Chile President José Antonio Kast vows to protect municipal funds at mayor meeting in La Serena

President José Antonio Kast made his first official visit to the Coquimbo region, speaking to more than 200 mayors at the National Mayors' Meeting in La Serena's Teatro Centenario. He highlighted key local concerns – public security, employment, health, housing, education and water scarcity – and stressed the need to "order the house" after the previous administration.

Kast praised the recently approved Escuelas Protegidas law and called for a review of local education services. He condemned recent student protests that caused vandalism in La Serena, saying municipalities must bear repair costs and urging a rejection of violence.

Addressing municipal finances, Kast pledged not to alter the Municipal Common Fund, noting that only a small number of communes might see modest budget impacts. He invited mayors to discuss specific effects with the Ministry of Finance and affirmed that all reforms will be pursued through Parliament.