Colombian president proposes 'Marshall Plan' for earthquake-hit Chocó

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella announced a proposal for the reconstruction of Chocó, one of the departments most severely affected by a recent 7.4 magnitude earthquake. Speaking on August 14, 2026, upon arrival in Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, De la Espriella likened his plan to the 'Marshall Plan,' the economic aid program used by the United States to help Western Europe recover after World War II. He expressed a desire to elevate the department's standing within Colombia.

The president stated that Chocó has historically suffered from centralism and state neglect. He views the current emergency as a crucial opportunity to transform the region, emphasizing the significant work ahead to rebuild affected areas. De la Espriella toured neighborhoods and educational centers in Quibdó that sustained damage from the earthquake.

The devastating earthquake, with its epicenter in San José del Palmar, Chocó, has resulted in a national toll of 285 deaths and 379 disappearances. The Chocó region alone reported 13 fatalities, with numerous homes and buildings destroyed. President De la Espriella, who took office just a week prior, has been actively responding to the crisis since the early days of his administration.

De la Espriella also plans to visit other affected areas, including Pereira, El Cairo, Toro, and Cali. He stressed the need for national unity in the recovery process and reiterated his commitment to decentralizing the government by relocating some presidential functions outside of Bogotá. The president affirmed his dedication to addressing the emergency and highlighted the potential for the reconstruction efforts to create new opportunities for the people of Chocó.