Jorge Eduardo Rojas

Mauricio Salazar, the Mayor of Pereira, Colombia, is newsworthy due to a recent 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday. The earthquake caused significant destruction, including the collapse of buildings, and resulted in numerous casualties. Mayor Salazar provided critical updates on the situation in Pereira, a city located approximately 300 km from the capital, Bogota. He reported that at least 18 people died in his city alone, describing the situation as 'critical.' His statements highlight the severe impact of the natural disaster on the region and underscore his role in managing the immediate aftermath and communicating the extent of the damage and loss of life to the public and media.