After Felling of Ancient Tree ‘El Alamo’, Residents Say Four More Face Axe in Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Two months after the felling of the centuries-old tree known as “El Alamo,” residents and activists warn that four more trees on the same property are at risk of being cut down to make way for luxury condominiums.

The tree was toppled on March 7 when workers hired by the property owner used heavy machinery to sever its roots, sparking outrage among neighbors, tourists, and environmental activists. The property is located on Calle 4 between Avenidas 10 and 15.

According to sources who requested anonymity, the landowner intends to remove the remaining trees to expedite construction of a high-end housing complex. “The owner wants to sacrifice the other trees to build luxury condos and recover his money quickly,” said a resident identified as Javier. “He has no interest in applying for felling or rescue permits. They could cut them down at any moment.”

Javier added that the owner had always planned to remove the ancient tree but avoided the lengthy permit process. “It’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission, and with money, nothing is impossible,” he said.

Nearly two months after the incident, municipal environmental authorities have not disclosed the amount of the fine imposed on those responsible. Some local business owners estimate the penalty could reach 1 million pesos ($50,000) to avoid further scrutiny.

Margarita Santillán, a 15-year resident, recalled a restaurant that once operated under the tree’s canopy. “It offered a unique setting and coolness in the heat. The tree gave life and cultural value to the place. A city without trees not only degrades its urban image but also cheapens it,” she said.

Another anonymous resident confirmed that the owner plans to build condos on the lot and has decided to remove the trees at the back because they interfere with the project.

Local merchant Rodrigo Torres criticized developers’ attitudes. “We see voracious investors every day. They don’t care about vegetation; they just want to recover their investment quickly at the expense of the environment. They include extra money in their budgets to pay fines for environmental crimes instead of getting permits. This is due to the complicity of the authorities,” he said.