Coquimbo to hold 'Pampilla de la Gente' festival with focus on solidarity and economic recovery

Coquimbo will celebrate "Pampilla de la Gente" this Fiestas Patrias, reversing an earlier decision to suspend the event. Mayor Ali Manouchehri confirmed the festival will proceed but in a more limited capacity, prioritizing solidarity and economic recovery after severe flood damage in July.

The city council has approved over three billion pesos to aid in Coquimbo's reconstruction. "But lifting Coquimbo is not just about rebuilding streets and roads; we also need to reactivate our economy," Manouchehri stated. He explained that discussions with local fishermen, merchants, entrepreneurs, and hospitality industry representatives, alongside government agencies like Corfo and Sercotec, revealed a strong desire from these groups to work again and welcome visitors.

"That is why we have made a decision: this September 18, Coquimbo will have a Pampilla, but it will be a different Pampilla – a solidarity-driven, austere event focused on reactivation," the mayor announced. Further details about the festival's specific activities and organization are expected in the coming days. The decision reflects a balance between addressing the emergency and supporting the community's economic well-being.