crackdown on financial institutions allegedly facilitating cartel operations.
IPAB announced it would begin paying insured deposits starting Monday. To access funds, CIBanco account holders can register a receiving account starting Oct. 13. Those without other Mexican bank accounts must visit CIBanco branches or IPAB offices in person to submit a Payment Request. Read more here.
The impact on the bank’s customers has been severe. A Mexico News Daily survey of over 200 readers in July found that 62% of CIBanco clients were considering closing their accounts, with many reporting frozen transfers and restricted withdrawals. One Mexican student abroad reported being unable to access funds after Visa suspended international transactions. The crisis particularly affected foreigners relying on U.S. check deposits and international transfers to pay contractors, employees and living expenses.
Grupo México’s Banamex bid rejected
Mining magnate Germán Larrea’s US $9.3-billion attempt to acquire Banamex caused a small earthquake in Mexico’s financial sector.
Finance Minister Édgar Amador Zamora attributed approximately 200 billion pesos of the increase to improved foreign trade tax collection and anti-corruption efforts at border crossings.
“Thanks to that … it has been possible to have very, very solid growth of public income, amid an economic context in which [GDP] growth has been a little more moderate,” Amador said.
Tech and transport sectors signal confidence
Salesforce’s $1 billion AI push: The cloud-based software giant announced a five-year, US $1-billion investment to expand operations, open a new five-story Mexico City headquarters and establish a Global Delivery Center providing AI consulting services across Latin America. Salesforce’s CEO also committed to training 100,000 Mexican students in artificial intelligence.
Electric freight innovation: Nuevo León announced that an electric cargo transport service using Windrose electric tractor-trailers will carry freight from Monterrey to Laredo, Texas, starting in November, with eventual extension to Dallas. The private sector initiative aligns with global decarbonization trends while capitalizing on nearshoring opportunities.
Pemex moves toward stability
This week, the state oil company notched several positive developments signaling progress toward financial solvency:
Major private investment secured: Carlos Slim’s Grupo Carso signed a $1.991 billion contract to drill up to 32 wells in the Ixachi field in Veracruz over three years, with payment contingent on well production. The agreement exemplifies President Sheinbaum’s strategy of leveraging private partnerships to boost production while managing Pemex’s $98 billion debt burden.
Credit rating upgraded: Fitch Ratings bumped Pemex’s rating to BB+, placing the company just one notch below investment grade. The upgrade followed government capital injections exceeding $16 billion and came remarkably just one month after Fitch had raised Pemex to BB with a positive outlook.
Tourism destinations among Mexico’s most violent municipalities
Tulum ranked 20th most violent with 83.9 homicides per 100,000 residents, recording 46 murders during the period. Acapulco, once a glamorous Hollywood destination, ranked 34th with 71 homicides per 100,000 people. Zihuatanejo ranked 41st with 61.3 per 100,000, while San Miguel de Allende, home to a sizable expat community, came in 50th with 49.3 per 100,000. Manzanillo topped the list at third place overall with 143.4 homicides per 100,000 people.
We asked readers to rate their perception of safety in the above cities, and most expressed continued confidence despite the statistics.
Tourists and foreign residents are rarely affected by violence in these destinations, as most incidents are related to organized crime.
They were held at Ketziot, a maximum security prison in the Negev desert, before being transferred to Amman, Jordan, and then home.
President Sheinbaum condemned the interception and reinforced Mexico’s support for Palestine, noting that Mexico joined other countries in filing a complaint with the International Court of Justice in The Hague.
The group of six Mexicans, which included the journalist Ernesto Ledesma, was part of a flotilla of volunteers whose boats were boarded by Israeli soldiers after they entered restricted waters off the coast of Palestine. (Mario Jasso/Cuartoscuro)
Looking ahead
The week underscored how Mexico’s strengths and vulnerabilities will collide during next year’s pivotal USMCA review.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer’s recent accusation that Mexico fails to honor USMCA commitments in energy, telecommunications and agriculture signals difficult negotiations ahead. President Sheinbaum responded that Washington raised “about 50 points” largely stemming from misunderstandings — citing labor court funding calculations that overlooked state contributions — and expressed confidence that most issues are resolved. Yet Greer’s blunt assertion that “it doesn’t make a lot of sense to talk about extending” the pact suggests that challenging bilateral talks are ahead.
Security presents another mixed picture. Homicides are down, but public fear is at a three-year high — 63.2% of Mexicans feel unsafe, up from 58.6% a year earlier.
At the border, apprehensions plummeted to a 55-year low — just 237,565 in FY2025, down 87% from recent averages. And the World Bank’s upgraded forecast of 0.5% growth, though modest, joins similar OECD and IMF revisions suggesting economic stabilization. Record government revenue offers fiscal breathing room.
But the CIBanco liquidation exposed financial sector fragilities precisely when Mexico needs to project institutional soundness. Whether Mexico can resolve these contradictions — compliance versus sovereignty, falling crime versus rising fear — will determine its position when formal USMCA negotiations begin.
Mexico News Daily
This story contains summaries of original Mexico News Daily articles. The summaries were generated by Claude, then revised and fact-checked by a Mexico News Daily staff editor.
