By Pablo Barrera / Archive photo by Pablo Barrera

QUETZALTENANGO – Maintaining safety and order during periods of high vehicular and pedestrian traffic, such as Holy Week or Independence Day festivities, is a priority for authorities and emergency services in the "City of the Star."

Having quick access to assistance numbers not only facilitates the resolution of domestic incidents but can also make a difference in critical situations. Below is the updated directory of basic services, security, and tourist assistance in Xela.

🛠 Basic and Municipal Services

To report power outages, water leaks, or infrastructure issues, the municipality provides the following direct lines:

• Municipal Electric Company (EEMQ): 7767-4093
• Municipal Water Company (EMAX): 7767-2000
• Drainage Maintenance: 3159-9708 (Contact via WhatsApp)
• General Cemetery Administration: 7761-4038

🚑 Emergency and Medical Services

In case of accidents, medical transfers, or fires, these are the national and local numbers based in Quetzaltenango:

• Volunteer Firefighters: 122 (National) / 7761-2002 (Local Station)
• Guatemalan Red Cross: 125 (National) / 7761-2746 (Xela Delegation)
• CONRED (Disaster Management): 119

👮 Security and Visitor Assistance

To ensure a peaceful stay for national and foreign tourists visiting the Historic Center and the surrounding department:

• National Civil Police (Station 41): 5528-5959
• DISETUR (Tourist Security Division): 5423-8500
• INGUAT Assistance: 4796-2775

Safety Recommendation: Citizens and visitors are suggested to save these contacts in their phonebooks under the prefix "Emergency" for immediate search in case of need.

Prevention is the key to enjoying the traditions and architectural beauty of Xelajú with complete peace of mind. This directory remains valid for permanent public consultation through official information channels.

Por Pablo Barrera / imagen de archivo de Pablo Barrera 

QUETZALTENANGO – Mantener la seguridad y el orden durante las épocas de mayor afluencia vehicular y peatonal, como la Semana Santa o las fiestas de independencia, es una prioridad para las autoridades y cuerpos de socorro en la Ciudad de la Estrella.

Contar con un acceso rápido a los números de asistencia no solo facilita la resolución de incidentes domésticos, sino que puede marcar la diferencia en situaciones críticas. A continuación, presentamos el directorio actualizado de servicios básicos, seguridad y asistencia al turista en Xela.

🛠 Servicios Básicos y Municipales

Para reportar fallas en el suministro eléctrico, fugas de agua o problemas de infraestructura, la municipalidad dispone de las siguientes líneas directas:

• Empresa Eléctrica Municipal (EEMQ): 7767-4093
• Empresa Municipal de Aguas (EMAX): 7767-2000
• Mantenimiento de Drenajes: 3159-9708 (Atención vía WhatsApp)
• Administración del Cementerio General: 7761-4038

🚑 Cuerpos de Socorro y Emergencias Médicas

En caso de accidentes, traslados médicos o incendios, estos son los números nacionales y locales con base en Quetzaltenango:

• Bomberos Voluntarios: 122 (Nacional) / 7761-2002 (Sede Local)
• Cruz Roja Guatemalteca: 125 (Nacional) / 7761-2746 (Delegación Xela)
• CONRED (Gestión de Desastres): 119

👮 Seguridad y Asistencia al Visitante

Para garantizar una estancia tranquila a los turistas nacionales y extranjeros que recorren el Centro Histórico y los alrededores del departamento:

• Policía Nacional Civil (Comisaría 41): 5528-5959
• DISETUR (División de Seguridad Turística): 5423-8500
• Asistencia INGUAT: 4796-2775

Recomendación de Seguridad: Se sugiere a los ciudadanos y visitantes guardar estos contactos en su agenda telefónica bajo el prefijo "Emergencia" para una búsqueda inmediata en caso de necesidad.

La prevención es la clave para disfrutar de las tradiciones y la belleza arquitectónica de Xelajú con total tranquilidad. Este directorio se mantiene vigente para la consulta ciudadana permanente a través de los canales oficiales de información.

By Pablo Barrera / Image by Pixabay

GUATEMALA | The Government of Guatemala, led by President Bernardo Arévalo, has presented a bill to implement a temporary subsidy for fuels and propane gas. This measure is a direct response to the instability of the international oil market, affected by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that impact transportation costs and the basic food basket.

