Shrimp Season Brings Flavor and Fortune to Baja California

Shrimp Season Served on Ice
 Articles, Fishing

Shrimp Season Brings Flavor and Fortune to Baja California

Shrimp season is back, and Baja California is ready to cast its nets. The National Closed Season Committee just marked the calendar for the 2025–2026 season: September 29 for the Pacific, and October 14 for the Gulf of California. Get your cocktail sauce ready.

A Lifeline for Families

According to Alma Rosa García Juárez, head of Baja California’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Secretariat, this isn’t just about seafood. Shrimping keeps hundreds of families in San Felipe and the Upper Gulf afloat. From catching and cleaning, to packing and trucking, the shrimp trade is an entire ecosystem of jobs. Think of it as Baja’s pink gold rush.

Last Year’s Catch

In 2024, Baja’s fleet pulled in 94.25 tons of shrimp. Yes, the quarter ton counts, and no, we don’t know who weighed it. Small boats made the biggest splash, hauling 93.6 tons, while larger vessels collected the rest. The little guys clearly have game.

Baja Shrimp Season Is Back
#Fresh, icy, and straight from Baja’s coast — shrimp season has officially begun.

Science Behind the Season

These dates didn’t appear out of thin air. They came from research by the Institute for Sustainable Fisheries Research (IMIPAS), led by Víctor Manuel Vidal Espinoza. The science is simple: give the shrimp time to grow, then let fishermen have their turn before nature hits the reset button.

Programs with a Purpose

The state government, under Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, is pushing support programs for fishermen. New boat engines, fleet upgrades, and the “Fishing with Heart” initiative all aim to keep the industry healthy. The name might sound like a Hallmark movie, but it means help for fishermen and their families.

Shrimp on the Menu

What does all this mean for the rest of us? More shrimp dishes on Baja tables. Whether grilled on the beach, simmered in garlic butter, or tucked into a taco, shrimp is as much culture as it is food. Bite into one, and you taste the ocean — salty, sweet, and slightly rebellious. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a cold Tecate, and you’ll understand why locals guard this season like a holiday.

Closing Time

Every party has an end. For shrimp season, that comes on March 3, 2026, when the ban begins again. Until then, expect busy docks, humming processing plants, and Baja’s coastal towns celebrating their annual shrimp boom.

For the fishermen, the season means survival. For the rest of us, it means flavor. Either way, Baja wins.

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 Arts & Literature, Events

Dead Artists Make More Money? DAMMM Hits the Stage

If you think the art world is full of egos, scandals, and ridiculous schemes — you’re right. And now, you can watch it all unravel (with jazz hands) at the world premiere of Dead Artist’s Make More Money — or simply DAMMM: The Musical — opening September 26 at the La Misión Performing Arts Center (LMPAC).

Created by Baja resident Scott Haynes, this original production isn’t just theater, it’s a tongue-in-cheek dive into the chaotic world of contemporary art. Imagine the art market in the ‘80s, where a painting wasn’t worth much until the artist stopped breathing. Add toe-tapping songs, a crew of absurd characters, and a little tequila-soaked scheming, and you’ve got a show that’s exactly as unhinged as the real art scene.

The story drops us in Los Angeles, 1981 — neon suits, booming galleries, and everyone chasing the next Warhol. Dealers want fortune, artists want fame, collectors want bragging rights. The catch? Value skyrockets when an artist dies. Cue the hustlers, hangers-on, and over-the-top plots to cash in. This is not your average Broadway tear-jerker.

At the center of it all is EiD, a mysterious portrait painter in disguise — hoodie, shades, and all. Played by Matthew Noakes, EiD paints while he sings, hiding a past and a talent that just won’t stay buried. His sidekick Sancho, brought to life by Enrique Geronimo, is a dance instructor by day and a hustler by night. Think charm, chaos, and a little too much cologne. Together, they tumble through schemes outrageous enough to make even Picasso raise an eyebrow.

If you’re lucky, you might crack EiD’s true identity before the final curtain. The creators promise it’s hiding in plain sight, tucked into lyrics, glances, and that classic theater “ah-ha!” moment.

The soundtrack alone is worth the ticket — with cheeky numbers like “I Smell a Rat,” “It Has to Pass the Smell Test,” and “Drinking with a Purpose.” If you’re not humming on your way out, you probably fell asleep (which, frankly, seems impossible).

