### Migrant Associations Urge New Tijuana Mayor to Reinstate Support Programs
In Tijuana, migrant advocacy groups are calling on the newly elected mayor, Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, to reinstate support programs and enhance security measures for migrant shelters. José María Lara, director of Movimiento 2000, emphasized the need for the new administration to address the issues left by the previous one, led by former mayor Monserrat Caballero Ramírez. Lara pointed out that during Ramírez’s term, the municipal police presence in shelters was withdrawn, affecting the security of displaced inhabitants.
Lara noted that some effective programs, such as regular police patrols of the shelters, were discontinued under the previous administration. These patrols were instead managed via telephone, which Lara believes is insufficient. He urges Burgueño Ruiz to reintroduce these patrols, indicating that a more visible police presence is crucial for maintaining safety in the shelters.
Additionally, Lara mentioned the need to restore vital support programs that provided essential supplies like rice and beans to shelters—support that was cut off last year. He invited the new mayor to engage with migrant representatives to understand community needs better and to develop new assistance initiatives.
“These actions are critical for organizations addressing this need because ultimately, we are performing a humanitarian task that should also be undertaken by municipal, state, and federal authorities,” Lara stated.
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### Secondary Article: Decline in Refugee Requests in Baja California Attributed to Various Factors
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), there has been a noticeable decline in the number of refugee requests in Baja California. Various factors have contributed to this decrease, including changes in migration policies and the recent pandemic’s impact on mobility and border control measures.
Local activists have expressed concerns over the recent appointment of Palau Hernández as the new director of the National Migration Institute (INM) in Baja California. They feel ignored and are wary of the potential implications for migrant assistance and policy enforcement under the new leadership.
Employers in Tijuana are also facing challenges in hiring migrants, as many are unaware of the legal documentation required for employment. This lack of awareness further complicates migrants’ efforts to secure stable jobs and integrate into the local community.
In related news, workers from the Judicial Power of the Federation (PJF) staged protests blocking the Otay commercial port of entry briefly. This was their third demonstration within a week, emphasizing ongoing labor disputes. The National Electoral Institute (INE) is also preparing for upcoming judicial elections, though budget details remain undecided.
Lastly, there has been an increase in cases of domestic violence in Tijuana, with around 638 people seeking temporary refuge during the past three years due to threats to their lives. Furthermore, in a tragic incident, a man died from a fall while working on a construction project at his residence in Terrazas del Valle.
The Secretary of Tourism for Baja California confirmed that platforms like Airbnb are regulated in the state, with taxes being collected from these accommodations. The current exchange rates for the U.S. Dollar in Tijuana can be checked at various banks across Mexico.
For ongoing updates and further information, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.