The Tijuana City Hall. through its Municipal System for the Comprehensive Protection of Children and Teenagers (Smpinna), hosted a specialized awareness forum on childhood cancer. The event brought together public institutions, civil associations, health specialists, and citizens to underscore the critical importance of timely detection, access to treatment, and comprehensive support for young patients and their families.
Held in commemoration of World Childhood Cancer Day, observed on February 15th, the forum served as a platform for reflection and coordination.
Marisol Hernández Sotelo, coordinator of Smpinna, opened the session by acknowledging the steadfast support of Mayor Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, emphasizing his commitment to actions that bolster the protection of the city’s children and teenagers.
Keep reading: Mayor Ismael Burgueño Announces Road Infrastructure Projects in Tijuana
The forum is a vital space to sensitize the public, share crucial information, and strengthen the bridge between the government, civil society, and medical experts.
“From Smpinna, we are grateful for the collaborative effort. We reaffirm our pledge to keep children at the heart of our actions, promoting public policies that are sensitive, inclusive, and coordinated to guarantee their comprehensive well-being,” Hernández Sotelo said.
Meanwhile, Wendy Ontiveros González, the Secretary of Well-Being in Tijuana, highlighted the importance of making the daily realities of affected families visible.
“This day of learning is about bringing their situation to light,” Ontiveros González explained. “It’s a way to embrace these families and tell them they are not alone. This administration, led by Mayor Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, approaches family well-being with a deep sense of empathy. I invite everyone including government, civil associations, and public health institutions to join forces. Together, we can make a difference in timely prevention and in providing the necessary support.”
Related: Tijuana Gives Annual Bonuses to Over 1,800 Police Officers
In addition, Councilwoman Magaly Ronquillo Palacios addressed the attendees, calling for a shared sense of responsibility and framing the issue in terms of hope and courage.
“Behind every diagnosis is a story that transcends pain,” Ronquillo Palacios remarked. “These are stories of immense bravery, unwavering hope, and a powerful example of the fight for life. It is our collective duty to respond.”
The program concluded with the presentation of recognitions to the participating speakers for their contributions. Among the distinguished officials and guests present were Florina Righetti Rojo, Director of the Municipal Institute Against Addictions; María Luisa Munguía Ramírez, Director of Crime Prevention and Citizen Participation; Ángel Barajas González, Director of the Civil Association Reconstruyendo una Esperanza, A.C.; and speaker Homero Fuentes de la Peña.
