We get it—buying a house in Baja sounds dreamy. Ocean breeze, fish tacos, and a fresh start. But if you’re buying from someone who isn’t licensed… you might be buying trouble.
The Risk Is Real
Right now, more than 80% of people selling real estate in Baja California don’t have a license. They just decided one day, “Hey, I sell houses now!” And poof—they’re in business.
Only around 350 agents are officially licensed, out of more than 2,000 working the market. So when you hear someone say “my cousin can show you some lots,” maybe ask what paperwork he’s actually got.
Time to Clean Up
The State Economic Planning Office is trying to fix this. They just launched 100 free training spots for people who actually want to learn the rules and get legal.
The 40-hour course is the first step to getting the real deal: a state license and a spot on the official registry. That list separates the legit folks from the ones selling swamp land in Rosarito “with a view.”
At the recent “Semana del Inmobiliario 2025,” state officials, real estate leaders, and a few sharp-dressed agents came together to push this message: If you’re selling homes, get licensed—or get out of the way.
Why You Should Care
Because it’s your money. And your house. And if anything goes wrong, you don’t want to hear “well, I didn’t know I needed to mention that lien.”
Unlicensed sellers:
Don’t follow any rules.
Can vanish after the sale.
Probably don’t know what they’re doing.
Licensed agents, on the other hand, are at least on the record. If they mess up, you can find them. That alone is worth more than a handshake.
✅ What Buyers Should Do
Ask for their license. It’s a number, not a vibe.
Check they’re listed on the state registry. Don’t just take their word for it.
Don’t get blinded by “deals.” Cheap now could mean costly later.
Buying a house in Baja? Ask for a license. Not a vibe. Photo by Oliver Quintero
Final Word
Look—we’re not trying to scare you. But if you buy a house from someone who isn’t licensed, don’t say nobody warned you. When it comes to real estate, the only thing worse than paying too much is paying twice.
Baja’s housing market is hot. But the smartest move you can make? Buy with someone who actually knows what they’re doing—and has the license to prove it.
🟣 No Bad News. Just the stuff you wish someone told you sooner.
Turns out, a little beach cleanup goes a long way.
This Tuesday, July 1st, Playa Hermosa in Ensenada wasn’t just sun and sand—it was gloves, trash bags, and a team effort. State Secretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture (SEPESCA BC), Alma Rosa García Juárez, showed up with her crew for a cleanup event organized as part of the National Week Against Sanitary Risks.
And they weren’t alone. Red Cross volunteers also joined the effort, rolling up their sleeves to help clear the coast.
From Sand to Seafood
Alma Rosa didn’t just show up for a photo op. She’s been vocal about how clean beaches create a ripple effect—benefiting everything from marine life to food safety.
Her team reminded everyone that clean sand means cleaner water, which is key for aquaculture. That’s especially true for shellfish like oysters, mussels, and clams—aka the pride of local seafood culture. When the water’s dirty, so is the product. Nobody wants plastic-flavored ceviche.
Floating trash and microplastics don’t just look gross—they release toxins, upset the pH of the water, and open the door for harmful bacteria. The result? Bad news for both fish and fishermen.
Trash-Free = Tourist-Ready
Beyond the seafood, there’s tourism. Because let’s be honest: no one’s booking an Airbnb next to a trash heap.
Baja’s already blessed with great weather. Add a sparkling coastline, and you’ve got a spot that sells itself. Clean beaches attract more visitors, boost local business, and keep the “Baja magic” alive.
This isn’t just about looking good—it’s about living better. As Alma Rosa said, a clean ecosystem reflects a healthy, inspired community.
Global Goals, Local Wins
There’s also the bigger picture. Beach cleanups tie directly into the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda—specifically climate action and marine life preservation. Who knew tossing a bottle in the right bin could help save the planet?
During the Playa Hermosa cleanup, Alma Rosa met with local leaders including COFEPRIS, the Baja State Health Department, and Ensenada’s ecology team. Their message was clear: clean beaches are a shared job—with shared benefits.
And with Red Cross volunteers pitching in too, it’s proof that Baja cares—from its officials to its citizens.
#Photo courtesy of SEPESCA BC, taken during the July 1st cleanup at Playa Hermosa—because protecting the ocean starts with cleaning up the shore.