One of the quirks that makes DAMMM unique is the cast itself. Fifteen actors, each with speaking, singing, and dancing roles. Some are seasoned vets — like Danny Ingersol as A. Wormhole, a boozy insurance investigator who deserves his own spin-off. Others are first-timers stepping on stage for the first time, including performers over 60. According to director David Cattanio, this blend created unexpected chemistry: “Every cast member has lines, sings, and dances… the mix creates something truly special.”

Behind the humor, DAMMM marks a milestone for the La Misión Performing Arts Center. It’s the first original production staged at the venue, and it highlights LMPAC’s mission to bring innovative, cross-border theater to Baja California. And yes, whispers of future Spanish-language productions are already floating around.

Scott Haynes, the show’s creator, summed it up perfectly: “We wanted to create a world where the art world’s absurdities are on full display… and have fun doing it.” Mission accomplished.

The run kicks off September 26 at the La Misión Performing Arts Theater, Km 56.5 on the free road. Matinee shows run from 2–4 PM: September 26, 27, 28, October 2, 3, and 4. The cast will then head south for a final performance at the Gertrude Pearlman Theater in Punta Banda on October 10.

Tickets for the La Misión shows are available now on Eventbrite at tinyurl.com/DAMMM-tickets. For the Punta Banda finale, tickets are only through the Gertrude Pearlman Theater box office. Pro tip: don’t wait — sell-out buzz is already circling.

So, if you’re looking for a fall season outing that’s equal parts art, comedy, and chaos — DAMMM is the show to see. Just don’t be surprised if you leave wondering if maybe… dead artists really do make more money.

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Cutting Traditions, Not Corners
 Articles, Events, Tourism, Video

From Rosarito With Craft: Tlaqueparte Brings the World to Baja

A Ribbon Cut with Soul

At exactly 12:30 p.m. on September 12, the air at the Baja California Center wasn’t just filled with incense—it was filled with anticipation.

The Kumiai, one of Baja California’s indigenous communities, opened the 11th Rosarito edition of Expo Tlaqueparte with a traditional spiritual cleansing. It was quiet, reverent, and deeply grounding—an unusual but beautiful way to open a commercial event. And then, like every good Mexican fiesta, came the scissors.

Tourism Secretary Zaida Luz López cut a handcrafted ribbon that looked more like a woven sash than something from Office Depot. No dull red polyester here—this one had character.

Confetti? Nope—That’s Culture”
Colorful handcrafted pompoms hit the floor as the ceremonial ribbon unravels. This is how Rosarito opens a craft fair.

Global Goods, Local Vibes

With over 180 booths and more than 200 artisans, this edition of Tlaqueparte has become a cultural juggernaut. But don’t call it a flea market—this is more like a living museum with very persuasive salespeople.

Exhibitors hail from 25 Mexican states and 16 countries, including:

🇲🇽 Mexico, 🇵🇪 Peru, 🇨🇴 Colombia, 🇦🇷 Argentina, 🇨🇺 Cuba, 🇬🇹 Guatemala, 🇵🇾 Paraguay, 🇪🇨 Ecuador, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇷🇺 Russia, 🇬🇷 Greece, 🇮🇳 India, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇸🇳 Senegal, and 🇪🇬 Egypt.

Each booth offers a slice of its homeland—from Cuban cigars and Colombian hats, to Turkish lamps, Indian jewelry, and Kenyan textiles. Some smells sweet, some smells spicy, all of it pulls you in.

Kumiai to the Core

The Kumiai also have a booth—and it’s more than just symbolic. Their display includes woven baskets, beaded necklaces, pieces inlaid with deer horn, and ethnobotany books that tell you more about Baja’s native plants than most locals know.

It’s not a gimmick. It’s a reminder that we’re standing on their land.

 Food, Flavors, and a Little Mezcal

Tlaqueparte isn’t just a treat for your eyes. Your taste buds get a passport too.

You’ll find hand-ground mole, salsas, dulces, artisanal cheeses, fresh coffee, and plenty of tequila and mezcal to keep things interesting. One vendor’s Oaxacan mole tasted like a burnt sienna sunset—complex, smoky, and worth smuggling across borders (figuratively, of course).