How much will Guatemalans save?

The support program includes different amounts for the most consumed products:

• Diesel: This category receives the most support (Q10 per gallon), given its direct impact on freight and passenger transport.
• Gasoline: Both Superior and Regular will receive a discount of Q5 per gallon.
• Propane Gas: The 25-pound cylinder, essential for households, will have a Q20 subsidy.

Impact on the Wallet and the Economy

With this measure, the price of diesel could stabilize near Q31.39, while gasoline prices would hover around Q33.00 and Q34.00. According to the Executive branch, the main focus is on diesel to prevent a price hike in food and basic services.

Financing Without Additional Debt

A key aspect of this proposal is that it will be funded through a budget reallocation. Deputy Minister Patricia Joachín confirmed that cash balances from the Ministry of Finance, totaling more than Q6 billion, will be used, thus avoiding the need to expand the general budget or acquire new debt.

The Debate in Congress

Although the measure seeks immediate relief, the Congress of the Republic maintains an active debate. Some sectors propose alternative solutions, such as the temporary suspension of the Oil Distribution Tax (IDP), while others emphasize the need to ensure that the benefit reaches the final consumer in full without getting stuck in the distribution chain.

Por Pablo Barrera / imagen de pixabay 

GUATEMALA | El Gobierno de Guatemala, encabezado por el presidente Bernardo Arévalo, ha presentado una iniciativa de ley para implementar un subsidio temporal a los combustibles y al gas propano. Esta medida surge como respuesta directa a la inestabilidad del mercado internacional de petróleo, afectado por tensiones geopolíticas en el Medio Oriente que impactan los costos de transporte y la canasta básica.

¿De cuánto será el ahorro para los guatemaltecos?

El programa de apoyo contempla montos diferenciados para los productos de mayor consumo:

• Diésel: Es el rubro con mayor apoyo (Q10 por galón), dado su impacto directo en el transporte de carga y pasajeros.
• Gasolinas: Tanto la Superior como la Regular recibirán un descuento de Q5 por galón.
• Gas Propano: El cilindro de 25 libras, esencial en los hogares, tendrá un subsidio de Q20.

Impacto en el bolsillo y la economía

Con esta medida, el precio del diésel podría estabilizarse cerca de los Q31.39, mientras que las gasolinas rondarían los Q33.00 y Q34.00. Según el Ejecutivo, el enfoque principal está en el diésel para evitar una escalada de precios en los alimentos y servicios básicos.

Financiamiento sin deuda adicional

Una de las claves de esta propuesta es que se financiará mediante una readecuación presupuestaria. La viceministra Patricia Joachín confirmó que se utilizarán saldos de caja del Ministerio de Finanzas, los cuales ascienden a más de Q6 mil millones, evitando así la necesidad de ampliar el presupuesto general o adquirir nueva deuda.

El debate en el Congreso

Aunque la medida busca un alivio inmediato, el Congreso de la República mantiene un debate activo. Algunos sectores proponen soluciones alternativas, como la suspensión temporal del Impuesto a la Distribución de Petróleo (IDP), mientras que otros enfatizan la necesidad de garantizar que el beneficio llegue íntegro al consumidor final sin quedarse en la cadena de distribución.

By Pablo Barrera / Archive Images: Pablo Barrera

QUETZALTENANGO – With a commitment to improving quality of life and reclaiming the technical excellence of a historic invention, Purifiltro Artesanal has launched in Xela. This initiative not only offers a sustainable solution for access to drinking water but also pays direct tribute to Fernando Mazariegos, the creator of the original filtration technology at the Central American Institute for Research and Industrial Technology (ICAITI).

Manufactured with 100% labor from Chimaltenango, Purifiltro Artesanal rescues an original and improved recipe that combines three key elements to guarantee water purity: volcanic white clay from Rabinal, pine sawdust from Purulhá, and colloidal silver as a bactericidal agent.

 "This filter is inspired by continuing the mission of bringing purified water to every corner of Guatemala," says Aurora Marisol de León, Sales Manager of the organization.

Innovation and Tradition in a Single Product

Unlike other options on the market, this filter uses organic materials scientifically proven for over 20 years. The production plant, located in Chimaltenango, applies rigorous quality controls to every unit, generating local employment and development for the region.