What You Can Do
Don’t ghost your garbage. Take it with you.
Support recycling efforts. Even if it’s not glamorous.
Join the next cleanup. It’s cheaper than therapy and better for the ocean.
Clean beaches mean better seafood, healthier oceans, and a brighter Baja. Let’s keep the coast clear.
Security isn’t just talk in Baja California anymore—it’s action. And not the Hollywood kind.
A criminal gang that was shaking down business owners in Ensenada has been taken down. The charge? Cobro de piso—that ugly racket where criminals demand money in exchange for “protection.” Refuse to pay? They light your place on fire or spray your home with bullets. That’s exactly what happened to one local restaurateur.
But here’s the plot twist: he reported it. That one act of courage set off a chain of events that ended with four men in cuffs. Boom.
From Flames to Arrests
According to the State Attorney General, these suspects were tied not only to extortion in Ensenada but also to a homicide in Mexicali. After committing the murder, they tried to lie low back in Mexicali—unaware that investigators were already connecting the dots.
They weren’t just petty criminals, either. Authorities say they were part of an organized crime group dealing in drugs and human smuggling. One tip, one complaint, and the whole thing unraveled.
As the AG put it, “We needed a formal complaint to make this happen.” In other words: silence helps the criminals. Speaking up helps everyone else.
More Boots, More Brakes
This isn’t an isolated case. As we’ve reported this month on ggnorth.com, the Baja California government has ramped up security with more patrols, more agents, and more checkpoints—especially around high-traffic corridors like Tecate–Tijuana.
Some folks complain about the delays, but let’s be real. A few extra minutes in traffic is worth it if it means your car doesn’t end up stripped in a canyon. Besides, these stops are working.
A National Guard officer (who asked to stay anonymous) told us that just last week at the Tecate–Tijuana checkpoint, they recovered four stolen cars and seized illegal substances. So yeah, those checkpoints aren’t just slowing you down—they’re stopping crime.
Not Just Luck—A Plan
All of this is part of Baja’s broader plan to make safety a priority. And it’s showing. From Ensenada to Mexicali, authorities are coordinating efforts and connecting cases across cities. This is real policing, not PR.
Even better? It’s giving business owners and tourists a reason to breathe easier.
Still a Long Road
The authorities believe this isn’t the only group operating. More victims may be out there, afraid to speak up. But this case proves that one voice is enough to tip the scales.
So if someone’s trying to charge you for “protection,” don’t stay quiet. Report it. You’re not alone—and the law might just be a few steps behind them.
Here’s the Deal
Extortion ring: Busted.
Cars & drugs: Recovered.
Officers: Working overtime.
The state: Making security a priority.
Citizens: Starting to believe it.
This time, Baja isn’t reacting—it’s taking charge.
In Valle de Guadalupe, some wineries try way too hard to seem important. Symmetria doesn’t have to. It doesn’t shout—it speaks in soft sips, kind gestures, and balanced bottles. And once you try it, you’re in.
We first crossed paths at a Provino press event a few years ago. That’s when we met Lola, a modest-looking bottle that hit different. Fresh, smooth, balanced. A year later, at the Muestra del Vino in 2024, we tasted it again. Still magical. That’s when we realized: Symmetria wasn’t a fad—it was a quiet revolution. The only problem? We had no idea where to find them again.
The Secret Ingredient: Balance
So what won us over? Their wines feel grounded—balanced enough to show skill, but never flashy. You can tell a barrel was involved, but it doesn’t try to dominate the room. Just enough to whisper “I’ve got your back”, not “I’ve got something to prove.”
Everything made sense after talking to Mauricio and Denise Soler, the couple behind the label. He’s the winemaker with a mission. She’s the force behind every label, sale, post, and good vibe. Their story started in Valle, but it wasn’t at Symmetria—it was when they became a couple around Monte Xanic. From the beginning, this was Mauricio’s dream, and Denise was right there building it with him, step by step.
From Vision to Vineyard
Their journey began in 2005, when the Soler family purchased a 5-acre property in the heart of the valley. Symmetria officially launched with the 2014 harvest—but long before that, Mauricio was already mapping out something bold.