Everything is beautifully presented, with textures that range from silky to crunchy and aromas that jump out of the packaging.

  • Jewels in Bloom
  • Silver Tales from Taxco

Just a Little Buyer’s Advice

Most prices are fair and reflect the work behind each item. But let’s be honest: some copper mugs were priced like they came with a bartender.

Just take a breath before you tap that card. Admire first. Ask questions. If you still love it—go for it. If not, plenty of other booths will charm your wallet.

Plan Your Visit

Tlaqueparte runs until Tuesday, September 16. It’s open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and entry is free. Bring cash, a tote bag, and maybe a little restraint. Or not—live your best artisan-loving life.

And yes, it’s pet friendly. So go ahead, bring your chihuahua named Frida.

If you love culture, craft, and casually dropping phrases like “This is hand-carved from Guatemalan granadillo wood,” this event is for you.

No bad news—just good crafts.

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 Ensenada, Rosarito

Ensenada Told to Hand Over Rosarito Land, Again

The Baja California Congress has had enough of the territorial tug-of-war between Ensenada and Playas de Rosarito. Lawmakers have once again told both city halls to sit down, coordinate, and finally wrap up the handover of disputed land and assets.

Yes, again.

This latest “exhorto”, basically a strongly worded reminder, was approved unanimously in Congress. The message was clear: Ensenada needs to finish delivering the goods to Rosarito, and Rosarito needs to get its ducks in a row to take over. The call came from Morena deputies Juan Manuel Molina García and Jaime Eduardo Cantón Rocha, who insisted that after years of dragging feet, residents deserve legal certainty and decent public services.

The backstory goes like this. The Baja California Territorial Statute (Decree 15, for those keeping score) set rules for municipal boundaries. It told Ensenada to hand over certain properties, records, and even tax authority to Rosarito. Articles Five and Six of the statute gave a 180-day deadline for transferring files and updating regulations. That deadline passed long ago, yet here we are.

Even January 2024 saw a similar resolution pushed by the very same players: Rocío Adame Muñoz (now Rosarito’s mayor) and Claudia Agatón Muñiz (now mayor of Ensenada). Both promised cooperation. Both still have homework.

In the meantime, confusion reigns in the disputed neighborhoods. Which city collects taxes? Which city provides services? Residents aren’t amused. Congress says the situation undermines trust in government.

The new exhorto adds a layer of accountability. It calls for a legislative follow-up table involving committees on governance, finance, and municipal strengthening. Translation: lawmakers will keep checking until the job is done.

Some voices are calling for more than just a handover. Miguel Ángel Lazcano Campos, legal advisor for the Pro Municipio Committee, argues that Ensenada should not only stop charging taxes in Rosarito’s turf but also pay back what it’s already collected. That idea should spice up future negotiations.

For her part, Ensenada mayor Claudia Agatón recently met with deputies and promised to cooperate. “We want this resolved so residents have certainty and can receive all the services they’re entitled to,” she said. Sounds good on paper—now it’s about action.

Congress isn’t pretending this is optional. The unanimous vote shows legislators are done with excuses. Rosarito and Ensenada have to finish the handoff, transfer the files, and put the territorial dispute to rest.

Until then, it’s a tale of two cities sharing one headache.

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Baja’s Film Fest That Actually Feels Like Baja
 Articles

Wine, Movies, and Magic in the Valle

A festival worth swirling over

I’ve never been to a film festival like this—and honestly? It looks amazing.

From September 26 to 28, the Valle de Guadalupe will host the second edition of the Festival Internacional de Cine del Valle de Guadalupe (FICVG). If you’re thinking red carpet and awkward speeches, think again. This is Baja, after all.

Instead of glitter and egos, you’ll find wine, cinema, art, and native culture—all beautifully blended, much like the Syrah-Cabernet mixes this valley is known for.

What makes this event different?

To begin with, the entire festival is themed around wine. Not just as a drink, but as a lifestyle, a landscape, and a source of local pride. Whether you’re a filmmaker or a Merlot fan, there’s something here for you.

The event includes free film screenings, workshops on writing and editing, an art exhibit by Julio Orozco, and yes—brunches and themed dinners that sound too good to miss.