Models and Availability:

• Traditional and Artisanal Lines: Available in 22 and 7-liter capacities.
• Finishes: Functional plastic models, as well as smooth or decorated clay for an aesthetic touch.
• Prices: Ranging from Q325.00 to Q1,150.00, adapting to the needs of every Guatemalan home.

José María Ramos Porras, founder of Purifiltro S.A., highlights the simplicity of its maintenance: "The purifying unit should be replaced every two years, and cleaning is done using only the water filtered by the unit itself, ensuring long-term effectiveness."

Those interested can purchase their units through official channels at purifiltroartesanal.com, their Facebook and Instagram pages, or directly at the factory and authorized points of sale.

Por Pablo Barrera / imágenes de archivo, Pablo Barrera 

QUETZALTENANGO – Con el compromiso de mejorar la calidad de vida y retomar la excelencia técnica de un invento histórico, se presenta Purifiltro Artesanal en Xela. Esta iniciativa no solo ofrece una solución sostenible para el acceso a agua potable, sino que rinde un tributo directo al Licenciado Fernando Mazariegos, creador de la tecnología original de filtración en el Instituto Centroamericano de Investigación y Tecnología Industrial (ICAITI).

Fabricado con mano de obra 100% chimalteca, Purifiltro Artesanal rescata la receta original y mejorada que combina tres elementos clave para garantizar la pureza del agua: barro blanco de origen volcánico de Rabinal, aserrín de pino de Purulhá y plata coloidal como agente bactericida.

"Este es un filtro inspirado en continuar con el propósito de llevar agua purificada a todos los rincones de Guatemala", afirma Aurora Marisol de León, Gerente de Ventas de la organización.

Innovación y Tradición en un Solo Producto

A diferencia de otras opciones en el mercado, este filtro emplea materiales orgánicos científicamente comprobados desde hace más de 20 años. La planta de producción, ubicada en Chimaltenango, aplica rigurosos controles de calidad en cada unidad, generando además empleo local y desarrollo para la región.

Modelos y disponibilidad:

• Línea Tradicional y Artesanal: Disponibles en capacidades de 22 y 7 litros.
• Acabados: Presentaciones en plástico funcional, así como barro liso o decorado para un toque estético.
• Precios: Oscilan entre los Q325.00 y Q1,150.00, adaptándose a las necesidades de cada hogar guatemalteco.

José María Ramos Porras, fundador de Purifiltro S.A., destaca la sencillez de su mantenimiento: "La unidad purificadora debe cambiarse cada dos años y su limpieza se realiza únicamente con el agua filtrada por la misma unidad, asegurando así su efectividad a largo plazo".

Los interesados pueden adquirir sus unidades a través de los canales oficiales en purifiltroartesanal.com, sus redes sociales en Facebook e Instagram, o directamente en su fábrica y puntos de venta autorizados.

Salcajá Immortalizes Guatemalan Resilience with the Inauguration of the Monumental Mural "The Silence of the 2020 Curfew"

By Pablo Barrera / Images courtesy of Sergio Alvarado via Mildred Estrada

SALCAJÁ, QUETZALTENANGO – In an evening marked by emotion and the recognition of collective memory, the official inauguration and unveiling of the mural "The Silence of the 2020 Curfew" took place last Saturday, March 21, at 6:00 PM in the lobby of the Salcajá Convention Center. The event was attended by the renowned master artist Sergio Alvarado, municipal authorities led by Lic. William Calderón, and the team of specialists who made this historic work possible, representing a milestone in Guatemalan art.

What now stands as a visual landmark measuring 4.50 by 6.53 meters began in the solitude of confinement. On March 22, 2020, as the country plunged into the uncertainty of the first curfew, artist Sergio Alvarado took a blank canvas to channel the emotions of a world in absolute silence. Following a six-year process of creative evolution and administrative efforts, that emergency sketch has been transformed into a permanent legacy for the cultural heritage of Quetzaltenango.

The piece, executed with a mixed technique of charcoal, acrylic, and oils, utilizes horizontal and vertical brushstrokes that emulate the work of Salcajá’s weavers, intertwining local identity with contemporary history.

Every detail of the mural narrates a duality: from the "Red Moon" and folk mysticism to the "Grey Circle" symbolizing the confinement of houses without doors or windows, contrasted by the smoke from chimneys representing latent life and hope.