While others followed tradition, he took a different route. Instead of studying winemaking locally, he enrolled in the Enology and Viticulture program at U.C. Fresno. After graduating, he gained real-world experience in the U.S., taking on key roles at several top wineries:
Artesa Winery (Cellar Worker/Lab Tech)
Roederer Estate (Enologist/Assistant Winemaker)
Maui Winery (Winemaker)
Longoria Winery (Associate Winemaker)
Each stop added depth. After years of learning and unlearning, Mauricio returned to Baja to pour it all into Symmetria. And now? He’s earned a spot on the “Wineries/Winemakers To Watch” list—and deservedly so.
A Logo with a Story
Their name comes from the Greek word for “balance,” but with a Baja twist. Their wines are global in style, but proudly local in roots. And their logo? A hummingbird for Denise’s grandmother, and a deer for Mauricio’s father. Two symbols, branded on every barrel, that tell the story of family, nature, vision, and love.
Fancy Words and Ice Cubes
During our chat, they shared a tasting room story that still makes them laugh. A sommelier once said, with full flair, “This wine has notes of sotobosque.” We all cracked up. I chimed in with, “You mean like when people say ‘terruño’ instead of dirt?”
(Just so you know: sotobosque means forest undergrowth. Not a character in Star Wars.)
And if someone asks for ice in their wine? No scandal here. They just smile and say, “How many cubes would you like?” No snobbery. Just enjoyment.
Pairings, Myths, and Grapes with Personality
We asked what pairing the wine snobs might hate—but they secretly love. Their answer?
Sparkling wine with pork rinds. No shame. Just crunch and bubbles. And they’re clear on the order of things: food first, wine second.
Favorite grape to work with? Chenin Colombard.
Most rebellious? Zinfandel. “It’s wild,” they laugh. “But fun.”
And the best part of the process? Mauricio jokes: “Drinking it!”
But truthfully, they love every step. Like that time at Tre Galline, when they opened a ten-year-old bottle of their own and found it full of memories. For them, wine is a time capsule you can pour.
So how much of winemaking is magic, and how much is nature?
“95 to 99% is nature,” says Mauricio. “The rest? Just patience.”
Oh—and they’re also working on a Nebbiolo that sounds like it might steal the spotlight. But we’ll save that for our next visit.
The Road Ahead: Growing with Soul
When asked what’s next for Symmetria, Mauricio was clear:
“We want to grow—but with intention. We don’t want to be a massive winery. We want to stay soulful. If someone comes back in 20 years, they should feel exactly what they feel today.”
Denise added:
“And we want to keep learning. You never fully master wine. Each year teaches something new. We want to grow as a family and as a team.”
That kind of mindset? You can taste it. They don’t bottle just to sell. If a wine doesn’t live up to their standards—it doesn’t go out. Period.
Your Next Favorite Bottle
Here are a few bottles to keep an eye out for:
Eje – perfect for surviving awkward family dinners.
Luminaria Blanc de Noirs – already rocking 91 points in the Guía Peñín.
Lola – the hug-in-a-bottle you didn’t know you needed.
Wanna Try It?
📞 619 659 4707
📧 denise.g19@gmail.com
Visits are personal, small, and cozy—best for groups of up to 10. Bigger group? Let’s talk. And yes, they speak perfect English.
Spoiler alert: A Sauvignon Blanc is coming—and it’s shaping up to be as juicy as a harvest-day rumor.
Symmetria exports 70% of their sparkling wines to the U.S. (Arizona, California, Nevada, Minnesota…), but you can also order online through La Competencia Imports.
And if you happen to see a roadrunner on the way there… don’t ignore it. For Mauricio and Denise, it’s a sign that something good is quietly fermenting.
Ensenada’s cruise port got a bit of extra sparkle yesterday with the arrival of the Navigator of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s most iconic vessels. Towering 15 decks above the ocean, this floating resort brought over 3,000 passengers to our charming port city—and we were there to capture it. (Scroll down for our exclusive 360° photo and video!)
The Navigator of the Seas belongs to Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class and first launched in 2002, though you’d never guess it by looking at her. A major renovation in 2019 gave the ship a full facelift—think laser tag arenas, a blow-dry bar, brand-new waterslides, and a totally revamped pool deck. It’s a resort on water, complete with a three-story main dining room, an ice skating rink (yes, really), and enough food options to keep you full from sunrise to sunrise.