Moreover, the festival includes a spiritual ceremony led by native communities, reminding us that this land has stories older than cinema itself.

This Isn’t Just a Film. It’s a Homecoming.
#A still from “Kumeyaay Land,” one of the most intimate films ever shot in Baja. No filter needed—just truth and tenderness.

Who’s showing up?

For one, Sergio Arau and Yareli Arizmendi, the creative duo behind A Day Without a Mexican, are debuting scenes from their new documentary, The Mexican Files. That alone should get your film-loving heart racing.

In addition, expect appearances by director Carlos Bolado, producer Salvador Aguirre, and actor Jesús Ochoa. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s been in everything. (And probably in your aunt’s novelas too.)

Also featured is the 2024 film Amor a Fuego Lento, with director René Bueno, producer Barbarella Pardo, and actress Isaura Espinoza joining the conversation.

It’s more than a red carpet

According to Nora Bringas, the festival’s coordinator, FICVG is as much about inclusion as it is about cinema. Pueblos originarios will not just be honored—they’ll participate directly through ceremonies, handmade crafts, and community spaces.

This mix of film, culture, and local tradition is exactly what makes FICVG unique. It’s not just another stop on the festival circuit. It’s a window into Baja’s heart.

The festival is co-produced by Carlos Sarabia and Bringas, with support from Virgilio Muñoz and the Fundación Alberich. Institutions like COLEF, the Secretaría de Cultura, Secretaría de Economía, and local wineries are also on board.

Why should Baja care?

For starters, this event puts Valle de Guadalupe on the global cultural map—not just the wine map. And that’s a big deal. It adds depth to what tourists (and even locals) expect from the region.

In fact, over 1,500 people attended last year’s first edition. Organizers aim to beat that number in 2025. While most activities are free, the fancy brunches and dinners require a ticket. Worth it, if you ask me.

Beyond tourism, the festival fuels something deeper: pride in Baja’s diversity, creativity, and voice. And yes, it’s okay to enjoy that with a glass of Tempranillo in hand.

🗓️ Event Snapshot

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Tijuana’s Viaduct Rises Above the Border Wall
 Articles

New Tijuana Viaduct: So Close, Yet Matadero

Tijuana’s sky-high road project is nearly finished—91% complete, to be exact. But it comes with a twist: the elevated viaduct will no longer reach Playas de Tijuana as originally planned.

Wait… It Doesn’t Go to the Beach Anymore?

Correct. The project will now end at Cañón del Matadero, cutting out the final 1.5 kilometers that would have taken drivers straight into Playas. That change reshapes traffic expectations, especially for locals who were counting on a smooth, direct bypass.

The Big Picture: Still a Game-Changer

Stretching about 10.5 kilometers in total (before the trim), the viaduct offers more than 6.5 km of elevated lanes. It’s designed to connect the Otay area to the western side of the city, avoiding the slow grind through downtown. This should dramatically reduce drive times for commuters, airport travelers, and anyone who dreads the Vía Rápida crawl.

Construction is in the hands of SEDENA, Mexico’s military engineers. And they’ve moved fast. Columns, beams, and the primary structure are in place. What’s left? Paving, ramps, signage, and final safety tests.

Officials still expect it to open by late 2025 or early 2026.

Toll Booths? Not Here


Let’s settle this once and for all: no tolls. That rumor’s been dead since 2024—when the president shut it down. We covered it. You’re welcome.. No concessions, no surprise fees, no “express lane” pricing. This road is funded by the federal government and built for public use.

The materials? All made in Mexico. That means no tariff drama, no import delays, and fewer budget headaches.

It’s one of the few roads where you won’t have to pay in time, tolls, or sanity.

Viral Collapse Video? Nope.

You may have seen the clip floating around social media—a structure buckling, people gasping, dramatic captions. The rumors? False. The viaduct didn’t collapse.


That viral video? It captured a crane collapse during a concrete pour—not a structural failure. The columns didn’t flinch, the platform stayed put, and no one was hurt. Big projects like this come with big equipment, and sometimes that equipment fails. But the viaduct? Still standing. Still solid.

Traffic Fallout for Locals?

The rerouted design raises concerns for residents near Soler and El Mirador. With the project ending short of Playas, local streets could take the hit, absorbing diverted traffic that was meant to glide over them.