This project was made possible thanks to the collaborative work of a multidisciplinary team that accompanied Master Alvarado:

 * Quetzaly Alvarado, Artist.

* Mildred Estrada de Alvarado, Primary Education Teacher.

 * Melvin Tajiboy Juárez, Artist.

 * Carlos Ordoñez, Professor of Plastic Arts.

With this delivery, the current municipal administration and its Council have reaffirmed their commitment to the dignification of public spaces and the promotion of art as a tool for civic unity. The mural is not merely a decorative piece; it is an emotional bridge between yesterday and today, designed to be contemplated especially during the transition from afternoon to evening, marking the line between who we were and the strengthened version of today's society.

The Municipality of Salcajá invites the general public and visitors to discover this work at the Convention Center, a space where the silence of 2020 has become an eternal testimony of resilience and creativity.

Salcajá inmortaliza la resiliencia guatemalteca con la inauguración del mural monumental "El Silencio en Toque de Queda 2020"

By Pablo Barrera / Image by Xelajú MC

Quetzaltenango. In a high-voltage clash for Matchday 14 of the 2026 Clausura Tournament, Xelajú MC secured a pivotal home victory, overcoming Municipal 2-1 in a match defined by their resilience and individual clinical finishing.

The match began with a solid performance from the "Escarlata" side. Municipal dictated the tempo throughout the first half, showcasing precise associative play and an intelligent reading of the spaces behind the local defense. This dominance was reflected on the scoreboard through a superb long-range strike by "Checa" Hernández, who curled the ball into the top corner to break the deadlock and send the visitors into halftime with a well-deserved tactical lead.

The script changed radically in the second half. The "Superchivos" tightened their lines and found the turning point in the 55th minute, when Denilson Ochaeta appeared in the box to connect with a powerful header that leveled the score. Although the home side still showed inconsistencies in their collective buildup, sheer determination proved to be the deciding factor.

With this outcome, Xelajú MC proves that even on days lacking collective fluidity, individual hierarchy and character in critical moments are enough to take all three points against a direct rival.

Por Pablo Barrera / imagen de Xelajú MC 

Quetzaltenango. En un duelo de alto voltaje correspondiente a la jornada 14 del Torneo Clausura 2026, el Xelajú MC logró una victoria fundamental en casa, superando 2-1 al Municipal en un encuentro marcado por la capacidad de reacción y la contundencia individual.

El compromiso inició con un cuadro escarlata sólido. Municipal dictó el ritmo durante la primera mitad, haciendo gala de un juego asociativo preciso y una lectura inteligente de los espacios a la espalda de la zaga local. El reflejo de este dominio llegó al marcador con un soberbio disparo de media distancia de "Checa" Hernández, quien colgó el balón en el ángulo, rompiendo el cero y enviando a los visitantes al descanso con una merecida ventaja táctica.

Para el complemento, el guion cambió radicalmente. Los "Superchivos" ajustaron líneas y encontraron el punto de inflexión al minuto 55, cuando Denilson Ochaeta apareció en el área para conectar un sólido cabezazo que igualó las acciones. A pesar de que el colectivo local aún mostraba intermitencia en la elaboración de juego, la determinación fue el factor diferencial.

La estocada final llegó al minuto 76. Derrickson Quiros se erigió como la figura del encuentro con una ejecución magistral de media distancia, emulando la factura técnica del gol visitante y sentenciando el 2-1 aunque no definitivo. 

Al minuto 93, Steven Cárdenas anotaría un verdadero golazo casi desde el medio campo, tras ver adelantado al arquero Kenderson Navarro y así sentenció el 3 a 1 definitivo.

Con este resultado, Xelajú MC demuestra que, incluso en días de escasa fluidez colectiva, la jerarquía individual y el carácter en momentos críticos son suficientes para sumar de a tres ante un rival directo.

By Pablo Barrera / image by Aciprensa 

QUETZALTENANGO – This March 19, the global Catholic community joins in the celebration of the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The feast honors the man who, by divine decree, assumed the role of head of the Holy Family and protector of the Redeemer, establishing himself as one of the most influential figures in the history of Christianity.

A Patronage of Global Reach

Beyond his role in the home of Nazareth, Saint Joseph’s legacy extends through multiple official titles. In the 19th century, Blessed Pope Pius IX officially proclaimed him "Patron of the Catholic Church," recognizing his work as the custodian of the original seed of the faith.