Step into our immersive 360 experience and see the Navigator from the sky like never before. And don’t miss the video to see the excitement unfold in real time:
At over 1,020 feet in length and a gross tonnage of 139,999, this ship is no small visitor. She’s designed to carry more than 4,000 guests at full capacity and operates mainly out of Los Angeles, sailing short trips to the Mexican Riviera, including Cabo San Lucas and—lucky us—Ensenada.
Locals may have noticed the buzz near the Malecón as excited tourists disembarked, flooding the shops, grabbing fish tacos, and hopping onto wine tours to Guadalupe Valley. The ship’s arrival is a clear sign that cruise tourism is alive and well in Baja. Port officials told us the Navigator is scheduled to return multiple times throughout the season, injecting a welcome boost to the local economy.
With ships like this docking in our backyard, it’s safe to say: Ensenada is cruising into the spotlight.
Mexico demands evidence after U.S. accuses three banks of laundering cartel cash
MEXICO CITY — Just days after the U.S. Treasury called out three Mexican financial institutions for allegedly laundering cartel money linked to fentanyl trafficking, President Claudia Sheinbaum clapped back with a clear message: “No hay pruebas, solo dichos.” Translation? “No proof, just hearsay.”
In her signature morning press conference, Sheinbaum addressed the accusations leveled against CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector Casa de Bolsa—which the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) declared part of the fentanyl money machine. But according to Mexico’s top leader, the Treasury’s claims came without actual evidence. No bank statements, no names, no smoking gun. Just a memo and a very public naming and shaming.
The Mexican Government’s Response? Investigate—But Don’t Jump to Conclusions
Sheinbaum says Mexico’s Ministry of Finance and Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) received a confidential heads-up from FinCEN weeks ago, but that tip-off lacked the “why.” As in: why exactly does the U.S. think these banks are laundering drug money?
Since then, Mexico has formally asked for more details. Sheinbaum emphasized that the Chinese companies mentioned in the U.S. report are legally registered and that $139 billion in trade between China and Mexico isn’t built on crime—it’s built on commerce.
As for the alleged dirty transfers? “Just regular business,” Sheinbaum says, pointing out that thousands of similar transactions occur every day between Mexican and Chinese companies.
But Didn’t the U.S. Mention Cartels, Opioids, and Even García Luna?
Yes. And that’s where things get a little murky.
The FinCEN statement didn’t just throw shade—it dropped full-on accusations. The report linked the banks to the Sinaloa Cartel, Gulf Cartel, and CJNG. It even claimed that Vector helped launder $2 million and processed $40 million tied to Genaro García Luna, Mexico’s former top cop, who’s now sitting in a U.S. jail cell over cartel connections.
But Vector’s CEO, Eduardo Cantú, fired back on the radio: they checked their records, and neither García Luna nor his companies were ever their clients. And those Mexican firms tied to the alleged schemes? “Not our clients either,” said Cantú. Vector claims it’s been in touch with regulators and is happy to cooperate—just waiting for actual receipts from the U.S.
Intercam and CIBanco also denied any wrongdoing. In nearly identical statements, they said they comply with all Mexican and international financial rules and stand ready to work with both governments to clear things up.
Is This Just About Banks?
Not quite. The U.S. accusations have turned into something bigger—a potential political flashpoint.
One of the three institutions under fire, Vector, has ties to Alfonso Romo, a powerful businessman and close ally of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. That connection didn’t go unnoticed. Critics say the Treasury’s move may carry a hidden message aimed at figures within the current Mexican ruling party, Morena.
Meanwhile, canceled U.S. visas for other Mexican officials, including Baja California’s governor, have fueled speculation about wider investigations into cartel links at high levels of government.
Sheinbaum’s Bottom Line?
If there’s proof, Mexico will act. If not, don’t expect them to roll over.
“We’re not covering for anyone,” Sheinbaum said. “But we won’t act on speculation either.” She pointed to past U.S. missteps, including the high-profile arrest—and quiet release—of General Salvador Cienfuegos in 2020, as evidence that Washington can sometimes jump the gun.