City officials haven’t offered a full traffic mitigation plan yet. So while the viaduct solves some problems, it may create others. As usual, it’s complicated.

Is It Still a Win?

Yes. Even trimmed down, this elevated route will shave time off daily commutes and keep cars out of the urban bottleneck. You’ll still get faster access from the airport and major corridors.

Just don’t expect to coast all the way to the malecón. You’ll need to finish that leg the old-fashioned way—through city streets and with a little patience.

Final Thoughts

At 91%, this mega-project is almost ready. With SEDENA at the helm, federal funds backing it, and local steel holding it together, it’s one of the most ambitious infrastructure efforts in recent Baja history.

So what do you think?

Still excited about Tijuana’s sky highway—even if it makes a slightly earlier exit?

🛣️ Watch the updated video and see for yourself.

📰 Gringo Gazette North – No Bad News

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 Articles, Off-road races

Baja 1000 Makes History with Los Cabos as Start and Finish in 2026

For the first time in its nearly six-decade history, the legendary Baja 1000 will both start and finish in Los Cabos. The announcement came after the Los Cabos City Council unanimously approved a deal with Score International, the event’s promoter, during its September 8 session. The 59th edition of the race, set for November 2026, will mark a historic milestone for Baja California Sur.

Never before has the Baja 1000 launched and wrapped up in the same city at the southern tip of the peninsula. Cabo San Lucas has hosted the finish line before—first in 2000 and again in 2007—but this will be the first time Los Cabos holds both the start and the finish.

“This will put Los Cabos in the eyes of the world,” said Councilman Celestino Atienzón Beltrán, who called the move “historic” and a massive boost to the local economy. Councilwoman Valerie Olmos Domínguez added that while it’s a moment of pride for locals, safety and proper organization must remain priorities to ensure a smooth event.

The Baja 1000 isn’t just about roaring engines and desert dust. It’s an economic engine of its own. When the 2023 edition took place in La Paz, more than 320 teams from Mexico, the U.S., and abroad showed up. That single race pumped nearly 100 million pesos into La Paz’s hotels and businesses, with occupancy hitting 98 to 100 percent in more than 3,100 available rooms. Across the peninsula, the economic impact was estimated between 10 and 12 million dollars, along with worldwide media coverage.

With Los Cabos playing host in 2026, the financial ripple effect is expected to be even bigger—boosting hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour services, while also driving improvements in infrastructure and public services. In short: the Baja 1000 is more than a race—it’s a cash cow on wheels.

Score International had already hinted back in July that a route change was on the horizon for 2026. The full championship calendar for that year is now set:

  • San Felipe 250: March 25–29
  • Baja 500: June 3–7
  • Baja 400: September 9–13
  • Baja 1000: November 9–15 (Los Cabos debut as start and finish line)

Los Cabos’ loop will stretch north as far as Guerrero Negro in Mulegé before turning back south, making this one of the most ambitious routes in recent memory.

Meanwhile in Ensenada…

While Los Cabos celebrates, Ensenada faces a bittersweet reality. Right now, the city is hosting the Baja 400 (Sept. 10–14, 2025), part of the current SCORE World Desert Championship. For decades, the Baja 1000 has been Ensenada’s crown jewel—the biggest event the city has, hands down. Losing it will sting.

Critics of the race, however, see things differently. Protests against SCORE events have been growing louder. Residents and activists complain of chaos in the city, environmental damage from tearing up natural landscapes, and frequent dangerous accidents. Still, the economic benefits in tourism, restaurants, hotels, and services are undeniable. Without the Baja 1000, Ensenada’s local economy could feel the shockwaves.

What Comes Next?

The move south marks a bold new chapter for SCORE and for Baja California Sur. Los Cabos gains international spotlight and millions in revenue, while Ensenada faces questions about its future as an off-road capital.

One thing is certain: when November 2026 rolls around, the world’s eyes will be on Los Cabos—and the roar of the Baja 1000 will echo all the way up the peninsula.

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Independence by the Sea
 Articles, Ensenada, Events

Everything You Need to Know About Ensenada’s Oceanfront Grito

Independence With a Splash
For the first time in history, Ensenada will shout “¡Viva México!” with the Pacific as backdrop. On September 15, thousands will gather at Playa Hermosa for the Grito de Independencia. Forget city hall balconies—this year, the waves get the VIP seats.

