Guardianes de la Ciudad Boost Playa del Carmen’s Identity

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — In a ceremony filled with symbolism, local pride, and a vision for the future, Mayor Estefanía Mercado presided over the official installation and swearing-in of the "Guardianes de la Ciudad" (Guardians of the City) Committee. This pioneering civic alliance aims to strengthen local identity, protect cultural heritage, and serve as a strategic force in the municipality’s tourism transformation.

The event took place at the "Leona Vicario" auditorium in the new Municipal Palace. Mayor Mercado emphasized that the committee represents more than a consultative body—it is the ethical heart of a new tourism model centered on community and a sense of belonging.

A Living Commitment to the City

"The citizen’s decalogue is not an institutional document or a list of good intentions; it is a living guide reflected in real people and examples that show us the way. We know where we come from, but we also know where we want to go," said Mercado.

During the ceremony, tribute was paid to exemplary citizens who have left their mark on Playa del Carmen’s history and now embody the committee’s values. Among those honored were:

• Doña Leonor, founder of the 1ra Sur neighborhood and a symbol of community roots.
• Gildardo Sosa, a pioneer who helped build the community from its early days.
• Fidel Parra, a longtime resident of Puerto Aventuras and an example of civic pride.
• Silvia Reyes, a journalist who has given voice and narrative to the city.
• Onocífero Paredes, an educator who has shaped generations with strong values.
• Gerardo Valadez, a business leader who promoted socially responsible tourism development.

The Guardians’ Pledge

Upon taking their oath, the new Guardians committed to upholding the citizen’s decalogue, which includes principles such as:

• Loving Playa del Carmen above all else.
• Preserving the city’s brand and local identity.
• Representing the community with integrity.
• Actively participating in tourism development.
• Encouraging social engagement.
• Protecting historical, cultural, and natural heritage.
• Promoting humanistic values.
• Safeguarding long-term civic projects.
• Passing on this legacy to future generations.

Tourism Secretary Estefanía Hernández underscored the committee’s mission, stating, "Being a guardian means looking into the eyes of your neighbor and helping those in need; it means fighting side by side for the freedom and happiness of our people; it means protecting our tourism transformation, our identity, and our city’s brand."

A Collaborative Future

The "Guardianes de la Ciudad" Committee will work permanently in coordination with the municipal government, the tourism sector, civil society, and other community stakeholders to create a more just, inclusive, sustainable, and competitive destination.

The event was attended by Luis Herrera, the Municipal Secretary General; Eduardo Asencio, honorary president of the municipal DIF (Family Services Agency); council members, public officials, and special guests.