While Mexican financial regulators have found minor administrative infractions at the banks in question, no signs of money laundering have surfaced so far.
Sheinbaum insists Mexico will keep asking for solid evidence and keep investigating. But until then, her stance is firm: “We are a free, sovereign country. We collaborate, but we don’t take orders.”
Let’s see if the Treasury’s next move comes with more than bold headlines.
This Saturday, June 22, Donald Trump announced Operation Midnight Hammer—a U.S. airstrike targeting three key Iranian nuclear sites (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan). Using stealth B‑2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles, the U.S. claimed to have “completely obliterated” them . Hours later, Iran answered. They launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar—but no casualties were reported, thanks to prior evacuations and missile intercepts .
Trump then shocked everyone again by tweeting that Israel and Iran had agreed to a 12-day ceasefire, effective June 24—though neither side confirmed the deal . So is there peace in the Middle East? Officially, no. Tensions remain high. But suddenly, talks are back on the table.
Why Baja Should Care
You might think “So what? This is in the Middle East.” Not quite. Because San Diego, just north of Baja, hosts the largest U.S. military base in the region. That puts Baja in the splash zone—dangerous heat, shockwaves, and fallout could reach us if things get messy.
Enter NUKEMAP, an interactive simulator built by historian Alex Wellerstein . When we plugged in a 1.2 megaton blast over San Diego:
A 1.5-mile radius would see total destruction.
Thermal burns could reach 8 miles deep.
Windows and roofs might shatter up to 15 miles away, affecting Tijuana, Tecate and Mexicali.
Fallout could drift into Ensenada, depending on wind—which is unpredictable in June .
Bottom line? Baja could feel shockwaves, broken glass, and radiation exposure—though not immediate wreckage. That’s not fear-mongering. It’s just smart awareness.
A “Merciful” Pause?
After Iran’s missile response, Trump floated the idea of a ceasefire and credited both sides for showing restraint . He even called it the end to the “12‑day war.” But with no official confirmation yet, global leaders—including Qatar—are still urging caution and calling for de-escalation .
Meanwhile, oil prices soared and then dipped as markets reacted to both threats and hope . And the United Nations weighed in, warning that nuclear strikes on Iran could collapse the global non‑proliferation framework .
Baja’s Takeaway
What does this all mean for us in Baja California?
Risk is real—but remote. We’re not next door to nuclear bombs downrange, but if San Diego is a target, we could still be in the fallout path.
Stay aware. Track wind patterns, follow alerts, and brush up on basic emergency measures.
Diplomacy matters. This unpredictable “yes, no, maybe” peace moment is another reminder: global stability depends on choices made far beyond our border.
Clean air matters. Fallout dirties more than lungs. Expect monitoring, even if fallout never drifts south.
What Should You Do?
Keep an eye on local news and emergency alerts—especially if a crisis worsens.
Use online tools like NUKEMAP or government preparedness sites to stay informed visually and in plain language.
Remember: knowledge doesn’t spoil a BBQ, but staying oblivious might.
Final Word
Trump’s “peace bombshell” might signal the end of the mini war—and even hint at a chance for diplomatic reset. But until Israel and Iran sign on (officially), we’re hovering in limbo.
Meanwhile, Baja isn’t completely off the hook. San Diego’s proximity makes this more than a distant drama. So grab a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, enjoy the coast—but stay current, not clueless.
Because in a world brimming with uncertainty, the best defense might just be informed calm.
📸 Image: Visual simulation via NUKEMAP (courtesy Alex Wellerstein)
Running Toward Community: Rosarito’s Half Marathon Was More Than Just a Race
ROSARITO, B.C. — The streets of Rosarito were pounding with sneakers, sunscreen, and just enough sweat to earn those shiny finisher medals. The 2025 Powerade Rosarito Half Marathon and its 5K sidekick drew over 2,500 runners, turning a sunny coastal Sunday into a full-blown celebration of community, resilience, and movement.
Yes, it was hot. Yes, it was humid. And yes, some runners wished for a few more hydration points. But judging by the smiles (and the glorious sunburns), the event delivered more than just miles—it brought magic.