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz invited the community to join, promising an event that mixes civic pride with beachside charm. Moreover, the celebration kicks off at 7 p.m. with a monumental stage, fireworks, and Mexican pop star Edith Márquez.

Edith by the Ocean

Fans can sing along as Edith Márquez performs hits like “Mi error, mi fantasía” and “Mírame.” Meanwhile, the Pacific will provide the best natural backdrop in Baja. In addition, organizers say the concert crowns a night of patriotism, music, and oceanfront vibes. Best of all, admission is free.

Edith Márquez Rocks Ensenada
#The voice, the hits, the drama—Edith Márquez brings her magic to Playa Hermosa for a free concert under the stars

The First Lady of the Grito

This year also makes history. Claudia Agatón will become the first woman to lead the Grito in Ensenada. Furthermore, she emphasized Playa Hermosa as a symbol of local pride and identity. Translation: Ensenada just upgraded its party credentials.

Food, Drinks, and the Crowd Factor

Naturally, no fiesta is complete without food stalls and drinks. Expect tacos, elotes, and more—at prices that won’t ruin your mood. At the same time, thousands are expected to fill the coastal zone. Therefore, the city rolled out a special traffic plan.

From north to south, lanes on Boulevard Costero will close between Esmeralda and Estancia. However, the south-to-north lanes will remain open, easing circulation. In addition, officers will help direct traffic to prevent chaos in nearby streets.

#
Good news, drivers. The south-to-north lanes on Boulevard Costero stay open during the Grito. You’ll still move—slowly, but you’ll move.
Northbound Closed for the Party
#Heads up! North-to-south lanes on Boulevard Costero close between Esmeralda and Estancia. Plan ahead or spend Independence Day parked.

Safety First, Fiesta Second

Authorities also boosted security. In total, 120 officers will patrol the festival, supported by cameras, a drone, and security arches at entrances. Consequently, visitors can focus on the fireworks and music, not on their wallets.

In addition, mobile units and checkpoints will ensure the party remains family-friendly. The goal is simple: keep the mood festive, safe, and loud enough to drown out the waves.

A Free and Open Party

The schedule starts at 7 p.m. with local bands. Then comes the Grito led by the mayor, followed by fireworks, and finally Edith Márquez rocking the beachfront stage. And remember, no ticket is needed—entry is completely free.

Why It Matters

Patriotic celebrations happen everywhere. Nevertheless, Ensenada is adding a twist by moving the fiesta from the city center to the coast. As a result, locals can celebrate Independence Day in a way that reflects the city’s identity.

So pack your flag, your appetite, and maybe a folding chair. Because this Independence Day, Ensenada is offering fireworks, music, and ocean views—without charging a peso.

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Governor and Military Commanders Map Baja’s Next Security Moves
 Articles, Security

Baja Wins Big with Record Meth Bust, $640M Lost

Meth Mountain Meets Its Match

Baja California just pulled off a drug bust that makes Netflix narco-dramas look tame. Between October 2024 and August 2025, authorities seized 20 tons of methamphetamine. Yes, tons—the kind you measure with cranes, not kitchen scales.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda announced the haul, proudly stating it dealt cartels a $640 million punch in the wallet. Moreover, officials said the losses are crippling enough to make cartel accountants weep.

A Big Jump in Numbers

According to Mexico’s Defense Ministry (SEDENA), the seizures represent a 382 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Consequently, authorities credit tighter coordination between federal, state, and local forces. For once, everyone played on the same team—and it showed.

Ensenada Bust Steals the Spotlight

One recent example made headlines: Defense forces and the National Guard stopped two vehicles near Ensenada. Inside, they discovered more than 3,600 kilograms of meth. As a result, cartels lost another $116 million.

For Ensenada residents, this means fewer shady deliveries speeding past vineyards. Instead, bottlenecks return to being about corks, not kilos.

Numbers that Matter

Ávila stressed these aren’t just statistics—they’re lives impacted. The government’s push aims to keep drugs off the streets, and the results already echo across Baja. In fact, in President Claudia Sheinbaum’s latest report, homicides dropped 25 percent nationwide. Meanwhile, Baja managed a sharper 36 percent decrease.