His current influence is manifested in various fields:

• Geographical: He is the patron saint of numerous nations, most notably Peru, and his name graces countless cities around the globe.
• Social: He is venerated as the ultimate model for fathers and husbands due to his devotion and active silence.
• Spiritual: He is recognized as the "Patron of a Happy Death," under the belief that he departed from this world in the arms of Jesus and Mary.

Justice and Silence: The Virtues of the "Just Man"

The biblical narrative describes Joseph as a man of action rather than words. The Gospel of Matthew (1:20-21) recounts the critical moment when, faced with doubt and uncertainty, Joseph chose to trust the angel's message: "Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife."

This act of obedience transformed the humble carpenter into a fundamental pillar of salvation history. Today, the feast invites the faithful to reflect on the importance of trust in Providence and courage in the face of contemporary family and social challenges.

The celebration of this day includes liturgical acts in various parishes, reaffirming Joseph's role not only as a historical figure but as a living intercessor for the Universal Church.

By Pablo Barrera / Social Media Image

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA | The Argentine Football Association has officially announced its final major preparation test ahead of the World Cup in North America. Lionel Scaloni’s "Albiceleste" will host the Guatemala National Team next Tuesday, March 31, in Buenos Aires. While the exact venue and kickoff time are yet to be confirmed, all signs point to the Estadio Monumental as the stage for this historic clash.

ARGENTINA SQUAD: SCALONI’S POWERHOUSE

Head coach Lionel Scaloni has presented a star-studded roster led by captain Lionel Messi, blending the experience of World Champions with rising stars from European football:

•  Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa), Gerónimo Rulli (Olympique de Marseille), and Juan Musso (Atlético de Madrid).
•  Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Atlético de Madrid), Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur), Leonardo Balerdi (Olympique de Marseille), Marcos Senesi (AFC Bournemouth), Nicolás Otamendi (SL Benfica), Tomás Palacios (Estudiantes de La Plata), Nicolás Tagliafico (Olympique de Lyon), Gabriel Rojas (Racing Club), and Marcos Acuña (River Plate).
•  Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Boca Juniors), Máximo Perrone (Como 1907), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernández (Chelsea), Valentín Barco (Racing Strasbourg), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), and Exequiel Palacios (Bayer 04 Leverkusen).
•  Forwards: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nicolás Paz (Como 1907), Gianluca Prestianni (SL Benfica), Nicolás González (Atlético de Madrid), Giuliano Simeone (Atlético de Madrid), Thiago Almada (Atlético de Madrid), José López (Palmeiras), and Julián Álvarez (Atlético de Madrid).

GUATEMALA SQUAD: TENA’S CHALLENGE

On the other side, coach Luis Fernando Tena has selected 21 players, highlighting a strong base from the local league and international players currently in peak form:

 * José Agustín Ardón Castellanos (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * José Mario Rosales Marroquín (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * Oscar Alexander Santis Cayax (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * Oscar Antonio Castellanos Santos (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * Luis José Morán Varela (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * Diego André Fernández Chinchilla (Antigua G.F.C.)

 * Allen José Yanes Pinto (Deportivo Mixco)

 * Kenderson Alessandro Navarro Hernández (C.S.D. Municipal)

 * Carlos Daniel Aguilar Morales (C.S.D. Municipal)

 * Jonathan Francisco Franco González (C.S.D. Municipal)

 * José Alfredo Morales Concua (C.S.D. Municipal)

 * Rudy Josué Muñoz Boteo (C.S.D. Municipal)

 * José Carlos Pinto Samayoa (Comunicaciones F.C.)

 * Stheven Adán Robles Ruiz (Comunicaciones F.C.)

 * Darwin Gregorio Lom Moscoso (Club The Strongest)

 * Daniel Omar Mendez Sanchez (C.F. Pachuca)

 * Marcelo Adrián Hernández de León (C.S. Cartaginés)

 * Kevin Estuardo Ramirez Siguenza (Deportivo Malacateco)

 * Matthew Dominic Evans Wolff (L.A.F.C.)

 * Olger Escobar (C.F. Montreal)

 * Arquimidez Rafael Zacarias Ordoñez (Loudoun United F.C.)

Xela In Focus will closely follow every detail of this match, which is set to bring the country to a standstill.