Winners, Records, and Local Heroes
Daniel “Pollito” Valdez flew past the finish line in 1:09:56, defending his 2024 title like a true Mexicali champ. On the women’s side, Natalie Mendoza dominated with a 1:18:54 finish, leaving no doubt about her podium position.
But hey, this wasn’t just for elite athletes. Hundreds came out to walk, jog, or run the 5K, proving that Rosarito’s race isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of movement in all its forms.
And speaking of everyday heroes, one of our very own—Alberto Rosas, Gringo Gazette’s loyal Punta Banda delivery agent and ad rep—tackled the half marathon like a pro. If you see him out on his route this week, give him a sweaty high-five or a heartfelt “¡Felicidades!”
Meet Alberto Rosas—our Punta Banda newspaper hero, sales agent by day, and now half marathon finisher. Yep, he delivers ads and miles!
Music, Medals, and Tactical Gear?
Yep, along the route there was music, cheers, and the occasional cowbell. But the post-run scene got a surprising twist: the Guardia Nacional set up an info booth, complete with tactical gear displays and flyers reminding everyone they’re working to improve public safety. Officers Urbida and Cecilia were on hand to answer questions and hand out pamphlets about how to report crime online—turns out, even runners like to stay informed.
National Guard reps Oficial Urbida and Cecilia brought the gear, the pamphlets, and the public safety vibes to Rosarito’s marathon scene.
One Gripe, Plenty of Praise
If there was one recurring complaint? Not quite enough water stations for the heat. But organizers from IMDER were all ears, promising to review the feedback for future editions.
That said, the rest was a hit: good vibes, solid logistics, community support, and plenty of medals to show off on social media.
🎤 Behind the Scenes, All Hands on Deck
Before the race kicked off, a brief ceremonial send-off was held at the iconic Rosarito Arch. Among those present were Mayor Rocio Adame; councilmembers Yoselin Peña, Ricardo Cabrales, and Luisa Vanessa Díaz; Citizen Security Secretary Héctor Manzo; COTUCO Rosarito President Leonardo Verdugo; Immujer Director Irami Cortez de los Ángeles; City Secretary José Luis Alcalá; and Elias Torres Balcázar, representing INDE BC. The event was organized by IMDER—the city’s Municipal Institute of Sports—which also ensured safety, hydration, and good vibes across the board. Between the runners, volunteers, medics, and cheering neighbors, Rosarito showed once again that when it comes to community spirit, it goes the full distance.
Is This Your Sign to Lace Up?
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone who considers walking to the fridge a sport, events like these show the power of coming together through movement. And with a 5K option on the table, there’s truly a spot for everyone.
If you ran the Rosarito half or the 5K, we want to hear from you! Tag us, send photos, or just brag a little. And if you didn’t run—well, there’s always next year.
📝 Reporting by GGNorth’s running shoes and not-so-fresh legs
📸 Got race pics? Send them in and we’ll feature a few!
💬 Want more race or community fitness coverage? Let us know!
BAHÍA DE LOS ÁNGELES, Baja California — June 15, 2025
What happens when 160 anglers, 31 boats, and a whole lot of bait hit the Sea of Cortez? You get one heck of a fishing tournament—with pesos, pride, and plenty of fish tales up for grabs.
First Place Glory: Fisharmz Takes It All
Team Fisharmz from Los Angeles walked away as champions, hauling in a yellowtail and grouper combo that totaled 63.7 pounds. Their reward? A whopping 270,000 pesos, thanks to a trifecta win: first place, the bottom-fishing gold jackpot, and best captain honors.
Second and Third Place: Close, but No Trophy
Escualos y Trapos Fishing Crew from Ensenada secured second place with a combined catch of 56.8 pounds, taking home 100,000 pesos. Meanwhile, FG Sportfishing of San Diego landed third with a 53.5-pound grouper—earning 105,000 pesos total (from a 60,000-peso placement and a 45,000-peso silver jackpot).
#Best Women’s Team: Costa del Sol Sport Fishing from Bahía de los Ángeles #Jackpot Sweepers: Muñecos Fishing Team from Ensenada snagged both surface jackpots, reeling in 93,000 pesos#Top Youth Crew: El Siete Mares from Tijuana (10,000 pesos)Winners Uncovered
While it may seem like third place scored more than second, don’t worry—those jackpots were separate. Each team’s prize money was split among crew members.