Sure, a single percentage point won’t earn you a taco discount. Nevertheless, these drops translate into quieter neighborhoods and fewer sirens interrupting carne asadas.

The Team Effort Angle

Ávila praised the combined strength of military, federal, and state forces. She framed it as proof that teamwork really does make the dream work—even in crime fighting. Additionally, she emphasized the mission remains clear: “tranquility and peace” for Baja families.

No Time to Relax

Despite the wins, the governor warned the state will not relax the fight. Instead, every available resource—human, technological, and probably caffeinated—will stay in play. Consequently, Baja’s message to organized crime is simple: don’t unpack those yachts just yet.

We’ve covered similar stories before, showing how Baja’s security strategy has moved from patchy crackdowns to coordinated efforts. Therefore, while skepticism remains, the numbers suggest the tide is shifting.

A Rare Kind of Good News

In a state often making headlines for crime stats, these figures feel refreshingly different. Indeed, the fight isn’t over. Still, Baja’s record seizures mark a small but solid victory.

And in a region where good news is as rare as free Nebbiolo at a wine festival, that’s worth raising a toast.

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Economy

Baja’s Credit Score Gets a Boost – Just in Time for the Governor

In case you missed it between tacos and sunsets, Baja California just got a financial thumbs-up from Moody’s. That’s right — the international credit rating agency gave the state an A-.mx rating with a stable outlook, which is kind of like getting an A-minus on a math test you didn’t even study for. Except this time, they actually did study. A lot.

This is the highest rating Baja California has received in the last four years, and it didn’t happen by chance. The upgrade is thanks to Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda’s administration, which has been slowly climbing the ranks since 2022. Apparently, someone finally decided to stop setting fire to the financial paperwork.

And let’s be honest — this news couldn’t come at a better time for the Governor, who’s been dealing with political turbulence after she and her husband reportedly had their U.S. visas revoked, a move that sent her approval ratings into a tailspin. A shiny new credit rating? That’s a much-needed talking point.

Wait—What’s A-.mx, Anyway?

Before you go thinking Baja is now on par with Switzerland, a quick note: A-.mx is what’s called a national scale rating. The “.mx” means it’s graded relative to other entities in Mexico, not the entire world. So while it’s not the same as a global Moody’s A-, it’s still a very strong sign of financial health — kind of like being voted Most Responsible in a room full of tequila drinkers.

Moody’s gave the nod not just because the numbers looked good, but because the whole plan looked good. The state has been showing what the agency calls “disciplined financial management, strategic investment, and long-term vision.” Translation: They’re not just patching potholes—they’re planning roads that actually lead somewhere.

From Financial Freefall to Surplus

Back in the not-so-distant past (pre-2021), Baja’s credit rating was heading downhill faster than a beer on a beach slope. Investors were nervous, debt was piling up, and confidence was, well, somewhere in the basement.

But Marina del Pilar’s team hit the brakes and flipped the script with a six-year financial plan. The pillars? More revenue, tighter spending, strategic infrastructure investment, boosted social spending, and yes—embracing technology.

And guess what? It worked. The state has racked up three years of financial surpluses, something no one thought possible after back-to-back deficit-heavy administrations. Starting from a BBB rating with a negative outlook in 2022, Baja made it to BBB with a positive outlook by 2023, climbed to BBB+ in 2024, and finally earned the A- crown in 2025.

That puts the state back to solvency levels not seen since 2018. Not bad for a government everyone used to accuse of being more familiar with burritos than budgets.

So, What’s Driving the Recovery?

It’s not just clever accounting. Baja California has a diverse, healthy economy with a solid industrial base. According to Moody’s, the state’s GDP per capita is about 130% of the national average. That’s like saying your piggy bank has more coins than the neighbor’s entire bank account.

Even better? In 2024, 31% of the state’s operating income came from its own revenue, far above the national median. That’s a big deal in a country where many states rely heavily on federal transfers.

How’d they do it? Moody’s credits smart tax reforms and effective collection measures implemented since 2020. In plain English: they found better ways to bring in money without just hiking taxes.

So yes, the boring stuff—like budgeting and planning—is finally paying off. Baja California isn’t just waiting for good news. It’s building it, one spreadsheet at a time.

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