Special Awards: Women, Kids, and Surface Pros
Best Women’s Team: Costa del Sol Sport Fishing from Bahía de los Ángeles
Top Youth Crew: El Siete Mares from Tijuana (10,000 pesos)
Jackpot Sweepers: Muñecos Fishing Team from Ensenada snagged both surface jackpots, reeling in 93,000 pesos
Catch & Release? Not This Time
No team submitted videos for the catch-and-release category—so that prize pool stayed untouched. However, all participants had a shot at gear raffles and giveaways just for joining.
Community Support and a Packed Dock
From 2:00 p.m. onward, the docks at Bahía de los Ángeles came alive with returning boats, giant fish, and plenty of cheers. Officials from SEPESCA BC, the Navy, and local leaders were on hand to celebrate the boost this event brings to the region’s economy.
📅 Next Stop: Ensenada, August 29–30
The next Dos Mares Baja tournament sets sail in Ensenada at the end of August. Whether you fish or just enjoy the vibe, mark your calendar—because this event is reeling in more than just sea creatures.
📸 Photo courtesy: SEPESCA BC
📝 Reporting by GGNorth—still covering what matters, even when it smells like fish.
The winds of change are blowing through Baja’s security forces. On Monday, June 16, 2025, General Laureano Carrillo Rodríguez, head of the Baja California Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSCBC), rolled out the latest updates on how the state plans to tackle crime with structure, staff, and strategy.
This isn’t just a shuffle of command—it’s a full-system overhaul, anchored in the National Security Strategy’s four federal pillars and backed by a homegrown plan built around 31 actions, 32 goals, and a dozen projects.
The Four Federal Pillars, Baja Style
General Carrillo—who also coordinates the national plan in Baja—outlined the core priorities:
Address the root causes of crime
Strengthen the National Guard
Expand intelligence and investigations
Boost coordination with federal, state, and municipal agencies
Locally, Baja’s strategy focuses heavily on prevention, and from January to June 2025 alone, the state reached over 232,000 residents through school programs, youth outreach, anti-addiction campaigns, and more.
Protecting Communities: Prevention in Action
The Violeta System, designed to protect women and minors, is now active.
A weapons exchange program destroyed 314 guns, 956 magazines, 19,275 rounds of ammunition, and 5,407 explosives—mostly in Tijuana and Mexicali.
Nine social programs were implemented to prevent crime across schools, neighborhoods, and public spaces.
Staffing, Oversight, and Fast Response
270 new positions are opening in the Fuerza Estatal de Seguridad Ciudadana (FESC).
23 administrative complaints are currently under review.
A new rapid-response team, FERI, is operational.
Cross-border intelligence collaboration is underway—but no specific international targets have been named. No mention of “Caza Gringos,” but we’ll keep our ears up.
Who’s on Patrol, and Where?
The state currently has 17,115 officersdeployed across seven municipalities:
Mexicali (est. 1915)
Tijuana (1953)
Ensenada (1953)
Tecate (1953)
Playas de Rosarito (1995)
San Quintín (2020)
San Felipe (2022)
Four new bases are in the works: Valle de Guadalupe (Ensenada), La Rumorosa (Tecate), San Felipe, and San Quintín—bringing coverage to areas vital for tourism, agriculture, and Baja’s growing wine country.
Who’s in Charge Now?
Carrillo introduced a new leadership team:
Cecilia González Acero, Undersecretary of Security
Álvaro Munguía Martínez, Director of Administration
Jorge Medina, General Coordinator of Operations
Oziel Arturo García Hernández, Director of FESC …along with regional leaders for Ensenada, Mexicali, and Tijuana, intelligence, vehicle fleets, and human resources.
So, What’s in It for Baja?
While it’s too early to know how much safer Baja will feel, these shifts show a real attempt to modernize and tighten security—especially in areas that matter to residents and visitors alike. With new resources, proactive staffing, and a broader geographic focus, the hope is that this won’t just be a rebrand—it’ll be a reset.
Have you noticed any changes in your city? Are these measures hitting the mark, or just moving the pieces around?
